Southwest Guitar Symposium (UTSA)

Southwest Guitar Symposium (UTSA) is a classical-guitar competition in San Antonio, TX, USA. It is held every year, usually in March.

Repertoire requirements

Free choice

• Competition Round · 15 min
  • Free choice program

Official website

https://colfa.utsa.edu/music/swgs

Visiting? A guitarist's guide to San Antonio

San Antonio, the seventh-most populous city in the United States, offers a vibrant backdrop for the Southwest Guitar Symposium (UTSA). Known as the cradle of Texan liberty and a city rich in Spanish and Mexican heritage, San Antonio combines historical landmarks like the Alamo and the bustling River Walk with a warm, bicultural atmosphere. Attending the symposium here means a weekend of guitar in a city that truly reflects its unique position at the axis of different geological terrains and cultures.

Getting there

San Antonio International Airport (SAT) serves as the primary gateway, offering non-stop flights to over 30 national and international destinations. From SAT, downtown San Antonio is easily reachable by shuttle for about $19 one way, taxi (around $25-35), or public bus number 5, which takes approximately half an hour for a $1.30 fare. For those preferring rail, Amtrak’s Texas Eagle connects San Antonio directly with Chicago, while the Sunset Limited offers service between Los Angeles and New Orleans. By car, major interstates I-35, I-10, I-37, and US 281 lead into the city, with Austin just an hour’s drive north, Houston under three hours east, and Dallas/Fort Worth about four hours away. Numerous bus services, including Greyhound, Megabus, and several Mexican trans-border lines, also provide connections to San Antonio.

Compare trains, buses & flights to San Antonio on Omio →

USA uses Type A/B sockets, so pack a travel adapter for your tuner and chargers.

These open third-party sites in a new tab. We may earn a commission, at no extra cost to you.

Where to stay

San Antonio manages to maintain a small-town feel despite its size, with friendly, open people and a lively downtown. Focusing your stay near the city's center ensures easy access to major attractions and event venues, as most places are within a 30- to 40-minute drive. The area around the River Walk, with its numerous hotels and dining options, provides a central and atmospheric base for exploring the city and attending symposium events. This historic district, with its unique blend of culture and entertainment, allows for comfortable walking to many points of interest.

What you'll hear

The Southwest Guitar Symposium (UTSA) draws aspiring guitarists to San Antonio for its competition. Competitors are given free choice of repertoire, allowing for diverse and engaging programs across the rounds, showcasing a wide array of musical styles and periods. This format ensures a dynamic listening experience for attendees.

Beyond the competition, San Antonio's rich cultural tapestry provides a unique acoustic backdrop. The city’s profound Spanish and Mexican heritage is evident everywhere, from its architecture to its vibrant music scene, which often features mariachi, Tejano, and Latin jazz. While there is no specific historical classical guitar pilgrimage site, the city's musical pulse resonates with the traditions that have long informed the guitar's development, offering a living context for the instrument's diverse expressions.

The local table

The culinary landscape of San Antonio is deeply influenced by its strong Hispanic and Mexican heritage, making Tex-Mex cuisine a highlight. Expect flavorful dishes such as enchiladas, fajitas, and, notably, San Antonio's famous puffy tacos, a local specialty featuring a soft, fried corn tortilla shell. Breakfast tacos are also a beloved staple, offering a hearty start to the day. The River Walk area, in particular, offers a wide array of restaurants where you can savor these regional specialties, often accompanied by margaritas or locally brewed beers.

Fancy a guided taste? Food and wine tours in San Antonio →

While you're there

There is a wealth of history and culture to explore between symposium events. The iconic Alamo, site of the famous 1836 battle, is a must-see, although many visitors are surprised by its compact size. A stroll along the enchanting River Walk (Paseo del Río) reveals a vibrant urban oasis lined with shops, restaurants, and cypress-lined paths. Extend your historical exploration to the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site encompassing four other 18th-century Spanish frontier missions, offering a deeper look into the city's colonial past. For panoramic views, ascend the Tower of the Americas. If time allows, consider a day trip to Austin, the state capital, just an hour's drive north, known for its live music scene and outdoor activities.

Tours, tickets and day trips in San Antonio →

More guitar events in USA: Appalachian GuitarFest and Competition · Austin Classical Guitar Composition Competition · Boston GuitarFest Academy Competition · Brevard Classical Guitar Institute · Denver Guitar Festival - Tuason Competition · ECU Guitar Festival and Workshop

Also in March: Concorso Emilio Pujol · Concorso Fernando Sor · Concours International de Guitare d'Antony · Concours International Roland Dyens · Guitar Art Festival Belgrade

Listing data is compiled from official sources and can change each edition. Always confirm dates, deadlines and requirements on the organizer's official website before applying or booking travel. Spotted an error? See our terms or let us know via the About page.

← All competitions & festivals