Acoustic magazine on WYGF 2009

Although the nights are now drawing in and there are only 50 days until Christmas, here at WYGF HQ we are still basking in the post-festival glow of WYGF09. More importantly, it’s wonderful to hear how much fun was had by everyone involved, both from the perspective of our own WYGF students and tutors but also from some of our visitors.

We were thrilled to have Steve Gordon from ACOUSTIC – the UK’s only dedicated acoustic guitar magazine -  spend a day with us during WYGF09 to see what our festival is all about: he was able to soak up the whole atmosphere first hand and judging by the fantastic write-up he has given us in the November issue of the magazine he had a fabulous time. He describes WYGF as “a unique event in the guitar world” which is something we are very proud of, but more importantly he recognises that “the importance of the biennial World Youth Guitar Festival can not be overstated, because it is aimed at the grass roots and most important musical and educational level: children!”

Whilst we’re on the subject, our own students and ensemble leaders have also given us some blush-worthy feedback and here are just a few of the lovely comments we’ve received:

“As a residential course the WYGF is everything you would want for young guitar players and then some. What did we do before WYGF? WYGF is a credit to the musical life of the community and in relying on the imagination, initiative and very hard work of a few, thoroughly deserves sustained support.” G. Cleaver

“World Youth Guitar Festival – The guitar world can’t live without it!“ K. Zobel

“[My daughter] has not stopped talking about the festival, she had the most amazing time and in her words is so inspired.  She is most upset that she has to wait 2 years for the next one and can’t understand why there can’t be another festival next month!!!!!” L.G.

For us, giving our students an unforgettable experience is what it is all about, but let’s not forget our hugely fabulous tutors without whom it wouldn’t be possible, so just to round off, here’s what two of our inspirational WYGF09 guest artists said …

“My favorite guitar related experience ever – seriously.” BRAD RICHTER – WYGF09 guest artist & tutor

“WYGF was definitely the coolest festival I’ve been to, from every angle. I’ve never seen a festival with such energy, thanks to both the nature of the event, and the incredible positive energy and organizational skills of the presenters.  Bravo, WYGF!!!” MARTHA MASTERS – WYGF09 guest artist & tutor