• 01671 404924
  • 07970 359557

D&G Guitar Maker Kenny Hilsley

5 Dec 17
by Nathon Jones
The Bruce

I was recently lucky enough to have an extended loan of "The Bruce"; a beautiful guitar made by one of Scotland's finest guitar makers who just happens to be right here in Dumfries & Galloway - Kenny Hilsley of Hilsley Guitars.

I met Kenny some time ago at Kirkmichael International Guitar Festival just north of Girvan, a fantastic guitar festival run by the world famous guitar player Martin Taylor.  That festival is, sadly, no more but just over a year ago it was recommended to me that I should visit a local guitar maker, based just outside Dumfries, and lo and behold it was only Kenny who I hadn't realised actually made guitars.

A visit to his studio later, and the chance to sample the superb range of guitars Kenny makes, and it's safe to say that pennies are being put aside to eventually grab myself one of these fantastic instruments.

It's wonderful to have a first class instrument maker in our region and I couldn't recommend Kenny highly enough.  Add to that the knowledge that you're playing an instrument born and bred in Dumfries & Galloway and you have a winning combination all round.

Huge thanks to Kenny for the extended trial of the guitar and the opportunity to really get a proper feel for the instrument.  That in itself is an indication of the level of care and support Kenny offers potential customers.

If you haven't come across Hilsley Guitars before please take a moment to visit their official website using the link below.

Hilsley Guitars

In Other News

Outstanding sponsorship support from Five Kingdoms Brewery

Serving local produce ensures that the project supports local businesses and the local community. A huge favourite are the beers from Five Kingdoms Brewery which are brewed in Isle of Whithorn. We are hugely grateful to Alastair and his team for their very generous support for this year's festival.  

12 Jul 24
Nathon Jones

Workshops at this year's festival

With so many outstanding musicians in Newton Stewart this weekend it would be foolish not to take full advantage, and we've done just that with a superb programme of traditional music workshops which are included as part of the Weekend Pass ticket, £10 per adult or £Free for under 25s.  

11 Jul 24
Nathon Jones

Highland dancing competition unable to go ahead this year

It is with a heavy heart that we announce the postponement of this year's Highland dancing competition at Newton Stewart & Minnigaff Traditional Music & Dance Festival. Continued funding cuts have meant some very difficult decisions have had to be made, however we do hope to bring this back in 2025.  

26 Jun 24
Nathon Jones

More Trad News

Trad Music Trust

The 10th annual Newton Stewart & Minnigaff Traditional Music & Dance Festival takes place over the 12th-14th July 2024. It's an incredible achievement. The charity has created a viable, sustainable, event that continues to grow and develop, proudly celebrating the very best in traditional Scottish, Irish and World music. Make sure you book early for what is shaping up to be the biggest event yet!

Subscribe to Newsletter

* indicates required
Commercial Sponsors:
  • Five Kingdoms Brewery Logo
  • Crafty Distillery Logo
  • WEST Brewery Logo
Funded by:
  • Dumfries & Galloway Council Logo
  • The Holywood Trust Logo