Meet Kenneth Bender

Audiences remember Kenneth Bender for the impact of his sound—bold, resonant, and shaped with a level of expressiveness that stands out in the classical world. Kenneth’s playing is engaging, dynamic, and filled with rich tonal colors that give each performance its signature depth.  

A San Diego native, Kenneth has devoted nearly twenty years to mastering the classical guitar. He launched his professional journey at just fourteen, enrolling in college to accelerate his training. His artistry has since been sharpened under two giants of the guitar world: Christopher Parkening at Pepperdine University and Maestro Pepe Romero. Their mentorship helped him hone the expressiveness and power that now defines his sound. 

Kenneth regularly performs solo works, duets, and with larger ensembles across the country. He was first introduced to ensemble playing at the age of eight with the Encinitas Guitar Orchestra, a group of about 35 guitarists, and has remained an active section leader ever since, teaching and coaching players to perform at a higher level. Beyond solo work, Kenneth performs with guitarist Benji Scheckner as the Leucadia Duo, bringing vivid classical music to local venues through the support of the Leyenda Foundation. 

His performance experience extends into collaborative work as well. Kenneth has appeared multiple times with the San Diego Dance Theatre’s Live Arts Festival, including the premiere of Cecily Holocomb’s choreographed piece Holding Pattern, a modern interpretation of Domeniconi’s Koyunbaba. In 2025, he debuted his first concerto performance of The Concerto de Aranjuez with the Oklahoma City Chamber Symphony. 

Teaching is an extension of Kenneth’s artistry. He works with students of all ages and levels, from private lessons to masterclasses at events like the Hillsborough Community College Guitar Festival in Tampa, FL. In his own private practice, Kenneth strives to share his passion, interest and intensity with all those he works with, with the intent of expanding the art, joy and community of music