Sherborne and its surrounds have a rich tradition of nurturing highly talented musicians and singers, counting luminaries like Ruth Rogers (violin), Dame Emma Kirkby (soprano), and Chris Martin (Coldplay) among their ranks.
Michael Partington arrived in Milborne Port as a young teenager when his parents owned a shop on London Road. He pursued his passion for the guitar locally, and began teaching it while completing his A-levels. He was employed by the council to teach in several local schools and Yeovil College.
In 1991, he chose to move to America, where he has since thrived as Artist in Residence and director of the guitar programme at the University of Washington in Seattle. In addition to teaching, Michael’s musical journey has seen him performing as a soloist and with ensembles across North America, Europe, Scandinavia, as well as on BBC Radio 3 and national public radio in America.
His 11th solo CD, Concoctions From the Kitchen, was released in October this year dedicated to American composer Bryan Johanson. Classical Guitar magazine has lauded Michael for his ‘lyricism, intensity, and clear technical command.’
Sherborne Douzelage is fortunate enough to have Michael Partington performing a fundraising concert in support of the Douzelage General meeting involving 27 countries, set to take place in Sherborne in April 2024.
The concert is scheduled for Saturday, November 25th, at Cheap Street Church in Sherborne, commencing at 7:30 pm. Tickets priced at £15 are available from Winstone’s Bookshop in Sherborne, or you can contact Mary marydmc38@gmail.com
