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SHOW NOTES

The CGC podcast is back — and in a new format. Simon reflects on what it means to show up consistently as a teacher and creator, shares news about the CGC Summer School, performs an original study for classical guitar, and leaves listeners with a simple but powerful thought about gratitude and why we play.

After a couple of quiet years, Simon is relaunching the podcast in a format that works for his life as a new father — shorter, more personal, and available on both YouTube and audio. Two older episodes have already been released: a conversation with legendary pedagogue Tim Kaine, and a workshop recording with João Luís, head of Yale School of Music’s guitar program, on Brazilian music and interpretation. Both are worth seeking out.

The CGC Summer School is returning this year at a beautiful new venue — Avaloch Farm in New Hampshire — a pastoral setting with a strong connection to Yale University. The cohort is smaller this year (around 30 students), which sold out within four hours of opening to academy members. A handful of spots have since become available to the public. Grade 2 and above is recommended. You can join the waiting list at classicalguitarcorner.com/summer.

Simon then performs Study No. 21 from his original curriculum — a tranquil, pastoral piece built around ascending slurs, featuring steady open strings beneath a singing melodic line. He has composed over 30 such studies, each targeting specific technical elements across the CGC grade system.

The episode closes with a reflection on gratitude — prompted by returning to the guitar after a week of illness. Simon’s point is simple and real: if you’re well enough to pick up the guitar and make sound, that’s worth pausing to appreciate. The inner critic is always nearby in classical guitar, but gratitude can quietly displace it.

If this kind of reflective, musical conversation appeals to you, CGC Academy is where it all lives — curriculum, community, coaching calls, and more.