International Guitar Festival in Hersbruck
Hersbruck, Germany · Classical guitar competition
International Guitar Festival in Hersbruck takes place in Hersbruck, Germany. It is held every year, usually in August.
- Location
- Hersbruck, Germany
- Type
- Competition
- Event dates
- 7 August 2027 – 13 August 2027
- Application deadline
- Registration is now possible!
- Frequency
- annual
Repertoire requirements
KLASSIK - FLAMENCO - BRAZIL - FINGERSTYLE - WORLD MUSIC - JAZZ
Official website
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Check your repertoire matchVisiting? A guitarist's guide to Hersbruck
In the heart of Middle Franconia, nestled in the scenic landscape known as Hersbruck Switzerland, the town of Hersbruck hosts its annual International Guitar Festival. For over a week, this small Bavarian community becomes a hub for classical guitar, drawing performers and enthusiasts to a region rich in history and natural beauty. It offers a chance to immerse yourself in high-level guitar music while exploring a charming corner of Germany.
Getting there
The most convenient international gateway is Nuremberg Airport (NUE), which offers connections to various European cities. From the airport, a metro or S-Bahn train takes you directly to Nuremberg Hauptbahnhof (main station) in about twelve minutes. From Nuremberg Hbf, frequent regional trains connect to Hersbruck (Franken) in approximately thirty minutes, making for a smooth and straightforward journey. Hersbruck is compact enough that once you arrive, you can easily navigate the town on foot.
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Germany runs on Type F sockets, standard across most of Europe, so you will only need a travel adapter if you are coming from the UK, Ireland, or beyond Europe.
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Where to stay
Hersbruck offers a comfortable base for attending the festival. Focus your search in or near the Altstadt, the old town, to be within easy walking distance of the festival venues and local attractions. Though a smaller town, Hersbruck has guesthouses and hotels that cater to visitors, often with traditional Franconian charm. Booking ahead is advisable, particularly during the festival week in August, to secure your preferred accommodation.
What you'll hear
The International Guitar Festival in Hersbruck brings together a diverse array of international talent, featuring concerts, masterclasses, and a competition that showcases emerging classical guitarists. Attendees can expect a varied program ranging from established classical repertoire to contemporary works, performed by soloists and ensembles. The competition rounds provide an exciting opportunity to hear the next generation of guitar virtuosos.
While Hersbruck itself does not have a specific composer tied to its history, its setting in Franconia places it within a region deeply connected to Germany's rich musical and cultural heritage. The picturesque landscapes of "Hersbruck Switzerland" and the historic architecture of the town evoke the spirit of artistic inspiration, providing a fitting backdrop for an international music festival. The sound of the classical guitar here resonates within a long tradition of German artistry and craftsmanship.
The local table
As part of Bavaria, Hersbruck offers a taste of hearty Franconian cuisine. Look for local specialties such as Nürnberger Rostbratwürste, small, grilled sausages typically served with sauerkraut or potato salad. Another regional favorite is Schäufele, a succulent pork shoulder roast with a crispy crackling, often accompanied by Klöße (potato dumplings). To drink, enjoy the local Franconian wines, particularly the dry white Silvaner, or a refreshing local beer.
Fancy a guided taste? Food and wine tours in Hersbruck →
While you're there
Between concerts, Hersbruck offers several attractions. Explore the Altstadt, home to the late-Gothic artwork of the Hersbruck altar. The Deutsches Hirtenmuseum, Germany's only museum dedicated to the working and living conditions of shepherds, provides a unique cultural insight. For relaxation, the Frankenalb-Therme offers thermal baths, a recreational area with a waterslide, and a large sauna landscape. A short walk from the former concentration camp site, the monument "Ohne Namen" (Without names) by Vittore Bocchetta serves as a poignant reminder of the town's wartime history.
An essential day trip is to Nuremberg, easily reachable by train in about thirty minutes. This historic city boasts the impressive Kaiserburg (Imperial Castle), a beautifully preserved Altstadt, and numerous museums, including the Germanisches Nationalmuseum. Walk through the Hauptmarkt, home to the Schöner Brunnen (Beautiful Fountain) and, famously, the Christkindlesmarkt in winter. Nuremberg's rich history, from its medieval imperial past to its role in the Holy Roman Empire, offers a compelling contrast to the smaller town charm of Hersbruck.
Tours, tickets and day trips in Hersbruck →
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This map centers on Hersbruck in general, so the venue may be elsewhere in town. Check the competition's official website before booking.
More guitar events in Germany: Anna-Amalia Competition for Young Guitarists · ARD International Music Competition (Guitar) · Hamburger Guitar Festival · Hanse Guitar Cup · Heinsberg Guitar Festival and Competition · International Competition for Young Guitarists Andrés Segovia (EGTA)
Also in August: Classical GuitarFest West · Forum Gitarre Wien · Francisco Tárrega International Guitar Competition · GUITARTALENT Brno · Harmonia Cordis International Guitar Festival · Japan Guitar Competition
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.