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When it comes to the symphony, it might be hard to know which concert to attend, especially if orchestral music is uncharted territory for you. But that's where Utah Symphony's brand-new Guitar Celebrations Festival comes into play. This multi-day extravaganza celebrates the diverse and captivating world of one of the most well-known instruments — the guitar. With this series of events ticketed separately, you can mix and match for your perfect festival experience.
Crafted and directed by Utah Symphony | Utah Opera Creative Partner David Robertson, who understood that the familiar guitar could help bring new audiences to a symphony concert, the festival showcases eight world-class electric and acoustic guitarists in concerts performed at both Abravanel Hall and The State Room, intimate classes, workshops, and more!
Special opening performance at The State Room
The festivities begin with a special concert performance at The State Room on April 16, featuring the eight great guitarists from Another Night on Earth! This group, which began playing together over Zoom during the pandemic and hails from around the globe, will highlight the guitar's sonic diversity with melodies from the Middle Ages to present day art music! (Please note, the Utah Symphony does not perform on this concert.)
Main stage concerts at Abravanel Hall
On April 19 and 20, Utah Symphony musicians will share the stage with Another Night On Earth, representing the power of their collaboration with songs by The Beatles, works inspired by the Renaissance, and brand-new music!
No guitar celebration would be complete without Rodrigo's "Concierto de Aranjuez," the most famous guitar concerto there is (you'll recognize it immediately!). It will be performed by the spectacular South Korean guitarist and DJ, Jiji. Another highlight is Princeton-based composer Steven Mackey's new electric guitar concerto, "Aluminum Flowers," performed on April 20 only.
Combining guitar with orchestra takes the instrument's possibilities to new heights in this work. "The orchestra is like the giant mother of all effects pedals, amplifying and supporting the guitarist in its endeavors to be bigger than just six strings on a piece of wood," explains Mackey. Gretchen Menn, who will be the electric guitar soloist, shares that playing this concerto is one of the greatest challenges and honors of her professional life.
One by one, each of the eight guitarists will take their moment in the spotlight with the symphony and ultimately, in an epic conclusion, everyone synthesizes their talent in a fantastic Frank Zappa finale!
Your Saturday, your way
But there's more to this festival than just killer tunes. On April 20, grab lunch at one of the many neighboring restaurants in downtown SLC before attending a few of the exciting activities happening all afternoon at Abravanel Hall.
Guitarists (aspiring and current), music lovers, and instrument nerds of all kinds can participate in any or all of the hands-on classes April 20, via the Afternoon Class Pass, available for $20 (students and under-30s save 50%). This is an afternoon crash course in guitar greatness that you don't want to skip.
In between lecture discussions and hands-on guitar instruction, browse the free Guitar Gear Exhibition held in the lobby of Abravanel Hall from 11 a.m. – 7 p.m. More than a dozen vendors will be showcasing the finest instruments and cutting-edge guitar technology, allowing participants to explore, interact, and discover the latest innovations in guitar craftsmanship.
Then join the Utah Symphony for an early 5:30 p.m. concert highlighting the incredible guitarists of Another Night on Earth. You'll see the teachers you've learned from throughout the day, showing off their own talent alongside your local Utah Symphony. Plus, you can take advantage of a complimentary guitar check during the concert, so you don't have to worry about leaving your instrument unattended in a car.
Guitar Celebrations Festival celebrates musical connections
This festival embodies the Utah Symphony's mission to connect the community through great live music, offering shared experiences of musical exploration.
Broadening the reach and impact of the festival, 150 students will witness the rehearsal for the mainstage concerts, guitarist and composer Steven Mackey will teach a masterclass at the University of Utah and more.
With educational opportunities for both children and adults, the Guitar Celebrations Festival pushes the boundaries of a mere concert experience, offering cultural exchanges, artistic expression and personal growth for all involved, empowering Utah citizens to unlock their full artistic potential and enjoyment through interactions with industry experts.
Tickets are available now for all festival events, beginning with the opening performance at The State Room and concluding with the grand finale at Abravanel Hall.
