Orcas Center is pleased to present Martin Taylor, a multi-award-winning guitarist, on Center Stage a 7:30 p.m., Feb. 8. Taylor dazzles audiences with his solo shows which combine virtuosity, emotion, humor and a strong stage presence while his inimitable style has seen him recognized as the world’s foremost exponent of solo fingerstyle guitar playing. Taylor has invented and developed a way of playing the guitar that is admired — and often imitated — by guitarists all over the world.

Collaborations with artists including Jeff Beck; Tommy Emmanuel; Bill Wyman; Chet Atkins; David Grisman; Dianne Schuur; and Gary Burton have seen Taylor garner two honorary doctorates; a BBC lifetime achievement award; Top 10 albums in both the United States of America and Europe; a record 14 British Jazz Awards; and in 2002, he was appointed Member of the Order of The British Empire ‘For Services to Jazz Music’ by Her Majesty the Queen of Great Britain. As one of the world’s most recognized online guitar teachers, his innovative online guitar school (with headquarters in Napa, California has been featured on NPR, BBC, Fox News and the L. A. Times. The Washington Post praises Taylor by stating, “No matter how complex or daring, Taylor’s interpretations never short change the melodies; indeed, his remarkable fluid touch embues a seamless beauty. Martin Taylor is something to behold.”

As a special encore, celebrated local musician Gene Nery, a guitarist/vocalist from Vancouver, British Columbia, and his two guests Emily Aring and Lek Thixton will be closing out the evening. After performing extensively around the world on Princess Cruises, Nery is currently performing at Rosario Resort on Orcas Island.

Tickets range from $15-$47 and are available online at www.orcascenter.org.