CCP Kabataang Gitarista Program is now accepting applications for Batch 13

The Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) is now accepting applications for Batch 13 of the CCP Kabataang Gitarista (KG) Program, a project spearheaded by the Artist Training Division under the CCP Arts Education Department. The CCP KG Program provides classical guitar training and performing opportunities for aspiring guitarists while developing an increased appreciation for classical guitar.

Interested applicants must be a bona fide Grade 7, 8, or 9 student in a public high school within the National Capital Region, with good moral character and an average or higher scholastic standing. Applicants may apply by downloading and filling out the Application Form (downloadable through https://linktr.ee/CCPKGProgramAuditions2025) and submitting the duly accomplished form via email to artist.training@culturalcenter.gov.ph on or before September 5, 2025 (Friday), 12:00 NN. 

Auditions will be held on September 6, 2025 (Saturday), 7 AM, at the Tanghalang Ignacio B. Gimenez (CCP Blackbox Theater) lobby, followed by a Parents’ Orientation and Lecture of the accepted applicants at 10:00 AM.

Successful applicants will receive the highest classical guitar training for FREE. The CCP KG Program, with its 13th batch of members, will develop a performing classical guitar ensemble to usher fresh perspectives into the Philippine musical landscape. All members will attend weekly training sessions every Saturday morning at the CCP Annex.

Since 2012, the CCP KG Program has provided opportunities for numerous young guitarists to develop their musicality and technical skills under the supervision of Program Advisor Melissa Corazon V. Mantaring and mentors Christian Mercader, Fernando Sy-Changco III, and Edel Mark Bitao.

The CCP Kabataang Gitarista Program has been instrumental to the promotion of classical guitar in the Philippines for 13 years. The young musicians under the program have graced various CCP shows and have done performances in alternative venues. Several members have also competed and won inter-high school, national, and global competitions. While bringing honor to their respective schools and the country, the CCP KG Program pushes boundaries by empowering the next generation of Filipino classical guitarists. To date, four (4) of its alumni have finished their music degrees, and numerous alumni have pursued music education, demonstrating remarkable achievements.

Interested in joining the CCP Kabataang Gitarista Program? Contact the CCP Artist Training Division at 8832 1125 local 1605, or via Viber at (+63)950-751-4403. You may also email artist.training@culturalcenter.gov.ph. Follow the official social media accounts of CCP, CCP Arts Education Programs, and Kabataang Gitarista for more details. For updates on future programs, trainings, and workshops, you may check the CCP website (www.culturalcenter.gov.ph).