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International Guitar Night returns to New Westminster stage

A magical night of music is planned for International Guitar Night’s silver anniversary tour stop at Massey Theatre in New West.
Theresa McManus
Theresa McManus
guitar-night-lulo_reinhardt_2022_back-5
Lulo Reinhardt from Germany makes his return to New West for this year's International Guitar Night concert.Contributed/International Guitar Night

International Guitar Night features an ensemble of globally renowned guitarists for its silver anniversary tour.

Massey Theatre presents International Guitar Night 2025: A Fusion of World-Class Guitar Virtuosity on Saturday, Feb. 1 at 7:30 p.m. The concert, celebrating the 25th anniversary of International Guitar Night, includes solos, duets, and quartets on the acoustic guitar.

Founded by Brian Gore in Northern California in the late 1990s, International Guitar Night has become a platform for both established virtuosos and rising stars. It aims to showcase some of the world’s most exceptional guitarists.

For this year’s 25th anniversary concert, Gore has assembled a lineup of three exciting new guitarists who are making their U.S. debuts. They will join one of IGN’s all-time favourites, Lulo Reinhardt from Germany.

Reinhardt, who is celebrated for his Latin Swing style that is deeply rooted in Sinti tradition, is thrilled to be returning to International Guitar Night for the eighth time. He believes every musician can be proud to be part of this tour.

Reinhardt said International Guitar Night is not only one of the best guitar shows going, but it also brings together artists from various countries.

“That’s what makes this show so special. We show the public that all nations can work together, without prejudice and without racism,” he said. “And we also show that all music styles can work together. Music is a perfect language. And that we transfer to the audience.”

Joining Reinhardt on this year’s tour are Alexandra Whittingham (Britain), Niwel Tsumbu (Democratic Republic of the Congo), and Sönke Meinen (Germany).

Whittingham, a classical guitarist and composer, emerged from Chetham’s School of Music and the Royal Academy of Music with accolades and a distinctive style, said a news release.

 "It’s an incredibly unique show, and having the opportunity to share the stage with three fantastic guitarists is something I’m so looking forward to,” she said.

Sönke Meinen, an acclaimed guitarist, blends folk, classical, pop, and jazz influences into a captivating musical journey that includes fiery guitar displays and soul-stirring ballads.

"It is an honour to play my U.S. debut with the legendary International Guitar Night and share the stage with three incredible artists from such different musical worlds,” Meinen said in a news release. “I can’t wait to experience the magic that happens, when these worlds come together at IGN."

Niwel Tsumbu, a Congolese-born guitarist who is has lived in Ireland for the past 25 years, brings a fusion of jazz, classical, rock, and African rhythms to the New West stage.

“I can’t wait to share the stage with all the fantastic guitarists and bring positive energy to the everyone attending."

Tickets are $45 to $55 (plus service charges) and are available online.