Calgary Guitar Collective Guitar Showcase: 'Talent Show' Vol. III

Five professional guitarists, a live rhythm section, and a full ensemble finale at Prairie Dog Brewing. Same band, different guitarist each set. That's the whole format, and it works. The name's a bit of a joke, by the way. No judging panel, no scorecards. Just professional guitarists, a proper rhythm section, and two hours of great playing with a social intermission in the middle to grab a drink, browse the sponsor booths, and talk guitars. First names on the bill for December 2: Ryan Davidson - two-time CCMA Guitarist of the Year (2012 and 2015) with twelve nominations to his name, and guitarist for Gord Bamford. Ryan has recorded and performed with Dallas Smith, Brett Kissel, Dean Brody and many more, can be heard on two Juno-nominated country records, and earned two Grammy nominations with the University of North Texas One O'Clock Lab Band, sharing stages with jazz legends like Dave Brubeck along the way. Country chops, jazz depth, and he's making the trip down from Edmonton for this one. Mackenzie Meding - jazz-trained, math rock-seasoned, and one of the most interesting players on the Calgary scene. A Red Deer College Jazz Performance graduate, Mackenzie composes intricate solo guitar work, plays in a math rock band, and mentors young players every summer at BAM! Camp. Back by popular demand after lighting up our first showcase in July. More players to be announced, and if the last two volumes are anything to go by, they'll be worth the wait. Each guitarist plays a full set backed by a live rhythm section. At the end of the night everyone's on stage together for the finale, with Dan Clayton and Matty McKay joining in. Doors at 6:30pm, music from 7 to 9pm. Prairie Dog's kitchen and bar open all night, come early and eat. Door prizes too. All ages welcome. Under 20s are $15, because we want the next generation of players in the room. Proudly supported by R Guitars (calgaryguitarrepair.com) and Guitar O.R. (guitaror.ca).