Acoustic Guitar Summit strikes chord at Hillsboro's Walters Cultural Arts Center

A trio of some of the Pacific Northwest’s most decorated guitarists is tuning up for a performance at Hillsboro’s cultural arts center this September.

Acoustic Guitar Summit takes the stage at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 27, at the Walters Cultural Arts Center, turning up the volume with musical prowess that has been heard in television shows, movies and stages around the world.

The perfect storm of technique and creativity, the group includes Grammy-award winning guitarists Doug Smith and Mark Hanson, who took home one of music’s most sought out accolades in 2005 for their contributions to the “Henry Mancini: Pink Guitar” compilation album.

Smith, a winner of the National Fingerpicking Championship, continues to headline international solo performances, while Hanson has established himself as a mentor to musicians from all over with over 30 instructional manuals and DVDs.

Completing the trio is guitarist Terry Robb — the perennial winner of the Cascade Blues Association’s “Top Acoustic Blues Guitarist” award. Following 19 consecutive wins, the award was renamed after him in 2011.

Performing original songs and reimagined classics, the group will showcase virtuosic prowess and creativity across genres, playing everything from jazz to reggae to Hawaiian slack key.

Some may recognize their style from the screen, with the group’s works being featured on national television programs "Martha Stewart Living" and "Late Night with Conan O’Brien"; movie buffs might hear familiar tunes from blockbusters “Twister” and “August Rush.”

Tickets cost $25 and $28 the day of the show — to purchase your seat, visit CityofHillsboro.TicketSpice.com/Acoustic-Guitar-Summit-2024 .

Prior to the performance, guitar players of all levels will have a chance to improve their skills during a workshop from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. on the day of the performance. To register for the workshop, visit Hillsboro-Oregon.gov/Walters .