Get Ready to Rock at the Screamin’ Eagles Guitarfest on March 15
Tue, 02/18/2025 - 09:21am | By: Dr. Mike Lopinto
Mark your calendars, guitar enthusiasts! The Screamin’ Eagles Guitarfest is strumming its way to the Southern Miss School of Music on Saturday, March 15 from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. This celebration of all things guitar is a must-attend event for professionals, students, amateurs and anyone who loves the magic of the strings.
This year’s theme, “Guitar for Everyone,” underscores our commitment to inclusivity. Whether you’re shredding blazing solos on electric, crafting soulful melodies on acoustic, mastering the intricate art of classical guitar, or just having fun on the guitar after school or work, this event has something for everyone.
Guitarfest offers a full day of opportunities to learn, connect and be inspired. Attendees can explore educational workshops like “How the Classical Guitar Will Help You Shred” with Southern Miss Professor Nick Ciraldo, “History of the Blues Guitar” with Vasti Jackson, and the “Gearheads” presentation with Michael Boyd. For those looking to expand their skills, Barry Leach will lead a session on improvisation and mastering the fretboard. Meanwhile, the Vendor Expo, featuring prominent brands from Music and Arts, will provide a chance to shop for special guitars, accessories and more.
Performances will take center stage throughout the day, with highlights including a high school showcase that celebrates emerging talent and the thrilling Screamin’ Eagles Guitarfest pro showcase concert, featuring some of the most celebrated guitarists in the field including Vasti Jackson, Grammy-nominated blues icon whose career spans over five decades of electrifying performances and impactful music education; Barry Leach, known for his genre-spanning artistry and compelling live shows; Jazz virtuoso and bebop specialist Eric Merchant; singer and guitarist extraordinaire Latisha Hamilton Earnest; and the critically acclaimed classical guitarist Nicholas Ciraldo, director of the Southern Miss guitar studio, will form the incredible lineup of talent that promises to dazzle and inspire.
This extraordinary event is not just for professional and student musicians but for anyone who appreciates the artistry and power of the guitar. From educational opportunities to world-class performances and a welcoming community atmosphere, the Screamin’ Eagles Guitarfest is a celebration of the guitar in all its forms.
Join us for a day of learning, music, and connection at the Screamin’ Eagles Guitarfest. Registration is open now.