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. Don't miss the 2010 event - keep checking back here for the latest news.

BREAKING NEWS!!!

The 2010 UK Cigar Box Guitar Festival will take place on Saturday 16th October, at thePublic, New Street, West Bromwich, West Midlands, B70 7PG

www.thePublic.com 

Performers booked so far - Hollowbelly, Tinqui8 (France), BluesBeaten Redshaw.

 

The Saturday all day ticket will include players' workshops lead by ChickenboneJohn, cigar box guitar building workshop lead by Roosterman.  There will be an exhibition of Cigar Box Guitars, plus makers' stalls. The venue is a cutting edge electronic arts centre, and in collaboration with the staff we are working on some exciting interactive visual and audio-visual activities.

Be prepared for a visual and audio experience not to be forgotten!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


 

 

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...watch out for details of the 2010 event.