Christopher Rude

Christopher performs classical guitar at a very high level. Clients can expect sweet, easy tone from a concert quality instrument, and charming musical expression that is technically flawless. When using his own PA equipment, Christopher guarantees excellent sound quality and perfect levels, adjusted in real time to suit the changing acoustic needs of the space and audience. During the planning stages, customers can expect Christopher to respond quickly to all contact and to approach every situation with professionalism, courtesy and flexibility.

Originally from St. Paul, Minnesota, Christopher Rude is one of the area's most experienced guitarists. In 1990, after four years of traveling and studying music in Europe, Christopher returned to the U.S. and started a small private studio in Winter Park, Colorado. After a few years, he moved to the La Crosse area to study guitar at the University of Wisconsin under Dr. Richard Pinnell. Upon Cum Laude completion of his Bachelor's degree in Guitar Performance, he was invited to pursue a Master's degree at the Lamont School of Music in Denver, where he was awarded multiple scholarships and completed two teaching assistantships under world-renowned maestro Ricardo Iznaola.

In addition to performing in many solo and ensemble concerts and recitals, Christopher has entertained professionally for many years. Throughout the 1990's, he collaborated with local artists in La Crosse, providing vocals and guitar for rock and acoustic ensembles. At the same time, the classical guitarist began refining his craft as resident artist, performing weekly in Picasso's Cafe at the Sampson Art Gallery. His seasoning continued at the Inverness Hotel and Resort in Denver, where he was engaged to perform every night for affluent guests of the Resort's AAA Four-Diamond marquee restaurant, The Swan. Over the years, Christopher has also been in demand at weddings, receptions, celebrations, corporate events, fund-raisers and wine tasting events, consistently drawing equal praise for both his polished artistic style and his guest-oriented professional demeanor.

As a student of the classical guitar, Christopher has participated in and attended lessons, performances and master classes offered by a long list of world-class performing artists including Christopher Parkening, Manuel Barrueco, Paul Galbraith, Sergio and Odair Assad, Sharon Isbin, Javier Calderon, Masakazu Ito, Makita Kushkin, Jonathan Leathwood, Nuccio D'Angelo, Lorenzo Micheli and John Feeley. The influences of these masters on Christopher's development as a skilled and refined artist and teacher are undeniable.

Above and beyond his training as a classical guitarist, Christopher has also earned certification and substantial experience as a professional educator in two subjects. He served for five years as full-time Choir Director and general music teacher for two inner city schools in the Denver area, receiving his Colorado K-12 Music teaching certification from the Metropolitan State College of Denver. In 2008, Christopher also became certified by the state of Wisconsin to teach both Music and Spanish. He is currently employed as a full time Spanish teacher at Melrose-Mindoro High School and teaches guitar at Reed Music Studio in Onalaska, Wisconsin. In 2009, Christopher also joined the Lutheran Summer Music Camp faculty at Luther College, where he taught guitar classes and lessons to some of the area's most gifted young musicians.

Having recently relocated to West Salem, Wisconsin, Rude brings with him a depth and breadth of performing and teaching experience rarely combined in one individual. Over nearly 20 years, he has perfected his teaching and performing techniques, producing scores of memorable performances and skilled guitarists along the way. A careful balance between creative discovery and the rigors of musicianship serves as both the cornerstone of Christopher's success and the map that guides him forward.

Most of my packages include some form of sound reinforcement. Upgrades are available for anyone needing additional audio equipment for other parts of the event. When I provide my own PA, I handle all logistics personally. Clients are required to do nothing, and can expect perfect volume and clarity.