Gitaristenpodium Groningen - Xuefei Yang

Xuefei Yang is acclaimed as one of the world’s finest classical guitarists. Hailed as a musical pioneer - her fascinating journey began after the Cultural Revolution, a period where Western musical instruments & music were banned. Xuefei was the first-ever guitarist in China to enter a music school, & became the first internationally recognised Chinese guitarist on the world stage. Her first public appearance was at the age of ten and received such acclaim that the Spanish Ambassador in China presented her with a concert guitar. Her debut in Madrid at the age of 14 was attended by the composer Joaquín Rodrigo and, when John Williams heard her play, he gave two of his own instruments to Beijing’s Central Conservatoire especially for her and other advanced students.

Groningen Guitar Festival - Paul Galbraith

Experience the wonders of the 8-string 'Brahms' guitar' through the brilliance of guitar legend Paul Galbraith! Internationally revered for his musical expression and technical prowess, he has performed all over the world and produced numerous critically acclaimed records.

Join us for an evening of wonderful arrangements only made possible by this incredible instrument!

Groningen Guitar Festival - Kanahi Yamashita & Luka Lovreković

Join us for a unique and unforgettable evening celebrating the guitar. We are thrilled to present two of the most brilliant guitarists of their generation in one unforgettable concert, Kanahi Yamashita and Luka Lovreković!

This special event will be presented in two halves, offering a rare opportunity to experience the unique voices of two wonderful artists.

Groningen Guitar Festival - Mela Guitar Quartet

The Mela Guitar Quartet is bringing a recital full of virtuosity, fireworks and sensitivity to the Groningen Guitar Festival, with their original arrangements and commissioned compositions!

Join us for an unforgettable evening with one of the best ensembles the guitar has to offer!

Gitaristenpodium Groningen - Julio Robles

Julio Robles - winner of the 2nd prize and audience prize of the Groningen Guitar Festival 2026 - is a rising star of the classical guitar. He has won more than 20 national and international prizes, including First Prize at the GFA International Youth Competition in 2018, First Prize at the Drôme de Guitare competition in southern France in 2023 – after which he became a Savarez artist, Second Prize at the Roland Dyens Competition in Montrouge, France in 2024, and both Second Prize and the Audience Prize at the Groningen Guitar Competition in 2026.