TWO international guitarists are set to wow crowds when they take to the stage in Maldon.

Italian Luca Francioso and Englishman Stuart Masters will perform in the Long Room at the Blue Boar Hotel on Sunday.

Both artists specialise in the fingerstyle guitar technique which sees guitarists pluck the string directly with their fingertips.

Organised by macTheatre, the event promises to be an evening showing off the duo’s incredible dexterity and astounding ability as they push the boundaries of the instrument.

Luca Francioso is a celebrated guitarist, composer and writer who studied classical guitar for ten years with trainer Giuseppe Alati.

After becoming interested in the fingerstyle technique he honed his skills with Italian guitar legend Franco Morone.

Luca, who has also published 11 novels and short stories, performs, writes and records all over Italy.

Stuart Masters has been described as an emerging acoustic master and combines western and Indian classical, folk and celtic influences to create a unique sound.

Having been invited to perform across the globe from Shanghai to Austin, his creative approach to the instrument brings inventive arrangements full of surprises.

Nicola Esson, macTheatre organiser, said: “The last time Luca and Stuart played at the Blue Boar we had a truly amazing night.

“To hear and watch such consummate musicianship live is very thrilling.

“You really can’t beat that kind of electric atmosphere from acoustic instruments. Stuart will also be joined by fretless bass player Mike Yetton on some numbers whose improvisational and melodic bass line is an art in itself. “The combination of their individual talents and their creative approach is a joy to experience.”

The event takes place from 7.30pm.

Tickets cost £12 from Maldon Tourist Information Centre by calling 01621 856503 or online at www.macTheatre.org.uk.