Events

Crossroads Cultural Connections is honored to present an unforgettable evening with internationally renowned guitarist Claude Bourbon on Wednesday, May 6 at Bishop Hill Creative Commons. This special performance is part of Bourbon’s Farewell Tour, marking what is expected to be his final tour across the United States.

The evening will begin at 6:00 PM with an optional potluck dinner, offering guests a chance to gather and connect before the performance. Attendees are welcome to bring a dish to share if they wish to participate. The concert will begin at 7:00 PM.

Claude Bourbon is celebrated across Europe and North America for his extraordinary guitar work—performances that transcend genre and geography. Drawing from a foundation in classical guitar, his music seamlessly weaves together blues, flamenco, Spanish guitar, and Middle Eastern influences, creating a sound that is both deeply rooted and strikingly original.

His style takes listeners on a journey across continents—from the Mississippi Delta to the Mediterranean, from the Balkans to beyond—blending Spanish blues, gypsy rhythms, and Eastern European melodies into a rich, immersive experience. Influenced by artists as diverse as Paco de Lucía, J.S. Bach, Ritchie Blackmore, and JJ Cale, Bourbon’s playing is marked by astonishing technique, flawless timing, and expressive depth.

Over the course of his career, Bourbon has performed extensively and shared stages with a wide range of internationally recognized musicians, including Calvin Russell, Charlie Morgan (Elton John, Gary Moore), Jan Akkerman (Focus), Steve Grossman (Miles Davis), and Herbie Armstrong (Van Morrison), among others.

Critics and audiences alike have praised his artistry. As FolkWorks notes, “Claude Bourbon aptly describes himself as a musical artist. He uses a vast array of musical tools to paint a landscape we have all visited either in person or in our dreams.” Altadena News calls his work “a breathtaking acoustic fusion of blues, jazz, classical and Spanish guitar from a stunning guitar virtuoso.”

With this being his final planned U.S. tour, this performance offers a rare opportunity to experience a truly distinctive artist live.

Presented by Crossroads Cultural Connections, this concert continues the organization’s mission of bringing meaningful, high-quality live music experiences to Henry County and surrounding communities.

The event is open to all ages, with a suggested donation of $20–$30, 100% of which goes directly to the performers, supporting artists and sustaining live music.

Event Details
Wednesday, May 6
Potluck Dinner: 6:00 PM (optional)
Concert: 7:00 PM
Bishop Hill Creative Commons
309 North Bishop Hill Street
Bishop Hill, Illinois

For tickets and more information please visit xroadscc.org.