Bath International Guitar Festival, one of the largest guitar festivals in Europe, promotes a strong line up this year with some influential names on the bill. The festival, which takes place from 24 July-7 August, incorporates an eclectic mix of jazz, folk, blues, classical and rock artists.

Guitarist Martin Taylor, who has built up a considerable reputation over the years having collaborated with many legendary musicians including Stéphane Grappelli, Chet Atkins and George Harrison, to name just a few, performs on Wednesday 29 July alongside guitarists Martin Simpson and Tom Kerstens. New works by Max Richter, John Metcalfe and Joby Talbot are featured as part of the performance.

The Stanton Moore Trio performs on Wednesday 5 August, incorporating a mix of jazz, funk, R&B and pop inspired by the rhythms of New Orleans. The notable drummer, who plays with his trio on this occasion, will be promoting his fourth solo album as bandleader.

Jazz rock-based group The Fellowship, led by guitarist Guthrie Govan with drummer Pete Riley, saxophonist Zak Barrett and bassist Seth Govan employs a multitude of influences ranging from Jimi Hendrix and Steve Vai, to legendary jazz guitarist Joe Pass and much more. They perform at the festival on Thursday 6 August.

Ensemble Futur’ pay tribute to Django Reinhardt as part of the festival this year and will be performing on Monday 3 August. Led by guitarist John Wheatcroft the group incorporates a modern contemporary sound, while still keeping true to their Franco-American swing influences. The quintet’s line up also features Andy Mackenzie and Jim Clark on rhythm guitars, James Oscroft on percussion and Andrew McKinney on electric and acoustic bass.

– Warren Timmis

For more go to www.igf.org.uk