Ian Watt

‘A guitarist of outstanding skill and originality’ (Classical Guitar Magazine), Scottish guitarist Ian Watt has appeared throughout the world giving solo recitals in the USA, China, South Korea, Brazil, Spain, Italy, Germany, Czech Republic, Hungary, Ukraine and Denmark. In addition to three solo recordings with Nimbus Alliance, his playing has been broadcast on BBC Radio 2, BBC Radio 3, BBC Radio Scotland, Classic FM, NDR Radio (Germany) and WSMC Radio (USA), and been described by the press as ‘sublime’ (BBC Music Magazine), ‘astoundingly atmospheric’ (The Herald) and ‘dazzlingly virtuosic’ (The Herald).

Noted for his ‘exceptional range of timbre’ (BBC Music Magazine), Ian’s international prizes include 1st prize at the Heinsberg International Guitar Competition (2011), Germany; 1st prize at the Westphalian Guitar Spring Competition (2010), Germany; 2nd prize at the Parkening International Guitar Competition (2009), USA (often described as the world’s most prestigious) and 2nd prize at the Vienna ‘Homage to Karl Scheit’ International Competition (2010). 

A committed teacher, Ian is a lecturer at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland and previously guitar tutor at the Music School of Douglas Academy (one of Scotland's four 'Centres for Excellence' music schools) and the University of St Andrews Music Centre. He was delighted to join the peripatetic staff at the Cedars in September 2021.