The annual New York Guitar Festival, now in its second week, is marking its tenth anniversary of deluging New York and its neighbors with original, illuminating musical performances. And this year’s event promises something abundantly special for guitar enthusiasts and general festivalgoers alike.
Celebrated NYGF curator David Spelman is highly regarded and recognized for his efforts in bringing together classic and innovative musical collaborations. This year he offers a brilliant and original performance of Charlie Chaplin’s most renowned silent films, entitled Silent Films/Live Guitars, in which the movies are brought to life by some of the most talented and creative guitarists around.
On Thursday, January 21, New York City will have an amazing opportunity to witness the acclaimed Justin Vernon, better known under the moniker of Bon Iver. With his album, For Emma Forever Ago, Vernon became an international folk icon while solidifying his reputation as one of contemporary music’s most appreciated guitarists. Accompanying Vernon in performing the scores of Chaplin’s short films “One A.M.” and “Easy Street” will be fellow musician and long-time “guitar-mentor” Chris Rosenau. Both men collaborated last year in forming the band Volcano Choir.
As if this star-studded event couldn’t get any better, Thursday’s performance will also include Steve Kimock, who is slated to play to the Buster Keaton short, “Cops.” Best known as co-founder and guitarist for the San Francisco band Zero, Kimock has recorded and performed with the likes of Bruce Hornsby as well as with members of the Grateful Dead. In fact, Jerry Garcia once hailed him as his favorite guitarist.
This elaborate performance will take place at the Merkin Concert Hall, at 8 p.m.
Since 1999 the New York Guitar Festival has been broadening the public's appreciation and fondness of the guitar while fostering emerging talent through its landscapes. The NYGF is a not-for-profit arts organization that has, every year since its inception a decade ago, produced innovative, eclectic concerts and radio broadcasts. The festival has garnered no shortage of praise, earning features in such publications as The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, and Jazz Times.
For more information on The New York Guitar Festival, and concert schedule please visit www.newyorkguitarfestival.org.
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