Classical Guitar Educator & University Faculty
Instrument: Classical Guitar
Location: Hackensack, New Jersey, United States
Position: Coordinator of Guitar Studies, Kean University
Position: Coordinator of Guitar Studies, William Paterson University
Recording Artist: Naxos Records
Recognition: Three-time GFA International Concert Artist Competition prizewinner
About Celil Refik Kaya
Celil Refik Kaya is an internationally acclaimed guitarist, composer, and recording artist. As a composer, Kaya’s music draws on multicultural influences particularly Turkish classical and folk traditions blending them with Western classical language to create a distinctive and expressive voice. His works, ranging from solo to chamber music, have been commissioned and performed by leading artists including Adam Holzman, Bokyung Byun, the Kossler Duo, and many others.
A Naxos Records artist, Kaya has released multiple critically acclaimed albums featuring the works of Agustín Barrios Mangoré, Jorge Morel, Carlo Domeniconi, and his own original compositions. He is one of only two guitarists to have been named a three-time prizewinner in the prestigious Guitar Foundation of America International Concert Artist Competition, and remains the youngest First Prize winner of the JoAnn Falletta International Guitar Concerto Competition.
With an active international performing schedule and a growing body of commissioned works, Kaya continues to inspire as both an artist and educator.
He currently serves as Coordinator of Guitar Studies at both Kean University and William Paterson University
Charleston International Music Competition Teacher Partner
Celil Refik Kaya is featured in the official Charleston International Music Competition Teacher Directory as part of the CIMC Teacher Partner Program.