Mega Guitar & Mandolin Orchestra
A Bold New Chapter in Ensemble Performance
What Is the Orchestra?
In celebration of our 10th Anniversary, the University of Rhode Island Guitar and Mandolin Festival launched a visionary new ensemble experience:
the Mega Guitar Orchestra. For our 11th anniversary, we're upping the ante, thinking even bigger and adding mandolins into the mix!
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 a large-ensemble work. This is your chance to become part of something epic, moving, and unforgettable.
Step into the spotlight with over 70 players on stage—students, educators, professionals, and ensemble players from across the East Coast- rehearsing, learning, playing, and coming together in a way that only music can catalyze!
Headlining the Festival Ensembles Concert
Sunday, October 25, 2026 | 1:00 PM
📍 Edwards Auditorium, URI
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Jan Bartlema – Concertino
This piece for guitar orchestra and 2 soloists brings together players of all levels for a dynamic, colorful mixture of rhythms and sounds in this 3-movement piece by Dutch composer and guitarist Jan Bartlema.
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
Ensembles Represented On Stage
Featuring members of:
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Connecticut Guitar Guild Guitar Ensemble
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Rhode Island Guitar Guild Ensemble
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URI Guitar 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.
Guest Appearances
Select festival artists will join the Mega Guitar Orchestra on stage, lending their artistry and energy to this momentous occasion.
🎟 Who Can Participate?
Participation in the Mega Guitar Orchestra is exclusively available to registered Full Festival Participants who play classical guitar.
You must:
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Be a registered Full Participant Pass holder ($400)
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Play guitar, mandolin, or bass
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Commit to attending at least 2 rehearsals
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Be prepared to perform in the Ensembles Concert
*****Auditor and Day Pass holders are not eligible to join the Mega Guitar Orchestra.
📅 Rehearsal & Performance Schedule
All rehearsals are mandatory for those wishing to perform.
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Thursday, October 22 | 5:00-7:00 PM
Team-building, tone work, first read-through -
Friday, October 23 | 4:30–7:30 PM
Sectionals and focused full rehearsals -
Saturday, October 24 | 4:30–7:30 PM
Final polishing and full run-throughs -
Sunday, October 25 | 10:00-11:30 AM
10:00-11:30 AM | Dress Rehearsal, Edwards Hall
12:30 Call Time | 1:00 PM Performance
Concert dress: concert black
All rehearsals take place at the URI Fine Arts Center Concert Hall. Parking is available next to the FAC throughout the festival.
Parking Passes Availble September 15
💥 Why You Should Join
This is more than just an ensemble. It's your chance to:
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Play alongside dozens of fellow musicians in a powerful massed ensemble
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Connect with guitarists and mandolinists from across the U.S. in a meaningful, collaborative musical experience
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Work directly with world-class conductors and directors
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Make memories in a vibrant, artist-filled, learning-rich musical environment
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Sharpen your ensemble skills through sectionals and guided rehearsals
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Perform as the headliner of the Festival Ensembles concert
🛎 What’s Included in the Full Festival Participant Pass?
By registering for the Full Participant Pass, you’ll gain access to:
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Mega Guitar Orchestra (rehearsals + performance)
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Up to 10 world-class concerts
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Your choice of masterclasses or private lessons
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Lectures, technique workshops, and artist talks
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Access to the Luthier Expo
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Observation access to M.E. Brune Guitar competition
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Networking with an inspiring community of musicians