In Memory of Michael Chapdelaine

Michael Chapdelaine, a renowned guitarist and composer, earned his bachelor’s (1979) and master's (1980) in guitar at the FSU College of Music and left an indelible mark on the world of music. Born in 1956 in San Diego, CA, and raised in a military family, Michael's early love for the guitar led him to a career that spanned across classical and fingerstyle guitar.

Michael achieved the remarkable feat of winning first prize in both the Guitar Foundation of America International Classical Guitar Competition and the National Fingerstyle Championship at the Walnut Valley Bluegrass Festival. His musical journey included winning the silver medal in Venezuela’s VIII Concurso Internacional de Guitarra “Alirio Diaz” and earning prestigious grants such as the National Endowment for the Arts Solo Recitalist Grant. He was also a student of Andres Segovia, Oscar Ghiglia, Eliot Fisk and Bruce Holzman.

Michael's compositions and arrangements captivated audiences worldwide. A Professor Emeritus at the University of New Mexico, he dedicated 33 years to teaching and inspiring students, leaving an enduring legacy.

Gifts in his memory will support the guitar program at the FSU College of Music.