About The BKCGS
Our mission is to nourish and build the classical guitar community in Brooklyn and the greater NYC area through open mics, concerts with locally and internationally known guitarists, masterclasses and workshops, and social events.
The Classical Guitar Society of Brooklyn (dba The Brooklyn Classical Guitar Society) is a 501(c)3 not-for-profit organization. All donations are tax deductible to the full extent allowed by law.
Vision
To build an engaging, inclusive classical guitar community in Brooklyn and the greater NYC area. We aim to inspire growth and connection through professional and community performances, educational opportunities, and social engagement. We aim to develop an interconnected community of classical guitarists in which professional, amateur, and student musicians know one another either directly or indirectly. Such collaboration through our community can foster learning, teaching, and performance opportunities, creating a more diverse arts and classical music landscape in Brooklyn.
Board of Directors
Peruvian-born Matt Kaplan is a BKCGS co-founder and the current president. Matt is a classical guitarist and educator based in NYC. He performs in and around NYC as a soloist and chamber musician and is the founder and head teacher of the Brooklyn Classical Guitar Studio.
Pierre Ferreyra-Mansilla is a BKCGS co-founder and the current secretary. Also born in Peru, Pierre NYC-based classical guitarist and teacher. He performs as a soloist and chamber musician, and has played at Alice Tully Hall at Lincoln Center, Carnegie Hall, and many other prestigious venues.
Josh Paul, treasurer
Josh Paul is a BKCGS co-founder and the current treasurer. He is a classical guitar student, martial arts and yoga teacher, and writer. Before discovering guitar, he played bass in local bands, and performed in clubs like CBGBs and The Bitter End. He lives in Brooklyn with his wife, Courtney, and 6-year-old son, Ira.
Matt Kaplan, president
Pierre Ferrerya-Mansilla, secretary
