We've spent 2019 searching for the best amateur acoustic players on earth. Hundreds of entry videos were submitted, before standout performances were sent to our star judges for whittling down to a stellar final three and a final play-off at the UK Guitar Show.

Winner Christie Lenée is an American fingerstyle guitarist who’s remarkable playing developed after an encounter with the song Sunburst, by modern classical player Andrew York. She has some form in competitions, having won the International Fingerstyle Guitar Championship in 2017.

“I am am deeply honoured to be a part of this extraordinary event,” said Christie. “The video of Alexandr Misko from last year completely blew my mind and inspired me to get back in the wood shed and try out some new things. To be somewhere in the field of where he stands in this community sure feels incredible and inspires me to work harder. I plan to show up with an open mind and know that I’ll learn a lot from the experience!”