Mega Guitar Orchestra

What Is the Mega Guitar Orchestra?

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In celebration of our 10th Anniversary, the University of Rhode Island Guitar and Mandolin Festival proudly launches a visionary new ensemble experience:

the Mega Guitar Orchestra.

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Led by acclaimed conductor Dr. Scott Borg, this festival-wide orchestra brings together guitarists from across the East Coast and beyond to collaborate, rehearse, and perform two dramatic large-ensemble works—including the world premiere of Sofia’s Trip to Disney, composed by Thatcher Harrison.

This is your chance to become part of something epic, moving, and unforgettable.

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Step into the spotlight with 60 guitarists on stage—students, educators, professionals, and ensemble players from across the East Coast—coming together for one electrifying, full-bodied performance unlike anything ever staged at the URI Guitar and Mandolin Festival.

This is not just a concert.
This is a celebration of unity, artistry, and sound.

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Featured Works – Gala Prelude Performance

Sunday, October 26, 2025 | 5:00 PM
📍 Edwards Auditorium, URI

• Karl Jenkins – Palladio
  Arranged for massed guitar orchestra by Dr. Scott Borg
  This bold and rhythmic work, originally written for string orchestra, is transformed into a sweeping guitar epic under Scott Borg’s masterful pen and baton. Expect color, drive, and goosebumps.

• Thatcher Harrison – Sofia’s Trip to Disney (World Premiere)
  A powerful and touching new work inspired by the dream of a Rhode Island child courageously battling cancer. Commissioned by the URI Guitar and Mandolin Festival in collaboration with Sing Me a Story and Kithara Project.

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Under the Baton of a Visionary

Conductor: Dr. Scott Borg
Celebrated for his passion, precision, and charisma, Dr. Borg leads this orchestra with the kind of vision that transforms players into a unified, expressive force.

Sectional Directors TBD

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 Ensembles Represented On Stage

Featuring members of:​

• Community Strings Project Guitar Ensemble

• Connecticut Guitar Guild Guitar Ensemble

• Rhode Island Guitar Guild Ensemble

• New England Guitar Orchestra

• Timberlane Ensemble

• URI Guitar Ensemble

• Jim Davidson Ensemble

These ensembles—joined by advanced festival soloists and rising stars—will combine for a one-time-only performance that blurs the line between professional showcase and community celebration.

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Guest Appearances

Select festival artists will join the Mega Guitar Orchestra on stage, lending their artistry and energy to this momentous occasion.

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🎟 Who Can Participate?

Participation in the Mega Guitar Orchestra is exclusively available to registered Full Festival Participants who play classical guitar.

You must:

• Be a registered Full Participant Pass holder ($400)

• Play guitar (this opportunity is not open to mandolinists)

• Commit to attending all rehearsals

• Be prepared to perform in the Gala Finale Concert

*****Auditor and Day Pass holders are not eligible to join the Mega Guitar Orchestra.​

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📅 Rehearsal & Performance Schedule

All rehearsals are mandatory for those wishing to perform.

• Thursday, October 23 | 4:30–6:30 PM
  Team-building, tone work, first read-through

• Friday, October 24 | 4:30–6:30 PM
  Sectionals and focused full rehearsals

• Saturday, October 25 | 4:30–6:30 PM
  Final polishing and full run-throughs

• Sunday, October 26
  3:45 PM Call Time | 5:00 PM Performance (Gala Prelude)
  📍 Edwards Auditorium, URI

 Concert dress: concert black

 All rehearsals take place at URI Music facilities. Details and room numbers will be posted closer to the festival.

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💥 Why You Should Join

This is more than just an ensemble. It's your chance to:

•  Premiere a powerful new work inspired by the true story of a child’s dream (Sofia’s Trip to Disney)

• Play alongside dozens of fellow guitarists in a powerful massed ensemble

•  Connect with guitarists from across the U.S. in a meaningful, collaborative musical experience

• Work directly with world-class conductors and directors

• Make memories in a vibrant, artist-filled, learning-rich musical environment

•  Sharpen your ensemble skills through sectionals and guided rehearsals

• Perform as a featured ensemble during the Gala Finale Concert, sharing the stage with headliner Meng Su

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🛎 What’s Included in the Full Festival Participant Pass?

By registering for the Full Participant Pass, you’ll gain access to:

•  Mega Guitar Orchestra (rehearsals + performance)

• Up to 12 world-class concerts

• Your choice of masterclasses or private lessons

• Lectures, technique workshops, and artist talks

• Access to the Luthier Expo

• Observation access to Rising Stars competition

• Artist meet & greets

• Networking with an inspiring community of musicians

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Price: $400
 

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