From Malibu to the Swiss Alps: Pepperdine Brings World-Class Classical Guitar to Château d’Hauteville

MALIBU, California — Against the breathtaking backdrop of the Swiss Riviera, Pepperdine University hosted an elite gathering of the world’s top young classical guitarists at the Parkening International Swiss Master Class, held May 15–17, at the university’s historic Château d’Hauteville campus. Led by legendary guitarist and Pepperdine Distinguished Professor of Music Christopher Parkening, the intensive three-day master class offered an unparalleled opportunity for artistic growth, culminating in a public concert on May 17 at La Chiésaz.

The class brought together classical guitarists from around the world: Suvan Agarwal (United States), Émilie Fend (Germany/France), Ana Maria Iordache (Romania), Samrat Majumder (Scotland/India), Vasilina Shashkova (Italy), Viacheslav Shugaev (Russia), and Julia Trintschuk (Germany). Chosen from a robust field of over 40 concert artists, the participants represent some of the finest emerging talent in classical guitar today.

“For the past two days, we gathered at the beautiful Château d’Hauteville for intensive conversation, study, and performance of classical guitar,” Parkening said. “This event champions and rewards the traditions of musical excellence so well exemplified by my mentor and friend, the great Spanish guitarist Andrés Segovia.”

In addition to Parkening’s guidance, participants engaged with Recording Producer David Thomas in discussions on artistry, vocation, and the pursuit of excellence.

“What stood out most to me was the privileged opportunity to work closely with Christopher Parkening in such a meaningful setting,” said participant Émilie Fend. “The stunning scenery of Château d'Hauteville made the experience even more special, and discovering more about Pepperdine University — its mission and deep commitment to the arts — made me feel truly valued as a musician, even without having studied there.”

Parkening added: “Every aspect of the Parkening International Swiss Master Class is a credit to Pepperdine’s commitment to excellence. I hope you share my excitement as we watch these artists’ careers unfold.”

The Parkening International Swiss Master Class was made possible through the generosity of its sponsors, including the John and Hilda Arnold Foundation, Annette and Bucky Oltmans, and Nadine B. Tilley, with additional support from the Rockley Family Foundation, Michal C. McClure, and others.

For more information, please visit arts.pepperdine.edu.

About the Lisa Smith Wengler Center for the Arts

Delighting more than 50,000 patrons and participants annually with live performances, art exhibitions, and local outreach opportunities, the Lisa Smith Wengler Center for the Arts serves as a hub for the arts on Pepperdine University’s Malibu campus, uniquely linking professional guest artists with Pepperdine students as well as patrons from surrounding Southern California communities. Three performance spaces, including the 450-seat Smothers Theatre, the 124-seat Raitt Recital Hall, and the “black box” Lindhurst Theatre, host hundreds of performances, rehearsals, and master classes throughout the year. The Frederick R. Weisman Museum of Art, a dynamic, two-story exhibition space, showcases a revolving selection of modern and contemporary art with a focus on art made in California.

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