"On Friday afternoon we are holding Blues for Youth and have invited students from intermediate and secondary schools to come and learn about the blues from an accomplished international blues performer."
A second guitar clinic will also be held for anyone interested on Monday, June 4, 6.30pm to 7.30pm.
The other international performer is Alison Penney, a piano player, vocalist and writer with extensive experience in the blues.
Mr Elton said the Australian award-winning blues musician had a husky, soulful voice and a New Orleans style of playing.
"She has been the winner of the Sydney Blues Society award for Performer of the Year and the Australian Blues Award for Best Female Vocalist."
Another 11 other acts will be appearing, including for the first time, Rotorua's Swamp Thing, Ralph Bennett-Eades, Tauranga's B-Side Band and Kokomo.
The festival began yesterday with Jam Night at the Belgian Bar and the headliners will perform at the Rotorua Night Market tonight.
The First Sovereign Street Party is being held at the Eat Streat end of Tutanekai St on Saturday from 3pm to 5.15pm.
Mr Elton said families were particularly welcome to the street party.
This year the popular Blues Cruise on the Lakeland Queen would also be run on Saturday and Sunday, he said.
"It's back by popular demand and this year we're going to have two cruises because last year some missed out."
The Blues Cruise runs from 2pm to 4pm and Mr Elton said sales had been steady and he was expecting it to be another sell-out. The tickets cost $35 per person.
For more information on the Rotorua Blues Festival, visit their website - www.bopblues.com.
