Laurel Harned - A Young Guitar Virtuoso at Siccas Guitars
Laurel Harned – Online Concert
We are pleased to present the online concert of Laurel Harned, an 18-year-old guitarist from Redlands, California. The concert was recorded in our studio in Karlsruhe and captures the focus and musical sensitivity that define her playing.
Early studies and musical development
Laurel began guitar at the age of nine under the guidance of Susan Graves and now studies with Jack Sanders. Her dedication has led to notable achievements: in 2023 she won the Denver International Youth Competition, became the youngest semi-finalist in the Josephina P. Tuason International Guitar Competition, and reached the semi-finals of the James Stroud National Classical Guitar Competition in Cleveland in both 2022 and 2023.
Her progress has been shaped by close work with leading guitarists including Ana Vidovic, Los Romeros, the Beijing Guitar Duo, Jason Vieaux and Goran Krivokapić. In October 2023 she was one of only six young players invited to the Pre-College Guitar Virtuosos masterclass with Manuel Barrueco at the Peabody Conservatory.
Masterclasses and education
In the summer of 2023 Laurel attended the Celedonio Romero Guitar Institute, where she studied intensively with the Romero Quartet. She completed the highest levels of the Certificate of Merit examinations in theory and performance, received state honors, and was invited to audition for the Young Artist Guild of the Music Teachers’ Association of California.
Awards and recognition
A major highlight of her career is the Jack Kent Cooke Young Artist Award 2024, which enables her to study in Spain and participate in European festivals and competitions. Her playing will also be featured on NPR’s “From The Top” in the episode “Musicians from Rural America,” airing across the United States.
Future plans
In 2024 Laurel will travel to Italy on a full scholarship to attend the Volterra Project. She will continue her studies toward a degree in guitar performance and plans to expand her international performing career.
Beyond music, Laurel teaches beginner students, enjoys hiking and running, and helps on her family’s small farm. Her natural warmth and precision come through in every performance.
Her concert at Siccas Guitars marks another step in an already impressive journey. Laurel Harned is a young musician whose artistry and dedication make her one of the most exciting new voices in classical guitar.
