So a nice little practice, with video following, on transposing. So if you know a tune in the key of A, you should be able to play the same tune in any other key. It is real easy on the mandolin because of the tuning of the instrument. Example: Boil Cabbage Down A string- 4//5//4//2// You are playing it in the key of A...now what happens if you run into a fiddle player that wants to play it in D? Easy!!! Go up to D String and play the exact same series as above..you are playing the same tune in the Key of D now. Wait, you run into a guitar player that has no capo and wants to play it so he/she can ring that bluegrass G run---Easy...same notes as above on the G string!! Now some horn player wants to play it in Bf...well that is going to be a different entry all together!! jam on mando friends!!

Hello from Florida!! I have noticed that my action dropped about 1/16th from the artic cold up north. So i had to raise my action to comp the drop. This is pretty normal when moving around climates. Its pretty simple to do. Lower the string tension and depending on bridge, raise or lower using the thumb screws. Its real easy when you are changing your strings too. Play on!!!

Get them out of the case!!!

So as the first installment. Where to begin? First thought? Where are your instruments as you read this? AHHA..I knew it. In a case somewhere in your home, car or maybe your boat! Get them out and place them somewhere that is in your sight, your way, anything that encourages you to get your hands on them. Let nature take its course. You will play more often.

Ideas for Teaching?

So I have been looking at some older videos and I think there is some room to drill down even more on the basics. Keep your eyes open for updates.

Its been a long time

Hi everyone. I have some new lessons in the works. If you have subjects you would like me to cover...please reply

Greetings from France

What a great time we are having. The whole family is staying at my dear friend and French Brother, Christopher Howard Williams.

We had a great time at the La Roche Bluegrass Festival and look forward to next time. The best festival in the world.

Here is one from way back..

Play along..in the key of A

Turkey Creek #65

Nice!!!!

Fun with Electric

A Little Guitar Action

Me and My Dad

Mandolin and Cold Weather

Hi all-
If you notice your action lowering in the cold temps...don't be afraid, its normal.
This weekend, I took two mandolins to a concert. I played both the night before at home and the action was fine. I stopped and left them in their case in the car for about 20 minutes, just enough to feel the cold temps..in the teens. Both of them dropped 1/32 at the 12th fret..
The wood is alive!! Fear not and play on!
AH