ARDS GUITAR FESTIVAL IS FINGER-PICKIN’ GOOD

WE’VE been taking piano lessons, here at Ultimate Ulster, for the past year or so. But strangely it has led to our becoming utterly obsessed... with the guitar. Perhaps it has given us a new angle with which to approach the six-string, a renewed vigour for interesting chords and finger styles. We’ve also developed an appreciation for guitarists, the virtuousos who float along below the surface, pushing the instrument in new directions, without ever breaking into mainstream. Guys like Master-of-thetelecaster Jim Campilongo, finger-picking genius Tommy Emmanuel and the old heroes such as Chet Atkins or Guitar Man Jimmy Reed. Best leave it to the pros, then, so the Ards International Guitar Festival’s programme announcement comes at just the right time. The event, running from April 1 to 5, features some of the most interesting and talented players in the world – including the Aquarelle Guitar Quartet, Richard Nelson Jazz Quartet, Jane Willow, Siomha and Shane Hennessy, The Ronnie Greer All-star Blues Revue and Rodney Branigan. There are also shows from singer-songwriters such as Dani and a celebration of Thin Lizzy in the Classic Band Brunch. Stuart Bailie – our occasional colleague and full-time hero – is celebrated for his writing, broadcasting and campaigning for Northern Ireland’s music scene. But he’s also a rather nifty photographer and he’s hosting an exhibition of his work at the Georgian Gallery in Ards from April 2 to 25. With schedules as well thought out as this it’s no wonder the Festival, now in its 23rd year, is going from strength to strength. The only surprise is who will pick up this year’s Lifetime Achievement Award... check out www.ardsguitarfestival.co.uk for details.

GUITAR HERO Ronnie Greer