At the unexpected passing of John Marlow in 1992, his friends organized a concert as a tribute to John and a college tuition fundraiser for his son, Richard. The event was a huge success and the magic felt by all in attendance on that beautiful Sunday afternoon of April 18, 1993 inspired Tim Healy and Regis Ferruzza to create a concert series in John’s name. John was a performer, composer, arranger and educator, teaching and serving as Head of the Guitar Department at American University. He inspired and assisted generations of guitarists with his talent, commitment to excellence and generous personality. John was an outstanding human being and our friend. We commemorate him with this annual living memorial.

The success of this first concert inspired the creation of a community organization with additional guitar related programs. Currently, MGI’s programs create community through music, enriching the lives of the residents of metropolitan Washington, DC. In the past 40 years, MGI has presented hundreds of events, co-sponsoring with universities, embassies, Federal Government agencies, public school systems, and other community and cultural organizations.

Our mission is to draw people together for entertainment, education and inspiration. Bringing the music-loving community together is the heart of what we do. Come join us!