The Festival des Guitares du Monde en Abitibi-Témiscamingue (FGMAT) celebrated an exceptional 19th edition. A surprise ninth day permitted our enthusiastic festival-goers to enjoy additional music in a most vibrant and festive atmosphere. We had the pleasure of presenting 65 musical activities over 9 festival days, and one can say that the public was surely supportive. This public display attachment and infatuation with FGMAT makes its role an unmissable event in the region.

A quality program

The festival-goers were seduced by a varied and quality program which reunited local, national and international artists. These breathtaking performances enchanted the spectators throughout the festival. In a most grandiose gesture, all artists provided the festival-goers performances worthy of mention. Noteably, the shows at the Petit Théâtre Vieux Noranda featuring featuring Scott-Pien Picard , Brittany Kennell and Djely Tapa were superb discoveries that touched one’s soul. Daniel Lanois, Sue Foley, and Alexandre Da Costa captivated the crowds who enjoyed every minute of each show. At the heart of the party, the audiences celebrated with Johannes Linstead with his Latin rhythms along with The Mavericks who closed the festival in a most exciting and brilliant fashion.

‘’ What is so beautiful about the Festival is the diverse programming with the many styles and most importantly the pubic is present every year to make these beautiful discoveries. It is an extraordinary privilege to be able to appreciate and celebrate this artistic creativity, talent and passion from all over the world.” Stated Nathalie Grenier Festival Executive Director.

In addition to the headliners, the programming introduced talents of various musical genres. The Agnico Eagle noon concerts and the Fabrique Culturelle performances provided a showcase for several regional artisits guaranteeing a delectable experience for all. The new outdoor layout provided a unique experience for all, offering them a warm and friendly setting to enjoy the festivities. The Concert de la Relève at the Agora des Arts also attracted a crowd with the largest audience present.

Now with Guitareville which was open to the public, we welcomed close to 450 attendees. Guitareville, a new and unique opportunity offered to all, allowed the performing artists to shine and provide quality moments.

In addition to music, the Festival des Guitares du Monde offered a multitude of multidisciplinary activities which included its very first Salon de Lutherie – a huge success and the Salon des Guitares Lâg held in collaboration with Musique Mignault. Close to 300 music lovers had the opportunity to learn about the art and the know-how of the luthier’s trade and also manipulate and discover a wide selection of guitars.

“The Salon de Lutherie is a must for all guitar festivals around the world. We had wanted to offer this experience for a long time and we are very proud of our first-time edition!” mentioned Nathalie Grenier.

The Festival des Guitares du Monde would like to warmly thank all the festival-goers, the partners, the team and the volunteers who jointly contributed to the success of this edition. Their commitment and passion made the Festival an unforgettable event.

Sadly, this year marks the last edition for Nathalie Grenier at the helm of the Festival. Nathalie has been our general director for the last nine years and as “maître” has successfully maintained and guided the existence of the Festival during her stay with us. To ensure continued success, Elie-Anne Lamerise-Dumont and Sara Payette will share the direction of the Festival starting this July 1st. Both have event planning experience having worked in other regional events.

We have already begun to reach out to music and culture lovers and of course, emphasizing our monumental 20^th edition!  We are promising a more exciting program and incomparable enriching moments. Stay connected by registering for our Infolettre or by following us on our social platforms, so as to not miss our exciting future announcements.