For those who gave up trying to be Jimi Hendrix long ago — this might encourage you to get that unused guitar back out of the closet.
This weekend, nearly 100 guitar artisan shops are showcasing unique craft guitars at Tokyo Guitar Craft Fes. 2014, but another highlight of the event is the number of attractions that even guitar beginners can enjoy.
For those who want to play, musician Hiroki Kiribayashi, known for being a member of the band Sakebu Shijin no Kai and for his guitar course called Q-sai, is holding a special seminar at which participants can learn the jazz standard "Take Five" — a difficult piece for those who've just started.
Don't despair if you are a novice, as the lesson can be adjusted according to your guitar skills, and the opportunity to perform with the other participants should give you some extra motivation.
To celebrate Tokyo Guitar Craft Fes' 10th anniversary, there are also special professional live performances, some of which visitors can even participate in. Guitarist Masaki Ichimura will ask participants to join in a rendition of the theme song "Amachan," a 2013 hit drama, on May 25 (for more details, visit www.geocities.jp/ichimuramasaki/hand.html)
Tokyo Guitar Craft Fes. 2014 takes place at Sumida Sangyokaikan Sunrise Hall, Tokyo, on May 24 and 25. A two-day pass is ¥1,300, but some attractions require reservations and fees. Hiroki Kiribayashi's class requires reservation and costs ¥1,200. For more information, call 03-3505-7150 or visit www.handcraftguitar.jp.