Classical Guitar News Roundup – October 8, 2025

Welcome to this week’s Classical Guitar News Roundup, where we share the latest releases, announcements, and upcoming events from the world of classical guitar.

Polish Guitarist Mateusz Kowalski Wins European Bach Guitar Award

Polish classical guitarist Mateusz Kowalski has won the 2025 European Bach Guitar Award at a prestigious competition in Darmstadt, Germany. Musicians from 18 countries competed for the title in this highly regarded international competition.

Source: Radio Poland Facebook

Rosie Bennet Signs to Sony Classical

British-born, Belgium-based guitarist Rosie Bennet has signed to Sony Classical, joining a distinguished lineage that includes Julian Bream and John Williams. Known for her expressive playing and popular podcast “Fret Not,” Bennet has over 125,000 Instagram followers and received praise from Sir Brian May, who called her playing “the best sound I’ve ever heard on nylon strings.” Her debut release on Sony Classical is coming soon.

Source: Colin’s Column

Laura Snowden Releases “This Changing Sky” Album

English guitarist and composer Laura Snowden has released a new album filled with her own compositions titled “This Changing Sky”on October 24th, 2025. The album features beautiful compositions with excellent guitar work, ensemble music, and vocals, described as “a journey about feeling you’ve lost your sense of self, and the tumultuous path to finding your way back.” The album includes collaborations with Amy Green on saxophone and other musicians.

Source: This Is Classical Guitar

University of Louisville Guitar Festival Approaches

The UofL Guitar Festival and Competition will take place October 10-12, 2025, featuring a roster of top-rate guitar performers including Leonela Alejandro (2024 GFA winner), Kevin Loh, Andrew Zohn, and Xavier Jara. The festival includes competitions in Open, Collegiate, and Youth divisions, with prizes including cash awards and guitars. Registration is open with concerts, masterclasses, and workshops scheduled throughout the weekend.

Source: University of Louisville School of Music

Kevin Kastning Album Release

Guitarist Kevin Kastning announced the worldwide release date of October 7, 2025, for his new album featuring 17-string Sub-contraguitar and classical guitar works through Greydisc Records.

Source: Facebook announcement