Classical & Fingerstyle guitar virtuoso, Michael Chapdelaine, passed away at the age of 67

It is with deep sorrow that we inform you that Michael Chapdelaine passed away on November 16, 2023, at the age of 67. Michael was a renowned guitarist and composer born in 1956 in San Diego, CA, who left an indelible mark on the world of music. Raised in a military family, Michael's early love for the guitar led him to a career that spanned across classical and fingerstyle guitar.

Michael achieved the remarkable feat of winning First Prize in both the Guitar Foundation of America International Classical Guitar Competition and the National Fingerstyle Championship at the Walnut Valley Bluegrass Festival. His musical journey included winning the Silver Medal in Venezuela’s VIII Concurso Internacional de Guitarra “Alirio Diaz” and earning prestigious grants such as the National Endowment for the Arts Solo Recitalist Grant. He was also a student of Andres Segovia, Oscar Ghiglia, Eliot Fisk, and Bruce Holzman.

Michael's compositions and arrangements captivated audiences worldwide. A Professor Emeritus at the University of New Mexico, he dedicated 33 years to teaching and inspiring students, leaving an enduring legacy.

He will be greatly missed by all of us.