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Guitarists take center stage for 25th anniversary International Guitar Night

Daily Inter-Lake | UPDATED 2 days, 14 hours AGO
| January 29, 2025 11:00 PM

International Guitar Night brings its 25th anniversary tour to Kalispell for a night of acoustic music by acclaimed guitarists Feb. 11. 

This year’s lineup features Lulo Reinhardt, a Sinti Gypsy jazz guitarist; Niwel Tsumbu, a Congolese guitarist; Alexandra Whittingham, whose repertoire includes contemporary and classic works and Sönke Meinen, a European fingerstyle guitarist who combines jaw-dropping virtuosity with incredible sensitivity.  

The show takes place at the Wachholz College Center on the campus of Flathead Valley Community College.  

Hailing from a renowned musical family, Reinhardt is a guitar virtuoso celebrated for his Latin Swing style rooted in Sinti tradition. From his early years playing in bands with his father, brothers, and cousins and his own Latin Swing Project, Reinhardt's journey is an exploration of his Sinti identity and encounters with other cultures. With numerous albums, global collaborations, and documentaries of Sinti and Roma migration, he continues to innovate.  

Recognized by “The Guardian” as “a young 21st-century virtuoso,” Whittingham combines phenomenal technique with a creative spirit that challenges convention. Her debut album, "My European Journey," topped charts by spotlighting lesser-known composers of the nineteenth century with her musical passion and virtuosity. With a massive online following and performances worldwide, Alexandra's star continues to rise with her debut in IGN.  

Tsumbu, a Congolese-born guitarist and singer based in Ireland, writes sophisticated compositions that blend Latin and African rhythms with jazz and classical influences. He is known for his original style and his Grammy-winning collaborations with global icons like Rhiannon Giddens and the Silk Road Ensemble. His fluidity across genres solidifies his place as a musical trailblazer, promising unforgettable performances in this upcoming U.S. tour with IGN.  

Meinen has earned respect in the fingerstyle guitar world for solo guitar works that turn folk, classical, pop, and jazz influences into a diverse musical journey. From fiery guitar displays to soul-stirring ballads, Meinen's songs awaken the imagination to the infinite possibilities offered by acoustic guitar. Renowned for his versatility and world-class skill, Sönke promises an exceptional concert experience that delights audiences of all backgrounds.  

Founder Brian Gores started International Guitar Night in 1995 as a forum for the world’s finest guitarist and composers to play their latest original songs and share musical talents with their peers. For each tour, Gore brings together a new cast of guitar luminaries for a special evening of solos, duets and quartets that highlight the dexterity and diversity within the world of acoustic guitar. 

Tickets start at $39.60. For more information and ticket details, visit wccmt.org or contact the ticket office at 756-1400. 

For more information about International Guitar Night visit www.internationalguitarnight.com. 


    Niwel Tsumbu
 
 


    Alexandra Whittingham
 
 
    Sönke Meinen
 
 


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