Robert Hamilton

Robert Hamilton holds a Performer's A.R.C.T. in classical guitar as well as a Teacher's A.R.C.T. in classical guitar pedagogy. Both diplomas were obtained at the Royal Conservatory of Music. Mr. Hamilton studied solo guitar repertoire and the RCM examination curriculum with his principle teachers Carol Van Feggelen and Norbert Kraft at the RCM. As well, he specialized in the study of classical guitar technique with Aaron Shearer at the Peabody Conservatory (Baltimore, MD) and guitar ensemble performance, teaching techniques and guitar pedagogy with Jacques Chandonnet at Laval University (Quebec). He is a founding member of Associate Guitarists of Toronto, a member of the AFM and the Toronto Guitar Society.

Mr. Hamilton began his professional teaching career in Sudbury as the guitar instructor at Cambrian College. Later he established the guitar program at Laurentian University and in 1979 became a faculty member of the Royal Conservatory of Music. In addition to his teaching activities Mr. Hamilton is also a juror of guitar exams and recitals for students in the music programs at the Faculty of Music, University of Toronto, as well as a workshop clinician and festival adjudicator throughout the country. He is the Co-editor of the RCM Guitar Series and Syllabus and founder and director of the Avondale Ensemble performing group. As a senior member of the RCM college of examiners Mr. Hamilton examines for all levels of the RCM classical guitar practical examinations throughout Canada as well as sets and marks the A.R.C.T. guitar teachers written examination papers.

Mr. Hamilton welcomes and teaches all levels of classical guitar students from beginners to advanced and believes anyone can learn to play the guitar regardless of age or musical background. His lessons are tailored to each students' individual goals and abilities and he maintains an easy and relaxed studio atmosphere. Mr. Hamilton specializes in classical guitar instruction for fun and relaxation, for the preparation of RCM practical guitar examinations (preparatory through A.R.C.T.), audition and performance preparation, and the development of classical guitar technique. Numerous students of Mr. Hamilton have won the silver medal for the highest exam mark in Ontario and he has produced many RCM graduates in both guitar performance and pedagogy, some now with teaching and performing careers across Canada and the U.S.