The mission of the Leyenda Foundation is to preserve the legacy of great artists through high-quality education and transformative performance experiences.
2025 Leyenda Foundation Convention Schedule June 30th-July 2nd
Monday, June 30th 2025
9:00am Keynote Ruth Lemay
Ruth Lemay is a visionary educator, entrepreneur, and Neurological Music Therapist Allied Professional whose career spans more than 30 years of transformative impact in music education. With a foundation in Minneapolis Public Schools, she has taught guitar, modern band, choir, songwriting, and adapted music to students from preschool through college. A dual-degree holder in instrumental/vocal music education and choral conducting, Ruth blends rigorous academic training with heartfelt artistry and deep classroom experience.
Driven by a passion for inclusion, Ruth founded the groundbreaking nonprofit 3 Strings, Inc., which developed an adaptive method that translates Western notation into an accessible numeracy system—empowering neurodiverse and differently abled individuals to play instruments with confidence and creativity. A powerful voice for equity in music education, Ruth has presented nationally, published in Soundboard, and serves as a regional representative for the National Council of Guitar Education. She is widely regarded as an inspiration to educators, students, and communities alike, redefining what it means to make music accessible to all.
10am Los Romeros Classical Guitar Alive Live interview
🎙️ A Historic Conversation: Los Romeros Live with Tony Morris
We are thrilled to announce a once-in-a-lifetime event at the Leyenda Convention: Los Romeros, the Royal Family of the Guitar, will be interviewed live on stage by Tony Morris, the host of the nationally syndicated radio program Classical Guitar Alive!
This live conversation is not only a rare and intimate glimpse into one of the most influential musical families of all time—it’s a moment of living history. For over six decades, the Romeros have elevated the classical guitar to new heights, bridging generations, cultures, and continents through their artistry. To hear their stories directly, in real time, guided by one of the guitar world’s most insightful interviewers, is a profound opportunity for students, educators, and music lovers alike.
This isn’t just a discussion—it’s a legacy unfolding before our eyes. Don’t miss the chance to witness this extraordinary dialogue between giants.
11am Mark Whitfield Charlie Christian Institute A new beginning
🎸 At 11:00 AM, witness greatness.
GRAMMY Award-winning jazz guitarist Mark Whitfield takes the stage to explore the towering legacy of Charlie Christian—the electrifying pioneer who forever changed the sound of jazz guitar and whose roots run deep in Oklahoma City.
This is more than a lecture. It’s a tribute, a reckoning, and a master musician’s personal reflection on one of the most important voices in American music history. Be there for this powerful homage to the genius who lit the fuse for generations of jazz guitarists to come.
Lunch Break 12:00-1:30pm
🍽️ Lunch Break: 12:00–1:30 PM
Refuel, recharge, and connect! Take this time to grab a bite and explore some of the incredible eats near Oklahoma City University. Whether you’re craving a quick bite or a sit-down experience, you’ve got amazing options just minutes away:
-
The Mule – Legendary grilled cheese and gourmet sandwiches in the Plaza District.
-
Big Truck Tacos – Fresh, flavorful, and wildly popular—Oklahoma-style street food with flair.
-
Stella Modern Italian – Elevated pastas, pizzas, and salads just a few blocks from campus.
-
Gorō Ramen – Stylish, cozy spot serving some of the best ramen and Japanese snacks in OKC.
-
Cafe Kacao – Vibrant Guatemalan breakfast and brunch all day—get the horchata cold brew!
Enjoy your meal, swap stories with new friends, and get ready for the exciting afternoon sessions ahead. See you at 1:30 PM sharp for our Malagueña rehearsal!
Malaguena! Classical Guitar Ensemble 1:30pm
🎶 1:30 PM – Take the Stage with Los Romeros
This is it. A moment you'll remember for the rest of your life.
At 1:30 PM, you won’t just be watching history—you’ll be playing it. Join Los Romeros, the legendary Royal Family of the Guitar, in a once-in-a-lifetime onstage rehearsal and performance, conducted by the brilliant Kareem McCullough.
Together, you'll perform Malagueña de Jotron—a powerful and deeply personal work composed by Pepe Romero in honor of his father, Celedonio Romero, the patriarch who changed the course of classical guitar forever.
This piece isn’t just music—it’s heritage. A living tribute. A passing of the torch.
🎸 Play with us. Stand in the sound. Feel the legacy.
Don't miss this chance to make history—on stage, in concert, with Los Romeros.
GuitarCurriculum.com Music Ed Presentation 2:30pm
🎓 GuitarCurriculum.com: Building the Future of Ensemble Guitar
Join representatives from GuitarCurriculum.com as they showcase their groundbreaking work transforming guitar education across the globe. Developed by educators, for educators, this revolutionary online curriculum is redefining what’s possible in classroom and ensemble settings—from absolute beginners to advanced players.
Discover how their vision empowers teachers with accessible, leveled repertoire, comprehensive lesson plans, and a framework that fosters true musical growth, collaboration, and literacy. Whether you're new to the classroom or leading a thriving program, GuitarCurriculum.com offers the tools to elevate your students and your teaching.
Come see how this powerful resource is shaping the next generation of guitarists—and how you can be part of the movement.
Class Guitar Resources Ed Prasse 3:30pm
🎸 Ed Prasse: Hands-On Training for Real-World Guitar Classrooms
Join renowned educator and curriculum developer Ed Prasse as he shares insights from his decades of experience shaping classroom guitar programs through his innovative H.O.T. – Hands-On Training method. As co-author of the widely adopted First Year Guitar and Second Year Guitar curricula from Class Guitar Resources, Inc., Ed has empowered thousands of teachers with a full 180-day sequential approach to ensemble-based guitar instruction.
His method emphasizes immediate application, active participation, and daily musical success—perfect for both seasoned directors and educators just starting their guitar programs.Whether you’re teaching high school, middle school, or looking to elevate your program’s structure and outcomes, this session will equip you with proven strategies, adaptable tools, and a student-centered mindset that leads to real musical growth.
Come experience the power of hands-on learning from one of the leaders in modern guitar education.