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| Hello Pete; First, I just played your arrangement of "Be Thou My Vision" at a wedding on Saturday. It was played while the bride and groom were kneeling at the altar. So thank you for that arrangement. Now to the question. I am working on your arrangement of "What Child Is This" from First Light. I am struggling with the tremolo part playing it even. Any suggestions as to the best way to practice this? Blessings |
| David Corning
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DavidBCorning@aol.com Crown Point , IN USA - Monday, October 20, 2008 |
David; Best way to practice the tremolo... Slowly. Very slowly. It takes a lot of time to get it fast and smooth. |
| Pete, Doc Severinson (of the old Tonight Show Band fame) once said at a clinic he taught that if he didn't practice for one day - he knew it, if he didn't practice for two days - his band knew it, and if he didn't practice for three days - everyone knew it. My question is about your practice regimen. How much/how often do you have to practice to stay at your world class level? I know you've probably spoke to this before, but I think it would be insightful to know how much practice a top player needs to put in to stay on top of their game (despite having loads of talent). Thanks, Keith |
| Keith White
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klw54@yahoo.com Muscatine , IA USA - Sunday, October 19, 2008 |
Keith, That is an excellent question and for me, it involves a couple of parts. 1st is how I view myself as a player among players. I do not see myself as a "world class" player. If I did I would probably get complacent and stop trying to be better. I don't think we can just stay at some level of performance. I think we are either moving forward or moving backwards. I am aware that I have some abilities on the instrument, but for everything that I am able to do, I see several things that I cannot. 2nd - I practice hard when I am learning something new. It could be anywhere from four to six or seven hours a day. Whatever it takes for me to have something new under my fingers. When I am not working on new material, there is a vast amount of music that I have to work to keep up. So a typical day would go something like this: 1. Warm up for 20 to 30 minutes. The tremolo exercises really help my right hand get going so I like to do some of that each day. 2. Turn on the metronome and work on building speed while relaxing for 15 - 20 minutes. 3. Keep the metronome on and work on time and groove. It's not enough to play in time, you have to play the right groove for the style of music. Another 20 minutes here feels right. 4. Play tunes - lots of tunes. I like to play fingerstyle tunes in different styles from Celtic to Swing to Bossa Nova. Then I like to play flatpicking tunes. Fiddle tunes, bebop heads, etc... Whenever I am working on flatpicking tunes these days I always spend time just working on the technique. I am really trying to get into the style and technique of flatpicking. I'll look at some tunes that maybe gave me some difficulty in a recent concert. I'll find a section that was tricky and work it out again. I do this several times throughout the day. On a good day I can get four hours in without even working on something new. Just playing. Then I feel good about going out and doing a concert that night. Cheers! |
| Hi Pete, long time no see!! How are you doing?
In Kirkby in 2007 you offered me a guitar lesson, but I declined due to broken (ripped off) finger nails. Did I ever thank you for that offer?? Well, thank you Pete! After several months (over a year that is) without seriously touching the guitar due to constantly destroing my nails, I decided to get them fixed with acrylic reinforcment. However, the acrylic always seems to "lift" along the edges on my nails. Do you have similar experiences, and if so, do you have some advice. Best regards Stein |
| Stein Sundby
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stesunb@hotmail.com Kråkstad , NORWAY - Monday, October 13, 2008 |
Stein; If the nails are not applied properly they will lift on the edges. I would suggest trying another salon. |
| Hi Pete, Who makes your guitar case? It seems to be pretty durable and looks like leather. Thanks again for a great workshop last August. John |
| John Winston
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jwinstonj@hotmail.com El Paso , TX USA - Sunday, October 12, 2008 |
John; My case is made by Reunion Blues. They are very good, very durable and very expensive. But they are worth it. Pete |
| Hello Pete, I own and love volumes I and II of Learn to play the songs of Jogn Denver. I also have the Essential Excercises for Finger style guitar. Where I would like some help is with my flat picking. While I am playing the opening lick of Rocky Mountain High the tip of the pick always seems to turn toward the base of the guitar. I just cannot seem to break it. I don't really notice this problem when playing other licks or progressions. I have tried holding the pick with different amounts of pressure, choking up and even placing my middle finger behind the pick (not real comfortable) any you shed any light on how I might correct this problem. I love your instructional work and always enjoy watching your skillin action. If you are ever near Albany NY please let me know so I can come see you play in person. I am looking forward to purchasing Volume IV of JD songs Thank you, God Bless |
| Ron Von Fricken
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rvonfric@nycap.rr.com Mechanicville , NY USA - Thursday, October 09, 2008 |
Ron; If you hold on to the pick it cannot and will not turn. It doesn't take much pressure at all to keep it in place. It just takes being aware of the pick in your hand. As soon as you notice it has moved, stop and play again. Keep doing that until you find the moment it turns. Then you will be able to figure out why the pick is turning in your hand. :-) |
| Pete Many thanks for recently sending me the accurate tab for The View. I surprised myself and learned it quite well, though I do stuggle with measure 57 ...G A/D D etc.. whilst I'm okay with the rest of it.. Other than keep trying/practising would you have any tips on how to practise this section? Regards David |
| David
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davidcol58@gmail.com Wigan , UK - Sunday, October 05, 2008 |
David; That section is all about preparing your left had for each chord that is coming up. Play them slowly and just do a couple of the movements at a time. |
| Pete - I asked earlier about some fills JD is using in the Wild Life Concert version of Rocky Mountain High. Sorry it wasn't clear. He is strumming some chords in the 1st chorus of the song between "Colorado Rocky Mountain High" and "I've seen it raining fire..."(around 50 sec). It's just 3 or 4 chords but I can't seem to get it. He also does a longer run in the 3rd chorus between "Seen it raining fire in the sky" and "Knew he'd be a poorer man....." (around 2:58). These little runs really fill out the song versus strumming the same chord and it would great to know what chords he's playing! Thanks so much. |
| Brian Kwapis
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bkwapis@comcast.net Canton , Mi USA - Tuesday, September 30, 2008 |
| Hi Pete, At Winfield last week after one of your sessions on Stage 3 I ask you about a thumbpick a lady had given to you and you absolutely loved it. Can you provide some information about what brand it is and how it might be ordered? Also, loved your late nite session at "The Front Porch" in Oxford. If I'd had my guitar, I would have loved to play Rocky Mountain High with you. What a thrill... I hope you'll ask again next year! Bob |
| Bob Richardson
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robert.d.richardson@spiritaero.com Wichita , KS USA - Tuesday, September 23, 2008 |
Bob; The thumbpick is a National medium gauge tortoise. It has changed my playing and my sound in a great way! |
| Now THAT (see below) is VERY cool!!!!! WTG Pete!!!!!! |
| Steve Paxton
USA - Thursday, September 18, 2008 |
| Dear Pete, My name is Paul and I am writing to you to you from a small country in South East Asia called Brunei Darussalam. I have most of your teaching DVD and just recently I received e dvds and one of them is the dvd on the late Jim Croce's songs. I have enjoyed all of Jim's songs and I would dearly to be able to play his songs well. In the first track of your dvd, the song entitled 'I ve to say I love you in a song' would you have the tabs to the second guitar of that song? The second guitar really make a difference to that song. Any help given is appreciated' I thoroughly enjoyed your dvds and it has helped me in my guitar playing. Enjoyed watching you on youtube!! Look forward to more of your cds n dvds. Thanks to technology someone like me can have access to your music and is able to learn from you, from a place you probably never heard of. :-)) Thanks and God Bless! Paul |
| Paul
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pasamma@gmail.com Brunei Darussal - Thursday, September 18, 2008 |
| Your "Better Practicing" video has been indespensible in helping me improve my playing. I have a couple of questions regarding practicing. 1)Some people suggest having a variety of material to work on throughout the week to avoid boredom. How many songs should I be working on at one time? 2) How should I divide my practice time between technique, repertoire, fun, etc? 3) Is it counterproductive to regularly switch between acoustic and electric guitar? Thanks! |
| Nick Alexander
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jack_tripper_389@yahoo.com - Monday, September 15, 2008 |
| Hi Pete - I enjoyed spending the week with you at Mark's seminar in Portland this summer. I just started working on your arrangement of On Eagles Wings. My biggest problem initially is that I just don't seem to have enough room for all my fingers on the fretboard. Most of those A chords and their variations require the fingers to be very close together. Am I just doing it wrong, or is my fretboard too narrow, or my fingers too fat? I am sure enjoying "The View." Thanks. Mike |
| Mike Youngblood
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myoungbl@kpunet.net Ketchikan , AK USA - Sunday, September 14, 2008 |
| I have looked extensively for "Song for All Lovers" and "Whispering Jesse" tablature. Are you planning to release an instructional video with these songs? If not, any leads as to where I might find these tablatures? Greatly appreciate your "Learning to Play" dvds. Best Regards, Martin Baum |
| Martin Baum
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baumbay@suddenlink.net Tyler , TX USA - Saturday, September 13, 2008 |
| Flowers of Edinburgh - Stunning! Has it been recorded solo acoustic? and please tell me that you have it tabbed out somewhere and that I can purchase it. Thanks, John |
| John Grover
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newhampshire7@verizon.net Keene , NH USA - Saturday, September 13, 2008 |
| Pete; I sincerely hope you received your tee shirt, photo collage, and letter. We had an outdoor concert on the farm called Jacob's Jam". It was a fundraiser for a blind boy named Jacob. We raised over $16.000 with the event. We only needed $12,000, so we donated the rest of the money to the other blind children of Michigan through M. P. V. I. (Michigan Parents of Children with Visual Impairments). I pulled off "Boy from the Country" without a hitch thanks to your teaching on the DVDs. I felt both proud, and humbled by the experience. As I sat on a bale of hay watching the sun go down that night I thanked you more than once for taking the time to teach people like me. Safe Journey, Smiles along the way, and open arms to welcome you home my friend, LeRoy |
| LeRoy Ward
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ljstmw@btc-bci.com Bangor , Mich USA - Thursday, September 11, 2008 |
| Pete, Are you going to release another "learn to play like Jim Croce" instructional video? There are several more songs of his I would like to learn; like: Recently, Hard Way Everytime, Speedball Tucker, and Rapid Roy! Malcolm |
| Malcolm Pohutski
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mpohutski@bellsouth.net Vero Beach , FL USA - Tuesday, September 09, 2008 |
| Hi Pete, You visiting UK, next year? Ste G |
| Ste Gerrity
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sbgerrity@postmaster.co.uk USA - Tuesday, September 09, 2008 |
| HI Pete, I was working on the John Denver song, I'm Sorry and was trying to keep up with the timing ; what metronome setting would be used for this song as played on the his recordings? it seems to be a pretty fast finger pattern. Thanks so much |
| Andy
Kahului , HI USA - Sunday, September 07, 2008 |
| Pete, Will you be at the JD Tribute in Aspen in October? I hope so, I've listened to your instructional tapes and have some of your albums and hope to see you there. Dave Christiansen |
| Dave Christiansen
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davidchristiansen@comcast.net Greeley , CO USA - Thursday, September 04, 2008 |
| Hi Pete I have most of your DVD's and appreciate your insight on other artists tunes, BUT, I would really like another DVD of Pete Huttlinger tunes, esp. Rainbow Blues, Mill Creek, and the Hatch from your Catch and Release CD! I have your tablature book, but would love to see you play these tunes... |
| David Harrison
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dharrison143@comcast.net Sandwich , MA USA - Thursday, September 04, 2008 |
| All of your arrangements are fantastic. Do you have any good exercises to gain the left hand finger independence that you have? Or does it just come naturally? Your chord changes are so smooth. |
| John Van Deun
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opasman@aol.com Wallingford , CT USA - Wednesday, September 03, 2008 |
John; I have lots of exercises that I have done over the years. If you check out my DVDs "Essential Exercises..." and "...Better Practice", you'll find a lot of work in there that will help. |
| Pete, I'm also interested in the nice fills that JD used in the chorus of Rocky Mountain High. I'm hoping you can posted something soon! Thanks, Brian |
| Brian
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Bkwapis@comcast.net canton , Mi USA - Friday, August 15, 2008 |
Brian; John recorded that song so many times that it kind of morphed over the years. If you tell me which recording you are referring to, that would be a big help. Pete |
| Pete -
After many years (30+) of playing acoustic, electric and classic guitar (including study at The Peabody Conservatory here in Baltimore), I have settled exclusively into fingerstyle playing. My current instrument is a Santa Cruz FS. The style of music I most enjoy playing is classic rock: Beatles, Eagles, Steely Dan (including your own arrangement of Josie), Van Morrison, etc. The challenge is finding really good arrangements of this type of music. I've seen the Mel Bay and Hal Leonard books - they're just too elementary. And I purchased a Rick Ruskin DVD and learned his version of Rikki ..., which I love. But I need more! Any suggestions as to where I can find really good (advanced down to high intermediate) arrangements of classic rock fingerstyle guitar music? I'd really appreciate your guidance. Thanks. Bob Davis |
| Robert Davis
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rldavis@provbank.com Baltimore , Md USA - Friday, August 15, 2008 |
Bob; You could check out my book called The Peter Huttlinger Collection or try some of Tommy Emmanuel's arrangements. |
| Pete, I just ordered a couple of your instructional DVD's from Homespun Tapes: "Essential Exercises for Fingerstyle Guitar", and "A Guitarist's Guide to Better Practicing". Which of these programs to suggest starting with first? Thanks, Doug Pierce |
| Doug Pierce
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doug0202@bellsouth.net Johns Creek , Geor USA - Tuesday, August 12, 2008 |
Doug; Start with "...Better Practice." But very shortly you can use them both simultaneously. There's a bunch of great info on both of them. Pete |
| Pete, I met you at Guglielmo Winery a few years ago when you brought some of John Denver's band members and sang a song you wrote about their patriarch, old man Guglielmo, to his wife! I have played guitar for over 40 years but the day John Denver died I promised myself I would learn as much JD guitar as I could. I traded for tapes of concerts and TV shows around the world on the internet but your JD DVD's have been a pot of gold for me and I just added #4. Your stories about JD and humor are a real bonus. I hope you plan on doing #5, so here is my request......how about the guitar solo that is in the middle of "Dreamland Express"? A few of us play yearly at the JD memorial in Pacific Grove every year at the beach where his plane crashed. Come and join us sometime. Many thanks for opening up John's guitar nuances for us. Dave |
| David Singletary
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dsing@osiriscomm.com Gilroy , Ca USA - Monday, August 11, 2008 |
Dave; Thanks for note. I'll keep the solo to Dreamland Express in mind for the next installment of JD tunes. Pete |
| Hey Pete,
I'm very much looking forward to meeting and hearing you tomorrow evening at Boulevard. I'm a big fan. I tried hard to get to Portland to study with you at Mark's camp, but the schedule just didn't allow it this time.
Thanks for all that you do; see you tomorrow. I know that it will be worth the 3 1/2 hour drive! |
| Jennifer Martin
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jennconducts@mac.com Oceano , CA USA - Friday, August 08, 2008 |
Jenn; Thanks so much. I hope it was worth the drive. ;-) |
| Hi Pete, When you play your resophonic guitar do you have your action higher at all to play slide? Take care |
| Andy
HI USA - Wednesday, July 30, 2008 |
I do have a little higher action, but not much. I really like to play it like a guitar. |
| Greetings, Pete. Here's a question about the arrangement of "The View" in Fingerstyle mag. I am wondering why not play the Asus4/B at measure 7 at the 7th fret rather than at 1st position? It seems to add a little more energy and there is less moving around the fretboard at the 7th fret (D-7, A-x, D-7, G-6, B-x,D-open). I am wondering why you made that choice. Thanks. |
| David Shade
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davidshade@sbcglobal.net Jonesboro , AR USA - Thursday, July 24, 2008 |
I don't know what happened but that file has a few errors in it. If anyone wants the corrected one they can e-mail me for it. ;-) |
| Hi Pete, I saw that you like Gentle On My Mind. It's one of my favorites. Do you play it in open position D, or C position capoed up to D? |
| Wayne
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mylib@comcast.net Nashville , TN USA - Tuesday, July 22, 2008 |
It sounds like you are assuming I play it in the key of D. That is not necessarily true. I can see where it would be fine in D or C or G or E or A. Give yourself a challenge and play it all those keys and then learn it in Ab with NO CAPO. ;-) |
| Pete, I am working on "Rocky Mountain High" and enjoying it very much. In John's live performances (Youtube) he included some very nice fills as he walks up the fretboard on the final chorus. Do you have any tab on those licks? My goal is to play the piece exactly as John did. Thanks for your help. I am looking forward to your next DVD. |
| Reed
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reedreed7@mac.com Orlando , USA - Monday, July 14, 2008 |
I don't have the TAB for those licks but I'll get on it and post something soon. |
| Pete, you playing and music are exceptional. But what I truly appreciate is you desire to teach and encourage others. In your instructional DVD's you seem to really want your students to improved in the technical ability as musicians. Thanks! Also, I would enjoy instructional DVDs on the music of James Taylor and Dan Fogelberg. |
| Reed
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reedreed7@mac.com Orlando , FL USA - Friday, July 11, 2008 |
I would love to do a James Taylor lesson but so far we've not been able to get permission. Maybe some day it will happen..... |
| Hi Pete- hope all is well with you. Question for you about your recording set-up: I love your tone, and remember reading where you said you use vintage Neumanns for recording your Collings guitars... what kind of mic placement do you use, or does it vary? Also, any "general" plug-in settings and/or "panning" settings? Thanks! |
| Jared Roberts
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j44ll@yahoo.com Lansing , MI USA - Thursday, July 10, 2008 |
| Aloha Pete; Hope all is well with you! Curious if you would know a way to pick up an out of print CD called The Need. I hear it has "Thirty feet of Ireland" on it. With much appreciation, |
| Andy
Kahului , USA - Monday, July 07, 2008 |
That song is not available on CD but it will be available soon as a download on iTunes. |
| Hi Pete, been a fan for awhile and continue to enjoy playing and learning fingerstyle acoustic tunes and such. Kind of a broad question, but I'm wondering if you can give a few tips on what I might look for in an electric guitar? I want to be able to continue using thumb-pick and all the fingers as I venture, for the first time, into the electric world! Any advice would be appreciated. Thanks Steve |
| Steve O'Donnell
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steve@steve-odonnell.com South Head , Kaip New Zealand - Monday, June 30, 2008 |
What electric players do you like? What do they play? That's the best place to start. I've seen great players playing with a thumb pick on a Stratocaster and Telecaster but you may want a bigger guitar like an L-5 or something similar. Go to stores and play a bunch of them... |
| Hey Pete, I wanted to say thanks for making such awesome music. You have really made the acoustic music world so different with your influence and I wanted to thank you for that. I have a good friend who is a flatpicker and is popular in the Bluegrass community. His name is Jim Hurst. He speaks highly of your work as a guitarist. Have you ever tried any flatpicking or bluegrass? Thanks |
| Chuck Randall
MS USA - Saturday, June 28, 2008 |
I do love flatpicking bluegrass music. It's great fun and I've recorded some occasionally though I have not done an entire CD of flatpicking. I'm thinking of doing a banjo CD and I'll probably do some flatpicking on there. I love Jim's playing and am a huge fan of his. |
| Hi Pete, I don't know whether or not you are currently putting together another songbook of your music, but if you do make a Pete Huttlinger Collection Volume 2, I'd sure love to see "Thirty Feet of Ireland" in there. I was listening to it on the way to work today, and it is a beautiful song on guitar (lyrics and singing are fine too), with very pretty chords and leads. It would be great for us "intermediate" players to learn to play. If not in a songbook, perhaps on another Arrangements DVD? Yeah, I know, all of us Pete Huttlinger fans come up with lots of ideas to keep you busy... Best wishes, David |
| David E. Tupper
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tuppe001@maroon.tc.umn.edu Chanhassen , MN USA - Friday, June 27, 2008 |
Great suggestion! Thanks David. |
| Hello Pete, I have a Taylor 714ce and I am having problems fitting my large fingers into the neck without touching adjacent strings at the first and second frets. At present I use a capo from the second fret up and my question is do you think this is due to poor technique or should I try and find another guitar with a wider neck,( I"m not too happy with the Taylor sound for fingerpicking anyway), would your Collings OM give me more room?. Any advice would be appreciated, love your playing by the way. Many thanks Derek |
| Derek Moss
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derektmoss@tiscali.co.uk Maldon , Esse UK - Wednesday, June 25, 2008 |
Derek; It's not the brand of guitar that is going to make difference, it's the width of the neck at the nut. My guitar is 1 3/4" at the nut. You might want to try getting a guitar that has a width of 1 7/8". The Collings guitars do sound GREAT for fingerpicking. http://www.collingsguitar.com |
| Hi Pete- I love your playing and your dynamite TONE you produce on your recordings; quick question for you: I use, primarily, a Larrivee dreadnought that I have set up with a moderately high action, for a lot of strumming in band situations... this is the majority of what I do, week to week, but I also love playing fingerstyle. I often find it difficult to play some of the fingerstyle stuff (up the neck) "clean" because of the action. Would you suggest having very low-action, to the point of needing to "dedicate" another guitar to a fingerstyle set-up, or do you set yours up for a "sweet-spot"? |
| Zach Adamson
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steelstring1220@gmail.com Mobile , AL USA - Monday, June 23, 2008 |
I have several guitars. My main Collings OM1 is set up with fairly low action but high enough to have NO BUZZING. I use that mostly for fingerpicking but it certainly works well enough for strumming. But I've got a great guitar built by Chris Bozung that I love to use when I need a bigger strumming sound. http:/www.bozungguitars.com It might really be worth getting a 2nd guitar. |
| Hi Pete, I really enjoyed seeing you perform at Puckett's Grocery a few weeks back. It was a great show. I have your JD lessons, as well as Gordon Lightfoot and Jim Croce and they are all awesome. I have a quick question - What type of flatpick do you use for rapid strumming such as used when playing "Early Morning Rain"? Mine always slips out before I can finish the song. Thanks ! |
| Wayne Garrison
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mylib@comcast.net Nashville , TN USA - Saturday, June 21, 2008 |
Wasn't Puckett's a hoot! I loved the General Lee car out front parked next to two cop cars. It's not the type of pick that makes the difference - you have to hold on to it. It's really that simple. I use very heavy picks 2.0mm or heavier usually. Hang on to the pick and loosen your wrist when you are strumming fast. |
| Hello my friend! Hope all is well with you and yours. We certainly enjoyed seeing you again at Charley's Guitars back in the Spring. Question: Still bugging you about "Erin's Waltz". Ramona and I still love listening to it on our "very rough" recording of it from the trip we made to Little Rock to see you at Acoustic Sounds Cafe a few years back. Do you plan on a studio recording of it .....like on your next CD? Trying to learn it by ear from the Acoustic Sounds Cafe recording but not having much luck,(not a very good recording of it) would you happen to have a tab of it lying around somewhere? We can't wait to see you again when you get back down in our part of the world. Take care Barry and Ramona (your #1 fans from the great state of Texas!!) |
| Barry Bonds
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farley513@cableone.net Whitewright , Texa USA - Thursday, June 19, 2008 |
Howdy Barry "Erin's Waltz" is coming soon - I promise. |
| Pete, I sure enjoyed your performance in Cheyenne and the workshop. I believe you mentioned you would include an arrangement or tablature for "Windy and Warm" and for "Hey Hey" on your website. This is a friendly reminder. Were you going to submit those or am I mistaken? Thanks. Roland Peterson |
| Roland Peterson
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rpeter@wyo.gov Cheyenne , WY USA - Tuesday, June 17, 2008 |
| Hi Pete,
I have been using your method for learning a tune that is described in the Guide to Better Practicing. Of course I used to try to learn the song from begining to end with mistakes. But your way of stopping and focusing on the error till you get it has worked wonders. I finished Monoghan's Jig and the Villa Lobos etude in record time! So while this has been working fine for instrumentals I am struggling trying to learn a finger picked accompaniment with vocals. Would you use the same method of stopping where there are problems? Or would you try to learn the accompaniment first, then begin to sing over it? |
| tom paterna
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tp@nyc.rr.com Brooklyn , NY USA - Tuesday, June 17, 2008 |
Same method works whether it's an instrumental or an accompaniment part. |
| Hey Pete, Another satisfied customer here. I'm really enjoying your latest JD DVD. I had to unlearn Tools the way I'd been playing it for years. I had been playing it wrong and actually was making it harder on myself. Most of all though, I love (and am looking forward to more!) your fingerstyle arrangements. So thanks a lot, and oh -- I enjoyed your humor too! Lee |
| Lee
San Jose , CA USA - Thursday, June 12, 2008 |
I had to relearn Tools myself. I thought I knew it but I really didn't it and it's a much cooler tune that I remembered it being. Who knew rabbit songs were so hip...? |
| Yes I did, Pete! Paris, Maui...what was that last one? Thailand? And all in the dark on a very starless night! You certainly get around the world quickly. ;-) I have to say that--no offense to John Sommers--that I never thought that "Thank God I'm A Country Boy" was a very good guitar tune--it was more of a fiddle tune to me--but man, after seeing your guitar version on this DVD, I've certainly had to change my opinion about that! Great job! And hey, thanks for the jokes and all the little stories about John, Joe Henry, and Chris Nole. That made watching it like having you right there in the room and made the DVD fun. Your humor is part of your unique charm. |
| Ed Stowers
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ed.stowers@si-intl.com Newport News , VA USA - Wednesday, June 11, 2008 |
It is indeed a fiddle tune. But it's a lot of fun to do as a fingerpickin' tune. Glad you like it! Humor? What humor...? When has anyone ever heard me make a joke...? ;-) ;-) |
| Hi Pete,
I just recieved 3 of your DVD's today and just cruised a couple of them. Simply awesome. Thank you for your hard work! First of all I want to thank you for adding the melody arrangements in fingerstyle as an option in the JD 4 DVD, especially for those of us who get intimidated by singing the words. Just knowing I can add the melody notes, makes me want to learn those arrangements. Our friend Tommy Emmanuel would say "The melody and the groove are the most important facets of guitar playing." Learning this will help me when I improvise on my own. Since this is an "Ask Pete". Here is something I am having a little difficulty with. I am learning an arrangement of Eric Clapton's "Tears in Heaven" where during certain parts of the song notes and chords are quickly being slid up and down the neck. My fingers stick and do not slide easily. I am using new strings but they are not Elixir. Would Elixir's help? Any other suggestions? See you at CAAS. Jim |
| Jim Redman
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jredman@woh.rr.com Dayton , OH USA - Monday, June 09, 2008 |
Jim; Thanks for the kind words. Elixirs can help but you still have to do your part. You can lift your fingers quickly when you shift positions. You don't have to take them far from the strings, just a little will do. If they are REALLY sticky - I recommend soap and water. ;-) Pete |
| Thank you Pete! It's practically perfect! |
| Diane
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poco1988 Emmett , ID USA - Sunday, June 08, 2008 |
| Howdy Pete, Hope all is well with you and yours. Not long ago you asked for solicitations for various artists for your next project. As I recall, I weighed in on the new JD DVD (I ordered it) but forgot to mention one piece that I have always thought would be fascinating to learn. The song that I'm sure you've heard is "Leader Of The Band" by Dan Fogelberg. Probably "low hanging fruit" for you :), but I thought I'd flip it out there because it's such a beautiful acoustic piece. As you know Mr. Fogelberg passed away not long ago and I thought it would be a nice tribute to a gentleman who had such a positive impact on those of us who like to play and listen. As always, thank you for everything and take care. |
| Paul
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sehome@hotmail.com Greeley , CO USA - Sunday, June 08, 2008 |
| Pete: Message below should say bag, not bsg. I was laughing so hard you understand. Dave |
| Dave
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dmckinneyco@hotmail.com Whittier , CA USA - Saturday, June 07, 2008 |
Bsg, bag... I'm easy. Glad you got a laugh. |
| Pete; Your humor on J.D. dvd#4 PRICELESS. fORGET the guitar, comedy is you bsg. Dave |
| Dave
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dmckinneyco@hotmail.com Whittier , CA USA - Saturday, June 07, 2008 |
Thanks for noticing! It was fun and I don't think it took away from the songs. |
| Just got the new John Denver DVD (#4). As usual, some wonderful things in there and a few surprises. Thanks again! Great job! Ed |
| Ed Stowers
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ed.stowers@si-intl.com Newport News , VA USA - Saturday, June 07, 2008 |
Ed; Did you enjoy the wonderful tour and the sights I showwed you in the DVD? Pete |
| Received JD #4 today. In all honesty, I do believe it is going to be my favorite of all your DVDs (I still love them all though). Much more fingerstyle than I had expected which was an awesome surprise! The arrangements are so beautiful. Thank you Pete. It is perfect. And oh by the way, in my message below, I should have used the phrase "Creator of romance" versus "Maker of love". The right words came to me AFTER I hit send! Just thought I would clarify that!! |
| Steve Gifford
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slgifford@cableone.net Meridian , ID USA - Thursday, June 05, 2008 |
"Maker of Love", "Creator of Romance"... Such flattery... I've heard it all over the years. ;-) Glad you like the lesson. |
| Awhile back, in taking requests for the new DVD there was talk of another Jim Croce DVD. Is that still in the works? Also, how about another DVD of your arrangements? John |
| John Buttrey
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johnmbuttrey@gmail.com Anaheim , ca USA - Wednesday, June 04, 2008 |
John; We are still thinking a about another Jim Croce lesson. I'm trying to find time to create some more of my own music while still teaching the music of everybody else. Cheers, Pete |
| Hi Pete, I just ordered the new John Denver instructional DVD. I have to laugh because it seems like you keep reading my mind! One day I was thinking to myself that it would be great if Pete did a DVD on the songs of Gordon Lightfoot. Then about a week later I found out that you did do one!! (And its great by the way) Then after receiving the Gordon Lightfoot DVD I thought to myself that it would be great if Pete did another John Denver DVD with the song "Tools" on it because I always thought that song would be a fantastic solo-finger style ragtime piece. Then I received my homespun catalog in the mail today and there it is! Ask and ye shall receive. I can't wait to play this new DVD.
I have a request if you do another Gordon Lightfoot DVD. I love the song "Your Love's Return (Song for Stephen Foster)." But it is a bit tricky to play. It is in 3/4 time but it is hard to feel or hear any distinctive down beats and the vocal line comes in very late in each measure. It would be a beautiful and interesting song to challenge. Keep the great DVDs coming! |
| Bill Foley
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wmfoley@rochester.rr.com Canandaigua , NY USA - Wednesday, June 04, 2008 |
I'm a mind reader Bill - what can I say ;-) I'll check out "Your Loves Return." |
| Hi Pete, just wanted to thank you for the new JD DVD. I bought it at Homespun because it was not yet on your site and I wanted it as soon as I could get it. I hope you get the same percentage either way! I listened to the sample at Homespun and can tell that the fingerstyle solo of "I'm Sorry" is going to be wonderful. I can only imagine that you are getting burned out on all of the requests for more JD material, especially since you are making such headway as a popular musician in your own right. But IF you do ever desire to take on another JD project, I would like to suggest a DVD of just solo arrangements of some of his most beautiful and passionate music. It was you who once said "A few major 7th chords, some wine and cheese, and the lady is all yours". Or words to that effect. Those are the kinds of songs I am talking about. No, I am not putting it on you to be a maker of love for cryin out loud. But then again...... Thanks so much for all you have given us, and continue to give us Pete. |
| Steve Gifford
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slgifford@cableone.net Meridian , ID USA - Saturday, May 31, 2008 |
| I've been your great fan in Korea, and for 15 years I've played the guitar I just want to know how to get the tab of the song "Over the rainbow" For a long time, I've been looking for it, but I coudln't. Various types of the song many artists've played are all sweet, but I think your playing is the best. It is so touching to me... If I can buy it, please let me know the way. |
| Seongjin Han
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seongjin7533@naver.com Seoul , Korea - Saturday, May 31, 2008 |
| Referring to the lead part on question below. |
| Steve Paxton
USA - Tuesday, May 27, 2008 |
Steve; It was played with a flatpick. Pete |
| Late Winter/Early Spring.....best to play with flat pick or fingerstyle???? |
| Steve Paxton
USA - Tuesday, May 27, 2008 |
| Hi Pete, I can't seem to find anybody who can explain this to me. I have a song written by Jeromy Deibler called, "On My Cross." On his sheet music he has some chords that I've never seen before; Cm7(4), Gm7(4), and Cm7(9). I don't know what the (4)'s and the (9)'s mean. Thank you for your help. Pete M. |
| Pete Morock
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pjm1948@comcast.net Hilliard , FL USA - Saturday, May 24, 2008 |
Pete The 4 and 9 are what we call 'extensions' of the chord. Notes beyond the three or four note chord. Cm7(4) means you would add the 4th scale degree to the chord. The resulting notes would be C, Eb, G, Bb and F. You will also see the '4' called '11.' The terms are interchangeable. (Though the '11' would suggest a '9' being in the chord as well. Cm7(9), also written as Cm9, means you add the 9th scale degree. C, Eb, G, Bb and D. Ah, "But there are only 7 notes in the scale before they begin repeating" you say... (C D E F G A B) This is true but chords are built first on the triad 1, 3, 5. Then the 6th or 7th can be added. Since we have completed the scale at that point, we go past the tonic and go to numbers 9, 11 and 13. |
| I enjoy fingerstyle guitar and have always played that way with an acoustic guitar. I recently tried growing fingernails and found them quite the nuisance..So they got cut off and I went back to fingertips and found the tone was actually BETTER than with fingernails..Have you heard of this before and can you give some insight on right-hand technique for fingertips?? And when are you coming to Louisiana? Lets get moving...! LOL |
| Kenny Kazmir
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kaz741@cox.net Baton Rouge , LA USA - Friday, May 23, 2008 |
Kenny; Tommy Emmanuel plays with his fingertips and he sounds great. We all have to search for the sound we like best and then go for it. I used to play that way but decided I liked the extra clarity that my nails give me. Right hand technique? Should be the same with or without nails. |
| Oh wow! I just looked at your Berklee photos, and there I am in the front with the green shirt, lol. Thanks again for inspiring and amazing all the people that you do. Dylan |
| Dylan McDonald
USA - Friday, May 23, 2008 |
| Hi Pete! I don't know if you remember me but I attended your concert at Berklee (and of course the clinic). I sat in the front, had the green shirt with the shamrock on it. Any way you are amazing and although I don't focus on acoustic or finger style guitar I would love to learn some of the Irish jigs you played toward the end of your set. It was all amazing but that stuff blew my mind. Maybe you can just give me some musical references and I can just listen for Ideas. I haven't quite been able to find anything like you played. I've been duplicating fiddle players licks on my guitar and even had a couple people fooled, lol. I love it! Thanks again for the music and stories you shared. Hope to see you again (sometime soon) Dylan |
| Dylan McDonald
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dillyo40@yahoo.com Boston , MA USA - Friday, May 23, 2008 |
Check out a guy named Tony McManus. He's one of the best Celtic style players around. |
| Mr. Huttlinger,
I was wondering what your take on 'Shred' guitarists was. I love your music and play fingerstyle, but I also listen to artists like Yngwie Malmsteen and Joe Satriani. I dont like heavy metal but do enjoy instrumental guitar like this. Do you listen to any guitarists like this? What is your opinion about these kind of guitarists? God Bless, CHET |
| Chet
USA - Thursday, May 15, 2008 |
Chet; Shredding for the sake of shredding doesn't really do much for me. I used to spend time listening to those guys. (One of my childhood friends, Jeff Campitelli, is Joe's drummer)But I was always drawn to acoustic music. My basic opinion is that I'd rather hear one good note that really says something to me than a thousand blistering fast notes. I'm sure the shredders would say just the opposite about my music. ;-) |
| Hi Pete, I'm sorry to ask such a 'heavy' question but here goes. My Dad has always been a hard man to please. I struggle to think of a time in my 43 years of life that he has ever praised me. Last year, I played him Photographs and Memories, which I learned from your Jim Croce DVD. When I looked up, he had tears in his eyes. Two weeks ago my Dad was unexpectedly taken to hospital. I have been told today that he possibly has just two weeks to live. Cancer has taken his future. I would like to play the song at his funeral (if I have the guts). I don't have the skill right now to put Maury's solo part in with Jim's part to make a solo arrangement. I have nobody to play the part with. If you have any suggestions, I would be grateful. I have never 'performed' in front of anybody so may well bottle it, but if you can help I would be grateful. If you can't help, it's no drama so don't feel obliged. Sorry to ask such a questions but some things need to be said before it's too late. Cheers Richard |
| Richard
Norfolk , England - Monday, May 12, 2008 |
Richard; I'm so sorry to hear about your father's cancer. Remember when you play the song at his funeral service that it is not a performance for the attendees, it is something that represents a moment shared between you and your father. It is the moment you felt that you had touched your fathers emotions and you finally received quiet praise from him. Close your eyes and think about your dad when you play - it will be much easier than you think. As for Maury's part, you'll do fine without it. Just play it the way you played it for your dad. All the best, Pete |
| Pete, Thanks so much for the two tabs of Late Winter, Early Spring. Your hard work and generosity are greatly appreciated. I'm having a hard time getting this one part to sound right. It's the second half of the 18th measure. This part repeats in the first half of the 19th measure. I understand most tab notation but can you explain this line from 10th fret fourth string to first string 8th fret. Also I'm fingering it like this. Barring first and second strings with index finger on 8th fret, middle finger third string 9th fret and ring finger 10th fret 4th string. Then using my little finger to pickup that second string 10th fret. If i just play slid from second string 8th fret to 10th fret, then first string 8th fret then first string 10th fret. sounds close but I know it's not right. Any help you can give on right and left hand technique, and this tab notation will be appreciated. And sorry for such a lame question. Thanks Dave |
| Dave Mc Kinney
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dmckinneyco@hotmail.com Whittier , CA USA - Saturday, May 10, 2008 |
Dave; This part is correct... "Barring first and second strings with index finger on 8th fret, middle finger third string 9th fret and ring finger 10th fret 4th string. Then using my little finger to pickup that second string 10th fret." You should hammer on the note on the 2nd string 8th fret to 10th fret. The whole thing happens very quickly... like one big slur. I don't understand the 2nd part of your question: "If i just play slid from second string 8th fret to 10th fret, then first string 8th fret then first string 10th fret." I'm not sure what you are saying. Pete |
| Hi Pete, I would assume you travel with your AER Compact 60 on the airplane? Do you check it or take it on the plane as a carry on? Thank you so much for a great time at Fur Peace |
| Andy
Kahului , HI USA - Wednesday, May 07, 2008 |
Andy; Thank YOU so much for coming to Fur Peace. It was a great weekend. I do travel with my AER Compact 60 amp. It's small enough to fit in the overhead compartment on most planes - or under the seat. But I usually check it with the baggage. I've been lucky so far... ;-) |
| Hi Pete,
I first heard your playing a few years back when I listened to a CD from Fingerstyle Guitar magazine. The song was Tommy In The Morning. I thought wow, that was cool... I'd like to learn to play it. I finally picked up DVD 2 (Solo Acoustic Arrangements volume 2)and quickly realized it was a little over my head. However, I found 2 tunes on the DVD that feel about right, so I'm starting with them (Darcy's Guitar, McGuire's Landing). After I master those I'll start looking at Tommy again and try Eagle's Wings. I read you were looking for a few other hymn ideas. Have you tried Brother James Air or Come Follow Me? I have done both as part of my church choir and they are really nice pieces. Sorry I missed your workshop and concert recently in Lexington. Do you have any plans to return next year? Thanks, Dave |
| Dave Gehly
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dgehly@comcast.net Littleton , ma USA - Wednesday, May 07, 2008 |
Dave; Thanks for the suggestions on the Hymns. I'll take a look at them. I don't have any plans for Massachusetts right now. But keep checking the web site for more updates on concerts and clinics. |
| Sorry, Do you know of any software which stops idiots pressing the send button twice and posting two copies of the same question :-) |
| Richard
Norfolk , England - Friday, May 02, 2008 |
Richard; No worries. I've taken care of it. ;-p |
| Hi Pete, I've just seen that your chords DVD is at last available in England. I have been looking daily at the websites and let out an embarrassing yippee in the office when I saw it(we Brits don't do that kind of thing don't you know). Do you know of a computer program for writing tab? I am just starting on the painful process of trying to transcribe some simple songs and a program would be handy to produce legible tab. Thanks Mate |
| Richard
Norfolk , England - Friday, May 02, 2008 |
Richard; I use a program called Sibelius. It's a great program and I think they have a "light" version that does just the guitar stuff. |
| Hi Pete, loved your clinic and concert in Lexington Ma. Any chance you will publish a songbook for your "Things are looking up" CD? I really love the first three tracks (Things Are Looking Up, A Very Small Room, The View ) and want to learn them and play along with the CD. Even better if you put them on a DVD - Arrangements for Solo Acoustic III. |
| Mark Caouette
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Macaou@aol.com Wynantskill , NY USA - Thursday, May 01, 2008 |
Mark; I'm working on the book now. It'll be about two months before it comes out. Pete |
| Pete, Trish and I greatly enjoyed your show at Leipers Fork! It was fun to see you and Erin again and meet your talented step-children. (Remind me not to play cards with your step-son) I urge any aspiring guitarist to get your instructional material and/or catch a concert. You have set the benchmark we all aim for. God bless and come to Virginia soon. Len Foutz Warm Springs, Va.(24484)ha |
| Len Foutz
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foutz@tds.net Warm Springs , Va. USA - Tuesday, April 29, 2008 |
Len; Thank you and Trish so much for making the long journey from Virginia all the way to Leiper's Fork, TN! No one should play cards with James... his sleight of hand is scary. |
| Hi Pete, Just a quick thank you for posting the tab to Late Winter, Early Spring! Much appreciated! Lee |
| Lee
San Jose , CA USA - Tuesday, April 29, 2008 |
Lee; You're welcome! Pete |
| Hi Pete, What about doing a instruction DVD on the guitar of Tony Rice? Church Street Blues? some of Tony's older stuff. Thanks Jim. |
| J.L. McKelvey
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jlmc@mei.net Delton , Mich USA - Tuesday, April 29, 2008 |
Actually, I think you can find some things on Tony Rice at www.homespuntapes.com |
| Dear Pete, I would like to know what Guitar-Strings you prefer? I think I use too hard strings. The horn-skins on the fingers of my left hand are so big - I could surf with them three miles over the sand without feeling any pain. I have to file them down every three days. Could you give me a string-suggestion? I play a Martin-Western-Guitar (SPD-16-M). Many greetings Andreas |
| Andreas Haardt
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ahaardt at gmail dot com Frankfurt , Hess Germany - Tuesday, April 29, 2008 |
Andreas, That's a first!! Surfing on your fingertips could get you on ESPN. Think twice before filing them off. I use Elixir Strings. Different gauges on different guitars. |
| Hi Pete, During your early days of learning to play guitar, when did you first arrange a song? How did you do it? What song was it? How did your arrangement work out? What were some of the problems you ran into and how did you overcome them? Any suggestions for a beginner? Also, at that time, how much did you know about music theory? At what stage in learning the guitar did you decide to try to do it? -Alex |
| Alex Orr
Fort Worth , TX USA - Monday, April 28, 2008 |
Alex; It's a shame you can't think of any questions to ask! ;-) Most of the answers are - I don't remember. Suggestions for a beginner would be learn to play the MELODY first. Then learn the chords. Analyze how the melody note functions on the chord. Is it the root, 3rd, 5th or something else? That's a good place to start. |
| 4/28/08 Dear Pete, I got a chance to lister to an om1 Collings like what you have without the cutaway and then I listened to a Santa Cruz guitar--I think pwr. Anyhow I really like both guitars and I am having trouble making up my mind which to buy. It seems the Collings OM1 is very clear and not many overtones whereas the Santa Cruz guitar is boomier with overtones. I also like Taylor guitars. I was looking at an Engleman spruce with Cocobolo back and it sounded good, bright with overtones. I think unplugged the Collings sounds much better, has more bass, well balanced throughout. I want to play in a church band and wonder if I do mainly strumming if the Collins OM1 would cut through the mix of drums, electric guitar, etc. Do you know? I called Collings and they did not think the OM1 would cut through the mix. A lot of times I cannot hear acoustic guitars when in the mix with electrics in a band.I can hear acoustics when played by themselves. I play rock guitar, classical guitar, etc. Would like to play some folk songs since this is what I played by in the 70's when I started playing guitar. I really enjoy your Jim Croce video. John Ives |
| John Ives
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jives37@cox.net Phoenix , az USA - Monday, April 28, 2008 |
I think you need to think about why you are buying and guitar and what you want the guitar to do. Will it cut through a band? - not without a pickup. If you get a pickup, try the Fishman Elipse Blend. It's really good. The Collings VS the Santa Cruz is a hard decision. I prefer Collings but Santa Cruz makes some GREAT guitars too. Taylor guitars don't do anything for me. And there new pickup system is kinda weird sounding to me. Spend time playing the guitars and maybe take a friend to listen to them and play them so you can listen. That might help. |
| Pete, Are any of the following on the new DVD of how to play John Denver's music: Looking for Space, Is it Love, Whispering Jesse, How Can I Leave You Again, Never a Doubt, Love Again or The Gift You Are? Thanks. |
| Rich Andertson
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richard.anderson.ctr@peterson.af.mil Colorado Spring , CO USA - Monday, April 28, 2008 |
Rich; No, none of those songs are on the new DVD. Tools (very cool guitar part), Back Home Again, Eclipse, the solo to I Guess He'd Rather Be In Colorado, Leaving On A Jet Plane, Ponies, Song Of Wyoming, Windsong, a solo guitar version of I'm Sorry, Thank God I'm A Country Boy, and a solo guitar version of Thanks God I'm A Country Boy are all included. As always more bang for your finger-pickin' buck! |
| Mr. Huttlinger, I have had your "Peter Huttlinger Collection Vol. 1" book for a while now and I love playing your arrangements. Josie, Sunny, and Fields of Gold are especially fun. Two tunes that I was sad to not see in the collection were Sir Duke and Eleanor Rigby. If they are available anywhere, I would love to know. Thanks. |
| Austin
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angregory8@yahoo.com SC USA - Tuesday, April 22, 2008 |
Sorry but those are not available. ;-( |
| Your style and ease of conveying ideas is very simple and easy to understand. You are a great teacher. I play the guitar pretty well BUT have always been a fraidy cat of learning theory. Do you have an easy to understand way to teach guitar/music theory? Can copy pretty much anything with a little time, but have no idea about how /why it works!! Thank-you! |
| John Kozlowski
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jakoz@optonline.net Farmingville , NY USA - Tuesday, April 22, 2008 |
That's a big question but don't be afraid. Theory is your friend and it's easy. It's as simple as knowing what chord you are playing. Then learn the notes in the chord. Then learn which is the root, 3rd, 5th, 7th and so on. Do it for all your chords and you're off to a good start. |
| Hi Pete, Thanks for your playing and for all the information you share via the website, DVDs, etc. You're an inspiration. I look forward to meeting and learning from you this summer at Mark's seminar. I also love your J.D. work. I wrote a little arrangement of My Sweet Lady that I play. I miss having him in the world. I'm a professional musician and college professor (conductor), but I learned guitar as a kid and spent a lifetime accompanying singers with first position "cowboy chords", and never learned the whole fretboard. Now that I'm transitioning to solo finger style (while, uh, middle aged), I'm playing catch up. I take lessons with LJ when our schedules allow, and as he says, "All you have to do is transfer all of that musical knowledge and score reading experience you have to your guitar." Yeah, that's "all"! So I'm starting to work your scale exercises and other things. Small question: A picture on your site shows you with what looks like a Reunion Blues gig bag. The idea of using that is attractive (saw them at NAMM), for lighter weight, etc. But do gig bags really offer enough protection for your Collings? I have two nice guitars that I drive from place to place with (Baranik and LJ's Martin model), and I'm a little concerned about the protection. Any thoughts? Looking forward to July! Thanks again for all that you do. Jenn |
| Jennifer Martin
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jennconducts@mac.com Oceano , CA USA - Monday, April 21, 2008 |
There are many gig bags available. The one I use for my trusty Collings OM1 is a leather Reunion Blues gig bag.VERY EXPENSIVE! Would I check it with the airline baggage dept.? NO! Would I take it in my car. Definitely. But really your best best is to use your case. You've already paid for it, why not use it. Your guitar will love you for it. |
| Hi Pete, Have you, or do you have plans to publish your arrangement of Superstition? I really love what you have done with it, and I'm very anxious to be able to borrow (ok...steal) some of those fancy licks you use in it. Thanks for developing your talents on the guitar! |
| Terry Tolley
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terry.tolley@cox.net Buckeye , Ariz USA - Saturday, April 19, 2008 |
Terry; Well, that just about as nice a thing as somebody could say! To be thanked for working hard is just too cool. Check your inbox... ;-) |
| Hey Pete, Brandon Noke here. We met last week at Berklee and again at the Music Emporium. I really enjoyed your visit to the Northeast. Its cool for me... being only a few weeks away from graduating Berklee to see someone who has come from Berklee and done what you have done. I really enjoy your playing and have been interested in getting more into solo guitar styles (Laurence Juber actually sparked my interest a few years ago when I saw him at Berklee). I come from more of the finger picking blues style, but I was wondering if you would recommend any resources to check out different styles and maybe some technical studies. I know you were playing some classical stuff that seemed cool, but i have no experience with. I feel I understand the music, but want to build technique! Let me know. Thanks so much. Brandon P.S. I am actually transcribing "Darcy's Guitar" for my final project! Great tune with a beautiful melody! |
| Brandon Noke
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brandon@brandonnoke.com stoneham , ma USA - Saturday, April 19, 2008 |
Brandon; I have to say I am very lucky and blessed to get to do something I love for a living. It has taken years of hard work and discipline and sacrifices but I feel it's getting me where I need to be as a player. The best resources I can recommend are the records/CD's of the players you like. Do a lot of transcribing... at least 16 bars a day. If you like LJ then pick one of his tunes and learn it. Do as much as possible by ear. Try to stay away from the TAB pages on the web because you want to develop your own ear instead of relying on someone else who may or may NOT be correct. Try Earl Klugh, Jerry Reed, Merle Travis, Big Bill Broonzy -- learn Clapton's Tears In Heaven. Basically anything you can find you should try to learn. Yeah, yeah, yeah... it's gonna take a lot of time but hey, what else have you got planned. Have fun... |
| Pete I have all of your dvd's,two of your cd's and the Peter Huttlinger Collection tab book. Thanks for all of them, they're great. Pete, take all the time you need (I know you have better things to do) but please don't forget the tab for (Late Winter, Early Spring). I hate to bug you for a tab but this one is special. Now that I have learned John's part from the dvd, it's just half a song with out Mike's great lead. Thank you again for your work. Keep playing and I'll keep loving it. Dave |
| Dave Mc Kinney
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dmckinneyco@hotmail.com Whittier , CA USA - Friday, April 18, 2008 |
Dave; I'll have some of it up this week.... ;-) |
| Hi Pete,
I have all 3 volumes of your John Denver dvds and the Jim Croce, & Gordon Lightfoot. I was hoping you might be able to email or send me the tab for the Beatles song: "And I Love Her". Have any plans for "The Guitar of Paul Simon or James Taylor"? Thanks for making these great dvd lessons available, Eric Ludwick |
| Eric Ludwick
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eplscpht@hotmail.com Mansfield , Ohio USA - Sunday, April 13, 2008 |
Eric; I taught "And I Love Her" on a previous DVD. The tab is included there. As for Paul Simon or James Taylor, I'd love to do it! We're working on it and I'm hoping we can do it sooner than later. ;-) |
| Pete,
I just received your new Chords DVD. Lovin it!! I also picked up a Martin J12 12-string guitar recently. There are quite a few tips on the internet related to playing the 12 string but nothing specifically for playing them fingerstyle. Do you have any general tips and tricks with respect to playing fingerstyle on a 12 string guitar? At this point I can see it's going to be a rather steep learning curve but it's still a lot of fun. As always, thanks for everything you do. Best Regards, Paul |
| Paul
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sehome@hotmail.com Greeley , CO USA - Saturday, April 12, 2008 |
Paul; I'm so glad you like the Chords lesson! I would recommend checking www.homespuntapes.com and see what 12-string instruction might be available there. I don't play 12-string more than once every couple of years... and even then I have to borrow one for whatever project I'm doing. All the best, P |
| Mr. Huttlinger, I have recently accomplished your song Superstition. I am working on your version of I Got Rhythm. I am in high school and have been playing for almost 2 years and am a huge Atkins fan (thus named after him). Do you recommend any other songs of yours that i can find tabs to? I like Tommy In the Morning but cant find a tab for it. If you could give me some advice I would greatly appreciate it. Your Friend, CHET |
| Chet
Old Hickory , TN USA - Friday, April 11, 2008 |
Hi Chet! I would recommend my book The Peter Huttlinger Collection. That one has every thing from The Santa Rita Connection plus several others from Naked Pop and Catch & Release. But if you've figured out Superstition and I Got Rhythm, I think you can figure out the others. Unless of course..... you got the music for those from some internet site that gives my arrangements away for free ---- and that would be a very bad thing indeed! |
| Hi Pete,
My sister lives in the Boston area, so I told her about your concert on Saturday night in Lexington, and she got really excited when I told her you had published a CD of hymns. (Which of course told me I have a great suggestion now for her next birthday present.) Can you play something from your Hymns For Guitar Saturday night? I think your rendition of "Wayfaring Stranger" is incredible, but anything you'd like to play from that CD would be greatly appreciated. Thanks, and I hope your schedule brings you to the Atlanta area soon as well. |
| Lee
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lfulford@yahoo.com Atlanta , GA USA - Thursday, April 10, 2008 |
Lee; Don't know if your sister made it to the concert in Lexington but a good time was had by all! I did do Wayfaring Stranger so I hope she was there and was able to enjoy the evening with the rest of us. |
| Do you know how to read music? Is it really necessary for playing with other musicians or in studios? I'm learning your jim croce dvd, it's amazing. Your teaching method is awesome, even for a non-english speaker like me. Expecting more fingerstyle learning dvds from you, especially different methods like as you did bossa nova pattern in practice dvd. |
| Mamunur Rashid
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shibli_2000@hotmail.com Bangladesh - Wednesday, April 09, 2008 |
Mamunur; Yes, I read music and I HIGHLY recommend that every musician learn to read music. It is NOT hard. It takes time but so what...? Everything worth knowing or learning or doing takes time. The beauty of learning to read music is that the whole world of music is then available to you. You can learn music of Chopin, Bach, Duke Ellington, John Coltrane. You can learn music from France and Italy, Africa and Appalachia, Bluegrass to Bebop. Trust me, it's worth it. Yes, it is necessary for playing in studios. GO FOR IT! |
| Hi Pete, I am a big fan of yours. Have two of your CD's and three instructional DVD's(Jim Croce, Essential Excercises and A Guitarist's Guide ToBetter Practice). Any chance you might do a DVD of the music of Paul Simon? I have learned so far five of the Jim Croce songs and am having a lot of fun with them. Having a similar video to the songs of Mr. Simon would be fantastic. Thanks, Tom |
| Tom Paterna
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tp@nyc.rr.com Brooklyn , NY USA - Monday, April 07, 2008 |
Hi Tom; Thanks for your note. I'm glad you have learned so many of the Jim Croce songs. I would love to do a DVD of Paul Simon's music. I'll give it some thought and see what the future holds. |
| Hello Pete, Its been awhile since I've written. Wow, lots of changes over the years. Just curious, have you ever thought about doing "Gentle On My Mind" Glen Campbell's hit as an instrumental? Hey man, you still fishing? |
| Jim Fields
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jimothyn@earthlink.net Swartz Creek , MI USA - Tuesday, April 01, 2008 |
Jim I've played "Gentle On My Mind" many times over the years. It doesn't work too well as an instrumental because it's just verse after verse after verse. It's been one of my favorite songs since I was a little kid but it definitely lends itself to being sung. Fishing every chance I get! |
| Hi Pete I have the John Denver Homespun Tape and just wanted to let everyone know how easy you make it to learn John's songs. Did I see on your website that you will be adding the tab for the lead guitar on Late Winter Early Spring? It is my favorite John Denver song. |
| Mick Jackson
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micklori@verizon.net Library , Pa USA - Sunday, March 30, 2008 |
| Hi Pete,
Had the pleasure of meeting you last May at the Chris Bozung benefit concert. You're not only an incredible musician, but a great guy as well ! My lady friend was very, very delighted that you played her Martin classical guitar before the show. We were wondering if you are going to be performing at Muriel Anderson's All Star Guitar Night at the Ryman in June? We are planning on coming to that show and it would be great to see you play again. |
| Jerry Opdycke
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jwo@usa.com Savannah , TN USA - Saturday, March 29, 2008 |
Jerry; I remember playing that guitar! That was a fun evening and all for a good cause. I don't know yet if I'll be at Muriel's show. Keep checking the schedule page on this site for more updates. ;-D |
| Pete, in your "Jim Croce" DVD lesson you recommended a very good capo (G7th). I bought it immediately and I like it very much. In your "Gordon Lightfoot" DVD lesson you use another very slim capo. What kind of capo is it? I couldn't find it anywhere. Greetings Andreas |
| Andreas Haardt
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ahaardt at gmail dot com Frankfurt , Hess Germany - Friday, March 28, 2008 |
Andreas: The capo I'm using on the Gordon Lightfoot DVD is a McKinney/Elliot capo. It's one that I like a lot. They are very expensive but very good. Cheers! |
| To Quote Beth Stellar - "What is the pattern that John Denver used on Sweet Surrender? And, do you have any idea why this song does not appear in any of the John Denver books? Not even the Anthology???" Beth, this song is in print in the "Evening with John Denver" music book!! Its an old book & I'll bet its out of print - mine is really well worn now, I've had it over 25 years. Pete |
| Pete Clark
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peterclark66@mac.com Cleethorpes , UK - Friday, March 28, 2008 |
| The music for McGuire's Landing that comes with the DVD does not have the third section in it. I asked you about it once before and you said you would send it, but I have not seen it. I sure would like it. I will see you at the AOM Seminar this summer, again. Got some good steelhead a week and a half ago - you would have enjoyed the fishing. Mike |
| Mike Youngblood
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myoungbl@kpunet.net Ketchikan , AK USA - Wednesday, March 26, 2008 |
Hi Mike; I'm sorry but I just have never written down that middle section I played on that one version of the tune. One of these days.... Wish I could have been fishing with you... |
| Pete, Can you ever get tired of being told how amazing you play? Numero uno baby! Some thirty odd years ago, I was a finger-picker and singer and had an amazingly talented singing partner. Long story short, I've been happily married to a different woman in a different town for thirty years. About a year ago, my singing partner of yore gave me your "Naked Pop" CD for my birthday, hoping I'd get back into music. I bought your "Catch and Release" CD, your "Peter Huttlinger Collection" songbook and your "Arrangements for Solo Acoustic Guitar" DVD. I was back! I was really excited when I took your tip on getting cosmetic nails. Wow! I was in heaven...for about three weeks. Then my psoriasis acted up and my nails pulled away from the nail bed. So much for that! I bought a set of steel picks and started playing again. I can deal with the physical pain of getting used to playing with them, but I've been really dissapointed to this point, in my success playing with the metal picks. Can I ever hope to get enough skill/accuracy/technique using metal finger picks? Thank you for your time. You are truly an inspiration. Hank |
| Hank Brooks
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hankbrooks@niu.edu DeKalb , IL USA - Tuesday, March 25, 2008 |
Hank; First and foremost - Flattery WILL get you everywhere! You've probably done quite well for yourself with your amazing people skills. ;-) The answer is YES, you can get enough skill/accuracy/technique using metal finger picks. It just takes time.... and lots of it. Try to play with other players and you'll get better faster. Of course, you can always play with the flesh of your fingertips. That's not a bad sound at all. Cheers! |
| Hi Pete, I really like the alternating thumb on Rainbow Blues. Is there any instructional CD or DVD on that one? I almost have it down but not quite. I know...practice, practice , practice. Love your guitar playing. Have a great day! |
| Steve Niswonger
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brilliantsteve@sbcglobal.net The Woodlands , Tx USA - Monday, March 24, 2008 |
I'm sorry there is no instruction on that one other than the transcription in the Catch & Release songbook. http://www.petehuttlinger.com |
| Hi Pete I am trying to get hold of your book "Pete Huttlinger guitar collection" from your website but it will not allow me to use my debit card which is a cirrhus card. Is there any other means I can pay or are you be able to help at all? P.S I have not got a master/Visa card? Thanks |
| SUNNY DYALL
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SELLCLEAR@YAHOO.CO.UK SHEFFIELD , UK - Monday, March 24, 2008 |
Hello Sunny; There is a form on the website you can fill out for mail-in orders. You can send an international money order to us along with your order: Instar Records PO BOX 158 Pegram, TN 37143 |
| Thanks for sharing your music both live, recorded and printed. I have spent a lot of hours working on your tunes and have thoroughly enjoyed it. I have enjoyed working on the tune "redeemed" from your hymn book. Are the lyrics available? I have looked for them online but I come up with a differnt tune called "Redeemed" but it is a 6/8 tune with a different melody. |
| Shawn Lund
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shawn_lund@msn.com Montrose , CO USA - Friday, March 21, 2008 |
It's an old Baptist hymn. You should be able to find it in a hymnal... Or you could try some on-line sites. |
| Hi Pete! Besides the Fur Peach and Colorado acoustic guitar camps, are there others that you would recommend? In regard to what I'm looking for -- the John Denver/Croce/Lightfoot/James Taylor/Fogelberg/Paul Simon vibe is what I gravitate toward -- not so much the old time bluegrass, swing, etc. Any thoughts? |
| Matt Fahey
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matt.fahey@wdpi.com Champlin , MN USA - Thursday, March 20, 2008 |
Matt; I would recommend Steve Kaufman's camp in Maryville, TN or The Swannanoa Gathering in Asheville, NC. You would need to specify what you are interested in when talking to the camp. In my classes I try to do a little Q&A before we get there to see what the students want to learn. Then I try to put a few things together so everyone gets something out of the classes. |
| Hello Pete, Big fan of your music. I love to play "Get a Klugh". Such a fun and lively piece! It's one of those tunes that you play when your trying out new acoustics in the shop since it covers a lot of ground..I'm planning on doing your version of Tis' So Sweet as an offering in my local Church. What a great Hymn! My question is - "Are you planning to do any concerts/workshops in the Pittsburgh Area?"...Thanks for your time! Ed |
| Ed B
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Ebutor@comcast.net Pittsburgh , PA USA - Thursday, March 20, 2008 |
Ed; I don't have anything planned for that area at this time. But please keep the requests coming. We want to know where we should go and perform. Cheers, Pete |
| Pete, What are you using and/or recommending for a capo nowadays? Thanks - come to Iowa someday. Keith |
| Keith White
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klwhite@machlink.com Muscatine , IA USA - Monday, March 17, 2008 |
Keith; These days I'm using a McKinney-Elliot capo. It's pricey but good. Cheers, Pete |
| Hi Pete, Been a while since I've posted here. Glad to see you are staying busy. Good to hear your playing is as awesome as ever. Was wondering if you would post the tab to your version of "Blackbird". Seems there were bits and pieces of it here at one time. Could you post it from start to finish? Pat Kirtley recorded a tune called "Sails" on his Just Listen CD. Of course we can't just listen!!! Any chance you could teach that piece on a future instructional DVD? Thanks for all your time helping us "wannabes" improve our playing. Your tips and instruction are priceless and really help us to move forward. All the best!! Steve Paxton |
| Steve Paxton
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sepvet@charter.net Ludington , Mi USA - Friday, March 14, 2008 |
| Hi Pete, I will be at SKAK this year for two weeks and I have opted to go fingerpicking during week 1. I can accompany myself pretty well fingerpicking, and have a good working knowledge of the guitar as well as piano to probably professional standard. However, I have never got round to fingerpicking instrumentals. Do you have any thoughts as to how I might prepare myself in terms of material so that I can get the best out of the week. Because of my general musical knowledge I have put myself in advanced level. Could be a mistake, but with some good preparation I hope to really enjoy the week. Thanks for any advice that you can give me. Regards Graham Cooper |
| graham cooper
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graham@grahamcooper.co.uk Messines , Alga Portugal - Thursday, March 13, 2008 |
| Pete, You have made such an impact on my music and i wanted to say thanks. I am a guitarist in high school and play fingerstyle. I have friends who own your instructional DVD's, but have not purchased any. Which of your videos would you recommend for someone like me who is intermediate to advanced and wanting to learn more of a folk/country style? I hope this is a legitimate question. Thank you so much. Your Friend, Chester |
| Chester R
USA - Wednesday, March 12, 2008 |
| I have purchased the three lessons on John Denver and am really enjoying learning all of my old favorites. Thanks! What is the pattern that John Denver used on Sweet Surrender? And, do you have any idea why this song does not appear in any of the John Denver books? Not even the Anthology??? I always thought this was one of his hits. Thanks, Beth |
| Beth Stellar
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beth@getstellar.com Burleson , tx USA - Tuesday, March 11, 2008 |
Hi Beth; I'm glad you are having fun learning those great old songs. As for Sweet Surrender - I'll look into that one and it may even appear in a new DVD someday. I don't know why it has not appeared in any songbooks. Maybe the publisher didn't think they would make enough money. That is what that side of the business is all about... Cheers, Pete |
| Hey again Pete, I've just gotta tell you I bought a beautiful Freshman Guitar & your John Denver DVD #1. Heck there is just no stopping me now. The way you deliver the tuition is superb, I'm still fingers and toes at the moment, but I am certainly having a whole load of fun. It's been 10 years since I've played proper but its all coming back to me - any advice for the painful fingertips? - bet you have forgotten what thats like 'eh!! - Thanks again man - 42 and having a right giggle!! |
| Pete Clark
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peterclark66@mac.com Cleethorpes , UK - Monday, March 10, 2008 |
Pete Let's see here... "Painful fingertips" (Searching the memory banks) Ummmm.., uuuh..., errrr, well..... Nope, no recollection at all! ;-) ;-) The only known cure is more time on the instrument. Build those callouses and the pain will go away. Cheers! |
| Aloha Pete, I have read that you might use different string combinations on different guitars. Do you ever use a thicker gauge Elixir on the 1st and 2nd strings on your Collins OM's or do you just keep them all light (with the standard string set)? I was also curious if you have heard from Gordon Lightfoot since your most recent DVD release? Thank you |
| Andy
Kahului , HI USA - Sunday, March 09, 2008 |
Howdy Andy; Sometimes I use .013 & .017 on the first two strings instead of .012 & .016. I get a little more volume and no buzz and can still use a fairly low action. However, the main ingredient in eliminating a buzz is buying a great guitar. I don't have buzz problems with any of my Collings instruments. Elixir Phosphor Bronze strings are what I use these days. They last longer than the Energizer Bunny and I'd rather spend my time playing guitar than changing strings. ;-) |
| Pete, I'm sure you've probably heard all you want to hear about Late Winter, Early Spring - and here I am beating the dead horse once again, but I couldn't resist a comment! I believe I may have that solo in print, not in tab, in my old John Denver song book from the early 70's. I worked on it a bit then, but left it with my sister who's now sending it. The notes are still in my head, but not in my hands. Perhaps if I get the rough idea down you can help me fine tune it at Fur Peace. And I noticed that the solo was not on any of the Practice, Solo Instrumental, Jim Croce or Gordon Lightfoot DVD's either - so would you consider a refund for all of those?;>) Seriously, you're great to post all this free tab/instruction and talk to us here - thanks! I look forward to meeting you. And I'll bring my 9 wt., 'cause I'll need it for the big one... |
| Evan Blanchard
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jeblanch@charter.net Madison , WI USA - Sunday, March 09, 2008 |
Evan; The only printed version I ever saw did not have the whole solo included. It was just a part of it. I'll get some of it up this week so at least folks can start working on it. I had the great pleasure of playing that piece with Mike Taylor in my hotel room in Aspen, Co a couple of years ago. He said it was the first time he ever played it since recording it 30 years prior. He never did it live with JD. Refund? What's that...? It would take more than an entire DVD to teach that solo. No 9wt needed.... unless you want to haul in the log at the bottom of the pond. I've caught big ones on a 3wt. The big fish are a "Fur Peace" away from where we'll be. ;-) |
| Hi Pete, My job requires me to travel in my work vehicle many hours during the week. While driving I get to listen to many of your tunes and tunes of other guitarists as well. I often get chills thinking about what it would feel like to play guitar like that. What a blessing that must be. Then I think to myself. "Does Pete Huttlinger get chills anymore?" "Is there a song or artist that you listen to and say "Wow!" "That's a song I want to play and play it at least as good as that artist". Do you get chills imagining yourself playing a certain artist's song or that person's style of a song? Once you reach a high level, are there any challenges or goals anymore? Whose songs or what songs would just blow you away to accomplish? Thank you in advance for your honesty. Jim |
| Jim Redman
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jredman@woh.rr.com Dayton , OH USA - Wednesday, March 05, 2008 |
Jim; I do get excited about learning new music still. Right now I'm working on some music by Augustin Barrios Mangore. He was one of the greatest composers for the guitar that has ever lived. (In my humble opinion). There are challenges every day for me. That is the real blessing in my life - that I don't have it down and that I realize how much more there is to learn. I would love to be a better improviser with jazz. I did not grow up in the tradition so I struggle with it. |
| I purchased your "Learn to Play the Songs of John Denver" DVD 1. I was very discouraged to find that it only has the backup guitar part to "Late Winter, Early Spring". Do you sell a tutorial DVD that has all parts to that song? |
| Myra Johnson
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dmjohnson7@comcast.net Port Republic , MD USA - Wednesday, March 05, 2008 |
Hello Myra; I'm so sorry you were disappointed. Unfortunately, it would take an entire DVD, or more, to show the lead guitar part to Late Winter, Early Spring. I do not know of any DVD teaching the lead guitar part or of any sheet music for it. I will be writing it out and offering in on my web site as a free download for study purposes. I would be happy to refund your purchase. All the best, Pete |
| Hi Pete, Just to let you know that I learned both versions of Darcy Farrow and have amalgamated the two and created my own version. I improvise the end which is great fun. Maybe I will teach it to you one day:) Thanks for giving me the skill and confidence to go it alone. Be lucky |
| Richard
Norfolk , England - Wednesday, March 05, 2008 |
Rickard; Congratulations on your hard work! I look forward to you showing me how to play it one day. Cheers! |
| Hi Pete, I am wanting to buy one of your tutorial/arrangement books and or DVD's and would like to know which of your products includes the chord and melody solo guitar arrangement to Bad Moon Rising by Credence Clearwater Revival? |
| Colin Campbell
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c.g.campbell@btinternet.com Inverness , Scotland - Wednesday, March 05, 2008 |
Colin; I've not done any arrangements of any CCR songs. :-) |
| Pete, I've enjoyed learning some of my favorite songs from your DVD's. I've ordered two more of your instructional videos and I can't wait to receive them. I think I'll have to buy some finger stretchers to be able to hit C#m/B from Carefree Highway. Any ideas? Personally, I'd like to see an instructional video of songs from various artists instead of focusing on just one artist. Thanks, Bob |
| Bob King
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bobking@candid.com Oklahoma City , OK USA - Wednesday, March 05, 2008 |
Bob; It just takes time on the instrument... lots of it. That's a good idea about the various artists. I'll keep that on in the back of my mind. |
| Just in case you are doing a poll,,,,,, 1st choice for new DVD, James Taylor volume 1 ,,,,,,,,2nd choice James Taylor Volume 2 (I bet you wish there were 40 hours in a day!) |
| Bob T
NE Wi,most of t , Wi USA - Sunday, March 02, 2008 |
Bob; Just to be sure I understand you correctly --- you want me to teach James Taylor's songs...? :-) |
| Hi Pete. Just bought your 2 guitar practicing DVD's from Homespun. I'm 53 years old and have been playing for about 10 years. I love the disciplined approach to practice but I'll never get through all the exercises with about an hour per night. Am I better off getting one exercise down pat before moving to the next (I think I already know the answer to this)? I feel compelled to cover as much as possible. Also, I've tried a thumbpick and don't care for it much. Should I persevere or just use my bare thumb? One last question, any possibility for any Beatles arrangements with you and Homespun? Thanks Pete |
| Norm Neihaus
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nneihaus@hotmail.com Skokie , Il USA - Saturday, March 01, 2008 |
Norm; Yes, definitely get ONE exercise down and then move on. I'd much rather hear one good piece than ten bad ones (or even average). Feel free to use your bare thumb. There's no rule that says you have to use a thumbpick. I did teach one Beatles song - And I Love Her - on the DVD titled Arrangements for Solo Acoustic Guitar |
| Hi Pete, I have a question regarding strings. I use DR and Ernie Ball, but seem to have trouble when i play in open tunings with breaking and buzzing. Any tips for what to do in this situation? Thank you! |
| Charles
USA - Thursday, February 28, 2008 |
Charles; I use Elixir Phosphor Bronze strings. They last the longest of any string I've ever used and I'd rather spend my time playing the guitar and not changing strings. If you are having problems with string buzz and breaking then you need to have your guitar set up by a professional. There are lots of little things a pro can do to alleviate your problems. |
| I think you are a very gifted person as a great guitarist and teacher and a caring human being. I saw you many times with John Denver in concert. I heard John play The Bells Of Rhymney on his 12 string in concert and he made the bells ring. I was wondering if you could one day tab the song? I had found it on a live from Russia cd. How do you go about picking up and playing a song from a album? How do you break it down and know the key and the chords to use? Is this just a gift or is there a way to do this? Keep on picking and hope you come up to NY City soon. Thanks George |
| george
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gmiller2@si.rr.com staten island , ny USA - Thursday, February 28, 2008 |
George; I've never played The Bells Of Rhymney. John only did it once the whole time I worked for him. Learning songs from albums and CD's starts with a bunch of "hunt and peck." Get a teacher to help you out. You can do it but it takes time to develop your ear. |
| Mr. Huttlinger, I am a huge fan of your work. I love to play and listen to your songs. I listen to Chet Atkins and Merle Travis type players as well as guys like Don Ross, Andy McKee, Michael Hedges. Your style seems like a mix of classic country, jazz, and modern fingerstyle. What guitarists really inspire you? |
| Chet
TN USA - Wednesday, February 27, 2008 |
Chet; The guitar players who really move me are (In no particular order) Larry Carlton, Albert Lee, Robben Ford, Joe Pass, Tony Rice, Doc Watson, Chet Atkins, Martin Taylor, John Williams, Christopher Parkening... |
| I have bought all of your John Denver DVD's and I have learnt so much about music from them. John Denver was always my favorite song writer and singer from the beginning. You being a master of guitar, I was hoping that you would tab " The Gift You Are ". My mother is turning 75 this year and I would like to play it for her for her birthday. I know this might be an unusual request but any suggestions would be appreciated. Thank you so much. |
| Debbie Conroy
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www.Lamconbec@aol.com Forked River , N.J. USA - Wednesday, February 27, 2008 |
Hi Debbie; Flattery will get you every where... almost. I'm a little busy now but when's her birthday? |
| Hi Pete, thanks for the tunes man, just downloaded a gaggle of your tracks from iTunes & cant wait to play them. My Question is about Freshman Guitars (built in Scotland) have you ever played one?? I'm trying them all in my local store & will purchase one this weekend, I'm torn between a couple. |
| Pete Clark
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peterclark66@mac.com Cleethorpes , UK - Wednesday, February 27, 2008 |
Howdy Pete; I'm sorry but I'm not familiar with Freshman Guitars. Never even heard of them. Try as many as you can and have a friend play them too so you can hear them from both sides... |
| Pete; Thank you for all of the instructional DVDs. I have gained so much confidence, and can only imagine how many other guitar players have gained also. I Have put together a farm concert to raise money for a sightless boy. Your instructional videos have given me the confidence to play for others. Thank You, Thank You, Thank You. My question is, what is your favorite John Denver song? and Why? Peace and grace for you today, LeRoy |
| LeRoy Ward
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ljstmw@btc-bci.com Bangor , Mich USA - Saturday, February 23, 2008 |
Leroy; Thanks for the note! Good for you for raising money to help the boy! The best confidence builder I know of is playing in front of people. Keep it up. My favorite John Denver song is Boy From The Country. Michael Martin Murphey wrote it but I loved John's delivery of that song. Cheers! |
| I recently bought your DVD instructional video of Jim Croce's songs. Are you going to make the Volume 2 with Jim's other songs? How about James Taylor songs? Are you going to make one in the future? By the way, I like your instructional video of Jim Croce. |
| Roberto Santa Cruz
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bubu007@verizon.net North Hills , CA USA - Thursday, February 21, 2008 |
Robert; We are planning on doing a 2nd volume of Jim Croce songs, just don't have a date yet. As for James Taylor -- that is by far the single most requested thing people ask me to teach. We trying to work that out... |
| Mr. Huttlinger, First, thanks for all the enjoyable teaching videos. I am not a musician and do not have the "ear" to learn something off a record, but I still very much enjoy trying to duplicate a song just the way the artist had played it and your DVD's offer this opportunity. Just today, I was surprised to see the Gordon Lightfoot DVD at Homespun Tapes and ordered it immediately. I was actually going to suggest that you consider making another DVD, but with the songs of several different performers (such as Gordon Lightfoot, James Taylor, Joni Mitchell, etc.). Well, from this you can surmise that I just an old geezer. I realize this is not a fair request because you have much better things to do and so I really would not hold it against you if you can't, but "you do not have because you do not ask". So would it be possible for you to produce the guitar part for an old 60's tune called "Everybodys Talkin" (Echoes) by Harry Nilsson? Thank you for this opportunity to contact you and I really have had hours of enjoyment learning your DVD's. With Sincere Thanks, Larry Edwards |
| Larry Edwards
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lawrenceh.edwards@siemens.com Woodbury , MN USA - Monday, February 18, 2008 |
Larry; It's been a long time since I've thought about that song. I'll give it a listen and it just might show up as a free TAB lesson one of these days. Thanks for the suggestion. |
| Pete... ref my previous message.. apologize I've just noted the Darcy Farrow tab on your web site and downloaded it Some time ago someone (a guy called Steve)wrote: Hi Pete, I have been learning Darcy Farrow recently from your Homespun DVD and also watching John on The Wild Life concert DVD. A couple of questions. Are your transcriptions exact or dumbed down slightly? Also, for the Darcy Farrow song in your tab book and on the DVDs, I cannot figure out when you start to sing. Could you please give a bit of insight in to how to break down the tab so I can tell when to sing at all please? At the end of the DVD you sing a bit and I can't help but get the feeling the guitar part sounds somewhat different to what you just taught. Thanks Pete. S Armstrong - None@none.com Lincoln , Linc UK - Thursday, December 20, 2007 Steve; The transcriptions are not dumbed down. What I said on the DVD with Darcy Farrow was that I was showing John's intro to the song because it makes such a good fingerstyle arrangement on it's own. Maybe that was cut out in the editing process... At some point in the near future I am going to put the vocal accompaniment on my web site for those who want to learn that. Also, I am working on the lead guitar part to LATE WINTER, EARLY SPRING. That will be up on my web site soon. Cheers, Pete I noted the same thing when listening your DVD tuition when you started singing..i managed the intro almost perfectly but tried to work out the vocal verses but not that well! Would there be any sign of the vocal accompaniment (wildlife concert version)appearing on your web site soon? Regards David from Wigan UK |
| David
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davidcol58@gmail.com Wigan , UK - Sunday, February 17, 2008 |
David; In my opinion the version of Darcy Farrow I put on the web site, which is from John's original recording of it on his Rocky Mountain High album, is the best version. Go back and listen to that version and learn that part. If you can do that, then maybe you can figure out the Wildlife version on your own. Cheers, Pete |
| Hello Pete; This is the first time I have written to you, mainly to say a huge thanks for your inspiration. I've been playing for over 20 years - strumming with a flat pick but never improved much. Then I fancied learning a couple of John Denver songs, so I bought your DVD's only to realize your style of playing just blew me away and i was hooked, never played (but always wanted to) finger style. I surprised myself within 1 1/2 years I've learned several tunes from your collection: Aspenglow, This old guitar, Darcy Farrow, Darcy's guitar(simple but I found tough) keeping the bass line going in time, Josie a true masterpiece, Santa Rita Connection, amazing when i get it right, speed takes some time to work on but I love it, And I love her. Currently learning Sunny. I actually managed Superstition, the toughest challenge yet for me but I'm pleased, took around 3 months to almost perfect (2 hours a night) A friend recorded it on poor quality mobile phone and yes it sounded like 3-4 guitars playing, truly amazing! Could you kindly email me the new Darcy Farrow tab you refer to that others have mentioned, I did learn it from your JD DVD but keen on looking at this version. Once again thanks for your inspiration, it has amazingly transformed the way I play. Also I would welcome any tips/tabs on warming up finger style. It can sometimes take me around half hour to get fully warmed up! I had my nails done with overlays about a year ago, something I picked up from one of your DVD's (took me a while to decide on that) .. but what a difference it made... David from Wigan UK |
| David
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davidcol58@gmail.com Wigan , UK - Sunday, February 17, 2008 |
Hi David; You can find that new TAB to Darcy Farrow right here on my web site on the Tablature page. |
| Pete: Love your Croce, Denver and now Lightfoot instructional videos. How about JAMES TAYLOR and CAT STEVENS next? Thanks! |
| Mike Bayer
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MikeBBayer@aol.com Tarzana , CA USA - Friday, February 15, 2008 |
| Hi Pete, Your guitar playing and singing on the Gordon Lightfoot dvd is beautiful. I was wondering about the forward roll on the intro section of "If You Could Read My Mind" where you use your index finger to play the 4th string. I'm used to using my thumb on the 4th string. What is the reason for using the index finger on the 4th string? Is there a loss of feeling or accents in the song if you use your thumb? Thanks, Alex |
| Alex Orr
Fort Worth , TX USA - Thursday, February 14, 2008 |
| Pete, I was excited to hear that you are thinking about another "Hymns for Guitar." How about "Let There Be Peace on Earth?" If any one could come up with a great fingerstyle arrangement it's you. Take care. Kevin |
| Kevin Hay
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hey4hay@verizon.net Souderton , PA USA - Saturday, February 09, 2008 |
| Hey there Pete, What a fabulous idea adding links to your website for local fingerstyle clubs. As of this writing I don't see anything as of yet for the Northern Colorado area(Greeley, Fort Collins, Loveland, Longmont)that has been formally posted and was wondering if anybody out there might perhaps be interested in getting together to play. Maybe once a month to start??? If there was enough interest, I'll bet we could set something up. I wouldn't think there would be any problem in finding a centralized place to host. A local guitar store, church, rec center, etc. My e-mail is sehome@hotmail.com if anybody is interested in trying to glue something together. Thanks Pete. Looking forward to the chords DVD and the Gordon Lightfoot DVD. You're the man!! Best Regards, Paul |
| Paul
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sehome@hotmail.com Greeley , CO USA - Friday, February 08, 2008 |
| Hi Pete, I hope that you and your family were not affected by the recent tornados. Take care. |
| Lee
San Jose , CA USA - Thursday, February 07, 2008 |
Lee; Thanks for asking. We were fortunate and were not affected. Our hearts go out to those who lost so much... |
| Hello, Pete. I have performed your arrangements of On Eagles' Wings, Redeemed, 'Tis So Sweet To Trust In Jesus, and Be Thou My Vision at my local church. I now get requests to play all the time at the church. So thank you for your great arrangements. Now for my question? I am a classically trained guitar player. I find it really difficult to play with a thumb pick. I want to begin working on (I've Got) Peace Like A River. I really like the sound of the thumb pick vs the thumb for the bass line. It is really awkward playing with the thumb pick. Do you have any suggestions in trying to convert to this technique? Again, thank you so much for your arrangements. Blessings, David Corning |
| David Corning
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DavidBCorning@aol.com Crown Point , IN USA - Tuesday, February 05, 2008 |
Hi David; I'm so glad you are playing my arrangements! Thank you for that. I'm actually getting ready to start another Hymns For Guitar CD/Book project so if you have any suggestions of songs, please send them to me. As for the thumb pick - the biggest issue for classical guitar players making the switch over it the right hand position. You'll need to flatten your wrist and don't be afraid to even have it rest on the top of the guitar. That allows you to dig in with the thumb pick and makes it so you can mute the bass notes as well. Cheers! |
| Pete, I just found your tab of the original Darcy Farrow from the Rocky Mtn High album. I finally understand now why the guitar doesn't play the low E after the transition from the DMaj7. Apparently the BASS plays that note. All along I thought you had it wrong on the DVD (!) and I have been trying to play it with the E on the guitar which is a real stretch. I'll never doubt you again! Jay (Dr Jay from Cotten music days at Vandy..) |
| Jay
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jayandkate@knology.net Columbus , GA USA - Sunday, February 03, 2008 |
Oh ye of little faith.... ;-) |
| Pete, Where can I find a good source that lists dates and venues for 2008 fingerpicking events? Thanks in advance, Bernie Hocks Anderson, SC |
| Bernie Hocks
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bhocks@gmail.com Anderson , sc USA - Tuesday, January 29, 2008 |
Bernie; We are in the process of adding a page to the site which lists fingerpicking clubs and events. If you or anyone else out there has a club or event you would like to share, please e-mail the info to us and we'll review it and possibly add it to our site. |
| Pete, Many thanks for your rapid response. After watching your heavenly guitar playing talent for a number of years now, it is nice to hear that you rely on the binding dots while playing like the rest of us mortals (yes, I know that it is due to practice, practice, practice). White Out is great; right up there with Duct tape. I'm looking forward to working on the tasks presented in your next DVDs. Keep up the great work; hope to see you again in person soon. Best, David |
| David E. Tupper
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tuppe001@maroon.tc.umn.edu Chanhassen , MN USA - Tuesday, January 29, 2008 |
| Hi Pete, Seems like you've been busy. Many thanks for the new Darcy Farrow tab. I am looking forward to the Lightfoot and Chords DVDs. Here's an unusual question for you--I know from reading it somewhere, and also from looking at pictures, that you don't have dots on your Collings fingerboard at the 12th fret (but you do have them elsewhere). I'm curious, why not? Is there some underlying musical thinking there that I can't guess? Thanks in advance. Best wishes, David |
| David E. Tupper
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tuppe001@maroon.tc.umn.edu Chanhassen , MN USA - Tuesday, January 29, 2008 |
David; I don't think I ever noticed that there are not dots on the fingerboard. However, I do have them on the binding. And not just one but TWO at the 12th fret (that was a special request by me) so that I have that visual marker all the time. I need the dots just like anyone else. As a matter of fact my very excellent Classical guitar built by Keith Adams (www.keithadamsguitars.com) has them only at the 5th and 7th frets on the binding. I used White Out and placed them at 9, 12, and 15. Classical players don't use them - more power to them - but I do. Cheers, Pete |
| Pete,
I've just received your email reference the Darcy Farrow tab being the Rocky Mountain version. I have found it a real challenge learning a new version of a song which I have already learned, telling my ears and fingers to expect different positions and sounds. What a fantastic lesson to self teach! Thanks for the challenge. |
| Richard
Norfolk , England - Monday, January 28, 2008 |
You're welcome. Let me know how it goes. |
| HI Pete, When playing in a key it seems there might be something special about the dominant iii chord( normally minor) (which would be outside of the key diatonically). I had run across a chord signature sheet that has a chord progression in each key with the 1, 4 , dominant 5, vi minor , ii minor and what do you know there was a iii dominant chord listed. When playing this chord in each key it almost had a partial resolution (ie like you wanted to pause ) and then back to the key (possibly tonic). I would imagine there might be a theoretical explanation for this sound. I was wondering if you would mind commenting on this relationship (ie if there is any substance here or if it is just my early developing ear)? Thank you |
| Andy
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Awid2000@yahoo.com Kahului , HI USA - Sunday, January 27, 2008 |
Good ear Andy. What you are hearing is a resolution from the III major chord to the VI minor chord. For example E7 resolving to Am in the key of C. In the key of Am, or A for that matter, the E7 is the is the V chord in that key. V to I resolution is the strongest resolution and that is what your ear is picking up on. |
| Hello Pete, I just wanted to take a minute to thank you for the Darcy Farrow TAB. I also pre-ordered Gordon Lightfoot (great choice!) and can't wait for the Chord DVD. Lord knows I need some explanation. I don't understand them, I just look at the pictures and try my best to play them. A little theory will go a long long way. Saw you on "Dancing with the stars." I wish I could live your life for one day. You are very lucky to be so gifted with music. Anyway, still regret that you didn't catch a fish out here in Idaho, but if that is your worst problem, you are in pretty good shape! Take care Pete, and thanks again. |
| Steve Gifford
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slgifford@cableone.net Meridian , ID USA - Wednesday, January 23, 2008 |
Steve, you are very welcome. Be careful what you wish for... you may hate being me for a day.... I still have to take out the garbage, change the oil, do laundry, clean my office etc.... ;-) |
| Hello Pete, Thanks for the Levy's strap recommendation. I found a creak free green suede model which is superb. I have just printed off the tab for Darcy Farrow having learned the intro from your DVD. The intro you have posted is significantly different from the one you teach in the DVD (and is printed in the accompanying booklet). Is there a reason for this? Cheers |
| Richard
Norfolk , England - Wednesday, January 23, 2008 |
There are many version of the song Darcy Farrow. The TAB I just spent a day writing out and gave to everyone was from his original recording of the song on the Rocky Mountain High album. The intro on this version is actually a bit easier than the other one which he recorded on the Wildlife Concert DVD/CD. |
| Pete, I do the exercises from your DVDs. My "beater" guitar is the LIttle Martin. I love its sound more than the backpacker. Will practicing on a smaller fretboard hurt my development? I am an advanced beginner, or an early intermediate. thank you! |
| Peter Hyatt
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PHyatt1962@gmail.com Orrington , ME USA - Tuesday, January 22, 2008 |
| I may have asked you this before and lost your response: Whats the tuning on your great arrangement of Se Beag Se Moor from your Celtic Harmony CD. THanks so much. |
| Wayne
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wforrest2@optonline.net USA - Sunday, January 20, 2008 |
Here you go. DADGAD |
| Pete, We'll be meeting at Fur Peace this May - it will be my first time there. I've got two basic questions: 1. From past experience, do you have any advice you've wished you could have told prospective students that would have made the class work better? 2. I saw a picture of you fishing at Fur Peace! Fly fishing is one of my main passions (with cycling and guitar). Should I bring a fly rod? Spinning rod? Mickey Mouse rod? I'm looking forward to it! |
| Evan Blanchard
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jeblanch@charter.net Madison , WI USA - Sunday, January 20, 2008 |
Evan; Everyone comes looking for different things. I would say check your inhibitions at the gate when you arrive! Don't be afraid to play or to ask questions. But mostly practice, practice, practice before arriving. There is a small bass pond at the ranch. Bring which ever rod you like. I choose my fly-rods because I'm no heathen! ;-) |
| Hi Pete: We enjoy your instructional DVD's. Very helpful. But my question is about "live" sound. I have a Taylor guitar and I use its built-in electronics system. But I'd like to get an even higher quality sound on stage. Do you have any advice on other pick-ups, pre-amps, etc.? |
| Ciaran MacGillivray
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miramusic@ns.sympatico.ca Marion Bridge , NS Canada - Friday, January 18, 2008 |
Ciaran; I use a Fishman Ellipse Blend. It's a mic/pickup combination that I like a lot. The other thing that is a must for me is my AER COMPACT 60 amp. It's a killer amp, has a great preamp and it insures that I always have at least one good monitor. |
| Pete: I've always wanted to play the John Denver song This Old Guitar as a solo. Are your DVD's for solo guitar? thanks Wayne |
| Wayne
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palme1@tiscali.co.uk Cardiff , Wales - Wednesday, January 16, 2008 |
Wayne; The DVDs are to teach you how to play the songs as John played them when he sang. So they are not solo guitar arrangements but rather accompaniments for the singer. I've done them for John Denver, Jim Croce and just recently we did one on Gordon Lightfoot. |
| Pete, Totally enjoyed your performance at Carnegie Hall. I drove from Boston to see you and well worth the trip. It was a pleasure meeting you after the show. Can't wait for the next concert, very cool. Tom Dowey |
| Tom Dowey
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tomdowey1@yahoo.com Sudbury , MA USA - Monday, January 14, 2008 |
Tom; Thanks so much for making the trek to NYC for the show. It really means a lot that you and so many others traveled in (many from great distances) to see the concert at Carnegie Hall. It was a real milestone for me and one that I'm proud to share with everyone who was there. |
| Pete, Just wanted to say congratulations on you recent performance at Carnegie Hall!! Hoping things continue to go well for you!! |
| Randy Davidson
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rdperc@bellsouth.net USA - Monday, January 14, 2008 |
Randy; Thanks so much! Hope to see you soon. |
| Pete, I really enjoy your JD Dvd's and have learned a ton from them. A couple of questions. I recently watched the Wildlife Concert for about the millionth time and thought I saw you playing a Taylor guitar back in 1995. I know John was using a beauty of a Koa Taylor and a 900 series, but what were you playing? Also, where would I find a guitar strap like John's in the video (Not the peace strap) but the one with white on it? Do you know who supplied John and the Band with straps? Thanks and keep up the great work! Kelly |
| Kelly Case
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kelly@rampcreek.com Heath , oh USA - Thursday, January 10, 2008 |
Kelly; I was playing a Taylor 612-C back then. Taylor also sent another guitar for me to use on the show but I can't remember which one it was. As far as guitar straps go, it was every man for himself. I don't know where John got his straps. He always had great ones and I regret not asking him the same question. |
| Hi Pete, Curious if you use any guitar humidifcation devices when traveling to drier climates (ie to Colorado)? Mahalo |
| Andy
HI USA - Wednesday, January 09, 2008 |
Andy; I do carry a couple of different humidifiers when I go out west. And one of the best things you can do in a dry climate is to keep the guitar in the case when you are not playing it. Use the humidifier whenever it's back in the case and check the water every day. Pete |
| Hi Pete! Long time no speak. Anyway, I am looking to learn some new stuff soon, and was wondering what your plans are for future instructional DVD's? Are there any in the works now that we can look forward to seeing in the next few months? Thanks again, Matt |
| Matt Fahey
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matt.fahey@wdpi.com Champlin , MN USA - Monday, January 07, 2008 |
Hi Matt I have a new DVD on Gordon Lightfoot's playing that will be released Feb. 1, 2008 And in March or April another dealing with the issue of chords will be released. |
| Pete, Belay my last. I figured it out. It as the high E string I was missing. Same pattern, different strings. Regards, Paul |
| Paul
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sehome@hotmail.com Greeley , CO USA - Saturday, January 05, 2008 |
| Howdy Pete, Love your stuff, have all your CD's, instructional DVD's and I've been to quite a few of your performances. You and I have spoken before and you've been kind enough to share some tips and autograph my purchased products. I think it's important that I mention that I appreciate that quite a bit. Nuf said!! My question is this; I have had This Old Guitar mastered for quite some time. I learned it from your instructional DVD and it's a piece of cake now. One thing I notice when I listen to the version from "An Evening With John Denver" is that the intro is distinctly different on that version than any other version that I've heard before. Is there any sheet music or tab out there for this particular version of that song? Is he playing that version on a 12 string? What about that version am I not getting? Thanks in advance. I'm looking forward to whatever brings you back to Colorado. You can count on my presence and support. I am very much looking forward to both new DVD's. I'll be picking those up the minute they come out. Gordon Lightfoot and Chords...I really can't wait to start learning more. Your teaching style is a perfect fit for my acumen. I have learned so much thanks to you. My Very Best Regards, Paul |
| Paul
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sehome@hotmail.com Greeley , CO USA - Saturday, January 05, 2008 |
| Hi Pete, Happy New Year to you and your family. I was wondering have you played on any of the PICKIN ON SERIES? Someone had mentioned to me that some of that is done in Nashville. |
| Andy
USA - Thursday, January 03, 2008 |
Andy; I'm sorry we didn't get to visit on New Year's Eve! But thanks for coming to the show. I have played on 3 of the "Pickin' On.." CD's. I played on James Taylor, The Allman Brothers and Dawg Music. |
| No question, Pete. But I'd also like to say YIPEEE for the LATE WINTER, EARLY SPRING tab! That is almost like getting a whole new DVD! :-D Ed |
| Ed Stowers
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ed,stowers@si-intl.com Newport news , VA USA - Thursday, January 03, 2008 |