UP CLOSE: SPOTLIGHT ON THE FESTIVAL'S CREATIVE VISIONARIES

UP CLOSE: SPOTLIGHT ON THE FESTIVAL’S CREATIVE VISIONARIES
Monday, October 20, 2025 | 7:30 PM
Courthouse Center for the Arts | West Kingston, RI
Tickets: $20 General | $15 Seniors & Affiliates | $10 Students

Step inside the inner circle of the 2025 URI Guitar and Mandolin Festival with this intimate and inspired concert featuring 8 solo artists who not only perform at the highest level—but also guide, mentor, and teach throughout the week.

Presented in the beautiful Courthouse Center for the Arts, this special evening brings the festival’s heart to the stage. These are the performers who lead the curriculum, coach student ensembles, build lesson plans, monitor daily progress, and shape the artistic arc of the festival itself.

🎶 Featured Performers:

• Adam Levin – International classical guitar soloist, educator, and festival co-founder
• Jacob Reuven – Celebrated Israeli mandolinist and baroque specialist
• Ekaterina Skliar – Award-winning domrist and mandolinist across classical and folk traditions
• Dor Gidon Amran – Rising Israeli mandolinist and conductor, known for virtuosity and precision
• Norberto Cruz – Latin mandolinist with a rhythmic, expressive signature
• Céili Connors – Boston-based classical guitarist with a focus on Spanish and modern works
• Victor Main – Guitarist-composer and community leader in youth music education
• Raffi Donoian – Improviser, classical guitarist, and digital performance innovator
• Jim Davidson – Versatile guitarist and educator; festival’s onsite competition logistics

With a blend of solo showcases, chamber pairings, and surprise collaborations, Up Close offers audiences an inside look at the creative minds shaping the festival from the ground up.

• Doors open at 7:00 PM – Seating is general admission
• Venue Address: Courthouse Center for the Arts, 3481 Kingstown Rd, West Kingston, RI
• Parking: Free on-site parking is available
• Accessibility: ADA accessible venue with level seating and restrooms
• Post-concert hang: Stay for artist meet & greet in the lobby!

Q: Is this concert included with my Festival Pass?
A: Yes! All festival participants and competition entrants receive complimentary access.

Q: Is this a formal program or casual setting?
A: This concert blends polished solo performances with a relaxed and personal format—reflecting the collaborative spirit of the festival.

Q: Can I bring children?
A: This concert is best suited for attentive audience members, though older children and teens with musical interest are welcome.

Q: Will there be merchandise available?
A: Yes—CDs, t-shirts, and festival merchandise will be available before and after the concert.

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