As much of Europe enters the spirit of the Christmas season with classical musical concerts and carols, Amsterdam instead will chill to the sound of electric guitars. Amsterdam Electric Guitar Heaven is a 10-day celebration of the instrument that includes many top-name artists, including John Mayall, Andy Summers (The Police),
Jan Akkerman, Adrian Belew (King Crimson, David Bowie, Talking Heads) and others.
Ten venues host a series of concerts ranging in style from jazz to heavy metal, performed by soloists, bands and classical ensembles.
To add diversity to the program, each concert features a “Second Act” in a contrasting genre. In addition to the performances, a guitar market, photo exhibition, discussions, master classes and film showings round out the program.
The event begins Friday and runs through Dec. 16. Sunday, an initiative called Plug ‘n Play features 200 guitarists and bass guitarists of all skill levels playing in the Melkweg. Artists rehearse in the afternoon and perform at 5 p.m.
Tickets start at 21.55 euros, plus a mandatory 4-euro venue membership fee. Also on Sunday’s program is a vesper, or evening prayer, at the Oude Kerk, featuring reworked baroque music. The performance is at 6 p.m., and entry is free.
For more information and the complete schedule of events, see www.amsterdamelectric.com.
