We are a friendly, non-competitive society for classical guitar players. Our meetings combine ensemble playing with ample opportunities for members to give short recitals to a like-minded and encouraging audience.
Repertoire
The music we play covers a wide range of styles and periods, either arranged for guitar ensemble by our own members or selected by our Musical Director, David Merrin, an accomplished guitar teacher, performer and luthier in his own right.
Playing Standards
The society is best suited to players of around grade three upwards, although those with less experience are still welcome to come and see how they get on. We play mostly as an ensemble, for which the main requirement is the ability to read the music. This varies in difficulty across the parts for each item, and generally means we can accommodate the broadest possible range of skill levels, from early readers upwards.
Musical Director
Our musical director is David Merrin. He studied classical guitar at Trinity College of Music under the guidance of renowned tutors Gilbert Biberian and Bill Granderson. He has since enjoyed a long and distinguished career as both a performer and a dedicated guitar teacher.
In addition to his musical accomplishments, David is an accomplished luthier whose handcrafted guitars are owned and played by musicians around the world.
In 2010, he recorded The Sound of Spain, a CD engineered by John Taylor and featuring 19 instruments from the Granary Guitar Collection. David served as curator of the collection for many years, caring for its historically significant instruments.
David continues to teach and remains an active member of the Milton Keynes Classical Guitar Society, of which he has been part for 26 years. His passion for the guitar and its repertoire endures, and he now conducts and directs the society, fostering musical growth and community for its members.
Affiliation
MKCGS is a founder member of the Federation of Guitar Societies UK, who keep us updated on the concerns of the guitar world.
Event Hosting and Promotion
We hold regular monthly meetings throughout the year, each comprising ensemble rehearsals and soloist ‘hot spots’, which are open to all. Where the schedule allows, we may also host occasional performances/workshops by special guests or conservatoire students.
Our annual showcase event (see relevant page) provides the opportunity for both ensemble and our own soloists to perform to the public. However, the ensemble is also available for other public performances throughout the year. If you would like to feature the MKCGS as part of your own event do get in touch.