Sean Shibe has established himself as a boundary-pushing force in contemporary classical music. A multi-award-winning performer and former BBC New Generation Artist he was chosen as an ECHO Rising Star during the 2023/24 season. Widely praised for his original programming, Shibe’s recordings have consistently garnered critical acclaim, to date receiving six Gramophone Award Shortlistings. His 2026 Pentatone release, Vesper, features world premiere recordings of works for solo classical guitar by Thomas Adès, Harrison Birtwistle and James Dillon. 

Highlights of Shibe’s 2025/26 season include the world premiere of Mark Simpson’s electric guitar concerto ZEBRA at the 2025 BBCProms, his debut with London Symphony Orchestra conducted by Thomas Adès, a residency at the Southbank Centre including his debut with Philharmonia Orchestra under Marin Alsop, and recital tours across the UK, Europe and the US.

Sean has a formidable reputation both as an acoustic and electric guitarist but will only be presenting classical repertoire at the festival.