WITH compositions that fuse folk, classical, jazz and blues, Clive Carroll is one of the most admired and respected guitarists in the world.

The British guitar maestro takes the stage at the Forest Arts Centre on Thursday February 8.

Described as a phenomenon on the acoustic scene, his own ground-breaking compositions showcase his versatility and technical virtuosity. Carroll is also a captivating performer and has toured across Europe, Australia, the Middle East and North America.

Clive Carroll made his musical debut at the age of two - as a banjo-strumming cowboy singing nursery rhymes. Clive went on to earn a 1st Class Honours Degree in Composition and Guitar from the famed Trinity College of Music in London, all the while balancing his classical work with forays into the world of the steel string guitar.

A chance meeting with the late John Renbourn changed the course of Clive’s musical career and the two toured the UK and North America together, with Renbourn encouraging Clive to release his first solo album in 2000. Since then Clive has built a devoted following touring solo around the world and alongside lauded guitarist Tommy Emmanuel.

Clive has also composed music for major films and has been awarded an array of awards and accolades, including making Total Guitar Magazine’s list of “Top 10 Acoustic Guitarists of All Time”. Clive most recent CD, “The Furthest Tree”, which was released in 2016, is being hailed as some of his finest work to date.

Helen Cundy, Director of New Milton’s Forest Arts Centre told the Daily Echo:

“Clive Carroll has established himself as one of the world’s premier acoustic guitar players but he’s also a fantastic live performer – who interacts with his audience throughout the show. Join us for an evening of sensational instrumental music that knows no boundaries.”

Tickets:at www.forest-arts.co.uk or via the venue’s Box Office by calling 01425 612393.