In October 2009 a group of like-minded people got together in Birmingham UK to share their passion for this musical subculture. It was born on the internet and suggested by "Smojo" from Yorkshire.

I took up the idea, came up with a date and a venue, organised and promoted it, and thanks to the support and commitment of everyone involved it was a success.

We saw some amazing players, some unbelievably eccentric and wonderful instruments...and had a great time. These videos and photos will give you a flavour of what it was like...I'm sure looking back, those who were in the room  will realise this was the first manifestation of something really special...long may it continue...VIVA!!!!

 

 

The amazing Hollowbelly headling the first ever UK Cigar Box Guitar Festival..those lucky enough to be there were present at the start of a revolution!!!

 

The precocious and talented Bluesbeaten Redshaw showing that one string is all you really need to rock the house.

The venue - "Tower of Song" bar in Birmingham UK, home of the Crossroads Blues Club.

Dom giving a talk on how to wind pickups.

One of the afternoon sessions with Crossroads Blues Club regulars Ken on double bass and Helena on 'cello.

Coffee break...just shooting the breeze with Hollowbelly (seated), who was so generous in showing riffs and lending out his guitars to total novices.

One of the "how to play Cigar box guitar" lessons in the afternoon. Abilities ranged from expert to absolute beginners...but everyone seemed to just get along fine.

Roosterman Ben playing one of his own guitars, surrounded by some of his products. Ben came all the way from Inverness and is an absolute live wire and great bloke.

Pete Jackson playing one of my strumstick guitars - he won it in the raffle the previous week at the CrossroadsBlues Club and was instantly hooked!


Hollowbelly headlining at the evening gig...a fantastic end to a great day...check out the other pages for the 2010 edition.


Limited edition commemorative guitar.

 

 

"Can I have this one dad?..it's only fifty quid...go on dad..please..."

 


Roosterman and JuJu guitars for sale..this was the first time most people had clapped eyes on these great guitars...and money was changing hands and deals been done..no better way to buy a guitar, direct from the maker.