Luka Lovreković Wins Second Prize at the 2026 Certamen Internacional de Guitarra “Francisco Tárrega”

We are delighted to congratulate Luka Lovreković, who has been awarded Second Prize at the 2026 Certamen Internacional de Guitarra “Francisco Tárrega” in Benicàssim, one of the most prestigious international competitions dedicated to the classical guitar.

Luka reached the final after an outstanding semi-final performance, presenting a demanding and varied programme that included Sonata giocosa by Joaquín Rodrigo, Danza Mora, the compulsory work of the competition, and Sonata No. 1 by Alberto Ginastera.

The programme brought together very different musical languages, from the refined and playful character of Rodrigo to the rhythmic and colourful character of Danza Mora, and the powerful contrasts and complexity of Ginastera's Sonata. Luka approached this demanding repertoire with great mastery, shaping a wide range of timbres, dynamics and expressive colours throughout his performance.

For the final, Luka performed Joaquín Rodrigo’s Concierto de Aranjuez together with Capricho Árabe by Francisco Tárrega. The programme once again demanded a remarkable combination of technical control, musical sensitivity and expressive depth, moving between the orchestral character and dramatic contrasts of the Concierto and the intimate, lyrical world of Tárrega.

Across both stages of the competition, Luka demonstrated the versatility and maturity of his musicianship, bringing together very different musical styles while maintaining a strong and distinctive artistic voice.

The 2026 edition brought together an exceptionally strong group of finalists. Filip Mišković was awarded First Prize, while Luka Lovreković received Second Prize. Sohta Nakabayashi and Francisco Luís were also named finalists. Francisco Luís additionally received the Audience Prize and the award for the best interpretation of a work by Francisco Tárrega.

We are especially pleased to note that Luka performed on a Wayra – All Wood Double-Top by Elvis Pajares during his performances at the competition.

Congratulations to Luka on this outstanding achievement, and our congratulations as well to all the finalists and prize winners for the exceptional artistic level of this year's Certamen.

Watch Luka Lovreković’s semi-final performance:
Sonata giocosa by Joaquín Rodrigo, Danza Mora and Sonata No. 1 by Alberto Ginastera.