Ards and North Down Borough Council announced the 2020 Ards International Guitar Festival programme.

Now in its 23rd year, the festival, which will run from April 1-5, celebrates the world’s most popular instrument, bringing together some of the best guitarists internationally, with artists across a range of genres.

This year’s line-up features over 40 musicians all brought together with the help of guest programmer Anthony Toner. The popular Guitar Clinics are also back, giving amateur guitarists the opportunity to hone their skills with the help of professionals, as well as a photography exhibition by Stuart Bailie.

One of the highlights of this year’s programme is The Aquarelle Guitar Quartet who will open the festival on April 1 at The Queen’s Hall. The AGQ is known for its extraordinary performances and expansive repertoire. The foursome will be supported by The Diony’s Ensemble and The Classical Guitar Society of Northern Ireland. Blues maestro Ronnie Greer returns to the festival as well on April 3 at The Queen’s Hall and will be launching his brand-new album with his new band All-Star Blues Revue.

The Festival is also pleased to welcome back to Ards who was one of the undoubted hits of last year’s Festival. Síomha will be supported at her Queen’s Hall gig on Saturday 4 April by virtuoso fingerstyle guitarist Shane Hennessy from Carlow (back by popular demand!) and German-born Sönke Meinen who has acquired an outstanding reputation on the international guitar scene.

Other highlights of this year’s programme include Irish folk sensation Síomha, The Richard Nelson Jazz Quartet, Rodney Branigan, Jane Willow and more. There will also be a screening of the silent film The Cabinet of Dr Caligari (1920) accompanied by guitarist Paul McMordie in Kiltonga Hall.

For ticket details and to view the full programme, visit www.ardsguitarfestival.co.uk.