Great Big Guitar Party strikes a chord

CLASSICAL guitarists from Thame and neighbouring villages came together in Ickford last Saturday (March 2)to play at, was billed as, the Great Big Guitar Party 2014.

Amateur musicians aged between eight and 50 came from Thame, Shabbington, Ickford, Worminghall, Tiddington, Morton and Long Crendon to perform at Ickford School in front of a packed audience. The programme, which included solos, duets and numerous ensemble pieces, was performed after just a quick afternoon practice together.

Organiser Paula Child said: “‘The Great Big Guitar Party is quite a relaxed, spontaneous event. The classical guitar is usually played as a solo instrument, so it’s great to play together. The Finale, ‘Song of the Lonely Mountains’ (from The Hobbit) was a secret until two days before, so we only had one rehearsal with the singer. The dwarf anvil-beaters came as a surprise on the night.”

Other pieces ranged from ancient to modern: from 16th century English Airs to Sea Shanties, taking in flamenco, blues and ‘Stairway to Heaven’ along the way.

Guitarist of the Year Awards went to Joshua Greig (Senior) from Aylesbury Grammar School, and Jack Lowndes (Junior) from Ickford County Combined School.

If you or your child is interested in joining a classical guitar ensemble, you can contact Mrs Child on tel. 01844 201236 or pchild77@gmail.com