Melbourne Guitar Show: Rob Walker

No matter where you’re from in the world, the guitar is a symbol we can all recognise and relate to. In the UK alone over 750,000 guitars are sold each year, and it’s no surprise that it’s one of the most played instruments in the world.
It’s this popularity and love for the instrument that has seen the return of the Melbourne Guitar Show by the AMA, a show that has run on and off over the past decade or two.
The show will run at Caulfield Racecourse on August 8 and 9, offering the latest in products, knowledge, performers and a celebration of what makes the guitar such a great instrument – which organiser Rob Walker is happy to outline.
“First of all it combines percussion with melody so you’re instantly a one man band. You can sing with the guitar, it’s portable, it can be played in so many different ways and styles from flamenco to power playing to shredding and heavy metal – it’s just amazing how many styles guitar can be applied to,” he says.
“It’s no wonder that it’s the most popular instrument, but I think it’s portability and that it can be picked up and played at the drop of a hat is a really strong aspect of why the guitar is so popular.”
On display at the show is one of the largest offerings of guitars and equipment, a ‘monster’ exhibition of electric and acoustic guitars, ukes, FX, amps and more.
“We’ve got a whole group of local luthiers, and amp makers from Australia. And their guitars are always just that bit different to the mainstream guitars,” he says.
“There’s different shapes, different styles and looks so we’re excited about that. I think people could be surprised by the number of vintage pieces we’ll have on display, there’s some very old stuff dating back to the ‘50s and ‘60s.”
Over the two days there will also be numerous workshops to help with mastering general guitar techniques, ukes, tones and more. The chance to see this in action will also come from the live performers from the cream of the crop in the Melbourne music scene, including AJ Leonard, Jamie Pye, Shannon Bourne, King of the North, Ben Kelly and more.
While the show is about celebrating the guitar as an instrument, it’s also about celebrating the community that comes with it – something Rob is very proud of.
“What a fantastic guitar community we have!” Rob beams.
“The talent that we have is equal to anywhere in the world, so that’s what I’m proud of and we’re going to showcase it to the best of our ability. People can come along and get a bargain, or look at the old guitars, new guitars and Australian made guitars. There’s a real lot to do on the weekend.”
From the show, Rob would love nothing more than to see another 20 musicians emerge from the inspiration and motivation received at the show – as well as picking up some one-off and quality stock.
Tickets and the full program line up can be viewed on the website: australianmusician.com.au/melbourne-guitar-show
When & Where: Caulfield Racecourse, Caulfield – August 8 & 9
Written by Amanda Sherring