(SCOTTSDALE, Ariz.) The Bentley Scottsdale Polo Championships will add new sounds to the amazing sights at this year’s festivities with the debut of Best of the West: The Inaugural Arizona State Acoustic Guitar Championships, taking place Saturday, Nov. 7, 2026, at WestWorld of Scottsdale.
Acoustic guitarists from across Arizona and beyond are invited to apply for the chance to compete live before Scottsdale Polo Party guests and a panel of judges in the field-side Sanderson Lincoln Black Label Lounge. The competition will be open to all ticket holders and will complement three spectacular polo matches, fashion show, luxury and sports car displays, live DJ’s Party tents, and more.
Selected musicians will perform their own arrangements of familiar music as well as original compositions, advancing through live rounds before a professional jury and public audience while competing for $3,000 in cash prizes and the title of Best of the West Acoustic Guitar Champion. The winner will also be featured at a special performance at Phoenix’s Musical Instrument Museum.
The inaugural championship is directed by nationally renowned Martha Masters, Arizona State University guitar faculty member and President of the Guitar Foundation of America. “This is an opportunity to showcase extraordinary guitar playing in a completely unique and unexpected setting,” said Masters.
Sanderson Lincoln Brand Manager Patrick Heigl said, “We are proud to provide a platform for talented acoustic guitarists to reach new audiences while giving Scottsdale Polo Party guests the chance to discover just how exciting one guitarist and one acoustic instrument can be.”
During the 1970’s and 80’s Heigl performed on the guitar, keyboard, and percussion instruments with several notable artists.
The competition is open to guitarists of all ages and from anywhere, with no application fee. Applications are due Oct. 15, 2026.
Musicians interested in competing can find complete rules and submit an application through this link.
About the Bentley Scottsdale Polo Championships
The Bentley Scottsdale Polo Championships, known as “The Best Polo Event in the World,” brings together polo, luxury lifestyle experiences, fashion, automobiles, live entertainment and signature field-side hospitality at WestWorld of Scottsdale. VIP Tickets, tables, sponsorships and more information are available at www.ThePoloParty.com.
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