Acoustic extravaganza on the orchard

The third Katikati Acoustic Festival will kick off tonight night with an impressive line-up of international and local acts.

Because of its rising popularity it has grown into a two-day musical spectacular. Organisers say they have focused on attracting quality performers and aren't surprised by its success.

However, Tauranga Acoustic Club president Paul Lethbridge says the aim is to keep it a boutique event.

"As far as we are concerned, it's all about the quality and this is a boutique event. So no, we're not surprised but pleased we've kept it very manageable in an idyllic orchard setting - and I think people like that."

He says crowd numbers are expected to be about 400 and a smorgasbord of different music styles will be showcased, encompassing everything from country, bluegrass and folk to jazz and old-school reggae.

Award-winning Australian bluegrass artist Karen Lynne will headline the event. She is an acclaimed singer-songwriter with nine albums under her belt.

Lynne will be backed by an experienced band of musicians who play a variety of instruments including flat-pick guitar, banjo, mandolin, fiddle and dobro.

Meanwhile Zoh Zoh, an eclectic 10-piece multicultural band, cleverly combine Afro beat jazz, reggae and African high funk and draw inspiration from Jamaican artists Peter Tosh, Culture and Burning Spear.

On the other hand, Sarita Murdoch is a wild redhead acoustic contemporary folk singer who will be playing with hot rhythm, fingerstyle and accomplished slide guitar-playing Westie Paul Symons as well as Mount Maunganui musician Luke Thompson and a host of other local artists.

Lethbridge says it will be an entertaining, relaxing weekend with music echoing around the spacious orchard.

The Fine Print

What: The Katikati Acoustic Festival

Where: 156 Work Rd, Whakamarama

When: February 22, 23.

Tickets $25 from Creative Tauranga, Katikati Information Centre or at gate.

Friday free camping available - contact hoggard@xtra.co.nz