Tashi Farmilo
LJI Reporter

The Conservatoire de musique de Gatineau is set to celebrate a milestone in its history with the
20th edition of the Festival Guitare Alla Grande, an event that has grown into one of Canada’s
premier showcases for classical guitar. Taking place in Gatineau and Ottawa from February 26
to March 2, with performances and events at venues including the Conservatoire de musique de
Gatineau, the University of Ottawa’s Tabaret Hall, and Église Notre-Dame-de-la-Guadeloupe,
this anniversary edition promises an exceptional program featuring a mix of concerts, master
classes, and conferences led by some of the world’s most celebrated guitarists.

Among the festival’s distinguished headliners is the legendary David Russell, whose return to
the festival marks a full-circle moment after his performance at its 10th edition. The Grammy-
winning guitarist, widely regarded as one of the finest musicians of his generation, will offer both
a master class and a highly anticipated solo performance.

Joining him is the acclaimed Italian duo SoloDuo, composed of Lorenzo Micheli and Matteo
Mela, making their third appearance at the festival. Renowned for their seamless musical
synergy and technical brilliance, the pair has earned a global reputation as one of the most
captivating guitar ensembles. Rounding out the trio of marquee performers is Laura Young, an
internationally celebrated Canadian guitarist who will make her Festival Guitare Alla Grande
debut.

“This 20th edition of the festival is set to be an extraordinary musical celebration,” said Marc
Langis, director of the Conservatoire de musique de Gatineau. “Bringing together internationally
renowned artists and promising talents in a friendly and festive atmosphere, it will be an
unforgettable experience for audiences.”

The festival will open with a concert showcasing young talent from the participating institutions,
setting the stage for a week of world-class performances. Beyond the concerts, the program
also features two major conferences. Salvadoran guitarist Ramsés Calderon will delve into the
historical journey of the guitar from Spain to the Americas, while Quebec’s Pascal Valois, a
specialist in classical and romantic guitar repertoire, will present a lecture on 19th-century
compositions.

Another highlight of the festival is the Welcome Back concert, featuring more than 30 former
students from the Conservatoire de musique de Gatineau and the University of Ottawa. This
special performance will include a joint composition by Patrick Roux, the festival’s founder,
further solidifying the event’s role as a bridge between past and present generations of
guitarists.

For aspiring musicians, the festival provides a rare opportunity to learn from some of the most
respected names in the field. In addition to Russell, SoloDuo, and Young, several instructors
from the conservatory network will lead master classes designed to refine technique and inspire ​
the next wave of classical guitarists.

The festival will conclude with a grand finale performance featuring the Virtuoso and Maestro
guitar orchestras, conducted by David Gaudreau and Denis Poliquin. This large-scale concert,
bringing together students from various institutions, is expected to be a powerful demonstration
of the depth of talent cultivated through the festival’s educational initiatives.

Tickets and full event details are available at:
https://www.conservatoire.gouv.qc.ca/media/jpiom4bo/cmg_programme_alla_grande_2025_fina
l_web.pdf

Photo: The 20th edition of Festival Guitare Alla Grande, taking place February 26 to March 2,
will feature world-renowned guitarists, SoloDuo ensemble, along with master classes and
special performances celebrating two decades of musical excellence in Gatineau. (TF) Photo:
Matteo Carassal