The gigs are getting bigger: Guitars in Bars returns for 2018

Since Guitars in Bars began three years ago, the sprawling winter music program has grown markedly. This year sees the number of registered artists climb above 780 individuals and participanting venues rise to nearly 100.

The Guitars in Bars event is part of the Adelaide Guitar Festival, created by musician and artistic director Slava Grigoryan, who has observed the event’s growth.

“This year offers the most exciting program yet, with more artists, more venues and more live music,” said Grigoryan in a release. “It’s a wonderful opportunity for performers to showcase their talent and we’re thrilled so many musicians and venues want to get involved.”

An expansion of events outside of the city and suburbs provides will allow punters to enjoy music at venues in Port Pirie, Port Lincoln, Barossa and Victor Harbour.

“We are excited that more of South Australia will be able to experience Guitars in Bars this year,” said Grigoryan. “Last year we had five regional events, this year we have 25. We know South Australians have a keen appetite for live music and we want to take it to as many places as possible.”

Running from mid-July, Guitars in Bars coincides with the four-day Adelaide Guitar Festival. Adelaide Festival Centre’s CEO and Artistic Director, Douglas Gautier says the event will showcase a collation of talented local, national and international artists.

“Guitars in Bars is growing in popularity which reaffirms South Australia’s love for live music and Adelaide’s status as a UNESCO City of Music,” he said. “It opens doors for musicians and helps established artists build their audiences.

Along with the Adelaide Guitar Festival, lineups will bring some of the world’s leading guitarists such as Tommy Emmanuel and Friends, Albert Lee and Martha Masters to the city.

Guitars in Bars
July 13-29
adelaideguitarfestival.com.au