alibu, California - One of the world's most widely known and acclaimed classical guitarists, Christopher Parkening, has been named a distinguished faculty member of Pepperdine University.

The announcement was made by Dr. David Baird, dean of Pepperdine's Seaver College of Letters, Arts, and Sciences. "This is a tremendously important appointment," said Baird. "Having Christopher Parkening join our music faculty is an extraordinary compliment for the institution and our program. We are pleased, excited, and truly honored to welcome such an outstanding individual to our community."

Highlights of this summer's concert schedule include John Williams and the Boston Pops on May 31 and June 1, Grant Park, Chicago on August 10, and the Hollywood Bowl on August 27. Parkening's commitment to music extends beyond his demanding performance schedule. He also teaches an annual summer master class at Montana State University. Parkening, who will begin teaching at Pepperdine in the fall of 2002