Classical Guitar Music Festival Comes to Rangoon

By The Irrawaddy 1 March 2017

RANGOON — Classical guitar music in Burma does not enjoy the large fan base of other genres and there are a limited number of skilled musicians and live music performances—mostly confined to high-end restaurants, hotel lobbies, and embassy receptions.

But with the country’s first two-day International Classical Guitar Festival on March 3 in Rangoon, the public has the chance to see local and international guitarists perform classic works. Some 14 classical guitar aficionados will take part in a competition to show off their skills.

“Classical guitarists of all ages and skills regardless of race, color, gender, creed, and education are strongly encouraged to join this historical festival happening for the first time in Myanmar,” a statement announcing the festival said.

The festival is aimed at fostering awareness, interest, and appreciation of classical guitar music.

U Myint Than Tun, one of the founders of Myanmar Classical Guitar Society, which co-organized the event with the Myanmar Event Management Company, acknowledged that classical guitar music is not widely popular in Burma, yet.

“It will be the first time in the country to have that kind of event.” he explained.

“It’s not only the performances and competition but there will be workshops and master classes where experienced players will help young guitarists with the problems they face when learning to play,” said the classical guitarist, who will also be performing at the festival.

The competition is open to all classical guitarists not represented by professional management. There is only one category of competition with no limits on age, sex, religion, race, or skill level.

The first Myanmar International Classical Guitar Festival will take place on March 3 and 4, 2017 at the Rose Garden Hotel Rangoon. The admission is free but you have to register here: www.micgf.com.mm