Here are a few comments and some feedback from people who have seen and heard me play
“I’ve known Leon for 10 years. From the outset, it was clear that he was an exceptionally gifted guitarist. A sublime “touch” player with an enviable finger-style dexterity. I’ve seen him ease through his articulate blues vocabulary, clean country lines and inventive instrumental arrangements on many occasions. It’s well worth watching him go to work.”
Terence Reis – Guitarist & Frontman, The Dire Straits Experience
“Leon played at our NYE party and played his heart out all evening – truly magical. He has a huge repertoire of any number of styles, from blues to country, jazz and rock and so can easily accommodate every taste. He cleverly uses his own twist so that the music is recognisable, but he makes it his own. Thank you Leon for a memorable evening!”
J. S. Robinson – New Years Eve Party 2019/2020
“I have known Leon for a while and asked him to play in the Orangery at Godmersham House, for my Husband’s 40th Birthday party. He was just what we were looking for music-wise and played a selection of great tunes. He is an absolutely amazing guitarist.”
A. Horn – 40th Birthday Party, Godmersham House, July 2019
“What a birthday present! Got to hear the very, very talented guitar maestro Mr Leon Hastwell tonight… What – I mean WHAT a player.”
David Goodlad – Customer, The Granville, Canterbury
“Leon is an incredible guitarist. His playing is meticulous, virtuosic and full of feel. He brings depth to the music he plays and his interpretations, though remaining true to the originals in essence, are beautifully performed in his own captivating style. He has a deep passion for music as a player and connoisseur. To say his knowledge is encyclopaedic is an understatement. Not only that, but he’s also a wonderful human being, with a big heart and a wry sense of humour. I cannot recommend him highly enough.”
Nanar Vorperian – Singer/Songwriter: Break Reform & freelance Opera singer
“We’ve had Leon play solo guitar at several afternoon and evening events at The Dog in Wingham. His repertoire is varied and sophisticated. Leon plays a mixture of well-known tunes from all eras – also some lesser-heard jazz, and bluesy fingerstyle pieces. A true virtuoso – his guitar playing is awesome, and it’s obvious that he’s serious about his sound. We always get positive comments about his playing from customers and staff. He’s a personable, very talented fellow and always plays to the times we allocate, never missing a beat!”
Marc Bridgen – Manager: The Dog Inn, Wingham, Canterbury
“Really enjoyed the music arrangements during our evening whilst eating dinner. Good luck in the future.”
Customer – The Granville, Canterbury
“Yikes! Tommy Emmanuel the second – not an easy one, in fact b****y hard! It’s always great to hear your playing. Your approach to no-nonsense ‘me and a solo guitar’ is one that I embrace. It takes a lot of talent and technique to keep everyone happy when you are out there on your own, and you are the man for it.”
David Plues – Guitar Historian and Videographer
“Great guitar playing – just right!”
Paul Montgomery – CEO, Strode Park Foundation
“Very pleasurable listening and a great vibe. Loved the selection of songs and the fact you give it your own spin… and were playing for ages! From one musician to another, keep it up because you’re sounding great!”
Kate – Customer, The Granville, Canterbury
“Wonderful, imaginative version of Led Zeppelin’s ‘Kashmir’ – never expected to hear it like this!”
M. Atkinson – Public event
“Our community have asked Leon to play his guitar on numerous events. His presence is unintrusive and his repertoire and skills are versatile. His range expands from gentle classical, jazz and blues to something ‘rockier’ – and he makes his guitar sound like numerous guitars playing at once. He comes highly recommended. Leon can adapt to any event to create the atmosphere and music you desire. He certainly knows his instrument well and is a nice guy to deal with.”
D. Leutner – Event Organiser
“Very enjoyable to listen to! Should have his own dedicated show – where EVERYONE has to listen, without any talking…”
Attendee – Private Charity function
“WOW, this is great.”
Dave Wright – Label owner & Promoter, via YouTube
“You hit the perfect vibe this afternoon. Sublime – a world of sound from an electric guitar.”
A. Ruth – Public event
“Awesome! Not many people out there who can do this 🙂 So amazingly fantastic at the guitar!”
Tim W – via YouTube
“We enjoyed Leon’s guitar playing during the afternoon. His recognisable tunes were laid-back and non-intrusive. Perfect music during a very enjoyable event.”
Attendee – Private Charity function
“A lovely player, who made such a difference to the afternoon.”
P. Hatton – Public event
“Wow, Leon – only just found time to listen through. Great stuff. You’re very talented!”
Debs Earl – Promoter, Folk in the Barn, via Facebook
“When Leon played at our church event, the music was brilliant. Totally appropriate for the occasion, definitely enhanced the atmosphere and I would thoroughly recommend him for any event.”
Rev. Lorraine Lawrence
“What a wonderful Garden Party. The music was such a lovely accompaniment; unobtrusive yet thoroughly enjoyable to listen to.’’
Maria & Paul, Petham, Kent
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