GUITARIST FROM URUGUAY WINS JOANN FALLETTA INTERNATIONAL Guitar CONCERTO COMPETITION
In his third attempt, Marco Sartor takes top prize in the international event
organized by WNED and the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra
BUFFALO, NY – Following tonight’s final round performance with the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra, Marco Sartor of Uruguay captured first place honors in the third biennial JoAnn Falletta International Guitar Concerto Competition. Ten classical guitarists, representing six nations, competed throughout the past week in the world’s only classical guitar concerto competition, presented by WNED and the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra.
Sartor will receive a prize package worth more than $31,000, including $7,500 cash (US); paid engagements with the Buffalo Philharmonic and Virginia Symphony Orchestras (JoAnn Falletta, Music Director); a recording contract with Fleur de Son Classics (value $12,500); a concert guitar by Dake Traphagen, one of North America’s most preferred luthiers ($10,000) as well as a Karura Flight Case (value $1,350).
Along with the distinction of being the only guitarist to compete in all three Falletta Competitions to date, Sartor received the Audience Favorite Award.
Laura U. Klemke of Germany placed second, and received a $3,000 prize. She also received the Musicians Award from members of the BPO. Benjamin Beirs, representing the USA, took third place and a $1,500 prize.
The three finalists performed concerti conducted by BPO Music Director JoAnn Falletta for judges and a live audience in Kleinhans Music Hall. The competition was judged by Joanne Castellani and Michael Andriaccio, internationally acclaimed touring and recording artists, who also co-directed the competition; John Landis, Classical 94.5/WNED program host; David Dusman, president of Dusman Audio, Inc.; renowned virtuoso guitarist and composer David Leisner; producer and host of “Classical Guitar Alive” Tony Morris; Spanish virtuoso guitarist Enrique Muñoz Teruel; one of today’s leading international guitarists Eduardo Fernandez; and president of the Guitar Foundation of America Brian Head.
“We thought the level for all three was outstanding. They all played equally well,” Castellani said. “The judges are proud of all of them.”
“It was one of the most exciting nights that Kleinhans has witnessed,” said Andriaccio. “It’s historic.”
“We’re very proud of the performers and the extraordinary efforts by the judges and staff from both organizations,” said BPO Executive Director Daniel Hart. “The dedication displayed and demonstrated throughout this entire endeavor was a true testament to the unique qualities of the guitar and the great respect and affection held for BPO music director JoAnn Falletta.”
“This tremendous event is the result of a wonderful collaboration between WNED and the BPO,” said WNED President and CEO Donald K. Boswell. “It was an honor to bring so many outstanding musicians to Western New York. Just as they shared their talents with the audience at Kleinhans, they will share their experiences within our magnificent cultural community with the rest of the world.”
Financial support for the Competition is provided by: HSBC Bank, NOCO Energy Corporation, Clover Management, BlueCross BlueShield of Western New York, Robertson & Bach Fine Jewelry, Monaco Violin & Music Centre, Mercedes Benz of Buffalo, Western Regional Off-Track Betting, Fichte Endl & Elmer Eye Associates, Keyser-Cadillac, Fleur de Son Classics and Savarez. The Competition has also received support from the Adam’s Mark, GSP and Editions Orphee.
Through WNED-TV, ThinkBright Lifelong Learning, Classical 94.5/WNED-FM and WNED-AM 970 The Information Station, the member-supported Western New York Public Broadcasting Association provides high quality programming and services that enlighten, inspire, entertain and educate our communities.
Currently in its 72nd season, the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra is an internationally recognized symphony of the highest artistic caliber and an indispensable part of the Western New York community’s quality of life.
WINNER BIOGRAPHY
Marco Sartor, Uruguay
Age: 29