The Fingerstyle Guitar Hangout with Adam Rafferty: Recent Episodes
Adam Rafferty
The Fingerstyle Guitar Hangout with Adam Rafferty: Take control of your musical destiny and develop an inspired guitar practice routine, learn good habits and enhance your musical knowledge by joining the "Fingerstyle Guitar Hangout" with Adam Rafferty.
In this podcast, you'll get tips, techniques and insights along with interviews of world class guitarists as well as listener submitted Q & A.
Join us each week to discover quick and easy tricks of the trade which will help you to develop and improve your guitar playing from the inside out.
Summary, Episode 26: A native of Italy, D’Agostino has made his considerable international mark as a musical artist on the guitar since he arrived in America 37 years ago. In 2017 Guitar Player listed him as one of the 50 transcendent superheroes of the acoustic guitar. The CD, “Every Step of The Way,” was awarded by Acoustic Guitar’s People’s Choice Awards with a Bronze medal for Best Acoustic Album of All Time. His signature Seagull acoustic guitar has been voted among the ten best signature guitars by Guitar Player magazine.
To date, Peppino has recorded 19 CD’s, performed in over thirty-seven countries at international festivals and concert halls. He has shared the stage with such greats as Leo Kottke, Sergio Assad, Larry Carlton, Eric Johnson, Tommy Emmanuel, Martin Taylor, Roland Dyens, David Tanenbaum, and many more.
Peppino's Social Links: * http://www.peppinodagostino.com/ * https://www.youtube.com/user/peppinodagostino * https://www.facebook.com/PeppinoDAgostinoGuitar * https://twitter.com/pdagostino * https://www.musicworldretreats.com/
About the Podcast * Ask me a question for the podcast Q & A episodes HERE - adamrafferty.com/ask * Like, join friend us on the Facebook podcast page * Check out the complete episode playlist here
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Summary Episode 25: Jon Gomm is a singer songwriter considered to be one of the world’s true virtuoso guitarists possessing a unique style most elite musicians consider revolutionary. Jon was born and continues to live in the North of England.
His songs are driven by his use of one acoustic guitar to create drum sounds, basslines and twisting melodies all at the same time with no external effects. The emphasis remains on his soulful vocals and songwriting with his original material influenced by everything from Robert Johnson to Radiohead.
His live shows combine deeply personal performances allied with a natural wit, with a once seen, never forgotten two-handed guitar style, both physical and complex, producing sounds people can barely believe are coming from a humble acoustic guitar.
Jon's Links:
- Jon's Website
- Youtube
About the Podcast * Ask me a question for the podcast Q & A episodes HERE - adamrafferty.com/ask * Like, join friend us on the Facebook podcast page * Check out the complete episode playlist here
Subscribe via:
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Spotify
Summary, Episode 24: Thomas Fellow is a musician with an almost inexhaustible supply of innovative energy. He is a first rate acoustic guitarist,a stunning virtuoso and is considered one of the best musical collaborators in the guitar world.
His name is associated with the development of the pioneering education program called the "Acoustic Guitar (concert music, world music, jazz, and pop)"at the “University of Music Dresden” (Germany). He's the the artistic director of the "European Guitar Award" and he is also known for authoring the comprehensive book entitled the "FELLOW GUITAR BOOK" - which focuses on the guitars role as an accompanying instrument.
35 years after his first full-length concert (at the age of 17) he has performed over 3000 concerts in more than 30 countries.
- www.thomasfellow.de
- EUROPEAN GUITAR QUARTET - "Medusa"
About the Podcast * Ask me a question for the podcast Q & A episodes HERE - adamrafferty.com/ask * Like, join friend us on the Facebook podcast page * Check out the complete episode playlist here
Subscribe via:
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Summary, Episode 23: Muriel Anderson is one of the more multi-dimensional guitarists on the scene today. She plays primarily nylon string but also plays a 20-string harp guitar in her concerts, frequently accompanied by a backdrop of visuals by photo-artist Bryan Allen. Her current program includes a virtual re-enactment of the solar eclipse, with music and images from around the world.
She is host of the renowned Muriel Anderson’s ALL STAR GUITAR NIGHT and
is the first woman to have won the National Fingerstyle Guitar Championship and has performed/recorded with Chet Atkins, Les
Paul, and Victor Wooten among others.
She is currently working on a music and cookbook project, and is dedicating this year to working more on behalf of the charity she founded, The Music for Life Alliance, to support music education for kids.
Muriels’s Links: * www.murielanderson.com * Muriel on Youtube * Muriel on Facebook * Muriel on Twitter * "A Bakers Dozen" * Nightlights Live!
About the Podcast * Ask me a question for the podcast Q & A episodes HERE - adamrafferty.com/ask * Like, join friend us on the Facebook podcast page * Check out the complete episode playlist here
Subscribe via:
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Summary, Episode 21: For twenty years, Billy McLaughlin astounded audiences around the world with his complex and rhythmic music. At the height of his international recording and touring career, Billy was diagnosed with Focal Dystonia, a mysterious and yet-to-be-cured neuromuscular disorder that rendered him unable to play his own music. Despite every effort to combat his condition, soon Billy’s career was over.But the long deafening silence was broken when Billy began a historic comeback.
He was doing the unthinkable – relearning his songs one note at a time with his opposite hand…
Billy’s Links:
www.billymclaughlin.com
Billy on Youtube
Billy on Facebook
Billy on Twitter
Billy on Instagram
About the Podcast * Ask me a question for the podcast Q & A episodes HERE - adamrafferty.com/ask * Like, join friend us on the Facebook podcast page * Check out the complete episode playlist here
Subscribe via:
iTunes
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Google Play
Spotify
Summary, Episode 21: Richard started playing the guitar at age 5 and has never looked back. Focusing early on with the fingerstyle guitar of Chet Atkins and Jerry Reed, he began transcribing classical music, Jazz, the gypsy style of Django Reinhardt, bluegrass, ragtime and the blues to Sousa marches.
Now he is a seasoned performer with thousands of performances worldwide to his credit.
Richard has performed in five continents - North and South America, Europe, Asia and Australia solo and alongside Tommy Emmanuel, Eric Clapton, Albert Lee, Dave Peacock, Martin Taylor, Brent Mason, Gary Brooker, Stuart Duncan, Bryan Sutton, Joe Brown, Ralph McTell and many others.
Richard’s Links:
https://richardsmithmusic.com/
Richard on Facebook
Richard on Youtube About the Podcast * Ask me a question for the podcast Q & A episodes HERE - adamrafferty.com/ask
* Like, join friend us on the Facebook podcast page
* Check out the complete episode playlist here
Subscribe via:
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Spotify
Summary, Episode 20: Don Alder plays acoustic fingerstyle guitar with a passion that has quickly earned him a reputation as Vancouver’s “best kept little secret”. Don is a world-class fingerstyle guitarist with a “wow factor” that has let to multiple endorsement deals with major manufacturers and a collaboration with Greenfield guitars to produce a signature acoustic guitar- the “Don Alder G4” model.
Don currently resides in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. His unique style of playing incorporates fingerpicking with simultaneous percussion on the soundboard to create a wall of sound.
He is often referred to as sounding like a four piece band. Don’s music is his own unique weave of deeply textured melody and story. Lyrical and compelling, his original songs are notes of exploration – some passionate and haunting, some hard-driven, others light and teasing.
In quiet pieces or pushing right to the edge, Don’s phenomenal fingerstyle playing and rich voice captivate.
“Alder can make a single instrument sound like a 4 piece band. The Guy’s like the acoustic Hendrix”. Picque News Magazine” “Don is Canada’s secret fingerstyle weapon – it’s only a matter of time until everyone discovers this world class player. I am honored to have Don endorsing my guitars.” World Class Luthier, Michael Greenfield
(Timestamps are for audio version of the podcast.)
- 2:44 Welcome Don Alder!
- 4:20 Don’s earliest musical inspirations
- 8:34 Don gets an electric guitar in his hands for the first time
- 14:02 Don starts playing in bands
- 15:52 Don and the bass player’s onstage gun prank goes wrong
- 19:42 Don explains how he started playing solo acoustic guitar
- 22:39 Music – Don plays his composition “Fingers Fingers Fingers”
- 27:30 Don becomes a studio player
- 37:01 Don’s musical, color, touch, and his personal approach to the guitar – how to learn how to play like yourself
- 46:07 At a live performance people are looking for a journey, they want to walk home with an experience
- 52:04 Don’s advice he would like to give to more guitar players – more heart, play music not just songs and technique
- 53:35 A fellow guitarist seeking advice writes a song for Don Alder
- 57:31 Don’s message to all musicians
- 58:58 Don’s last message to everyone!
- 1:00:03 Ending credits and podcast contact info
- 1:03:01 Music – Don plays his composition “Haunting Me”
Don’s Links: * http://www.donalder.com/ * Don on Facebook * Don on Youtube * Don on Twitter
About the Podcast * Ask me a question for the podcast Q & A episodes HERE - adamrafferty.com/ask * Like, join friend us on the Facebook podcast page * Check out the complete episode playlist here
Subscribe via:
iTunes
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Summary, Episode 19:
In 1988, Don became the first Canadian to win the U.S. National Fingerpick Guitar Championship. He won again in 1996, still the only two-time winner of the competition.
Don has toured regularly since 1989, across Canada, the USA, a dozen European countries, Japan, Taiwan, China, Australia, Russia and India.
He has played live and on recording with U.S. guitarist Andy McKee, Canadian singer/guitarist Brooke Miller, Canadian guitarist Calum Graham, & Toronto bassist Jordan O’Connor. Don composes scores for television, radio and film, and does production and recording engineering for a variety of other musicians.
He’s released numerous CDs and DVDs for the Candy Rat Record label, including his new album, A Million Brazilian Civilians, on CD and see-through orange vinyl.
(Timestamps are for audio version of the podcast.)
2:49 Welcome Don!
3:52 Don’s earliest musical influences.
6:50 Don as a composer first, guitarist second.
8:40 Discovering Leo Kottke’s approach…music with humor.
9:20 Exposure to modern composers Steve Reich, Xenakis, John Adams.
10:40 Don talks about composing for film & TV.
15:44 We discuss alternate tunings and why Don Does uses them.
22:33 Why composes away from the guitar.
24:04 Music – Don plays his composition – “A Million Brazilian Civilians.”
27:33 Don’s relationship to classical guitar.
31:04 I ask Don about his live sound setup.
32:50 Keep it simple…we talk pickups, pedals and other guitar nitty gritty.
34:53 Don tells his “pedalboard on the highway” mishap story.
39:46 What are Don’s hobbies outside music?
41:25 His best advice for musicians.
44:47 The guitar tablature “trap.”
50:22 Ending credits & podcast contact info.
53:14 Music – Don plays his composition – “Seven Seven Four.”
Don’s Links:
https://donrossonline.com/
Don on Facebook
Don on Youtube
Don on Twitter
Don’s band project is called “Don Ross – Louder Than Usual”
About the Podcast
Ask me a question for the podcast Q & A episodes HERE - adamrafferty.com/ask
Like, join friend us on the Facebook podcast page
Check out the complete episode playlist here
Subscribe via:
iTunes
Stitcher
Google Play
Jim Nichols has an unusual approach to the guitar - he uses a thumb pick and fingers to play everything from Chet Atkins style to modern jazz.
He served as master instructor for the Jamey Aebersold Jazz Workshops, Stanford Jazz Workshops and held clinics on both jazz and Atkins style for the Chet Atkins Appreciation Society national convention in Nashville.
In addition to an acoustic duo CD with Australian guitarist Tommy Emmanuel, and a duo CD with fingerstyle guitarist Richard Smith, Jim and his wife Morning, have 5 CDs to their credit.
Jim's solo CD, "Jazz and Country" was chosen by Guitar Player Magazine as a "pick of the year" for '96 and in 2001, he was featured in Fingerstyle Guitar Magazine and Acoustic Guitar Magazine.
Show Notes: In this episode, Jim and I talk about how he started playing guitar, his inspirations, and his approach to blending Chet Atkins fingerstyle and jazz guitar.
(Time stamps are for audio version of the podcast.)
- 2:08 Welcome Jim!
- 3:47 Jim talks about record companies & touring.
- 4:40 How Jim began playing music & uke.
- 6:08 Jim gets his first guitar.
- 6:54 Jim discovers Duane Eddys version of “Trambone” by Chet Atkins.
- 7:45 Flatpicks never again! Jim discovers the thumb pick and learns Chet stuff.
- 14:17 Jim discusses how Wes & Buddy Montgomery were not music readers.
- 19:41 How Jim got the jazz influence – his parents.
- 23:08 The benefits of learning from Chet’s recordings.
- 23:36 Another influence – Howard Roberts.
- 25:48 Jim’s approach to technique & using the thumbpick.
- 26:41 Jim talks about his guitar collection.
- 29:03 Music track from the “Jazz & Country” Album – “Freightliner Blues”
- 32:23 Gear chat – his versatile guitars that can cover several styles.
- 35:41 Traveling with guitars; Jim’s take & tips for flying.
- 38:17 All about Jim’s duo record with Tommy Emmanuel – “Chet Lag” (a.k.a. “Happy Hour”)
- 43:35 Jim’s Kirk Sand Guitar – a birthday present from his wife, vocalist Morning Nichols.
- 45:22 “Jazz & Country” his solo CD as a reaction to being a sideman and a dedication to Chet Atkins.
- 52:53 Current projects, gigs, guitar camps.
- 57:53 Jim’s best advice to musicians – listen attentively.
- 1:04:45 Jim reminds us about CAAS in Nashville in July (Chet Atkins Appreciation Society)
Jims’s Links: * Visit Jim and Morning Nichols’s web site at http://www.jimandmorningnichols.com * Jim & Morning on Facebook
About the Podcast * Ask me a question for the podcast Q & A episodes HERE - adamrafferty.com/ask * Like, join friend us on the Facebook podcast page * Check out the complete episode playlist here
Over the past 25 years, Michael Fix has released fifteen albums, together with several DVD’s, songbooks, singles and EPs, tours internationally each year, and has established himself as one of Australia’s finest guitarists and composers, writing evocative music for television, film and documentaries.
He’s won numerous awards for his music, and is a Maton guitar endorsee (with his own signature model guitar), his guitar workshops are in high demand all over Australia and internationally.
As a record producer working from his own studio in Brisbane, he is in great demand. He’s toured and recorded with a diverse range of artists, and regularly appears at festivals and concerts throughout the world.
Show Notes:
In this episode Michael and I talk about his philosophy, his approach to guitar, technique, stage sound and more.
(Time stamps are for audio version of the podcast.)
- 3:20 How Michael got started with guitar
- 6:21 Motivation from real life lessons
- 7:41 His advice – find a teacher who inspires
- 8:12 Danger of Youtube “only” learning
- 17:53 Listening to Chet, Jerry & Merle records with Tommy Emmanuel
- 19:18 Music Track: Tangalooma Sunset
- 22:10 Michael talks about his technical approach
- 28:21 Michael tour – the Acoustic Guitar Spectacular
- 32:20 His life as a composer & producer for film, music libraries and more
- 46:26 Michael talks about Maton Guitars & hios signature model
- 53:22 I ask Michael about his live sound setup
- 55:46 Michael’s best advice for musicians
- 1:04:19 Michael’s Austrian (EU) Summer Workshop (Aug 2019)
- 1:08:22 Music Track: Coppertown Blues
Michael’s Links: * http://www.www.michaelfix.com/ * Michael on Facebook * Michael on Youtube * Michael on Twitter
About the Podcast * Ask me a question for the podcast Q & A episodes HERE - adamrafferty.com/ask * Like, join friend us on the Facebook podcast page * Check out the complete episode playlist here
Andrea Valeri is defined as the “Prince of the Acoustic guitar” and is now a veteran of many of the biggest stages around the globe. He’s toured from Australia to New Zealand, from Russia to Canada, from Europe to the African continent.
At eighteen Andrea was awarded the title of “Italian musical excellence.” He has already released 6 solo albums, the most recent Mediterraneo “(2016).
Veteran Guitarists are calling him a rising “Star of the guitar world.” Just listen to his music to find out why…
Show Notes:
In this episode Andrea and I talk about his earliest musical inspirations, his current Euro Orchestra Project, his “Tuscany Guitar Camp” and more…enjoy!
(Time stamps are for audio version of the podcast.)
- 3:13 Guitar was a happy accident
- 4:05 Andrea’s “missing finger”
- 5:11 How he got inspiration from TV show themes
- 7:27 Influences: Mark Knopfler, Paco De Lucia, Tommy Emmanuel & Michael Fix
- 14:09 His Euro Orchestra Project
- 17:07 New CD with Orchestra
- 21:00 How Andrea comes up with musical ideas
- 23:30 His musical dedication to Nicolas Tesla
- 28:53 Listen to Andrea play “With my Fathers Eyes” from his CD “Mediterraneo”
- 32:22 Andrea’s “Tuscany Guitar Camp”
- 45:56 His film music writing projects
- 47:10 Other hobbies & interests – archaeology, history, geology, Ancient Greece
- 52:14 Andrea’s best advice to musicians…
Andreas’s Links: * http://www.andreavaleri.com/ * Andrea on Facebook * Andrea on Youtube * Andrea on Instagram
About the Podcast * Ask me a question for the podcast Q & A episodes HERE - adamrafferty.com/ask * Like, join friend us on the Facebook podcast page * Check out the complete episode playlist he
Stephan Bormann is a guitarist with extreme openness and versatility. With a strong foundation in jazz, he adds creative fun and unique sounds to the music that he plays and helps shape projects with his individual style.
His love of the music of America, Scandinavia, Africa, and Brazil make him a world traveler on the guitar, versatile in many styles and familiar with the various facets of the instrument.
He’s the author of the well-loved definitive guitar arranging bible entitled “Solo Guitar Book” and teaching guitar at the Hochschule für Musik in Dresden since 1994, where he is a professor of guitar jazz, rock, and pop.
Show Notes: In this episode Stephan and I talk about his musical roots in Communist (DDR) East Germany, his book “Solo Guitar Book”, his 16 string resonator guitar, and more….enjoy!
(Time stamps are for audio version of the podcast.)
- 3:17 Stephan’s musical beginnings in Communist Germany (DDR)
- 5:50 Buying records in Germany behind the wall
- 13:04 Stephan’s inspiration to play guitar
- 15:29 His jazz guitar influence
- 16:40 The inspiration of “Friday Night in San Fransisco”
- 18:33 Stephan’s “Aliquot” resonator 18 string guitar by Oliver Klaproth
- 22:52 Music Track “Elevation Of Love by Esbjörn Svensson”
- 26:19 Different guitars for different sounds
- 28:24 Going deep into the musical moment
- 31:42 Meeting his musical soulmates
- 36:36 His longtime projects – duo with Thomas Fellow and a duo with Cristin Class
- 40:00 The teaching philosohy at the Musik Hochshule in Dresden
- 43:37 Discovering and supporting the special talents of students
- 45:58 His best musical advice
- 46:54 About his “Solo Guitar Book”
- 55:22 Music Track “Don’t Give Up” – 10 String Orchestra
Stephans’s Links: * https://stephanbormann.de/ * Stephan Bormann on Facebook * Stephan Bormann on Youtube
About the Podcast * Ask me a question for the podcast Q & A episodes HERE - adamrafferty.com/ask * Like, join friend us on the Facebook podcast page * Check out the complete episode playlist here
Petteri Sariola (1984) is a fingerstyle virtuoso and a singer/songwriter from Helsinki, Finland. He’s known for his fierce live performances, beautiful songwriting and percussive approach on the acoustic guitar.
Sariola has been awarded with Nokia Young Talent scholarship, Honorary Prize in the Helsinki Funk Awards and been on the cover “Frets” (USA) and twice on the cover of Akustik Gitarre (DE), the biggest acoustic guitar magazine of Europe.
Petteri has opened concerts for Tori Amos (USA), Andy McKee (USA) and Rodrigo Y Gabriela (MEX), to name a few.
His brand new solo album “Resolution” has received raving reviews and it concludes a 10 year project of creating a trilogy of albums containing original compositions.
Show Notes: In this episode Petteri Sariola and I chat about his influences, classical studies, gear, the “meaning of song” and more…enjoy!
(Time stamps are for audio version of the podcast.)
- 3:43 Petteri talks about his inspiration & influences – Michael Jackson, Miles Davis, Green Day & Living Color
- 5:05 Early on – seeing his mom on stage
- 6:00 His 10 years of classical studies, how it shaped him
- 8:07 Benefits of classical study, what it’s good for and what it’s not
- 15:56 His vital musical relationship with his brother
- 16:45 Indian solfeggio & African percussion studies
- 23:58 Music Track “The Clockwork”
- 27:00 His bands – “The Northern Governors” & “Dead Sirius 3000”
- 28:52 I ask Petteri about his playing approach & equipment
- 30:30 Network Connection Breakdown – Sorry!
- 30:55 New network connection – playing technique & live sound
- 31:29 Petteris concept regarding “the 80 possible movements” of the hands
- 33:45 His live sound
- 37:34 Using several pickups & his pedalboard & mixer
- 39:52 His mixer QSC Touch mix 16
- 43:20 Currently learning jazz chops & electronic music hip hop & techno
- 50:17 What music is Petteri listening to lately?
- 52:57 Petteri’s advice to guitarists
- 54:19 The importance of ballads & resisting “clickbait” flashy online playing
- 58:03 His vocal studies & newest CD “Resolution”
- 59:11 The importance & message of “the song”
- 1:00:11 Concerto de Aranjuez – I tell the story
- 1:02:11 Outgrowing older songs – and can you play them now?
- 1:13:18 Music Track – guitar & vocals “Howling at the Moon”
Petteri’s Links: * http://petterisariola.fi * http://facebook.com/petterisariolaofficial * http://instagram.com/petterisariola * http://youtube.com/petterisariola * http://twitter.com/petterisariola
About the Podcast
Ask me a question for the podcast Q & A episodes HERE - adamrafferty.com/ask
Learn my solo arrangements and get private video guitar coaching & feedback from me studywithadam.com
Like, join friend us on the Facebook podcast page
https://www.facebook.com/fingerstyleguitarhangout/
Find the podcast online at http://www.adamrafferty.com/podcast and also at http://fingerstyleguitarhangout.com/
His roots lie in Gypsy Swing music, the style pioneered in the 1930s by the legendary jazz guitarist Django Reinhardt. Joscho Stephan has not merely absorbed this music, but also interprets it on the highest level and is actively engaged in extending its boundaries.
He has toured Australia with top guitarists Martin Taylor and Tommy Emmanuel and has performed with his own bands (trio to quintett) on numerous important European festivals (among others in Slovenia, Italy, France, Poland and the UK) and of course on all the important Django Reinhardt Festivals
His debut album was named CD of the month by American Guitar Player magazine in July 2000. In May 2004 Acoustic Guitar magazine wrote that Joscho Stephan represented the future of the Gypsy jazz guitar tradition.
Show Notes:
In this episode Joscho and I chat about his early influences, current projects, guitars, picks, his online Gypsy Jazz Academy, keeping the “fire” in creativity and more…enjoy!
(Time stamps are for audio version of the podcast.)
- 2:11 Welcome Joscho!
- 3:20 His interest in different styles & his fathers influence
- 4:08 Joscho’s early classical guitar lessons
- 5:00 His interest in improvisation
- 5:17 Discovering Django Reinhardt
- 9:38 His philosophy “music is a language”
- 11:26 We talk about his online school http://gypsyguitaracademy.com
- 16:12 Joscho gives me (and us) a lesson on 6th chords
- 21:00 I ask Joscho use the left hand pinky…or just 3 fingers, and why?
- 27:52 Picks – what’s best for Gypsy Jazz Guitar?
- 30:28 Joscho talks about his Juergen Volkert D Hole guitar
- 33:09 His latest direct to disc (as in vinyl) recording
- 36:10 How the audience’s presence affects the bands sound
- 37:50 MUSIC TRACK – Joscho, Tommy Emmanuel & his band play “Blues for Tommy”
- 41:08 Joscho’s “other” playing styles
- 43:38 What’s in Joscho’s guitar collection?
- 45:16 He talks about his recording of “Hey Joe” on the “Guitar Heroes” CD (800K youtube views!)
- 48:23 Joscho’s combination concept for music projects
- 50:18 What are Joscho’s hobbies outside music?
- 51:38 How he started collecting vinyl LP’s
- 53:42 Joscho’s convertible & enjoying it
- 53:26 We talk about staying healthy & in shape on the road
- 56:42 Staying “on fire” regarding creativity & attitude
- 57:39 What advice can Joscho give musicians about practicing, rehearsal & stage performance?
- 59:40 Practicing technical things vs performance skills, trying new ideas.
- 1:06:03 Discovering new music online & going to other concerts to listen
- 1:12:30 MUSIC TRACK – Joscho, Stochelo Rosenberg & his band play “Blues for Stochelo”
Joscho’s Links:
- https://www.joscho-stephan.de/
- http://gypsyguitaracademy.com
- http://www.joschoshop.com/
- Gypsy Jazz Academy Youtube Channel
- Joscho on Facebook
About the Podcast
Ask me a question for the podcast Q & A episodes HERE - adamrafferty.com/ask
Learn my solo arrangements and get private video guitar coaching & feedback from me studywithadam.com
Like, join friend us on the Facebook podcast page
https://www.facebook.com/fingerstyleguitarhangout/
Find the podcast online at http://www.adamrafferty.com/podcast and also at http://fingerstyleguitarhangout.com/
Steeped in the tradition of the folk guitar, but constantly refined by his classical studies, Ulli Bögershausen’s playing continues to leave audiences with the best of both worlds.
His playing has been called “breathtaking in its intertwined harmonies and its unfailing timing.” His performances have been considered “as if from a fairy tale”, and his albums have been regarded as models of “sensitive string wizardry” and of “guitar music for the 21st century”.
Besides touring and recording, Ulli is well known for his 16 guitar books. His collections of arrangements of famous pop songs are entitled “Personal Favorites” and “More Personal Favorites.” They continually around the world and help thousands of guitar players build their repertoire.
Show Notes:
In this episode Ulli and I chat about his classical guitar influence, technique, how he arranges, current projects, and how he is currently “hacking” Spotify 🙂.
- 2:11 Welcome Ulli!
- 4:48 Ulli’s earliest musical inspiration – the Beatles
- 7:08 Ulli’s current inspirations & his Celtic explorations
- 7:58 Why he’s leaning away from pop tunes and heading to lullabies & Celtic music
- 14:46 Ulli’s technique concepts based in classical studies
- 17:45 His step by step approach to creating arrangements
- 20:20 Challenges of barre chords vs open strings
- 22:50 We discuss cross string melodies for flow to keep the
- guitar ringing.
- 25:29 Music – Ulli plays “In A Constant State of Flux”
- 28:30 Ulli’s approach to “hacking” Spotify through understanding
- the algorithms
- 35:47 Ulli’s new book and why the lessons are on Youtube – for free
- 37:00 What’s in his new book?
- 39:06 Ulli’s home based daily workshops.
- 40:21 His history as a jazz record producer in the 1980’s
- 45:15 Ulli’s experience in a band playing electric guitar
- 46:44 Does Ulli have any other hobbies or interests? Find out…
- 49:25 We talk about personal strengths and weaknesses
- 52:00 Finding satisfaction in one’s own music
- 53:21 What are his personal musical priorities?
- 58:27 Ulli’s best advice for guitar players
- 1:04 What does Ulli do every day to stay on point?
- 1:06 Ulli’s simple studio setup.
- 1:11 Music – Ulli plays “At the End of the Day”
Ulli’s Links:
- Website: http://www.boegershausen.com/
- Ulli on Youtube
- Ulli on Facebook
- Ulli on Spotify
About the Podcast
Ask me a question for the podcast Q & A episodes HERE - adamrafferty.com/ask
Learn my solo arrangements and get private video guitar coaching & feedback from me studywithadam.com
Like, join friend us on the Facebook podcast page
https://www.facebook.com/fingerstyleguitarhangout/
Find the podcast online at http://www.adamrafferty.com/podcast and also at http://fingerstyleguitarhangout.com/
Emil Ernebro is one of the leading fingerstyle guitar players today - offering a virtuosic blend of country, jazz and fingerstyle guitar.
In this episode of the Fingerstyle Guitar Hangout Podcast, we chat about his early influences, current projects, his online teaching projects and his new duo EP “The Strawberry Sessions.”
Show Notes: In this episode of the Fingerstyle Guitar Hangout Podcast, we chat about his early influences, current projects, his online teaching
projects and his new duo EP “The Strawberry Sessions.”
(Time stamps is for audio version of the podcast.)
- 2:23 Welcome Emil!
- 3:30 Emil’s earliest inspirations & lessons
- 5:22 His Rock & Blues Influence
- 7:02 Playing with bands as a teenager
- 8:11 The Steve Morse & Influence
- 15:04 Emil’s experience with classical guitar
- 16:46 Discovering Chet Atkins and Tommy Emmanuel
- 18:26 How his teacher recommended “Musician’s Institute” in Hollywood, CA
- 21:25 Emil asks me about my college experience and interviews me
- 27:33 Emil talks about his duo project
- 30:52 Music track from the “Strawberry Sessions” EP called “Blues for Georg”
- 33:54 About his duo with a harmonica player Philip
- 34:17 Duo with wife & vocalist Zandra and how they got invited to Nashville
- 35:55 Zandra’s reaction to great fingerstyle guitar players
- 40:27 What is Emil musically exploring now?
- 42:50 Emil’s and I discuss online teaching & his work at http://www.proguitar.com
- 53:25 Emil’s best advice to aspiring musicians & guitar players
- 1:01:22 Music Track “Emigrant Visa” – Emil Ernebro Solo Guitar (video below)
Emil’s Links: * Website: http://www.emilernebro.com/ * Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/loveforsteelstrings * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/emil.ernebro/ * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emilernebroguitar/ * ProGuitar: https://www.proguitar.com/
About the Podcast
Ask me a question for the podcast Q & A episodes HERE - adamrafferty.com/ask
Learn my solo arrangements and get private video guitar coaching & feedback from me studywithadam.com
Like, join friend us on the Facebook podcast page https://www.facebook.com/fingerstyleguitarhangout/
Find the podcast online at http://www.adamrafferty.com/podcast and also at http://fingerstyleguitarhangout.com/
Interview with Sönke Meinen – Guitarist, Composer and Winner of the 2016 “Guitar Masters” Competition
Sönke Meinen is one of the new masters of the guitar. His technical prowess and poetic compositions leave listeners spellbound and guitarists asking “how does he do it?
Show Notes: In this episode of the Fingerstyle Guitar Hangout Podcast, Sönke discusses his studies, his custom guitar by Christina Kobler, his creative process and more.
- 2:02 Highlights of his visit to the Ullapool Guitar Festival
- 4:31 Sönke describes his style
- 6:43 His origins with classical, and exploring steel string after 8 years
- 8:44 Studying with Reentko Dirks and the Dresden influence
- 14:21 Sönke’s experience studying composition
- 16:11 His approach to creativity and technique
- 21:09 Writing music at the piano
- 23:00 His comfort with nylon strings for melody
- 24:08 His Christina Kobler “Crossover Model” guitar
- 26:34 Music Track: Perpetum Mobile (Solo Guitar)
- 30:52 His duo with violinist Bjarke Falgren
- 33:05 The new duo album “Postcard to Self”
- 34:40 The recording process for the CD and videos
- 36:54 His guitar vocal duo with Anna-Lucia Rupp
- 39:05 Other music – his swing band experience with Phillip Weichert / Baroque playing
- 41:03 Sönke’s #1 musical goal
- 44:53 What music Sönke is listening to these days?
- 46:50 Sönke takes issue with typical “Youtuber Guitarists”
- 50:36 Upcoming tour dates in China, Germany, Austria
- 54:53 Music Track: The Breeze and The Curtain (Duo with Bjarke Falgran, Violin)
Sönke’s Links:
- Website: http://www.soenkemeinen.com/
- Sönke on Youtube
- Sönke on Instagram
- Sönke on Facebook
About the Podcast
Ask me a question for the podcast Q & A episodes HERE - adamrafferty.com/ask
Learn my solo arrangements and get private video guitar coaching & feedback from me studywithadam.com
Like, join friend us on the Facebook podcast page https://www.facebook.com/fingerstyleguitarhangout/
Find the podcast online at http://www.adamrafferty.com/podcast and also at http://fingerstyleguitarhangout.com/
In this listener Q & A episode, my guitar student Frank asks about how to stay calm and overcome nervousness and panic while performing solo guitar on stage.
I share my 15 best tips for staying calm, focused and relaxed.
1 – 7: “Practical” points. These points address preparation as opposed to dealing with the actual feeling of panic in the moment.
8 – 15: “Mental Game” points. These address how to deal with the moments onstage when the critical, negative voice enters, your heart starts beating and maybe even hands shake.
Plus 2 in the moment additional tips actually make it 17 tips. 🙂
Enjoy!
Show Notes:
0:57 The question about nerves and perfoemance – in Franks own words.
3:29: Being happy and at peace with your tone.
5:26: Having your rhythm and groove feel good – before you start playing.
7:04: Learning the Sound of your pickup.
8:14: Be sure you are in “stage 4 learning”…your body knows the piece of music.
11:30: Importance of slow practice. I still practice my concert tunes slowly…
11:57: Learning the difference between practice environment & stage environment.
13:37: When you know what people hear, you can forgive yourself…what do they hear? Flow, groove & melody.
18:27: Nervousness is a displaced reptile brain reaction, as if you are going to die.
19:30: Using meditation to overcome the inner critic & beating yourself up.
21:34: Know and feel that the audience is there to suport you.
23:18: “Meta” things like groove and tone are more important than small mistakes.
24:16: Know your music theory…playing just fingerings will make you nervous.
25:43: Breathe on stage! Does wonders for the physiology.
26:16: Play light, if your touch is getting heavy.
20:20: Get backstage and warm up before you go on.
28:40: Keep smiling do not visibly dissaprove of yourself & a personal story…
31:02: Your opening song on stage should be “bulletproof”, something you can play with zero thinking.
About the Podcast
Ask me a question for the podcast Q & A episodes HERE - adamrafferty.com/ask
Learn my solo arrangements and get private video guitar coaching & feedback from me studywithadam.com
Like, join friend us on the Facebook podcast page https://www.facebook.com/fingerstyleguitarhangout/
Find the podcast online at http://www.adamrafferty.com/podcast and also at http://fingerstyleguitarhangout.com/
Hailed as a “Celtic Guitar God” by Baltimore City Paper and “one of the best folk instrumentalists in the business” by Sing Out! Magazine, Robin Bullock is one of the preeminent acoustic music masters of our time.
His virtuosity on guitar, cittern and mandolin blends the ancient melodies of the Celtic lands, their vigorous American descendants, and the masterworks of the Baroque and Renaissance eras into one powerful musical vision.
Show Notes: In this episode of the Fingerstyle Guitar Hangout Podcast, Robin Bullock and I chat about:
2:44 Robin describes how he came to Celtic via Bluegrass.
3:29 His background, influences & starting out in the DC / Baltimorre area.
7:58 Robin tells us about O’Carolan – Irish Harpist & composer (1670-1738).
11:19 Robin’s talks about his album “The Carolan Collection: An Animal Rescue Benefit.”
17:50 Robin tells us about playing the Cittern.
20:06 His start as a mandolin player.
22:20 Robin’s Bach “Mandolin Suites” Recording.
29:43 His inspiration for Bach on Mandolin via John Williams classical guitar recordings.
31:32 Robin’s dicusses his custom David McCubbon guitar.
33:11 Sample sounds from his guitar.
34:28 Robin’s tone and technical right hand approach.
40:10 “Bullock’s First Law” – stay relaxed, and all about technique.
45:07 We discuss composing and inspiration.
47:28 His stint as a bassist and rock background…
52;07 Robin’s other interets (not!)
54:06 Robin’s advice to guitar players & musicians.
1:02:04 Robin’s website, CDS and more at
1:06:58 Closing track: LORD INCHIQUIN from Robin’s album “The Carolan Collection: An Animal Rescue Benefit”
About the Podcast
Ask me a question for the podcast Q & A episodes HERE - http://adamrafferty.com/ask
Learn my solo arrangements and get private video guitar coaching & feedback from me on http://www.studywithadam.com
Like, join friend us on the Facebook podcast page https://www.facebook.com/fingerstyleguitarhangout/
FGH-0007: Interview with Guitarist Mike Dowling - American Roots, Bottleneck Blues, Ragtime and More...
Mike Dowling plays bottleneck blues guitar, fingerstyle, vintage swing, ragtime, and more with grace wit and dexterity.
Mike digs deep into the musical bag of American roots guitar, favoring the melodic Piedmont style of acoustic blues masters like Mississippi John Hurt and slide great Tampa Red.
He played guitar in Vassar's Clements first touring band and can be heard on his Grammy-nominated "Nashville Jam". Clements called him simply, "One of the finest guitarists there is, anywhere.”
Website: http://www.mikedowling.com/
His Latest CD is called “Tracks”
Show Notes:
2:15 Kicking off camp with a lost guitar due to airline travel.
3:27 What guitars Mike brings on tour (including his "Mike Dowling" signature model resonator)
3:56 What Mike learned by taking a luthier Course.
5:22 What is a resonator guitar?
6:33 How he gets built in reverb with "sympathetic vibration."
7:55 Mike demos his bottlneck playing.
12:28 Mike talks about how he started guitar at age 12 after piano lessons 1 year...up to his debut as a pro.
16:05 Getting invited & discovered by Vasar Clements.
18:17 What it was like to study jazz with the jazz guitar great George Barnes.
19:06 A little about George Barnes' archtop guitar - with no F Holes.
24:36 Mike demos "10th comping" on guitar and his unique chord method called "rhythm by code."
33:48 Mike's rythmic exercises - offbeat syncopations.
44:55 His newest accidental altered tuning.
49:10 Mike's advice to guitarists.
58:15 Where you can study with Mike.
1:05:11 Listen to the title track from Mike's "Swamp Dog Blues" CD.
About the Podcast
Ask me a question for the podcast Q & A episodes HERE - http://adamrafferty.com/ask
Learn my solo arrangements and get private video guitar coaching & feedback from me on http://www.studywithadam.com
Like, join friend us on the Facebook podcast page https://www.facebook.com/fingerstyleguitarhangout/
One of the most influential and innovative guitarists of the past quarter century, Preston Reed invented integrated percussive guitar playing in the late 1980's, revolutionising the way the acoustic guitar is played and inspiring generations of musicians around the world ever since.
Employing multi-voiced grooves, polyrhythmic percussion and story-telling compositions, Reed's visionary approach fully exploits the breathtaking orchestral potential of the acoustic guitar.
Show Notes:
In this episode of the Fingerstyle Guitar Hangout Podcast, Preston Reed and I chat about:
3:56 How he developed his unique style in the 1980’s.
5:05 The question how to play drums & guitar at the same time?
5:36 His inspirattion of Eddie Van Halen, Jeff Healy and Stanley Jordan.
7:30 How he developed a “drums first” approach.
11:11 His compositional process – sometimes inspired by mistakes and wrong notes…
18:03 His influences ranging from Beatles, Animals, Zombies to Big Bands and Film soundtracks.
20:42 Preston’s experience studying classical guitar as a young player.
25:00 Techniques used – 2 hands playing one line .
26:32 All about his custom guitar built by Mark Bailey and why does he have velcro pasted to the back?
29:45 the pickup configuration Preston uses.
33:06 Preston’s other (non-guitar) hobbies.
34:51 What advice would he give other guitarists?
37:00 Preston talks about his love for jazz and his CD “Spirit” recorded on an archtop guitar!
42:49 Closing track “The Last Viking”from the CD “In Here, Out There”
Visit Preston Reed’s Website at http://www.prestonreed.com
About the Podcast
Ask me a question for the podcast Q & A episodes HERE - http://adamrafferty.com/ask
Learn my solo arrangements and get private video guitar coaching & feedback from me on http://www.studywithadam.com
Like, join friend us on the Facebook podcast page https://www.facebook.com/fingerstyleguitarhangout/
Bill Cooley has been called "one of Nashville's most respected sidemen" by Guitar Player Magazine.
He has toured and recorded with Kathy Mattea for over 28 years. Bill has also toured with Merle Haggard, Reba McEntire, and Alan Jackson to name a few.
Bill has released his fourth CD, "In Search of Home," a solo guitar album that made the Editor's List for Best Music of 2016 in Premier Guitar Magazine.
Show Notes:
In this episode of the Fingerstyle Guitar Hangout Podcast, Bill Cooley and I chat about:
Bill's musical background and influences growing up in the 60's - from surf bands to Beatles to Leo Kottke.
His guitar teachers and the meaning they had in his life.
His new CD "In Search of Home" and his recording process * staying relaxed in the studio.
Bill tells about his sideman experience in Nashville starting in 1985.
His 28 year artistic relationship with Kathy Mattea.
The creative process they use to stay fresh and alert.
Bill's musical priority - conveying emotion.
His guitar technique & right hand concepts.
Bill talks about giving clinics at Berklee College of Music with Kathy Mattea.
What would Bill tell students to do? Find out...
Closing track - title track from new cd "In Search of Home"
You can find Bill Cooley's Website online at http://billcooleymusic.com
Ask me a question for the podcast Q & A episodes HERE - http://www.adamrafferty.com/ask
Learn my solo arrangements and get private video guitar coaching & feedback from me http://studywithadam.com
Al Petteway is a Grammy & Indie Award Winner, best known for his lyrical and powerful fingerstyle acoustic guitar playing heard on dozens of recordings, instructional videos, and film soundtracks, including several PBS documentaries by Ken Burns, most notably the Emmy-winning film “The National Parks-America’s Best idea.”
Al’s compositions are strongly influenced by the Celtic, Folk, Rock and Blues styles he has performed in the studio and on stage with many of the best-known artists in those genres.
Show Notes:
In this episode of the Fingerstyle Guitar Hangout Podcast, Al Petteway gives his thoughts and insights on:
His wide array musical influences starting with Chet Atkins and the Beatles.
His upright bass studies in college, and how it influences his guitar playing.
His approach to solo guitar arranging, separation of parts, and technique.
His appreciation for melodic bass players like Jaco Pastorius and Paul McCartney.
The story behind his new CD, "The Collectors Passion", recorded on just an iPad and an inexpensive Roland interface.
His experiences of playing with other musicians who pushed him to new heights.
Thoughts on recording sessions, relaxation, mindset and spontaneity.
His personal journey with aging, arthritis and continuing playing.
Al's personal top 3 take-away tips for guitarists who want to improve dramatically.
Links:
You can find Al Petteway's Website online at http://www.alandamy.com/al.html
Ask me a question for the podcast Q & A episodes HERE - adamrafferty.com/ask
Learn my solo arrangements and get private video guitar coaching & feedback from me studywithadam.com
Tony McManus has come to be recognized throughout the world as the leading guitarist in Celtic Music. In Tony’s hands the complex ornamentation normally associated with fiddles and pipes are accurately transferred to guitar in a way that preserves the integrity and emotional impact of the music.
Show Notes: In this episode Tony tells us what Celtic music is, his influences & background plus he demonstrates techniques on the guitar live for us.
4:53 Tony tells us what Celtic music is, where it’ from & describes the spirit behind it.
10:00 Tony plays his arrangement a popular Irish tune from the band “Planxty” – demonstrates scales in DADGAD tuning.
12:16 Tony shows fiddle ornamentation with the left hand.
13:05 Tony adds a bassline to the “Planxty” arrangement.
14:00 I ask Tony to play we reminice about meeting at the Chet Atkins Appreciation Society in Nashville.
15:55 Tony talks about & demonstrates a piece with deft hammer ons – “Sandizan” by Soïg Siberil .
22:39 Similarities of ornamentation in middle eastern music to Irish music.
23:45 Teaching advanced students – getting them out of their comfort zone.
24:39 Demonstration of a piece in 9/8 time.
27:03 Tony admits limitations and likes the challenges.
27:23 Tony describes Beppe Gambetta’s guitar festival and how he began his explorations of Bach.
35:48 Fingernails & Technique – Tony uses nails like flatpicks.
37:39 Tony’s duo with Julia Koaspern.
38:50 Tony unveils a mini Mike Greenfield Guitar.
40:11 I ask Tony – what things should guitarists do differently?
43:07 Tony talks about Pat Metheny’s unexpected pick thickness.
44:40 Tony’s talks about his CD “Mysterious Boundaries” and upcoming CD projects.
50:00 Does Tony play other styles or instruments?
51:21 Parting thoughts – his wonder with music around the world & different cultures.
Links: You can find Tony’s website online at http://www.tonymcmanus.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TonyMcManusMusic/
Ask me a question for the podcast Q & A episodes HERE – adamrafferty.com/ask
Learn my solo arrangements and get private video guitar coaching & feedback from me studywithadam.com
In this episode we have student Q & A. Ben from Virginia asks… “How do you maintain a repertoire of several fingerstyle guitar pieces and also learn new tunes, arrangements and concepts?”
Show Notes:
8 points to help you remember old pieces and learn new ones as well:
(2:52) Consider finding a small background music gig – coffee shop maybe?
(4:55) Surprise! I don’t remember all my arrangements
(5:58) Don’t let 1/2 baked arrangements kick around
(6:38) Delegate to Youtube
(7:33) How do I keep my old tunes alive?
(8:39) Regarding creativity
(9:24) Regarding musicianship & studying theory
(11:09) Practice using old tune / new tune method.
Links:
Ask me a question for the podcast HERE – adamrafferty.com/ask
Improve your guitar playing - get personal guitar coaching from me and learn my solo arrangements step-by-step at studywithadam.com
In this very first episode we have student Q & A. Gary from New Zealand asks… “How will practicing triplet based rhythms like 6/8 make my straight 4/4 time better for fingerstyle guitar?”
One of the most important aspects of guitar playing is rhythm. Many players struggle with groove, so here are some ideas for you.
Items mentioned in this podcast: In this particular episode you will learn:
- Where I learned this information
- How to work on your rhythm with a hand drum
- Body rhythm vs head rhythm
- Improving your touch and tone as well as time
- The concept of additive rhythm – “Bo Diddley beat” vs typical 16th notes
- Here is the Remo Kid’s Djembe I practice grooves on
Links: * Ask me a question for the podcast HERE – adamrafferty.com/ask * This lesson, called “Improve Your Groove” with full walkthrough and mp3 play alongs is available on studywithadam.com
