Well, well... that was a 21st birthday Festival to remember... I’m sure I left a plectrum around here somewhere?

As you will have guessed, we were working on the programme for the 22nd International Guitar Festival of Great Britain before we put the lights out on the 21st. The 2010 Festival programme will include the breathtaking wizardry of virtuoso players who will dazzle the most demanding critic, in a series of events that deliver the most enjoyable musical experience to those looking for a good time and good company, as well as those technical aficionados.

For this year’s Festival, as ever, I have to thank the tireless teams of programmers, administrators, marketers, technical wizards, front of house and back of house staff who make this Festival work so well. I also have to thank the performers who astonish us at every turn, and our Ambassadors for ‘spreading the word’.

Until next year we will now get our breath back, allow the dust to settle, and, maybe even get some sleep.

Excuse me while I switch off the lights and put the Festival cat out.

‘til next year... be seeing you.

Rob Smith
Festival Director