Today we’d like to introduce you to Peter Pupping.
Hi Peter, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
From an early age, I knew I wanted to be a professional musician. Guitar was my first love, and in my teenage years I also took up the trumpet. My first real experiences with music education came through junior high and high school, where my teachers inspired me with their passion and showed me the joy that a career in music could bring.
After graduating high school, I initially went to work as a land surveyor, but it didn’t take long for me to realize that my true calling was music. I went on to study guitar at Palomar College and San Diego State University, ultimately earning my Master’s degree in music in 1989. I had the privilege of studying with the internationally renowned Romero family, masters of the Spanish guitar. During my time at SDSU, I joined the Guitar Ensemble—my first exposure to guitar ensembles, sometimes referred to as guitar orchestras.
After completing my studies, I began teaching at MiraCosta College, where I started a guitar ensemble right away. It was something of an experiment at the time, but I was delighted to discover how much the students loved it. When I left MiraCosta in 1999, I founded a private group, the Encinitas Guitar Orchestra. Now celebrating 25 years, it has grown into one of the great joys of my life.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
The music, camaraderie, students, and collaboration with colleagues have all flowed smoothly. The biggest challenge has been keeping up with the logistics and behind-the-scenes organization—though even that hasn’t been too difficult. We’re fortunate to have a dedicated group of people who know their roles and contribute in meaningful ways, making it possible to present high-quality music performances.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
My career is centered around the guitar. I perform as a soloist and lead an instrumental band that explores a wide range of styles, including Spanish guitar, contemporary acoustic, jazz, Latin jazz, and nuevo flamenco. Since 1992, we have released 18 albums under the Guitar Sounds label.
In addition to performing, I teach privately three days a week and dedicate the rest of my time to managing the record label, directing the guitar orchestra, and coordinating performances.
What I value most are the relationships I’ve built with colleagues, students, and members of the orchestra. Being surrounded by such inspiring and supportive people has made it easy to truly love my career.
Before we go, is there anything else you can share with us?
Yes, if they are interested in our performances they can get all the information they need at www.encinitasguitarorchestra.com and www.guitarsounds.com .
Contact Info:
- Website: www.encinitasguitarorchestra.com and www.guitarsounds.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/peter_pupping/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/guitarorchestras/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=encinitas+guitar+orchestra+channel
- Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/peter-pupping
Image Credits
Peter Pupping
Guitar Sounds
