Manouche Festival

THE days are getting longer and Spring is on the way. So what better way to celebrate than attending the March Manouche festival in Menai Bridge (March 17-19), inspired by the music of Django Reinhardt and Stephané Grappelli, and the sounds of the 1930s and 40s swing era.

In it’s third year for 2017, the festival has grown to be an highly regarded event on the international Gypsy Jazz scene, as well as the North Wales calendar. The festival has been a resounding success not only for the audiences, but also for Menai Bridge itself- which hosts not only the concerts and instrumental workshops, but also enthusiastic jam sessions in several local pubs.

This year will see the festival’s first international acts, as well as more top bands and solo artists from the burgeoning UK Gypsy Jazz scene. Familiar faces at the festival will include North Wales locals Andy MacKenzie, Greg Robley, Billy Thompson and Sarah Barnwell.

The concert venue will once again be at the Victoria Hotel, which will also be hosting the Saturday night’s concerts for the first time. The festival’s workshops will be suitable for amateurs and professionals alike, and will be hosted by various tutors, including the renowned Italian guitarist and teacher, Dario Napoli, and UK virtuoso and award winner Remi Harris (pictured). Bring along your guitar or other musical instrument and learn how to jam like Django!

This year’s March Manouche Festival is set to be bigger and better than ever; expect foot-tapping, world class musicianship.