Concerts in America Guitar Festival Sponsored by Augustine Strings

JOE ROBINSON
One of the world’s top fingerstyle guitarists — live on stage. Joe Robinson is an award-winning guitarist, singer, and composer known for his masterful technique, musical depth, and engaging live performances.

Born in the rural Australian town of Kempsey, Joe grew up in a farmhouse with his three siblings. By 13, he’d won the Australian National Songwriting Competition. At 17, he won Australia’s Got Talent. And by 18, he’d performed over 1,000 concerts and earned first prize at the World Championships of Performing Arts in Los Angeles. That same year, he moved to the U.S. at the invitation of guitar legend Tommy Emmanuel, who became both mentor and touring partner.

When Guitar Player magazine asked Tommy who he’d consider for the rare title of CGP – Certified Guitar Player, he replied: "Joe Robinson is the first that comes to mind." That kind of recognition speaks for itself.

ERNEST AINES
Experience the extraordinary talent of Ernest Aines, an acclaimed Australian singer-songwriter. With a unique blend of heartfelt lyrics, intricate guitar work, and a voice described as flowing “like water over mossy rocks,” Ernest is redefining the live music experience with his brand-new show, Shifting Scenes.

Ernest has earned international recognition for his deeply emotional sound, drawing comparisons to Ray LaMontagne and Bon Iver. A two-time Australian Folk Artist of the Year nominee (2023 and 2024), Ernest’s debut album Spiral Bound continues to make waves with over 550,000 streams and critical acclaim.

Edith Pageaud’s story is one of extraordinary talent and dedication. Beginning her musical journey at just seven, she rose rapidly to prominence—winning numerous national competitions and earning her Diplôme d’Études Musicales in classical guitar from the Paris CRR by age fourteen under the tutelage of Gérard Abiton.

Renowned for her dazzling technique and deeply expressive artistry, Pageaud has captivated audiences around the world. Her recent first prizes at the Drome de Guitares (2022), Roland Dyens International (2023), and Florence International Guitar Competition Alvaro Company (Italy) affirm her status as one of today’s most exciting young guitarists.

In this recital, Pageaud invites listeners on a journey through centuries and styles — from the meditative minimalism of Philip Glass to the Baroque intricacies of Heinrich Biber, from Schubert’s lyrical poetry to the transcendent spirituality of Messiaen.

In Echoes of Andalusia, Adam del Monte stands at the forefront of contemporary flamenco and classical guitar. His music draws on centuries of tradition while speaking in a distinctly modern language — rhythmically driven, harmonically rich, and unafraid of contrast.

Adam del Monte is recognized internationally for his work bridging the flamenco and classical worlds. He has recorded for Deutsche Grammophon, performed in the double GRAMMY®–winning opera Ainadamar with Dawn Upshaw, and appeared at venues including Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center, and the Barbican Centre. His 2025 flamenco opera Llantos 1492 premiered to sold-out audiences.

Andrew Blanch (Guitar) & María Eugenia Nieva (Voice)
Alma Latina — “Latin Soul” — is a celebration of Latin America’s beautiful and diverse musical cultures. Australian guitarist Andrew Blanch is among the finest of his generation, praised as “the rockstar of nylon-acoustic music.” María Eugenia Nieva is a renowned Argentine mezzo-soprano known for her warm, pure voice and passionate interpretations.

Joscho Stephan Trio (Gypsy Jazz)
Joscho Stephan is breathing fresh life into the classic gypsy swing tradition pioneered by Django Reinhardt. With nearly 40 million views on YouTube, Joscho has collaborated with legends like Tommy Emmanuel and Biréli Lagrène.

Gary Levinson (Violin) commands the stage with the "Bel Canto" singing tone of his 1726 Stradivarius. As Senior Principal Associate Concertmaster of the Dallas Symphony, his virtuosity is matched only by his deep expressivity.

Mak Grgić (Guitar) is a 5-time Grammy®-nominated artist touted as a "gifted guitarist" by the New York Times. His adventurous repertoire spans from Balkan ethnic music to extreme avant-garde.