The beloved Adelaide Guitar Festival returns in September 2025 with a vibrant program filled with world premieres, international stars, music legends and local favourites. Presented by Adelaide Festival Centre, the festival once again showcases the finest guitarists from around the globe across classical, blues, country, rock and more.

One of this year’s most anticipated concerts takes place at Her Majesty’s Theatre on Friday 12 September, where two celebrated storytellers take to the stage. Acclaimed Barkindji Songwoman Nancy Bates opens the evening with songs from her new album Share Your Love. Deeply personal and shaped by her years touring with the late Archie Roach, the album features themes of collaboration, vision and community. Joined by her band and a rich line-up of musical collaborators, Nancy’s performance promises a powerful and moving experience.

She is followed by the legendary Troy Cassar-Daley, performing with his full band. A master musician and storyteller, Troy has earned 45 Golden Guitars, six ARIA Awards and 33 number-one singles. His heartfelt lyrics and versatile guitar playing have made a lasting impact on the Australian music scene, and his live shows are a celebration of country music at its finest.

On Saturday 13 September, classic rock fans can enjoy a world premiere performance of Led Zeppelin’s Physical Graffiti Live in Concert. Celebrating 50 years since the release of this iconic album, the concert features the Southern Cross Symphony and a cast of exceptional Australian musicians. Audiences can look forward to the full Physical Graffiti album performed live, along with a selection of Led Zeppelin’s greatest hits.

The festival continues on Sunday 14 September at Her Majesty’s Theatre with an exciting double bill featuring Lau Noah and Lior. Performing in Australia for the first time, Lau Noah has become internationally known for her distinctive guitar-voice counterpoint style, drawing praise from artists like Phoebe Bridgers and Jackson Browne. Fresh from collaborations with Jacob Collier and Jorge Drexler, she brings her exquisite musicality to Adelaide audiences.

Sharing the stage is celebrated Australian singer-songwriter Lior, performing with his full band and presenting songs from his latest album The Blue Parade. The concert offers a unique blend of musical voices and international artistry.

Fans of classical guitar can look forward to two outstanding concerts at Elder Hall. On Saturday 13 September, the internationally renowned Duo Siqueira Lima will perform a dynamic program fusing Latin passion with classical precision. The concert begins with a recital by Young Taek Jo, winner of the 2024 Adelaide International Classical Guitar Competition.

On Sunday 14 September, Consonance: Instrumental Conversations with Guitar celebrates the work of exceptional Adelaide-based musicians. Guitarist Aleksandr Tsiboulski returns to premiere a new suite by South Australian composer Anne Cawrse, joined by violinist Dr Elizabeth Layton. Also featured are Artistic Director Slava Grigoryan and cellist Sharon Grigoryan, whose connection and musical chemistry have enchanted audiences across the country. The performance opens with the 2025 Adelaide Guitar Festival Orchestra, conducted by Dr Paul Svoboda, with a special appearance by Lior.

Audiences are also invited to attend the Adelaide International Classical Guitar Competition Final on Sunday morning at Elder Hall. Entry is free, offering a chance to see the next generation of world-class guitarists in action.

Whether you enjoy classical elegance, soulful storytelling or classic rock anthems, the Adelaide Guitar Festival 2025 offers a rich and diverse program for music lovers of all ages.

More information from the 2025 Adelaide Guitar Festival edition of WeekendPlus: