GigSalad – Entertainment Marketplace Menu
Search
Favorites Log In List your services

Your list is empty.

Save musicians, entertainers, speakers, and services, and they’ll appear here.

Free Quick Quote
GigSalad – Entertainment Marketplace Menu
Search Favorites
  • Sign UpList your services
  • Log InLog In
  • Entertainers
  • Musical Acts
  • Event Services
  • Speakers
  • Home
  • How It Works
  • About Us
  • Blog
  • Party Ideas
  • Help Center
Quick Quote
Back to Classical Guitarists
Celtic and Classical guitar by Samuel J. Lawson

Celtic and Classical guitar by Samuel J. Lawson

Rating star filled in with goldRating star filled in with goldRating star filled in with goldRating star filled in with goldRating star filled in with gold
4.79 
(8 reviews)
  • Indianapolis, IN
  • Classical Guitarist
  • Travels up to 200 miles
  • $200 - $800 depending on time & travel
Get a Free Quick Quote
Promotional video thumbnail 1 for Celtic and Classical guitar by Samuel J. Lawson Watch

Ancestor and Echo

Promotional video thumbnail 2 for Celtic and Classical guitar by Samuel J. Lawson Watch

The Last Steam Engine Train

Promotional video thumbnail 3 for Celtic and Classical guitar by Samuel J. Lawson Watch

Minuet in A by Fernando Sor, Op.11 No.6

Promotional video thumbnail 4 for Celtic and Classical guitar by Samuel J. Lawson Watch

Afro-Cuban Lullaby, Arranged by Jack Marshall and Christopher Parkening

Promotional video thumbnail 5 for Celtic and Classical guitar by Samuel J. Lawson Watch

Wassail, Wassail!

Audio sample play button Audio sample pause button
Sonata L 352
  • 1. Sonata L 352
  • 2. Flitting Borealis (original)
  • 3. Ae Fond Gael
  • 4. Choro Tipico
Gallery photo 1 of Celtic and Classical guitar by Samuel J. Lawson

Recording at WFYI studio for Cardenio

Gallery photo 2 of Celtic and Classical guitar by Samuel J. Lawson
Gallery photo 3 of Celtic and Classical guitar by Samuel J. Lawson

Backstage, "History of Cardenio," for which I composed and performed

Gallery photo 4 of Celtic and Classical guitar by Samuel J. Lawson

Performing at the Aristocrat restaurant & pub

Gallery photo 5 of Celtic and Classical guitar by Samuel J. Lawson

Wedding performance at McCormick's Creek

Gallery photo 6 of Celtic and Classical guitar by Samuel J. Lawson

VIP lounge performance for George Strait at Lucas Oil

View previous media icon View next media icon
5 videos 4 audio 6 photos
Media Overview Reviews Booking Info
Get a Free Quick Quote

Overview

Classically trained guitarist with traditional and themed repertoire: Classical-Romatic, Renaissance, Celtic/British Isles, Spanish and Latin-American music.

I also feature Jazz, Blues, and Celtic style performances solo or with ensembles.

Got sheet music? Great!
No sheet music? No problem!


8 Reviews

Small thumbnail image for reviewer Rachel M.
Rating star filled in with goldRating star filled in with goldRating star filled in with goldRating star filled in with goldRating star empty
Verified Review
Rachel M. • April 30, 2025

Good

Samuel was extremely polite, friendly and he played all tunes that we requested. He is very obliging!!

Hired as:
Guitarist
Small thumbnail image for reviewer Tonya
Rating star filled in with goldRating star filled in with goldRating star filled in with goldRating star filled in with goldRating star filled in with gold
Verified Review
Tonya • March 25, 2025

A Truly Magical Performance

We are beyond grateful to Samuel Lawson for the incredible live music at our wedding. From the start, he worked closely with us to craft a setlist that reflected who we are — and as Baldur’s Gate 3 fans, it meant the world that he embraced that vision so beautifully.
The moment that will stay with us forever was the ceremony entrance — as “Down by the River” began, softly and soulfully played on guitar, it was like stepping into a scene straight from the game. The melody was haunting, romantic, and deeply emotional — the perfect soundtrack as we walked together to start our new chapter. So many of our guests told us afterward they had goosebumps.
And when it came time for our recessional, Samuel absolutely nailed the mood shift with a powerful acoustic rendition of “The Power”. It was the perfect triumphant moment — uplifting, emotional, and cinematic — as we walked back down the aisle, officially married. It truly felt like the epic conclusion to our own love story quest.
Throughout the ceremony Samuel played beautifully, weaving fantasy themes and soft acoustic pieces seamlessly. Professional, talented, and incredibly easy to work with, he brought our vision to life and made the day feel personal and unforgettable.
If you’re even thinking about incorporating unique music — especially from Baldur’s Gate or any fantasy world — trust us, Samuel Lawson is the one to make it happen. We couldn’t have dreamed of a better experience.

Hired as:
Guitarist

Photos from this event

Photo 1 from Mar 23, 2025 event with Celtic and Classical guitar by Samuel J. Lawson
Small thumbnail image for reviewer Shilpa P.
Rating star filled in with goldRating star filled in with goldRating star filled in with goldRating star filled in with goldRating star filled in with gold
Verified Review
Shilpa P. • July 30, 2024

Excellent

Very entertaining! Organized, engaging and has a great stage presence. Made our event!

Hired as:
Guitarist, Singer/Songwriter, Singing Guitarist
Small thumbnail image for Celtic and Classical guitar by Samuel J. Lawson

Response from Celtic and Classical guitar by Samuel J. Lawson:

It was such a joy to do my part to make your event the fabulous celebration you deserve!

Small thumbnail image for reviewer Alexandria W.
Rating star filled in with goldRating star filled in with goldRating star filled in with goldRating star filled in with goldRating star filled in with gold
Verified Review
Alexandria W. • May 6, 2024

Lovely performance and very sweet!

Samuel arrived on time, was very communicative and accommodating with the requests for our event. His performance was beautiful and skilled. We will definitely keep him at the top of our list for future events in the area. Thanks again!!

Hired as:
Guitarist
Small thumbnail image for reviewer Craig .. S.
Rating star filled in with goldRating star filled in with goldRating star filled in with goldRating star filled in with goldRating star filled in with gold
Verified Review
Craig .. S. • November 10, 2022

Could not be happier

Easy going great guy. Perfect music for my gathering. Good communication, will use Sam again when the time comes.

Hired as:
Guitarist, Classical Guitarist
Small thumbnail image for Celtic and Classical guitar by Samuel J. Lawson

Response from Celtic and Classical guitar by Samuel J. Lawson:

Thanks, Craig! What a beautiful property with wonderful acoustics. I really enjoyed playing for your event.

Small thumbnail image for reviewer Matthew D.
Rating star filled in with goldRating star filled in with goldRating star filled in with goldRating star filled in with goldRating star filled in with gold
Matthew D. • December 13, 2017

Awesome Celtic Christmas Program!

Moving classical guitar wizardry for our Scottish Society's Christmas party. Great selection, perfect!

Hired as:
Guitarist, Classical Guitarist
Small thumbnail image for reviewer Lisa P.
Rating star filled in with goldRating star filled in with goldRating star filled in with goldRating star filled in with goldRating star filled in with gold
Verified Review
Lisa P. • December 10, 2017

Perfect Holiday Party Entertainment!

Samuel is an extremely talented and amazing classical guitarist! He performed many beautiful selections for over two hours during our Holiday Party. Many of our guests remarked about how impressed they were with his skill on his instrument and his versatile repertoire. The music provided the perfect backdrop and set a lovely tone for our guests to enjoy the evening! We would highly recommend Samuel J. Lawson for your clients to consider for their next event!

Hired as:
Classical Guitarist
Small thumbnail image for reviewer Melissa N.
Rating star filled in with goldRating star filled in with goldRating star filled in with goldRating star filled in with goldRating star filled in with gold
Verified Review
Melissa N. • June 24, 2017

Perfect for my daughter's wedding!

Easy booking, paying, communicating. The music was perfect for my daughter's outdoor wedding! Thank you so much!

Hired as:
Guitarist
Small thumbnail image for Celtic and Classical guitar by Samuel J. Lawson

Response from Celtic and Classical guitar by Samuel J. Lawson:

Thanks so much! It was my pleasure to perform for such a beautiful wedding in the woods.

+ 4 More Reviews

Write a Review

Booking Info

  • Profile
  • Calendar
  • Set List
  • Influences
  • Setup Requirements

Price Range: $200 - $800 depending on time & travel

Gig Length: 30 - 180 minutes

Languages: English, Spanish

What to Expect

There is a delicate balance between playing music and talking about it. You can't avoid talking; it's really necessary in the 21st Century to help the audience know what this music means, where it comes from, and what kind of story it might tell. My music tells stories; sometimes literal stories, sometimes more of an impression of a story. While a piece is being played, a world is created in the minds of listeners who tune-in. My goal is to help them tune in.

You will hear classical guitar works, popular and obscure, as well as my own compositions and arrangements. Some repertoire comes from Spain's 19th-century romantic age, some from Renaissance Europe, some from America and Brazil, some from Gaelic and Celtic Britain and Ireland.

The bardic repertoire of northern Europe and Britain contains many of the most sacred stories humanity have known, but even an etude can tell a story.

About

Real music on real instruments for everyone that can go anywhere.

More than just vibrations in the air, but melodies that transcend time and place, that communicate without words. Harmonies that resonate with the story of the universe. Okay - this is getting overly metaphysical, but that's how I feel when I'm sitting in a pool of sound echoing from my instruments: classical guitar, lute, mandolin, tin-whistle or fipple flute.

I combine Classical, Celtic, Renaissance, and Jazz repertoire, historical research, and original works to create experiences for audiences, experiences which go beyond that of the traditional recital-style performance. I often perform as a soloist, other times with my wife, Rebekah Lawson, as well as with ensembles. I play Classical, Celtic, Jazz, and early music genres such as Renaissance and Baroque. It is a sizeable repertoire that I've built over nearly a quarter-century of performing.

Previous engagements include performances for the Indiana Society of the Classical Guitar, Barcelona Tapas restaurant, the Indianapolis Museum of Art, the Basile Theatre, Fishers Renaissance Faire, the Scottish Society of Indianapolis, the Indianapolis Scottish Highland Games, Claddagh Irish Pub, Garfield Park Arts Center, the Fort Wayne Cherry Blossom Festival, the Indianapolis Zoo, Fairview Presbyterian Church, and a great many weddings and parties. Original composition performed by the Chancel Choir of Fairview Presbyterian Church.

Education and professional affiliations:
Master of Music, Butler University,
master-classes with Andrew York and Thomas Echols,
individual studies with Brett Terrell and Paul Reilly.

Former vice-president of the Indianapolis Society of the Classical Guitar,
Scottish Society of Indianapolis,
Fellowship of Scottish Antiquaries,
Indiana Free and Accepted Masons,
Scottish Rite Valley of Indianapolis

Additional Booking Notes

An armless chair with just a little padding and a music stand is ideal.
A well lit area no smaller than 6x6 feet.
If providing sound, a single instrument condenser mic is ideal (I can supply one).
I can provide modest battery-powered amplification for outdoor events.
I do not play in the rain. If no covered area is supplied, 1/2 price is expected if performance is rained out before starting (full if rained out after having started).

Services Offered

Classical Guitarist Guitarist

Past Booked Events

April 26, 2025 • 4:30pm - 5:00pm Birthday Party
March 23, 2025 • 2:30pm - 3:30pm Wedding Ceremony
July 27, 2024 • 9:30pm - 11:30pm Birthday Party
May 04, 2024 • 3:00pm - 6:00pm Concert
November 10, 2022 • 3:30pm - 5:00pm House Party
December 09, 2017 • 7:00pm - 9:00pm Christmas Party
June 03, 2017 • 4:30pm - 5:30pm Wedding Ceremony
May 01, 2016 • 3:00pm - 5:00pm Scottish Rite orchestra and chorus concert

View More

Set List

## Original compositions and songs:
Winter Solstice
Lughnasadh Charm
Ancestor and Echo
Highland Souvenir
Ae Fond Kiss
Celtic Rain (Ballad of the Huntress)

## Classical guitar work by (or transcribed from)
J.S. Bach
Heitor Villa-Lobos
Mendelssohn
Isaac Albeniz
Castelnuovo-Tedesco
Francesco Tarrega
Aaron Copland
Fernando Sor
Mauro Giuliani
Carcassi
John Dowland
Various renaissance songs, dances, and court music

## Blues and Jazz
The Last Steam Engine Train
Cannonball Rag
Pride and Joy
Big Boss Man
Moon River
Fly Me to the Moon
Don't Get Around Much Anymore
Santeria
Besame Mucho
La Cancion del Mariachi
Strange Face of Love
Roadhouse Blues
Walking Blues

Influences & Inspiration

Andres Segovia
David Russell
Julian Bream
Andrew York
Sting
Rush
Aaron Copland
Robert Burns
John Dowland
Karine Polwart
The Chieftans

Setup Requirements

1 armless chair or adjustable bench

Report this Profile

Similar Listings

Robert Brown, classical guitarist - Classical Guitarist in Cincinnati, Ohio Featured vendor banner
Robert Brown, classical guitarist - Classical Guitarist in Cincinnati, Ohio

Robert Brown, classical guitarist

Rating star filled in with goldRating star filled in with goldRating star filled in with goldRating star filled in with goldRating star filled in with gold
5.0 (7)
Top Performer badge
  • Map pin icon Cincinnati, OH
  • Vendor category icon Classical Guitarist
  • Check mark icon 11 Verified Bookings

Katherine M. said “Great musician. Was perfect for our event, would hire again.”

Fast Free Quote
Stefan Heuer Music - Singing Guitarist in Nashville, Tennessee Featured vendor banner
Stefan Heuer Music - Singing Guitarist in Nashville, Tennessee

Stefan Heuer Music

Rating star filled in with goldRating star filled in with goldRating star filled in with goldRating star filled in with goldRating star filled in with gold
4.99 (74)
  • Map pin icon Nashville, TN
  • Vendor category icon Singing Guitarist
  • Check mark icon 30 Verified Bookings

Johny R. said “Stefan took on a tough job singing for my friend at her birthday trail ride. He could not have handled the challenges any better and the music was great.”

Fast Free Quote
Gabriel Datcu - Jazz,Latin,Pop,Top40s  Solo & w/ Ensembles - Guitarist in Chicago, Illinois Featured vendor banner
Gabriel Datcu - Jazz,Latin,Pop,Top40s  Solo & w/ Ensembles - Guitarist in Chicago, Illinois

Gabriel Datcu - Jazz,Latin,Pop,Top40s Solo & w/ Ensembles

Rating star filled in with goldRating star filled in with goldRating star filled in with goldRating star filled in with goldRating star filled in with gold
5.0 (66)
Top Performer badge
  • Map pin icon Chicago, IL
  • Vendor category icon Guitarist
  • Check mark icon 62 Verified Bookings

Kelly F. said “We recently booked Gabriel to provide background acoustic music during a corporate event welcome reception. He was great. Easy to work with and quick…”

Fast Free Quote
John Behling Guitarist - Guitarist in Chicago, Illinois Featured vendor banner
John Behling Guitarist - Guitarist in Chicago, Illinois

John Behling Guitarist

Rating star filled in with goldRating star filled in with goldRating star filled in with goldRating star filled in with goldRating star filled in with gold
5.0 (52)
Top Performer badge
  • Map pin icon Chicago, IL
  • Vendor category icon Guitarist
  • Check mark icon 78 Verified Bookings

Marne T. said “Our evening dinner party was enriched with classical guitar , and contemporary pieces as well. John Behring whi dressed beautifully was both a lovely…”

Fast Free Quote
GigSalad – Entertainment Marketplace
  • Company
  • About Us
  • Blog
  • Partners
  • Event Planners
  • Quick Quote
  • How It Works
  • Party Ideas
  • Vendors
  • List your services
  • Pricing
  • Testimonials
  • Support
  • Help Center
  • Contact Us
  • Log In
  • Special Events
  • Book Entertainment
  • Musicians for Hire
  • Event Services
  • Book a Speaker
  • Weddings
  • Wedding Musicians
  • Wedding Entertainment
  • Wedding Services

© GigSalad 2025 ❤ Peace, Love & Gigs ®

Terms Privacy

CA Notice at Collection

Do not sell or share my personal information