Christopher Parkening (born 14 December, 1947) is an American classical guitarist best known for his interpretations of Johann Sebastian Bach.
He was born in Los Angeles, California, and pursued music in part because of his uncle Jack Marshall, who was a studio musician in the 1960s. He first heard Andrés Segovia play when he was 11. By the time he was 19, he had won a number of competitions and was touring and recording extensively.
Parkening is recognized as heir to the legacy of Segovia, who said, "Christopher Parkening is a great artist—-he is one of the most brilliant guitarists in the world."
Parkening has amassed a great discography on Angel/EMI Classics. He has been nominated twice for a Grammy Award. Notable recordings are Parkening Plays Vivaldi featuring a selection of Baroque concertos, as well as the world premiere recording of Peter Warlock's Capriol Suite with the Academy of St. Martin in the Fields.
Christopher Parkening lives with his wife, Theresa, in Southern California. He is a committed Christian and regards performance as an expression of his faith. He has also won prizes in fly fishing.
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