Celebrating 30 Years of Guitar Excellence: The IGF Summer school Takes Over Bath
The International Guitar Foundation (IGF) is gearing up to transform the historic city of Bath, UK, into a vibrant hub for guitar enthusiasts as it commemorates 30 years of its renowned summer school. This milestone event promises an array of masterclasses and performances designed to elevate the skills and confidence of every participant, making it an inclusive gathering for guitarists of all levels.
A Diverse Musical Experience Awaits
In its 30th iteration, the IGF Bath Guitar Festival and Summer School invites guitarists from various backgrounds to immerse themselves in a rich tapestry of genres and techniques. Scheduled for August 12-17, 2025, the event will feature courses in classical, flamenco, and contemporary styles, offering participants a total of 30 hours of hands-on instruction over five days.
Courses Tailored for Every Skill Level
For those just starting their musical journey, the summer school provides foundational courses that lay the groundwork for future success. Intermediate and advanced players can challenge themselves in a supportive surroundings, ensuring that everyone walks away with a sense of accomplishment and improved skills.
The Guitar: A Worldwide Instrument
As the IGF organizers emphasize, “the guitar is the instrument of the peopel,” capable of bridging divides across class, race, and gender. The festival aims to celebrate this inclusivity, showcasing guitar heroes from diverse cultural backgrounds.
Expert Instructors from the Music Industry
Each course is led by carefully selected instructors, many of whom are esteemed contributors to prominent publications such as Guitar World, Guitarist, and Music Radar. Jason Sidwell, a contemporary course leader and former editor of Guitar Techniques, will focus on groove techniques, exploring the influences of legends like James Brown and Prince.
David Mead, deputy editor of Guitarist, will guide participants through the rock and blues foundations course, enhancing their riffing and soloing abilities. Jon Bishop, known for his performances in films like Love Actually, will teach beginner electric guitarists essential techniques, including strumming and string bending.
Specialized Courses for Every Genre
Blues award winner Chris Corcoran will delve into the world of vintage electric blues, highlighting icons like T-Bone Walker and B.B. King. Andy Saphir,a regular contributor to Guitar Techniques,will lead a course that spans blues and country,featuring artists from Eric Clapton to Brent Mason.
John Wheatcroft,a respected musician and author,will share his insights on jazz,covering everything from American songbook standards to the gypsy jazz style popularized by Django Reinhardt. chris Quinn will explore acoustic techniques, blending Celtic and pop influences, while Samuel Moore and Francisco Correa will lead flamenco and classical courses, respectively.
moore’s exceptional skills have taken him to prestigious venues like Carnegie Hall and Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club, where he has showcased both conventional and innovative flamenco compositions. Francisco Correa, leading the classical course, has been praised by BBC Radio 3 as a “truly remarkable performer” and by Classical Guitar Magazine as “virtuosic and heartfelt.”
Concerts and Performance opportunities
The festival will also feature performances by international artists, and jam sessions will provide students with the chance to play alongside a house band. As guitar virtuoso Marty Friedman has noted, performing live is crucial for any guitarist’s growth.
Accommodation and Ticket Details
Participants can enjoy cozy accommodations at Bath Spa University, with meal options included. Tickets are available for both residential and non-residential attendees,and scholarships are offered for young musicians from less privileged backgrounds.
Ticket prices start at £390, with a 30% discount for guitarists aged 18 and under.
For more details and to view each tutor’s introductory video,visit IGF.
