• 01671 407352
  • 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


Full steam ahead for Autumn Trad Festival 2025

What a wonderful community of musicians, music lovers and supporters of arts and culture in Dumfries & Galloway we have! Tickets have been flying out the door for the 5th annual Autumn Trad Festival which will take place over 17th & 18th October featuring Tarran (Trio) and Swinging on Birches.  

14 Oct 25
Nathon Jones

Autumn Trad Festival 2025 update

Despite best efforts to promote this year's Autumn Trad Festival - an event that champions young people in traditional music and which was due to celebrate its 5th annual event this year - a lack of funding and poor ticket sales may see the event cancelled.  

9 Oct 25
Nathon Jones

What's on at this weekend's SpringGrass Bluegrass Festival?

Over 16th-18th May, musicians and music lovers will head to The Vault Arts Centre for a weekend of concerts, workshops and jam sessions featuring some of the very best bluegrass/Americana/old-time performing artists from Scotland, Ireland, England, Canada and the USA; and what a programme it is!  

13 May 25
Nathon Jones

Trad Music Trust

Newton Stewart & Minnigaff Traditional Music & Dance Festival will celebrate its 10th anniversary over 11th-13th July 2025. 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:
  • Circa 16 Sound Recording Logo
  • Annandale Distillery Logo
Funded by:
  • The Holywood Trust Logo