George L. B. Wall Prize in Jazz Guitar
"For several years I was privileged to be George’s private guitar teacher. I adored and respected him - we had a very special relationship. Though he studied music with me, I felt that I was on his journey.
I consider my years with George a privilege because he allowed me to teach him; he opened himself to the challenges set before him and granted me his trust. Trust is essential because a musician must leave the “old” behind, abandon comfort zones and master new skills that seem unattainable for a long time.
It’s a perilous and frightening journey for all who enter: a hero’s journey that takes courage.
George succeeded and became, as friends and family noticed, a beautiful guitar player. I am very proud of what he achieved and grateful to have been invited to join him on his journey."
- Neil Smolar
Please join us in honouring his memory with a donation to the George L. B. Wall Prize in Jazz Guitar today.