THE Ards International Guitar Festival celebrates its 18th birthday in style next month with a jam-packed programme catering for a broad spectrum of tastes. The annual event began life as a small classical guitar festival but over the years it has grown to provide opportunities to see world class guitar players up close and personal.
The 2014 bill features internationally acclaimed musicians including Pierre Bensusan, Frank Vignola & Vinny Raniolo, Flamenco Fiesta, Colin Reid & Brian Keenan, The 4 of Us, Chris Woods Groove, The Sabrejets, Rab McCullough, Amanda Agnew and more.
"We're particularly excited about our Flamenco Fiesta featuring John Walsh, Jose Manuel Leon and Salvador Andrades," enthuses festival director Emily Crawford, "and we look forward to welcoming the inimitable Pierre Bensusan as he celebrates his 40th anniversary tour."
Festival goers can also enjoy free fringe concerts, clinics with guitar professionals and an intimate performance session with the Classical Guitar Society of Northern Ireland and Pat Coldrick.
* Tickets and further programme information available via Ardsguitarfestival.co.uk.