The idea behind the guitar festival is to bring together performers from all over the world with different musical backgrounds and techniques alongside the AUC community under one roof. The guitar in particular is used throughout the world in unique ways symbolizing both unity and diversity across cultures.

When asked about the rise of interest in the guitar in Egypt, Nathan Fischer, a visiting professor in the music program at AUC, said, “It is not an isolated phenomenon in Egypt. The guitar is a billion dollar industry and it has played a huge role in the globalization of music of all genres.”

The concerts will be a mix of modern and classical music, Eastern and Western, jazz and rock fusion and will even feature some oud.

The festival will take place both at AUC New Cairo and AUC Tahrir Square, alternating between Ewart Memorial Hall and Malak Gabr Arts Theatre.  The festival continues for the entire week with different performers each day. In addition, workshops will be offered on the last day of the festival covering a range of topics,including practicing tips, improvisation and tutorials on different types of guitars.

The festival will be a great opportunity to meet new people, listen to a variety of music, learn from the workshops and most importantly, relax and have fun. When asked what he hopes people would take away from this festival, Fischer answered, “We hope they find inspiration.”