International artists and clinics in packed Guitar Festival programme
THE Ards International Guitar Festival runs in Newtownards from April 19 to 23.
The programme is described as showcasing a wealth of local and international guitar talent. The line-up features guitarists from every genre, with a promise of ‘something to suit every musical taste’
The festival, organised by Ards and North Down Council, opens on Wednesday, April 19, with ‘Comedy Classic Soundtracks’. Neil Ó Briain and Paul McMordie will perform live, original and new scores to silent movie favourites. Billed as a ‘must for fans of Laurel and Hardy and Buster Keaton’, the event takes place at The Web Theatre.
The festival is welcoming an exciting all-female line-up from the Netherlands and Germany who will take to the stage in the Queen’s Hall on Friday, April 21. Karlijn Langendijk, Judith Beckedorf and Sophie Chasée are three of Europe’s most talented female guitarists.
Other highlights of this year’s programme include the Jim Mullen Trio in concert in the Ards Arts Centre on Friday, April 21. . Mullen is one of the UK’s finest jazz guitar talents, who has collaborated over several decades with top musicians in Europe and the US.
Broadcaster Ralph McLean will be in conversation with guitar manufacturing legend George Lowden and his son Aaron in Ards Arts Centre on Saturday, April 22, taking a look back over George’s extensive career and hearing about the next generation of Lowden guitars.
For those who fancy honing their guitar skills, Guitar Clinics will be hosted by Jim Mullen, Rodney Branigan, Judith Beckedorf and Karlijn Langendijk, who will guide you through various styles of playing. The clinics will take place in Ards Arts Centre on various dates. Pre-booking is essential.
Festival director, Emily Crawford, said: “This year’s festival is shaping up to be one of our best with a jam-packed programme of music, guitar clinics and free gigs all taking place in Newtownards over five days.
With everything from classical and jazz to bluegrass and blues, we have something for everyone at this year’s Ards International Guitar Festival.”
For ticket details or to view the full programme visit the website www.ardsguitarfestival.co.uk or call Ards Arts Centre on 028 9181 0803.