Ards and North Down Borough Council have announced the lineup for the 2024 Ards International Guitar Festival, set to take place in Newtownards from 17-21 April. This year marks the festival's 28th edition, promising a packed itinerary of guitar-focused events including concerts, free fringe activities and an exhibition.

Guitar enthusiasts can anticipate a diverse range of music genres, spanning blues, folk, rock, Americana, classical, and contemporary styles. Renowned for its celebration of the instrument, the festival attracts both local and international talent, curated by guest programmer Anthony Toner.

Highlights from this year's programme include Dom Martin's performance, with a follow-up discussion with award-winning broadcaster Ralph McLean on Thursday, 18 April in the Ards Arts Centre. Martin, an emerging talent in Northern Ireland's music scene, will showcase his natural acoustic guitar skills and authentic 'Belfast Blues' voice.

Dom Martin. Credit: Allison Morgan.

The following day, Martin Harley will take the stage at Queen's Hall in Newtownards, offering a mesmeric exploration of roots, blues and slide guitar. With nearly three decades of composing and performance under his belt, Harley combines exceptional musical talent with grounded charisma.

Classical guitar enthusiasts certainly wouldn't want to miss American guitarist Miles McConnell's performance at Ards Arts Centre on Saturday, 20th April.

Additional festival highlights include The Grainne Duffy Band with support from Ben Cutler at Queen's Hall on Saturday, promising a night of blues excellence.

Finally, on 21 April, singer-songwriter and former Lifetime Achievement Award winner Sarah McQuaid will captivate audiences at Ards Arts Centre with her rich, enthralling voice and engaging personality.

The festival also features the annual Classic Album Brunch, free fringe concerts, featuring Kyle John Suckling and Gavin Ferris, an exhibition by Keery Irvine and much more. The Ivy Bar will host blues and rock gigs, culminating in the popular Weekend Wind Down festival finale.

“I am delighted to see the Guitar Festival return to Newtownards for another year," says Councillor Jennifer Gilmour, the Mayor of Ards and North Down. "The 2024 programme is a wonderful showcase of both local and international talent, and I would encourage everyone to buy tickets and support the events."

Ards Guitar Festival Director, Emily Crawford spoke about the festival, noting "a real flavour of roots music running through this year’s festival and for fans of rock and metal, a special event on the history of distortion. We have a brilliant programme of local and international artists lined up for you this year with something to appeal to every taste."

Tickets for the 2024 Ards International Guitar Festival are on sale now. To purchase tickets or to view the full programme, please visit this website.