The Steel Guitar Forum

I've concluded, after watching a precocious youth of 5 years jump start a piano flawlessly, that therein lies the answer to impeccable steel guitar performances. The seemingly unattainable levels of playing become problematic for many, who strive to reach for higher goals. The just reward is found in ones own playing style. Delight in the knowledge, that it is yours, and yours alone.

Bill H. <FONT SIZE=1 COLOR="#8e236b"><p align=CENTER>[This message was edited by Bill Hankey on 15 March 2003 at 04:30 AM.]</p></FONT>

It makes sense that the best way to be happy is to be happy with what you do. And that you will perform your best if you are happy with what you are. ON THE OTHER HAND, the greatest accomplishments in the world in all fields of endeavor came from people who were generally not happy and strived for something they saw in their mind that they could never attain. But in the process of striving for the unattainable, they become the icons of their field.

profound!

Jim M.,

I am curious to know if are you still using those modified plated steel finger picks? I am hoping to see you at one of the upcoming shows here in Massachusetts.

Bill H.

Jeff L.

We strive for musical knowledge in much the same way as a rich man strives for his next million. The impetus in either endeavor could overshoot the ambitious goals, which would in turn hamper our progressive achievements. Our capabilities are regulated by individual prowess; nothing more, nothing less.

Bill H.

That precociousness has a lot to recommend it, I think. Youngsters have no preconceptions that an instrument is "hard" or "easy" to play, and just jump right in. The three best musicians I have know personally (2 standard guitarists, 1 pianist) all started by the age of 7 and seem to have a boggling command of their ear and theory, not just the good technique that comes from repetition.

Bill, I'm using .025 dunlop picks with solder towards the end to soften the attack on the strings, I'm due for a trip down to the Mass area, last trip was ages ago at the home club, in hinsdale, but I remember it was a joy to meet you.

What Jeff said.
And "How do you get to Carnagie Hall?"
Practice, practice, practice.
I wouldn't be surprised to see Jeff there someday. But Iridium seems more likely. You go guy!

Additional proof of precociousness is that not all steel guitarists are blessed with the ability to write a steel guitar classic, such as "4 Wheel Drive at age 18." The human voice is a great example of innate precocious blessings. For many the developmental grade is much steeper, as they struggle to progress on the steel guitar.

Bill H.

In the harshest terms, a steel guitarist's capabilities could be referred to in this order. e.g., slow, average, exceptional, and precocious. The entire interaction depends on memory, concentration, determination, fatigue, and a healthy spirit of competitiveness.

Bill H.

And I might add a strong understanding of music theory

pre·co·cious: pri-'kO-shas
1: exceptionally early in development or occurrence
2: exhibiting mature qualities at an unusually early age

Reggie,

And this:

B.E. -Buddy Emmons

P.F. - Paul Franklin

B.E. - Buzz Evans *

* The great one from Las Vegas, and
originally from the Bay state. He will keep you on the edge of your seat. Inimitable self-styled steel guitarist, and Spanish guitarist.

Bill H.

<FONT SIZE=1 COLOR="#8e236b"><p align=CENTER>[This message was edited by Bill Hankey on 19 March 2003 at 08:10 AM.]</p></FONT>