Asia International Guitar Festival & Competition

Asia International Guitar Festival & Competition takes place in Bangkok, Thailand. It is held every year, usually in October.

Repertoire requirements

Check website

• Competition Round · 15-20 min
  • Free choice program

Official website

https://aigf.weebly.com/

Visiting? A guitarist's guide to Bangkok

Bangkok, known to Thais as Krung Thep, is a city of captivating contrasts, where ancient temples stand alongside gleaming skyscrapers and bustling markets give way to serene canals. This tropical metropolis, the vibrant heart of Thailand, plays host to the Asia International Guitar Festival & Competition, drawing enthusiasts to a full programme of guitar concerts amidst a rich tapestry of culture, history, and modern dynamism. It is one of Asia's most cosmopolitan cities, offering a sensory feast at every turn.

Getting there

The primary gateway to Bangkok is Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK), a major international hub with extensive connections worldwide. From BKK, a dedicated Airport Rail Link connects to the city's public transport network, including the Skytrain (BTS) and Metro (MRT), which are efficient ways to navigate the city's considerable sprawl. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also widely available, though traffic congestion can be significant. Bangkok's extensive network of urban rail lines, comprising ten lines, makes getting around without a car feasible for many visitors, connecting key areas and tourist attractions.

Compare trains, buses & flights to Bangkok on Omio →

Thailand uses Type A/C sockets, so pack a travel adapter for your tuner and chargers.

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Where to stay

Bangkok offers a vast array of accommodation options across its diverse districts. For proximity to historical sites and a more traditional experience, consider staying near the Rattanakosin Island, home to the Grand Palace and many significant temples. Areas like Sukhumvit offer a modern, upscale experience with numerous hotels, shopping malls, and restaurants, well-connected by the Skytrain. Riverside hotels along the Chao Phraya River provide scenic views and easy access to attractions via express boats, offering a unique perspective on the city's lifeblood. Booking ahead, especially during peak season or around the festival dates, is advisable.

What you'll hear

The Asia International Guitar Festival & Competition showcases a high standard of classical guitar playing, attracting talented competitors from across the region and beyond. While specific repertoire details are best confirmed on the official website, participants typically navigate a challenging program of solo works. The first prize offers both cash and concert engagements, signaling the competition's role in launching careers on the international stage. Attendees can expect a week filled with intense musicality and the discovery of new talent.

Beyond the competition, Bangkok itself vibrates with a rich and varied soundscape. While not a historical center for classical guitar, the city is a significant hub for the arts and entertainment in Southeast Asia. You will hear traditional Thai music in temples and cultural shows, contemporary pop in bustling malls, and a diverse range of genres in its vibrant nightlife venues. The city's cosmopolitan nature ensures a constant flow of artistic expression, reflecting its role as a dynamic cultural melting pot.

The local table

Thai cuisine is globally renowned, and Bangkok is its undisputed capital, offering an incredible array of flavors that are both varied and affordable. Street food is a culinary institution here, with vendors serving up everything from spicy curries and fragrant noodle soups to savory stir-fries and fresh, exotic fruits. Look for classic dishes such as Pad Thai, Tom Yum Goong (spicy shrimp soup), and various curries like Massaman or Green Curry. Beyond the bustling street markets, the city boasts a thriving restaurant scene, from casual eateries to high-end dining, all showcasing the fresh ingredients and complex spice profiles characteristic of Thai cooking. Fresh coconuts and tropical fruit juices provide refreshing accompaniments to any meal.

Fancy a guided taste? Food and wine tours in Bangkok →

While you're there

Bangkok offers an abundance of activities to fill your days between concerts. Begin with the majestic Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaeo, home to the Emerald Buddha, then explore the reclining Buddha at Wat Pho and the iconic riverside Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn). Take a long-tail boat trip along the Chao Phraya River and its klongs (canals) to glimpse traditional riverside life and floating markets. For shopping, explore the vibrant Chatuchak Weekend Market or the opulent Siam Paragon. In the evenings, discover the energetic nightlife of areas like Khaosan Road or enjoy a dinner cruise on the river. For a significant day trip, consider visiting Ayutthaya, the former capital of Siam, located about an hour north of Bangkok. Its impressive historical park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, features ancient temples and ruins that offer a profound insight into Thailand's rich past.

Tours, tickets and day trips in Bangkok →

Also in October: Concurso Liliana Pérez Corey · GuitarFestival Changsha China · Hanse Guitar Cup · Plovdiv GuitArt Festival & Competition · Seville Guitar Festival · Silesian Guitar Autumn

Listing data is compiled from official sources and can change each edition. Always confirm dates, deadlines and requirements on the organizer's official website before applying or booking travel. Spotted an error? See our terms or let us know via the About page.

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