Festival Guitare Alla Grande celebrates 20 years with world-class lineup

Tashi Farmilo

The Conservatoire de musique de Gatineau is set to celebrate a milestone in its history with the 20th edition of the Festival Guitare Alla Grande, an event that has grown into one of Canada’s premier showcases for classical guitar. Taking place in Gatineau and Ottawa from February 26 to March 2, with performances and events at venues including the Conservatoire de musique de Gatineau, the University of Ottawa’s Tabaret Hall, and Église Notre-Dame-de-la-Guadeloupe, this anniversary edition promises an exceptional program featuring a mix of concerts, master classes, and conferences led by some of the world’s most celebrated guitarists.

Among the festival’s distinguished headliners is the legendary David Russell, whose return to the festival marks a full-circle moment after his performance at its 10th edition. The Grammy-winning guitarist, widely regarded as one of the finest musicians of his generation, will offer both a master class and a highly anticipated solo performance.

Joining him is the acclaimed Italian duo SoloDuo, composed of Lorenzo Micheli and Matteo Mela, making their third appearance at the festival. Renowned for their seamless musical synergy and technical brilliance, the pair has earned a global reputation as one of the most captivating guitar ensembles. Rounding out the trio of marquee performers is Laura Young, an internationally celebrated Canadian guitarist who will make her Festival Guitare Alla Grande debut.

“This 20th edition of the festival is set to be an extraordinary musical celebration,” said Marc Langis, director of the Conservatoire de musique de Gatineau. “Bringing together internationally renowned artists and promising talents in a friendly and festive atmosphere, it will be an unforgettable experience for audiences.”

The festival will open with a concert showcasing young talent from the participating institutions, setting the stage for a week of world-class performances. Beyond the concerts, the program also features two major conferences. Salvadoran guitarist Ramsés Calderon will delve into the historical journey of the guitar from Spain to the Americas, while Quebec’s Pascal Valois, a specialist in classical and romantic guitar repertoire, will present a lecture on 19th-century compositions.

Another highlight of the festival is the Welcome Back concert, featuring more than thirty former students from the Conservatoire de musique de Gatineau and the University of Ottawa. This special performance will include a joint composition by Patrick Roux, the festival’s founder, further solidifying the event’s role as a bridge between past and present generations of guitarists.

For aspiring musicians, the festival provides a rare opportunity to learn from some of the most respected names in the field. In addition to Russell, SoloDuo, and Young, several instructors from the conservatory network will lead master classes designed to refine technique and inspire the next wave of classical guitarists.

The festival will conclude with a grand finale performance featuring the Virtuoso and Maestro guitar orchestras, conducted by David Gaudreau and Denis Poliquin. This large-scale concert, bringing together students from various institutions, is expected to be a powerful demonstration of the depth of talent cultivated through the festival’s educational initiatives.

Tickets and full event details are available at: https://www.conservatoire.gouv.qc.ca/media/jpiom4bo/cmg_programme_alla_grande_2025_final_web.pdf