We were hago
The Hampshire Guitar Orchestra (hago) formerly Havant Area Guitar Orchestra began in 1999 and closed its doors in 2017.
We gained a reputation for unusual
music presented with a real sense of fun.
We changee our audience's perception about classical guitar!
We were a group of guitarists from Hampshire and neighbouring counties enjoying something really unusual.
Our Musical Director was Derek Hasted.
hago (hay'go ) defn : to "have a good one" - the hampshire guitar orchestra's motto!
Meet hago!
What were we?
We played 4 different sizes of Guitar, like the different sizes in a recorder consort, brass band or string quartet.
We were one of handful of guitar
orchestras - free from the limitations of pitch that constrain guitar ensembles.
Our concerts
Most of our concerts and shows raised funds for charities.
We played music from Early to Pop, from Classical to Jazz, from Stage to Film, from Renaissance to Reggae . . .
People often say "What an amazing sound - I didn't know guitars could sound like that"
See us on video and in our photo galleries.
Reviews & Awards
"Hampshire's best kept secret"
Farlington Music Festival
"Fabulously entertaining...
I laughed 'til I almost cried"
HIADS Hayling
"Riotously good ensemble playing ... inspirational"
Classical Guitar Magazine
More reviews...
Winners
6th Guitar Orchestra Competition of GB
Best special interest website
4th Hantsweb Awards