The Florida Guitar Festival and Competition

The Florida Guitar Festival and Competition takes place in Tallahassee, FL, USA. It is held every year.

Location

Tallahassee, FL, USA

Type

Competition

Frequency

annual

Official website

https://floridaguitarfestival.wordpress.com/

Visiting? A guitarist's guide to Tallahassee

For classical guitarists looking for a compelling reason to visit the Sunshine State, the annual Florida Guitar Festival and Competition in Tallahassee offers a rich musical experience. As Florida's capital and a vibrant university town, Tallahassee blends its governmental gravitas with a youthful, artistic spirit, providing an engaging backdrop for world-class guitar performances. Attend the competition for the music, and discover a city with a unique history and a thriving cultural scene.

Getting there

Tallahassee is served by Tallahassee International Airport (TLH), located about 5 miles (8 km) south of the Florida State University campus. Non-stop flights connect TLH to major hubs like Atlanta (ATL), Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW), Miami (MIA), Washington National, and Charlotte (CLT) via American Airlines and Delta, with Breeze Airways also offering routes to Fort Lauderdale and Raleigh Durham. Car rentals, taxis, and shuttles are available at the airport; local public transportation (Star Metro) does not serve TLH. If traveling by car, Tallahassee is directly on Interstate 10, with several exits providing access to the city. Long-distance bus services like Greyhound Lines and Redcoach also connect Tallahassee to various cities in Florida and beyond, with a central bus plaza in downtown.

Compare trains, buses & flights to Tallahassee on Omio →

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

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Where to stay

As a university town, Tallahassee offers a range of accommodation options. To be within easy reach of the festival venues and the city's main attractions, consider staying in Downtown, Midtown, or near Lake Ella. These areas are generally more pedestrian-friendly, allowing you to walk to restaurants, shops, and many cultural sites. Given the city's role as a state capital and a host for major universities, booking accommodations in advance, especially during peak event times, is advisable.

What you'll hear

The Florida Guitar Festival and Competition brings together talented classical guitarists, offering a program that typically includes competitive rounds, masterclasses, and concerts. Attendees can expect to hear a diverse repertoire spanning classical periods, showcasing both established works and contemporary pieces performed by emerging and established artists in the classical guitar world. The competition provides an excellent opportunity to witness high-level musicianship and discover new talents.

Tallahassee, being home to Florida State University, Florida A&M University, and Tallahassee Community College, boasts an unusually vibrant arts scene, further supported by an active Council of Culture and Arts. Beyond the guitar festival, this means a steady calendar of theater, art exhibitions, and a wide array of musical performances, often featuring university ensembles, guest artists, and local groups. For a classical guitar enthusiast, this ensures a stimulating cultural environment that extends beyond the competition itself.

The local table

Tallahassee presents a good selection of restaurants for a city of its size, reflecting its status as both a capital and a university town. While there isn't a single, universally recognized signature dish tied specifically to Tallahassee in the way some regions have, the local dining scene is diverse. You can find a range of cuisines, from Southern comfort food to international fare, with many establishments focusing on fresh, regional ingredients. The presence of multiple universities contributes to a dynamic culinary landscape, offering options from casual eateries to more upscale dining experiences.

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

While you're there

Between festival events, Tallahassee offers a blend of historical and natural attractions. Begin with the Florida Historic Capitol Museum, a beautifully restored building that once housed the state government, offering a glimpse into Florida's political past. Nearby, the current Florida State Capitol building provides panoramic views of the city from its 22nd floor observation deck. History buffs can also explore Mission San Luis de Apalachee, a partially reconstructed 17th-century Spanish mission and Apalachee village, or the ancient earthwork mounds at Lake Jackson Archaeological State Park. For a unique experience, tours are available at the National High Magnet Field Laboratory at Florida State University, home to some of the world's most powerful magnets. The Goodwood Museum & Gardens, a historic plantation home, offers guided tours and extensive gardens. For a change of scenery, a short drive can take you south towards the Gulf Coast, accessible via US Highway 98, offering a taste of Florida's famous beaches.

Tours, tickets and day trips in Tallahassee →

More guitar events in USA: Appalachian GuitarFest and Competition · Austin Classical Guitar Composition Competition · Boston GuitarFest Academy Competition · Brevard Classical Guitar Institute · Denver Guitar Festival - Tuason Competition · ECU Guitar Festival and Workshop

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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