JUNE 2026 NEW ON NAXOS
About Virgile Barthe, Guitar Virgile Barthe began his formal musical education at the Conservatoire à Rayonnement Régional de Toulouse, where he graduated under the guidance of Benoît Albert, following early studies with Samuel Chicharro. He is currently completing a Master’s degree at the Conservatoire National Supérieur de Musique et de Danse de Paris with Judicaël Perroy, after receiving mentorship from Gabriel Bianco and Olivier Chassain. Barthe has garnered international recognition via numerous prestigious competitions: in 2024 he was awarded First Prize at the International Guitar Competition Maurizio Biasini, which led to his debut as a soloist alongside the Sinfonieorchester Basel, and in 2025 he received First Prize at both the Koblenz International Guitar Competition and the Guitar Foundation of America (GFA) Competition.
© Jules Fournier
Guitar Laureate series – Previous GFA Competition winners
‘This centrepiece in the programme is rarely heard, and Peretic uses subtle, sensitive phrasing. The brilliant finale, composed using the guitar’s fireworks much like other composers of the period, is handled effectively by Peretić.’ – American Record Guide
‘As one listens to Johan Smith play, it’s manifestly obvious why he won the 2019 GFAC. Here is a tremendously gifted guitarist and musical artist, and his Naxos album… compels hearing by all guitar lovers.’ – Fanfare
GRAMOPHONE CHOICE
‘Smooth, clear phrasing and sensitivity to the nuances of the music make these preludes a joy to hear… Byun’s performance of each one is immaculate.’ – American Record Guide
‘This expansive programme, encompassing Rameau to Rachmaninoff, flaunts his virtuoso technique and elegant phrasing, both of which well-exceed his 23 years.’ – WQXR (New York)
CRITIC’S CHOICE
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