Review: 6 Hands at Grassington Festival

by Ali Richards

THE atmosphere was excited at 6 Hands on Thursday at Grassington as people who had driven from York waited to be told if they could get tickets. The lucky ones who had their tickets were taken on a diverse journey through time, culture and musical taste played by three masters of their craft.

John Williams started the evening by playing Vivalid’s Concerto Opus 3 No. 9 originally arranged by Bach for Harpsichord, but now by Williams himself for guitar. It was an inspirational opening which demonstrated true mastery of the classical guitar but did not hint at what was to come as we were then taken on a journey round the world and through many different styles by all three players.

John Etheridge simply loves his craft and his joy was infectious as he got us clapping and laughing to jazz played on his electric guitar and made full use of his loop pedal. In the first half of the concert each player played solo and Etheridge has a mastery of jazz, swing and rhythm, which makes your feet tap and your body sway.

Gary Ryan played his own compositions with influences from Ireland and Africa but ended with his famous Benga Beat which took our breath away as it demonstrated a complete use of his guitar in every sense and a perfect grasp of technique. It took us up to the interval giddy to hear the second half when they would play together.

In another trip from Aboriginal music through to contemporary music, around the world and including their own compositions the three guitarists created a spell binding second half with a thrilling combination of duos. The 6 Hands came together for two final pieces which they played with delight and comradeship as they immersed the audience in their world of guitar and music.