Art Of The Guitar: A Concert Series Celebrating Acoustic Mastery
Featuring Richard Smith — Live at Chester Meeting House | August 20 View All ConcertsFAQAbout the Concert Series
The ‘Art of the Guitar’ series is a celebration of acoustic excellence, presented by AcousticMusic.Org. Set in the historic Chester Meeting House, this series offers a rare opportunity to witness world-class guitarists up close. Each performance promises an evening of musical brilliance, blending traditional and contemporary styles in a venue that enhances the intimate connection between artist and audience.
Tony McManus
Upcoming Performances
Richard Smith
Renowned for his dynamic fingerstyle technique, the British, Nashville-based Richard Smith captivates audiences with a mix of original compositions and classic tunes, delivered with precision and passion.
Wednesday, August 20
7 PM $25
Tony McManus
Acclaimed as the world’s finest Celtic guitarist, Tony McManus blends traditional Scottish melodies with influences from jazz and classical music, creating a unique and enchanting sound.
Thursday, October 2
7 PM $25
Stephen Bennett
Stephen Bennett, 2024 International Fingerstyle Champion and harp guitar virtuoso, returns to Chester after a recent appearance at Carnegie Hall. His set will include holiday favorites.
Saturday, December 6
7 PM $25
Art of the Guitar: Full Series Pass
Catch all three virtuosos live and in person, at a discounted rate.
Richard Smith, Tony McManus, Stephen Smith
$70
Stephen Bennett
Presented By
AcousticMusic.Org
Step into Connecticut’s premiere acoustic guitar shop, housed in a historically rich 1700’s tavern in the heart of Chester. We offer a curated selection of fine acoustic guitars, mandolins, banjos, ukuleles, and basses. Discover instruments that inspire and a staff that knows the craft inside and out. Visit the website, a unique resource center for players and fans.
Our Sponsor
Wyeth Architects
We are proud to have Wyeth Architects as the sponsor of the Art of the Guitar series. An award winning-design firm known for their innovative approach to sustainable design, Wyeth Architects is committed to creating energy-efficient buildings that harmonize with their surroundings. Their dedication to environmental stewardship and architectural excellence makes them a perfect partner for our concert series, reflecting our shared values of artistry and sustainability.
The Venue
Chester Meeting House
The Chester Meeting House, built in 1793, has long been a centerpiece of the town’s cultural life, hosting everything from historic public events to performances and films. In the 1800s, it welcomed P.T. Barnum’s famed dwarf performer Tom Thumb, and in 1959 it appeared in It Happened to Jane alongside stars Doris Day and Jack Lemmon. Chester has deep ties to Connecticut’s rich arts scene, with legends like Orson Welles and Katharine Hepburn shaping the state’s storied theater tradition. Today, the Meeting House continues to reflect that legacy as a beloved venue for music and the arts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I buy tickets?
Tickets are available online at AcousticMusic.Org. You can also call the shop at 203-458-8353 for assistance. Tickets will be available for purchase at the venue until they sell out.
How much are tickets?
Individual concert tickets are $25 each. A season pass for all three concerts is $70.
What are the dates and artists?
Richard Smith – August 20
Tony McManus – October 2
Stephen Bennett – December 6
Where is the venue?
Chester Meeting House, 4 Liberty Street, Chester, CT 06412.
How do I get there?
From the North:
Take Route 9 South to Exit 8, Chester.
At the end of the ramp at the stop sign, turn left onto Rte. 148/West Main Street.
Follow this road all the way into the center of town.
At the four-way stop at the center of town, turn left onto North Main Street.
Take this road until you see a split/fork in the road – veer right up Goose Hill Road.
At the rise of the hill you will see a gazebo and the Meeting House.
Veer to the left of the gazebo and turn right into the parking lot for the Meeting House.
From the South:
Take Route 9 North to Exit 8, Chester.
At the end of the ramp at the stop sign, turn right onto Rte. 148/West Main Street.
Follow this road all the way into the center of town.
At the four-way stop at the center of town, turn left onto North Main Street.
Take this road until you see a split/fork in the road – veer right up Goose Hill Road.
At the rise of the hill you will see a gazebo and the Meeting House.
Veer to the left of the gazebo and turn right into the parking lot for the Meeting House.
Is seating assigned?
All seating is general admission. Arrive early for the best choice of seats.
Is there air conditioning?
Yes. The performance hall is air conditioned and climate controlled.
Is there parking?
Yes. Free parking is available in the Chester Meeting House lot and nearby street parking.
Is the venue accessible?
Yes. The Chester Meeting House is accessible to patrons with mobility needs.
Can I get a refund?
All ticket sales are final. If you cannot attend, you may give your ticket to someone else.
What should I bring on show day?
You can bring either your printed ticket, your QR code on your phone, or your Apple Wallet pass. Showing your name at the door is a last-resort option if needed.
Are food or drinks available?
No concessions are sold at the venue. Chester has excellent restaurants and cafés within walking distance for before or after the show.
Make a Day of It in Chester
Plan your concert visit around all that Chester has to offer. This vibrant Connecticut River Valley town is full of charm, creativity, and local flavor. Stroll through the village center to discover art galleries, independent shops, and standout restaurants. Take a ride on the historic Chester/Hadlyme ferry to Gillette Castle, bike or hike the trails of Cockaponsett State Forest, cool off at Cedar Lake, or explore the Chester Museum at the Mill.