2/28: Classical Guitar Series with Laura Snowden

FEBRUARY 28, 2026   7:30 pm -  2026 Classical Guitar Series

North Valley Music School (NVMS) is proud to announce its 2026 Classical Guitar Series, an exceptional new performance series featuring some of the most distinguished classical guitarists in the world to the Flathead Valley. Curated and sponsored by Whitefish resident, classical guitarist, and producer James Stroud, the series represents an extraordinary investment in the artistic vibrancy of Northwest Montana.

Through Stroud’s leadership and vision, NVMS will host four internationally acclaimed artists throughout 2026 in the Stack Recital Hall. Each guitarist is celebrated for their virtuosity, innovation, and contributions to the global guitar community.

Concerts are free, but any donations will go toward the NVMS Scholarship Program. Donate Now

2026 Classical Guitar Series UPCOMING Lineup

Laura Snowden (United Kingdom)

February 28, 2026 7:30 pm  (GET TICKETS)
Laura Snowden is recognized as one of the most distinctive guitarists of her generation. A protégé of Julian Bream, she is celebrated for her captivating performances, original compositions, and artistic versatility.(Click here to go to her website.)

Jason Vieaux (United States)

Early August 2026
A Grammy Award–winning artist widely considered among the world’s elite classical guitarists, Jason Vieaux brings a warm, charismatic, and masterful presence to stages across the globe. (Click here to go to his website.)

SoloDuo (Italy) 

Fall 2026
Matteo Mela and Lorenzo Micheli  are an internationally acclaimed Italian guitar duo and have performed in major venues worldwide, a testament to their high level of musicianship. 

PREVIOUS PERFORMANCES

Hao Yang (China)

January 10, 2026 7:30 pm 

A rising star on the international stage, Hao Yang has earned top prizes at major competitions and is praised for her expressive depth and breathtaking technical command. (Click here to go to her website.)

About James Stroud

James Stroud is a classical guitarist, producer, and longtime supporter of the global guitar community. After developing focal hand dystonia—a rare neurological disorder that left him unable to play—Stroud spent years seeking treatment before enrolling in a groundbreaking deep brain stimulation trial at the National Institutes of Health. He became only the third musician to undergo the procedure, even playing guitar briefly during surgery so surgeons could monitor his brain in real time. Following the operation, Stroud began the painstaking process of relearning to play and now practices several hours each day as his skills continue to return. 

Beyond his personal journey, Stroud has served on the board of the Guitar Foundation of America, helped lead the Crown of the Continent Guitar Festival, and founded the James Stroud Classical Guitar Competition at the Cleveland Institute of Music. 

His sponsorship and curation of the 2026 Classical Guitar Series reflect his passion for bringing world-class music to Northwest Montana and his belief in the transformative power of artistic excellence.

About North Valley Music School

North Valley Music School is Montana’s only nonprofit community music school, providing accessible, high-quality music education to students of all ages and skill levels. Located in Whitefish, NVMS offers private lessons, group classes, ensembles, workshops, and performances that enrich the artistic and cultural vitality of the Flathead Valley.