CGSV Guitar Gatherings
June 2026 Guitar Gathering
Looking for a friendly and supportive place to perform, share music, and connect with fellow guitarists?
CGSV's Monthly Guitar Gatherings are informal "Open Mic" events that welcome guitarists of all ages, backgrounds, and skill levels. Whether you're preparing for an exam, working towards a recital, performing for the first time, or simply keen to share a favourite piece, our gatherings offer an encouraging environment and an appreciative audience of fellow guitar enthusiasts.
These events are about more than just performing. They are a wonderful opportunity to meet like-minded musicians, discover new repertoire, exchange ideas, and become part of Victoria's classical guitar community. Even if you're not planning to perform, you're warmly invited to come along, listen, and enjoy the music—there may even be an opportunity to try another member's guitar and experience different instruments firsthand.
Why Attend?
Perform in a relaxed and supportive setting.
Gain valuable experience in front of an audience.
Prepare for exams, recitals, and upcoming performances.
Meet fellow guitarists and build connections within the community.
Enjoy an afternoon of great guitar music.
Guitar Gatherings are a CGSV members' event, however non-members are very welcome to attend and perform for a $10 guest fee.
Interested in becoming part of the CGSV community? You can join as a member at the gathering and enjoy access to future events and activities.
We look forward to welcoming you to our next Guitar Gathering!
2026 Melbourne Guitar Gatherings
Venue: Balwyn Library Meeting Room 1
Address: 336 Whitehorse Rd, Balwyn, Victoria 3103
Dates and Times:
Sat, 5 September 2026, 12:00pm to 3:00pm
GO and guitar ensemble introduction. (Note the change of time for this session!)
CGSV Guitar Orchestra conductor, Ben Dix, leads an afternoon of all things guitar ensemble. Drawing from over 20 years performance experience, teaching, conducting and arranging for numerous guitar ensembles, Ben will discuss the art of ensemble from guitar duet, trio, quartet through to large ensemble. The afternoon will comprise of some discussion but mostly focus on playing, allowing everyone involved to gain some some experience with playing in a group, or for those with more experience, an opportunity to hone their skills further. Ben will also talk about the CGSV Guitar Orchestra and share his experience of leading the GO, giving some insights into the benefits of GO.
This guitar gathering is open to everyone, all skill levels are welcome and no experience with ensemble playing is necessary. Sheet music will be provided on the day and Ben will guide all participants through the allocated parts. Upon expressions of interest, some sheet music can be sent through prior to the gathering for those that feel a little more preparation would be beneficial, otherwise Ben is happy to guide all participants through each part on the day. Just make sure to pack a music stand along with your guitar!
After the ensemble session we’ll move into the “open mic” session where everyone is welcome to play a few solo pieces.
Sat, 3 October 2026, 3:00pm to 6:00pm
Sat, 7 November 2026, 12:00pm to 3:00pm
Sat, 5 December 2026, 12:00pm to 3:00pm
2026 Geelong Guitar Gatherings
Venue: Vines Road Community Centre
Address: 37-61 Vines Rd, Hamlyn Heights, Vic 3215
Held on the last Wednesday of each month from January to November.
Wednesday 26 August, 6.30pm to 8.30pm
Wednesday 30 September, 6.30pm to 8.30pm
Wednesday 28 October, 6.30pm to 8.30pm
Wednesday 25 November, 6.30pm to 8.30pm
No guitar gathering in December
Please note: All detailed information about upcoming gatherings are shared via our newsletter.