Guitar Experience 2026 is a "Heaven" for Guitarists and Collectors
JAKARTA - Guitar Experience 2026, which was held at Lippo Mall Nusantara, Central Jakarta, from April 16 to 19, became a "paradise" for guitarists and guitar collectors in the country.
The exhibition, which is undergoing its seventh edition, is not only a place for buying and selling guitars and accessories, but also a stage for the local music ecosystem to compete globally. Even not a few famous musicians who enliven the event.
Pongki Barata who was also present at the opening of Guitar Experience 2026 said that this event was a sacred moment for musicians. He likened the enthusiasm of the visitors and those who filled the event to a big celebration for the community that has been spread in various regions.
"The event is a guitarist. Eh, the guitarist is Eid. Gather all the guitarists," said Pongki.
The former Jikustik frontman appreciated Djuned Kusuma's vision as the organizer in conceiving this exhibition. For him, Guitar Experience 2026 managed to bridge the interests of large distributor businesses with the passion of the grassroots music community.
"The concept is a community gathering but an exhibition. So, Mas Djuned has an ambition, has a guitar exhibition event that gathers all sellers, distributors, and brands in Indonesia in one room, the results of which can be enjoyed by the guitar community and the general public," added Pongky.
In line with this, Sheila on 7 guitarist, Eros Candra, feels that this exhibition provides validation for collectors and those who love this instrument. Being in the midst of hundreds of other guitarists makes Eros feel like he has found the right environment to channel his obsession with the technical details of the instrument.
"Let the guitarists not feel strange at home. If you meet someone more strange, we will be normal," joked Eros.
Eros also highlighted the availability of complete accessories and technical services at the event location. According to him, access to guitar components that are difficult to find in the market is the main attraction for professional musicians who want to set up their stage instruments precisely.
On the other hand, Baim also brought the spirit of innovation by introducing the local product "Baim Moodman", an effect pedal that he designed and introduced to the public through Guitar Experience 2026.
In addition, Baim assessed that cross-instrument collaboration, including the presence of the drum community this year, made the atmosphere of the event more dynamic. He also encouraged Indonesian musicians not to hesitate to create their own musical instruments.
As for Djuned, the journey of Guitar Experience which started since 2017 and continues to grow, as an achievement. This year, around 70 booths from various world brands such as Fender, Gibson, Yamaha, NUX, Boss, Dunlop, Zoom, to Blackstar also crowded the exhibition area.
Despite facing major logistical and operational challenges, Djuned emphasized his commitment to continue supporting the music industry through the spirit of "In Guitar We Trust". This is evidenced by the growth in the number of exhibition participants which has increased many times since the first edition.
"In Guitar We Trust. Hopefully this event will get bigger in the future," said Djuned.
As a form of appreciation for visitors, Pongki Barata also released a special guitar album in physical format (CD) which is only available exclusively during the exhibition.
Not stopping there, the special stage featuring well-known guitarists, such as Dewa Budjana, Andre Dinuth, Takayoshi Ohmura, Eet Sjahranie, Balawan, to Andra Ramadhan.