GATORS VS NOLES GUITAR FESTIVAL AND CONCERT

The Gator vs. Noles Guitar Festival takes Florida’s most iconic rivalry and gives it a refreshing musical twist. Instead of touchdowns and field goals, the competition unfolds through scales, repertoire precision, and crescendos that crest as the guitar studios compete head-to-head in a Battle-Royale-style guitar trivia skirmish.  It’s spirited, it’s fun, and it’s one of the most engaging music events in North Florida.

The classical guitar faculty of:

• • • • • • • Florida State University (Dr. Stephen Mattingly) and 

            • University of Florida (Dr. Silviu Ciulei) 

bring their college’s legendary rivalry to the concert stage.  The Gator vs. Noles Guitar Festival unites two powerhouse music programs for a day of elite masterclasses, workshops, and a high‑profile evening concert.  

In Terry Concert Hall, the “Rivalry Takes the Stage” as the day culminates in a concert that blends rivalry with collaboration. FSU and UF soloists, chamber groups, and orchestras share the stage, culminating in a special Combined FSU–UF Concerto featuring faculty soloists with 

• • • • • • Dr. Stephen Robinson (Professor Emeritus, Stetson University) as Guest Conductor.