As racing at the Manx Grand Prix draws to a close for another year, the live music scene roars into life once more.
The second annual Isle of Man Guitarfest brings together acclaimed musicians across several genres for four days of concerts and workshops.
The action is divided between the Gaiety Theatre, the Villa Marina Arcade, the Peter Norris Music store (all in Douglas) and Peel's Centenary Centre, where bluesy rockers Angelo Palladino and the Skeleton Crew kick off the festival this evening.
Tomorrow evening (Friday 4th September) sees classical guitarist Gary Ryan take to the Gaiety stage, supported by Pete Smith and Roger Inniss, followed on Saturday night by Gordon Giltrap and virtuoso players Pierre Bensusan and Michael Berk.
On Sunday evening, the Centenary Centre will host the festival's closing show, which features Rod Clements and Amrit Sond.
In addition to the main concerts, the Manx Telecom-sponsored Acoustic Stage will host four days of free music as an impressive 45 guitarists (both visiting support acts and local musicians) will take their turn in the Villa Marina Arcade from midday to 6pm each day.
Guitarfest's headliners will graciously give their time to five masterclasses, to be held at Peter Norris Music on Finch Road over Saturday and Sunday. Roger Inniss will also be leading a bass guitar workshop.
The festival is the brainchild of well-known music promoter Jonno Gollow of JonnoPromotions, who has purposely put together the eclectic programme to appeal to a broad spectrum of music lovers.
Jonno, a guitarist himself, comments, "I'm incredibly excited and proud to be welcoming to the Island such renowned musicians.
"Several, such as Roger Inniss, Angelo Palladino and Michael Berk, have visited our shores before; other performers, such as the legendary Gordon Giltrap, are making their maiden visit.
"The combination of wall-to-wall talent with the breadth and scope of music on offer made the first Guitarfest a great success.
"We've been able to build on this and return with an even stronger line-up, which will hopefully make for a festival which is as memorable as it is inspiring.
"We've been lucky to enjoy fantastic co-operation and support from everyone involved, and also delighted to see a strong demand for tickets.
"There is, however, still a limited number of tickets available for each show so if you haven't already done so, don't delay in getting yours!
"Whether you're a visitor or resident, it's a great way to wrap up Grand Prix fortnight or simply treat yourself to a helping of unforgettable guitar music."
Angelo Palladino and The Skeleton Crew appear tonight (Thursday 3rd September) at the Centenary Centre in Peel, supported by local blues band Walter Ego. Doors open at 7.30pm, show starts at 8pm. Tickets are ?10 (concessions ?7).
For the full festival timetable and ticket details, see the Guitarfest website. Also, visit JonnoPromotions.
