Itchen College Presents - James Blackshaw

Hailed by the music world as the “master of the twelve-string guitar”, James Blackshaw will be bringing his music to Southampton, spending a day and evening at Itchen College, sharing his musical talent in a guitar masterclass and then performing a concert.

The concert, which is open to all and will take place on Wednesday 14th October, is proving to be a highly anticipated event for music lovers across the south. It seems we do know our music down here because James’ eclectic style has also reached the attentions of the world’s press:

“Mesmerising stuff, and proof that less is often more." - John Robinson, Uncut Magazine

"There's an indecent ease to James Blackshaw's guitar playing. His fingerpicking mantras are as melodic as a music box, gliding through dizzying tempos like clockwork... Such is the silky control he exerts over his instrument,.." - Derek Walmsey, The Wire

"Twenty-seven-year-old Brit James Blackshaw has lately emerged as a major force in the world of instrumental guitar ……………..... Downright beautiful stuff." - Jonathon Cohen, Billboard Magazine

“Blackshaw's got it all: skills to hyperventilate for, and instinctual loveliness in spades." - Kitty Empire, The Observer

"One of the best and most original instrumentalists in the new, acoustic renaissance" - David Fricke, Rolling Stone Magazine

The concert begins at 7:30pm on Wednesday 14th October 2009. Tickets, priced at £10 for adults and £7 for concessions, can be purchased from Itchen College or online through our Online shop

The two-hour guitar masterclass is for a limited number of invited young people from local schools, colleges and universities only. However, there are a few places still available so please contact Itchen College if you would like the opportunity to attend.

October 2009