International Classical Guitar Festival 2023
19 to 24 August 2023
30th Anniversary Celebration
Festival Director: Andrew Gough with Concert artists and tutors: Xuefei Yang, Craig Ogden, Montes-Kircher Duo (Alfonso Montes & Irina Kircher), Mark Houghton, Vincent Lindsey-Clark, Laura Snowden and Jack Hancher.
Under the directorship of Andrew Gough, West Dean College once again offers the celebrated International Classical Guitar Festival in the idyllic and relaxing surroundings which make this the perfect setting for lessons, masterclasses, ensemble coaching and concerts. The Festival is renowned for its tuition, performance, concerts and geniality, which make it a unique and fulfilling experience for all who attend.
Course structure
The 2023 Festival includes an intensive timetable of events and instruction in a wide range of areas: repertoire classes, ensemble performing, guitar orchestra, individual lessons, ‘the Learning Zones’, and solo masterclasses. A full list of the learning opportunities is in the outline programme and timetable below.
The evening concert series for 2023 commences on Saturday with a solo recital by acclaimed international concert artist Xuefei Yang. On Monday evening the ever-popular Craig Ogden returns to the West Dean stage. We then conclude the series with a performance by the Montes-Kircher Duo on Tuesday evening, in their welcome return to West Dean College.
The Open Day on Sunday 20 August (12.30pm – 7pm) will again celebrate all things guitar; with a selection of guitars and music on display and a variety of events to enjoy. It includes an exhibition of music and instruments, a guitar makers’ showcase with Laura Snowden and masterclass with Xuefei Yang, concluding with a recital by Gold Medal winner of the Royal Overseas League Competition 2022, Jack Hancher in St. Andrew’s Church at 6pm.