Simon Farintosh
Sept 2026
Simon Farintosh is an award-winning guitarist, composer, and educator based in Victoria, British Columbia. His work combines refined classical technique with a curiosity for contemporary sound worlds, including ambient electronica and original music for eight-string guitar.
Named one of CBC’s “30 Under 30 Classical Musicians” in 2023, Simon has reached listeners around the world through projects such as Aphex Twin for Guitar and his debut album Noctuary. Alongside his performing and composing, Simon is deeply committed to teaching and community-building. He leads the guitar department at the University of Victoria, operates ReVamp Guitar Academy, and is completing a Doctorate of Musical Arts at the University of Toronto.
Past Guest Directors
February 2026
Rene Izquierdo
Cuban-born René Izquierdo is a unique artist and passionate educator whose career has been dedicated to inspiring individuals and connecting communities. Whether passionately performing on stage, devotedly mentoring his students, fundraising, or leading community outreach, René’s multi-faceted approach endeavors to continue creating experiences that enrich people’s lives and add beauty to our world.
The education programs led by René Izquierdo are proven, profound and dynamic experiences that help guitar performers reach the top level of mastery they seek. As both a teacher and mentor, he is known for delivering a balanced instruction that is challenging and encouraging at the same time. At whatever level they might be, he propels his students into excellence by helping them find themselves and identify the direction they need to go.
Sept 2025
Natasha Pashchenko
Natasha began her music education in Russia and graduated with a diploma in piano at the age of 16. After moving to Canada, she fell in love with classical guitar and pursued advanced music studies as an adult learner. She holds a Bachelor of Music degree in Classical Guitar Performance from the University of Victoria and is a certified Suzuki Guitar Instructor.
Natasha has extensive experience as organizer of performance and educational classical guitar events such as concerts, workshops, lectures, and masterclasses. For a few years, she conducted the Victoria Guitar Society Community Ensemble and had many successful and memorable performances in the area. Currently, she teaches classical guitar and piano from her home studio in Victoria, BC, as well as at the Nanaimo Conservatory of Music. She greatly enjoys sharing her passion for music with students of all ages.