The Shirley A. and Arthur R. Duffy Classical Guitar Endowment

“The Guitar,” honoring the eminent guitarist Andrés Segovia:

A portable companion always ready to go where you go/

a small friend weighing less than a fresh born infant/

to be shared with few or many/

just the two of you in sweet meditation.

by Carl Sandburg

Arthur Duffy played classical guitar in his 20s and 30s, and then took a hiatus for his career as a metallurgical researcher and, later, as a real estate investor. He started playing again in 2014 at the age of 82, studying with University of Akron guitar professor, Jim Marron, who was recommended to Mr. Duffy through the Cleveland Classical Guitar Society.

Arthur and Shirley Duffy, a former teacher, have been married for 63 years. They raised their children in a home where the arts were, and still are, appreciated and loved. The Duffy’s are avid supporters of The Chautauqua Institution, where they also established an endowment supporting guitar performances.

Students eligible for The Shirley A. and Arthur R. Duffy Classical Guitar Endowment must be enrolled full-time in The University of Akron School of Music, majoring in guitar or music education, and with a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher. A School of Music committee will review applicants and select one or more recipients as needs arise and funds are available.