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Acoustic Guitar — Music
Acoustic Guitar

Join us for conversations that explore why we play, collect, build, obsess over guitars and how rewarding it is to make music of our own. Each month, your hosts at Acoustic Guitar magazine connect you with great guitarists – from preeminent pickers and fingerstyle sensations to trailblazing songwriters, luthiers, and the acoustic guitar community at large.

Copyright: © 2024 String Letter Publishing, Inc

Latest Episodes:

Get Recording Ready Sep 25, 2024

It's easier than ever to grab a guitar and a microphone and hit record—but how can you get the most out of your recording session? We sat down with Joe Gore and Molly Miller, both guitarists and studio pros, for a conversation about how to prepare.
Thanks to G7th for sponsoring this episode. Learn about the Performance 3 and the other ranges of G7th capos at www.G7th.com.

Additional resources:

Listen to Part 2 on Patreon.
Visit Molly Miller's website.
Visit Joe Gore's website and watch his video lesson for Acoustic Guitar on developing rhythmic independence in your thumb.
You might also like our "Get Gig Ready" and "Why Should I Plug In?" podcast episodes.
Check out "A Guide to Getting Started with Home Recording" by Doug Young.

The Acoustic Guitar Podcast theme music is composed by Adam Perlmutter and performed for this episode by Joe Gore—entirely on his 2014 Kris Barnett classical guitar. The percussion is thumps and taps on the body. There’s some home recording processing, like added subharmonics for the bass and compression/EQ for the percussion.

This episode is hosted by Nick Grizzle and E.E. Bradman, produced by Tanya Gonzalez, and directed and edited by Joey Lusterman. Executive producers are Lyzy Lusterman and Stephanie Campos Dal Broi.

The Acoustic Guitar Podcast is produced by the team at Acoustic Guitar magazine, including:

Publisher: Lyzy Lusterman
Editorial Director: Adam Perlmutter
Managing Editor: Kevin Owens
Creative Director: Joey Lusterman
Digital Content Director: Stephanie Campos Dal Broi
Digital Content Manager: Nick Grizzle
Marketing Services Manager: Tanya Gonzalez

Support the show

Dave Alvin and Jimmie Dale Gilmore Aug 28, 2024

We catch up with Jimmie Dale Gilmore and Dave Alvin while they’re on the road touring their new album, Texicali. Great collaborators and friends, our guests reflect on writing and playing together, defying genre expectations, acoustic guitars, and (most importantly) having a good time.
Support the show:

Additional Resources:

Visit Dave Alvin's website.
Visit Jimmie Dale Gilmores’s website.
Learn to play Alvin's "King of California" in the May 2007 issue of Acoustic Guitar magazine.
Learn to play "Dallas" by the Flatlanders in the November 1996 issue of Acoustic Guitar magazine.

The Acoustic Guitar Podcast theme music is composed by Adam Perlmutter and performed for this episode by Jeffrey Pepper Rodgers.

This episode is hosted, directed, and edited by Joey Lusterman and produced by Tanya Gonzalez. Executive producers are Lyzy Lusterman and Stephanie Campos Dal Broi.

The Acoustic Guitar Podcast is produced by the team at Acoustic Guitar magazine, including:

Publisher: Lyzy Lusterman
Editorial Director: Adam Perlmutter
Managing Editor: Kevin Owens
Creative Director: Joey Lusterman
Digital Content Director: Stephanie Campos Dal Broi
Digital Content Manager: Nick Grizzle
Marketing Services Manager: Tanya Gonzalez

Support the show

My First Guitar Encore Jul 31, 2024

We launched the Acoustic Guitar Podcast two years ago and the show has grown a lot in that time, thanks to listeners like you! This re-release of our first-ever episode includes Part Two which previously had only been available to our Patreon supporters.

In this episode, we share stories of first guitars. Tune in for renowned musicians Eric Bibb, Bruce Cockburn, Courtney Hartman, Richard Thompson, Badi Assad, Sharon Isbin, and Tommy Emmanuel; heartwarming, inspiring, and surprising tales from the community; plus previously unheard recordings of Doc Watson and Michael Hedges; and Dick Boak demonstrates the first instrument he ever built, long before his storied career with C.F. Martin & Co began.

Additional resources:

Learn more about the artists who shared their stories in this episode:
- Badi Assad, Eric Bibb, Dick Boak, Bruce Cockburn, Tommy Emmanuel, Courtney Hartman, Sharon Isbin, Richard Thompson.
If you want to keep your first (or second, third, or 30th!) guitar in top playing condition, check out the Acoustic Guitar Owner’s Manual and Acoustic Guitar Care & Maintenance guides.
Join our Patreon community to access bonus podcast episodes, exclusive live workshops, and more.

The Acoustic Guitar Podcast theme music is composed by Adam Perlmutter and performed for this episode by Jeffrey Pepper Rodgers.

This episode is hosted by Nick Grizzle and Jeffrey Pepper Rodgers, produced by Tanya Gonzalez, and directed and edited by Joey Lusterman. Executive producers are Lyzy Lusterman and Stephanie Campos Dal Broi.

The Acoustic Guitar Podcast is produced by the team at Acoustic Guitar magazine, including:

Publisher: Lyzy Lusterman
Editorial Director: Adam Perlmutter
Managing Editor: Kevin Owens
Creative Director: Joey Lusterman
Digital Content Director: Stephanie Campos Dal Broi
Digital Content Manager: Nick Grizzle
Marketing Services Manager: Tanya Gonzalez

Special thanks to our listeners who support the show on Patreon.

Support the show

Music Therapy & Guitar Jun 27, 2024

Does playing acoustic guitar provide benefits beyond the joy and satisfaction of making music? Join music wellness specialists Michelle Qureshi and Ian Wilkerson to learn about a range of music therapy experiences and explore the physical, emotional, spiritual, and clinical benefits of playing and listening to acoustic music.

Thank you to Strings By Mail for sponsoring this episode. Explore guitar strings and special offers at stringsbymail.com.

Additional Resources:

Michelle Qureshi is a classically trained guitarist, multi-instrumentalist, composer, Reiki Master, practicing yogi, student of Shamanism, and presenter of sound experiences. Learn more at michellequreshi.com.
Ian Wilkerson is a board certified music therapist, breathwork coach, guitarist, singer-songwriter, and the founder of Bay Area Music Therapy.
Read the "Possible Mechanisms for the Effects of Sound Vibration on Human Health" article referenced in this episode.

Support the show:

The Acoustic Guitar Podcast theme music is composed by Adam Perlmutter and performed for this episode by Jeffrey Pepper Rodgers.

This episode is hosted by Nick Grizzle and E.E. Bradman, produced by Tanya Gonzalez, and directed and edited by Joey Lusterman. Executive producers are Lyzy Lusterman and Stephanie Campos Dal Broi.

The Acoustic Guitar Podcast is produced by the team at Acoustic Guitar magazine, including:

Publisher: Lyzy Lusterman
Editorial Director: Adam Perlmutter
Managing Editor: Kevin Owens
Creative Director: Joey Lusterman
Digital Content Director: Stephanie Campos Dal Broi
Digital Content Manager: Nick Grizzle
Marketing Services Manager: Tanya Gonzalez

Support the show

Shana Cleveland | The Acoustic Guitar Podcast Sessions Jun 12, 2024

Catch up with singer-songwriter (and La Luz lead guitarist) Shana Cleveland in this bonus Acoustic Guitar Sessions episode. We talk shredding, open tunings, playing guitar outside, and enjoy a performance of “Quick Winter Sun” from her latest album, Manzanita.

Support the show:

Join our community on Patreon, where you’ll find bonus podcast episodes, exclusive guitar workshops, and plenty more great perks.
Make a donation on PayPal
Leave a review on Apple Podcasts (This helps other guitarists find the show and helps us. We really appreciate it!)

Support the show

James Elkington & Nathan Salsburg | The Acoustic Guitar Podcast May 29, 2024

Guitarists Nathan Salsburg and James Elkington discuss collaboration, instrumental composition, unusual guitar fragrances, and their new album, All Gist.

Thank you to Strings By Mail for sponsoring this episode. Explore guitar strings and special offers at stringsbymail.com.

Additional Resources:

Order All Gist on Bandcamp.
Visit James Elkington's website.
Read our 2018 "Guitar Talk" interview with Elkington.
Watch our 2018 Acoustic Guitar Sessions video with Salsburg.
Learn to play Nathan Salsburg’s “B.B.” - a melodic instrumental with an unusual origin.

Support the show:

The Acoustic Guitar Podcast theme music is composed by Adam Perlmutter and performed for this episode by Jeffrey Pepper Rodgers.

This episode is hosted by Nick Grizzle, produced by Tanya Gonzalez, and directed and edited by Joey Lusterman. Executive producers are Lyzy Lusterman and Stephanie Campos Dal Broi.

The Acoustic Guitar Podcast is produced by the team at Acoustic Guitar magazine, including:

Publisher: Lyzy Lusterman
Editorial Director: Adam Perlmutter
Managing Editor: Kevin Owens
Creative Director: Joey Lusterman
Digital Content Director: Stephanie Campos Dal Broi
Digital Content Manager: Nick Grizzle
Marketing Services Manager: Tanya Gonzalez

Support the show

Katherine Priddy | The Acoustic Guitar Podcast Sessions May 08, 2024

Catch up with folk singer-songwriter Katherine Priddy in this bonus Acoustic Guitar Sessions episode. We talk family, guitars, touring with Richard Thompson, and enjoy a performance of “Father of Two” from her latest album The Pendulum Swing.

Support the show:

Join our community on Patreon, where you’ll find bonus podcast episodes, exclusive guitar workshops, and plenty more great perks.
Make a donation on PayPal
Leave a review on Apple Podcasts (This helps other guitarists find the show and helps us. We really appreciate it.)

Support the show

Tips on Tone Apr 24, 2024

You've probably heard the old adage that "tone is in the hands." But what does that really mean? And what makes tone good? We asked 14 prominent acoustic guitarists to weigh in, and got 14 unique responses. You'll want to listen with a notebook in hand, because this episode is a treasure trove of practical advice, musical examples, insights, and exercises to try.

Thanks to Henriksen Amplifiers for sponsoring this episode. For demo videos and more information, visit www.HenriksenAmplifiers.com or follow on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.

Additional resources:

Learn more about our guests: Abigail Dowd, Amber Russell, Chris Pierce, Eric Skye, Jason Vieaux, Lisa Liu, Maddie Witler, Pete Madsen, Raye Zaragoza, Ron Jackson, Sarah McQuaid, Sean McGowan, Tim Bertsch, and Valerie Turner.
Read "15 Acoustic Guitar Pros Share Tips on Tone" from the January 2017 issue of Acoustic Guitar magazine.
Check out our popular Weekly Workout series for interesting technical workouts that will get your fretting- and picking-hand fingers working in different ways.

Our intro music for this episode was the Prelude from Bach's Cello Suite No. 1, performed by Sean McGowan.

This episode is hosted by Nick Grizzle, produced by Tanya Gonzalez, and directed and edited by Joey Lusterman. Executive producers are Lyzy Lusterman and Stephanie Campos Dal Broi.

The Acoustic Guitar Podcast is produced by the team at Acoustic Guitar magazine, including:

Publisher: Lyzy Lusterman
Editorial Director: Adam Perlmutter
Managing Editor: Kevin Owens
Creative Director: Joey Lusterman
Digital Content Director: Stephanie Campos Dal Broi
Digital Content Manager: Nick Grizzle
Marketing Services Manager: Tanya Gonzalez

Special thanks to our listeners who support the show on Patreon.

Support the show

Naima Bock | The Acoustic Guitar Podcast Sessions Apr 11, 2024

Catch up with singer-songwriter Naima Bock in this bonus Acoustic Guitar Sessions episode. We enjoy an impromptu performance of a new song—“Showers”—then discuss Bock’s roots in Brazilian and British folk music and get a rundown of her guitars and gear. Listen to her album Giant Palm and visit NaimaBock.com to learn more.

Support the show:

Join our community on Patreon, where you’ll find bonus podcast episodes, exclusive guitar workshops, and plenty more great perks.
Make a donation on PayPal
Leave a review on Apple Podcasts (This helps other guitarists find the show and helps us. We really appreciate it.)

Support the show

Alejandro Escovedo Mar 27, 2024

We caught up with Alejandro Escovedo ahead of the release of Echo Dancing – his latest album in a legendary, genre-expansive career. Escovedo candidly discusses how painful personal experiences inform his songwriting, how he first picked up the guitar, why he prefers to play acoustic, and what makes Austin, Texas a great town for songwriters.

Support the show:

Listen to Part 2 on Patreon to learn about the guitars and gear Escovedo tours with, his memories of touring with John Prine, and how music can get us through hard times.
Make a donation on PayPal
Give a rating and review

Additional Resources:

Pre-order Echo Dancing on Bandcamp (or check your local record store or preferred music streaming platforms on March 29.)
Visit Alejandro Escovedo's website.
Watch our 2016 Acoustic Guitar Sessions video with Escovedo.
Read "Six-String Sagas" where 13 artists, including Alejandro Escovedo, share their guitar stories.

The Acoustic Guitar Podcast theme music is composed by Adam Perlmutter and performed for this episode by Jeffrey Pepper Rodgers.

This episode is hosted by Nick Grizzle and Jeffrey Pepper Rodgers, produced by Tanya Gonzalez, and directed and edited by Joey Lusterman. Executive producers are Lyzy Lusterman and Stephanie Campos Dal Broi.

The Acoustic Guitar Podcast is produced by the team at Acoustic Guitar magazine, including:

Publisher: Lyzy Lusterman
Editorial Director: Adam Perlmutter
Managing Editor: Kevin Owens
Creative Director: Joey Lusterman
Digital Content Director: Stephanie Campos Dal Broi
Digital Content Manager: Nick Grizzle
Marketing Services Manager: Tanya Gonzalez

Special thanks to our listeners who support the show on Patreon.

Support the show

Flyte | The Acoustic Guitar Podcast Sessions Mar 20, 2024

Catch up with London-based indie folk duo Flyte in this bonus Acoustic Guitar Sessions episode. We talk first and favorite guitars, writing for two voices, and enjoy a performance of “Chelsea Smiles” from their latest album. Visit Flyte’s website to hear more of their music.

Support the show:

Join our community on Patreon, where you’ll find bonus podcast episodes, exclusive guitar workshops, and plenty more great perks.
Make a donation on PayPal
Leave a review on Apple Podcasts (This helps other guitarists find the show and helps us. We really appreciate it.)

Support the show

Songwriting Competitions Feb 28, 2024

How does competition fit into the creative process? We're joined by Abby Posner, Rachel Garcia, and Thu Tran for a candid roundtable discussion all about songwriting competitions. Explore the highs and lows of participating in these events, how to pick which song to enter, and the impact contests can have on a guitarist's career.

Additional resources:

Listen to Part 2 on Patreon.
Visit Abby Posner’s website and watch the video for "Get Loud" - her 2023 USA Songwriting Competition grand prize winning song. Her latest album is Second Chances.
Visit the Singer and the Songwriter's website and listen to "The Art of Missing You" - their West Coast Songwriters International Song Contest winner. Their latest album is In the Bleak Midwinter.
Visit Jeffrey Pepper Rodger's website for an inside look at his song "Fly" - a grand prize winner of the John Lennon Songwriting Contest.
Learn more about the contests mentioned in this episode: John Lennon Songwriting Competition, Kerrville's Grassy Hill New Folk Competition, NewSong Music Performance & Songwriting Competition, USA Songwriting Competition, West Coast Songwriters International Song Contest.

The Acoustic Guitar Podcast theme music is composed by Adam Perlmutter and performed for this episode by Thu Tran.

This episode is hosted by Nick Grizzle and Jeffrey Pepper Rodgers, produced by Tanya Gonzalez, and directed and edited by Joey Lusterman. Executive producers are Lyzy Lusterman and Stephanie Campos Dal Broi.

The Acoustic Guitar Podcast is produced by the team at Acoustic Guitar magazine, including:

Publisher: Lyzy Lusterman
Editorial Director: Adam Perlmutter
Managing Editor: Kevin Owens
Creative Director: Joey Lusterman
Digital Content Director: Stephanie Campos Dal Broi
Digital Content Manager: Nick Grizzle
Marketing Services Manager: Tanya Gonzalez

Special thanks to our listeners who support the show on Patreon.

Support the show

Fab Four on Six Strings | The Acoustic Guitar Podcast Spotlight on the Beatles Jan 31, 2024

Like so many musicians of a certain generation, our guests started playing guitar in large part because of the Beatles. Today, Laurence Juber, Mimi Fox, and Tim Sparks each take a different approach to arranging, adapting, reharmonizing, and reimagining these tunes. Tune in for a lively roundtable discussion, chock-full of inspiring musical examples, all about playing the music of the Beatles on acoustic guitar.

Additional resources:

Access Part 2 of this episode on Patreon.
Visit Laurence Juber's website. Watch his Acoustic Guitar Sessions performance and pick up a copy of DADGAD Guitar Essentials to take an in-depth lesson with the fingerstyle master.
Visit Mimi Fox's website. Watch her perform “Blackbird” for Acoustic Guitar Sessions.
Visit Tim Spark's website. Learn how he arranged composer John Zorn’s avant-jazz project Masadafor acoustic guitar.

This episode is hosted by Nick Grizzle and Jeffrey Pepper Rodgers, produced by Tanya Gonzalez, and directed and edited by Joey Lusterman. Executive producers are Lyzy Lusterman and Stephanie Campos Dal Broi.

The Acoustic Guitar Podcast is produced by the team at Acoustic Guitar magazine, including:

Publisher: Lyzy Lusterman
Editorial Director: Adam Perlmutter
Managing Editor: Kevin Owens
Creative Director: Joey Lusterman
Digital Content Director: Stephanie Campos Dal Broi
Digital Content Manager: Nick Grizzle
Marketing Services Manager: Tanya Gonzalez

Special thanks to our listeners who support the show on Patreon.

Support the show

Get Gig Ready Dec 27, 2023

From the Newport Folk Festival to art museums in Norway and every open mic, stadium, and radio station in between – if it’s a gig, Pieta Brown, Christopher Paul Stelling, and Sean Rowe are ready for it! This roundtable of well-traveled acoustic guitarists has played tons of shows across the globe – and are here to share insights, stories, laughs, and ideas to get you ready to play out, too.

Additional resources:

Listen to Part 2, where our guests share gig horror stories and advice for guitarists just starting out.
Visit Pieta Brown's website and watch this Acoustic Guitar Sessions video for an intimate performance and to learn about her childhood, her family, and her guitars.
Visit Christopher Paul Stelling's website and read his interview with Ben Harper about songwriting, guitars, and growing up in a famous music store. Watch his latest Sessions video, too.
Visit Sean Rowe's website and watch his Acoustic Guitar Sessions performance, which features a trifecta of songs including a moving version of the Sade's “By Your Side.”

The Acoustic Guitar Podcast theme music is composed by Adam Perlmutter and performed for this episode by Jeffrey Pepper Rodgers.

This episode is hosted by Nick Grizzle and Gretchen Menn, produced by Tanya Gonzalez, and directed and edited by Joey Lusterman. Executive producers are Lyzy Lusterman and Stephanie Campos Dal Broi.

The Acoustic Guitar Podcast is produced by the team at Acoustic Guitar magazine, including:

Publisher: Lyzy Lusterman
Editorial Director: Adam Perlmutter
Managing Editor: Kevin Owens
Creative Director: Joey Lusterman
Digital Content Director: Stephanie Campos Dal Broi
Digital Content Manager: Nick Grizzle
Marketing Services Manager: Tanya Gonzalez

Special thanks to our listeners who support the show on Patreon.

Support the show

Nickel Creek Nov 29, 2023

Catch up with one of your favorite bluegrass bands! Sara Watkins, Sean Watkins, and Chris Thile discuss breathing new life into classic tunes, what their kids really think of their music, and a whole lot more.

This episode is sponsored by ToneWoodAmp, a magnetically attached game-changing multi-effects device for acoustic guitars. Get reverb, delay, and more—no amp required! Learn more at tonewoodamp.com.

Additional resources:

Access Part 2 of this episode on Patreon.
Listen to Celebrants via Amazon, Bandcamp, or others.
Jeffrey Pepper Rodgers teaches you how to play guitar like Nickel Creek's Sean Watkins and interviewed the band for the July-August 2023 issue of Acoustic Guitar magazine.
You'll find music to play for "This Side" in our 2002 Digital Archive and Chris Thile's "On Ice" in our 2005 Digital Archive.
Read a profile of the Watkins Family Hour on the site of our sister publication, Strings magazine.

The Acoustic Guitar Podcast theme music is composed by Adam Perlmutter and performed for this episode by Jeffrey Pepper Rodgers.

This episode is hosted by Nick Grizzle and Jeffrey Pepper Rodgers, produced by Tanya Gonzalez, and directed and edited by Joey Lusterman. Executive producers are Lyzy Lusterman and Stephanie Campos Dal Broi.

The Acoustic Guitar Podcast is produced by the team at Acoustic Guitar magazine, including:

Publisher: Lyzy Lusterman
Editorial Director: Adam Perlmutter
Managing Editor: Kevin Owens
Creative Director: Joey Lusterman
Digital Content Director: Stephanie Campos Dal Broi
Digital Content Manager: Nick Grizzle
Marketing Services Manager: Tanya Gonzalez

Support the show

Solo Guitar Composition Oct 26, 2023

In this roundtable discussion, Diego Figueiredo, Gwenifer Raymond, and Yasmin Williams share their unique perspectives on composing for solo guitar. Through conversation and inspiring demonstrations, our guests explore the differences between improvising and refining a piece, techniques for making one guitar feel like a full band, and more.

This episode is sponsored by ToneWoodAmp, a magnetically attached game-changing multi-effects device for acoustic guitars. Get reverb, delay, and more—no amp required! Learn more at tonewoodamp.com.

Additional resources:

Listen to Part 2, where our guests discuss first songs, life-changing compositions, favorite tunings, and advice for finding your own voice on guitar.
Visit Diego Figueiredo's website and watch this Acoustic Guitar Sessions video for his lightning-fast performance of the bossa nova standard, “One Note Samba.”
Visit Gwenifer Raymond's website and watch her video lesson on how to play John Fahey's "Uncloudy Day."
Visit Yasmin William's website and learn to play one of her compositions, "New Beginnings," a contemplative study in open-D tuning. Learn more about her unique Skytop Grand Concert built by luthier Eric Weigeshoff.

The Acoustic Guitar Podcast theme music is composed by Adam Perlmutter and performed for this episode by Gwenifer Raymond.

This episode is hosted by Nick Grizzle, produced by Tanya Gonzalez, and directed and edited by Joey Lusterman. Executive producers are Lyzy Lusterman and Stephanie Campos Dal Broi.

The Acoustic Guitar Podcast is produced by the team at Acoustic Guitar magazine, including:

Publisher: Lyzy Lusterman
Editorial Director: Adam Perlmutter
Managing Editor: Kevin Owens
Creative Director: Joey Lusterman
Digital Content Director: Stephanie Campos Dal Broi
Digital Content Manager: Nick Grizzle
Marketing Services Manager: Tanya Gonzalez

Support the show

Eric Johnson and Gretchen Menn Sep 27, 2023

While both our guests are lauded for their electric guitar chops, this episode is all about playing unplugged. Join Eric Johnson and Gretchen Menn for a wide-ranging conversation exploring ego, joy, musical growth, and how to get good tone. (Hint: it's about a lot more than gear!)

Thanks to ToneWoodAmp for sponsoring this episode. Learn more about their magnetically attached, game-changing multi-effects device for acoustic guitars at tonewoodamp.com — get reverb, delay, and more, no amp required!

Additional resources:

Check out Eric Johnson's website.
Read this interview with Eric Johnson, which was the cover story of the February 2017 issue of Acoustic Guitar magazine.
Check out Gretchen Menn's website.
Order a copy of The Way Music Works and Reading Between The Lines: The Acoustic Guitar Guide to Musical Literacy, both by Gretchen Menn.

Support the show:

The Acoustic Guitar Podcast theme music is composed by Adam Perlmutter and performed for this episode by Jeffrey Pepper Rodgers.

This episode is hosted by Nick Grizzle, produced by Tanya Gonzalez, and directed and edited by Joey Lusterman. Executive producers are Lyzy Lusterman and Stephanie Campos Dal Broi.

The Acoustic Guitar Podcast is produced by the team at Acoustic Guitar magazine, including:

Publisher: Lyzy Lusterman
Editorial Director: Adam Perlmutter
Managing Editor: Kevin Owens
Creative Director: Joey Lusterman
Digital Content Director: Stephanie Campos Dal Broi
Digital Content Manager: Nick Grizzle
Marketing Services Manager: Tanya Gonzalez

Special thanks to our listeners who support the show on Patreon.

Support the show

Ask the Experts Aug 30, 2023

Go behind the workbench to explore the unique challenges and joys of guitar repair and restoration!
What do Dana Bourgeois, Mamie Minch, and Martin Keith have in common? They’ve all been the author behind Acoustic Guitar magazine’s question-and-answer column “Ask the Expert,” for one. Now we find out what these guitar experts wish more people would ask about their instruments, and what advice they have for you.
Support the show:

Listen to Part 2 on Patreon to hear some hair-raising repair horror stories, plus get actionable advice for you and your guitars.
Make a one-time contribution to the show on PayPal.
Leave a review on Apple Podcasts (This helps other guitarists find the show and helps us. We really appreciate it!)

Additional resources:

Dana Bourgeois founded Bourgeois Guitars in 1974. He recently completed his 10,000th guitar, a custom OM Style 45.
Mamie Minch is the co-owner of Brooklyn Lutherie and an active blues player.
Martin Keith is a luthier, repair and restoration expert, and working musician.
Read a selection of past Ask the Expert articles.
Visit Frank Ford’s frets.com.
Get a copy of the Acoustic Guitar Owner’s Manual or download the complete edition of Acoustic Guitar Care & Maintenance.

The Acoustic Guitar Podcast theme music is composed by Adam Perlmutter and performed for this episode by Jeffrey Pepper Rodgers.

This episode is hosted by Nick Grizzle, produced by Tanya Gonzalez, and directed and edited by Joey Lusterman. Executive producers are Lyzy Lusterman and Stephanie Campos Dal Broi.

The Acoustic Guitar Podcast is produced by the team at Acoustic Guitar magazine, including:

Publisher: Lyzy Lusterman
Editorial Director: Adam Perlmutter
Managing Editor: Kevin Owens
Creative Director: Joey Lusterman
Digital Content Director: Stephanie Campos Dal Broi
Digital Content Manager: Nick Grizzle
Marketing Services Manager: Tanya Gonzalez

Special thanks to our listeners who support the show on Patreon.

Support the show

Bruce Cockburn Jul 26, 2023

We sat down with Bruce Cockburn after the release of O Sun O Moon – his latest album in a distinguished career spanning five decades. Cockburn discusses creativity, guitars, songwriting, and even gives us a lesson in EADGAD tuning.

Support the show:

Additional resources:

Listen to O Sun O Moon on Amazon, Apple, or Spotify.
Check out Bruce Cockburn's website.
Watch our 2015 Acoustic Guitar Sessions video with Cockburn.
Order a copy of Play Guitar Like the Great Singer-Songwriters and explore the styles of Cockburn and 13 other great guitarists.

The Acoustic Guitar Podcast theme music is composed by Adam Perlmutter and performed for this episode by Bruce Cockburn.

This episode is hosted by Nick Grizzle and Jeffrey Pepper Rogers, produced by Tanya Gonzalez, and directed and edited by Joey Lusterman. Executive producers are Lyzy Lusterman and Stephanie Campos Dal Broi.

The Acoustic Guitar Podcast is produced by the team at Acoustic Guitar magazine, including:

Publisher: Lyzy Lusterman
Editorial Director: Adam Perlmutter
Managing Editor: Kevin Owens
Creative Director: Joey Lusterman
Digital Content Director: Stephanie Campos Dal Broi
Digital Content Manager: Nick Grizzle
Marketing Services Manager: Tanya Gonzalez

Special thanks to our listeners who support the show on Patreon.

Support the show

My First Guitar, Luthier Edition Jun 28, 2023

It’s our first birthday! If you’ve been listening since the beginning, you remember "My First Guitar," where we heard stories from some incredible players. Now we bring you the luthier edition, with 15 outstanding makers reflecting on what they learned from and loved about building their first guitars.

The Acoustic Guitar Podcast is a listener-supported show:

Additional Resources:

Learn more about the luthiers who generously shared their stories in this episode:
- Bob Benedetto; Dana Bourgeois; Leo Buendia; Monica Esparza; Jayne Henderson; Kenny Hill; Isaac Jang; Joshia de Jonge; William "Grit" Laskin; Linda Manzer; Raymond Morin; Steve Nall; Shelley Park; Rachel Rosenkrantz; Erich Solomon.
Scroll through the gallery of first guitar photos.
Explore our library of stories on guitarmakers and guitarmaking.

The Acoustic Guitar Podcast theme music is composed by Adam Perlmutter and performed for this episode by Jeffrey Pepper Rodgers.

This episode is hosted by Nick Grizzle, produced by Tanya Gonzalez, and directed and edited by Joey Lusterman. Executive producers are Lyzy Lusterman and Stephanie Campos Dal Broi.

The Acoustic Guitar Podcast is produced by the team at Acoustic Guitar magazine, including:

Publisher: Lyzy Lusterman
Editorial Director: Adam Perlmutter
Managing Editor: Kevin Owens
Creative Director: Joey Lusterman
Digital Content Director: Stephanie Campos Dal Broi
Digital Content Manager: Nick Grizzle
Marketing Services Manager: Tanya Gonzalez

Special thanks to our listeners who support the show on Patreon.

Support the show

Badi Assad Jun 01, 2023

Tune in for a fascinating conversation – plus inspiring demonstrations – with nylon-string guitarist and singer Badi Assad. We talk composing and arranging, how to sing and play at the same time, and the importance of emotion and experimentation.

Support the show:

Listen to Part 2 on Patreon, where Assad explores her approach to re-interpreting pop songs on guitar.
Make a donation on PayPal
Give a rating and review

Additional resources:

Listen to Ilha on Amazon, Apple, or Spotify.
Check out Badi Assad's website.
Watch her Acoustic Guitar Sessions videos.
Find the music for Assad's composition "Farewell" in theAcoustic Guitar archives.

This episode is hosted by Nick Grizzle and Elton Bradman, produced by Tanya Gonzalez, and directed and edited by Joey Lusterman. Executive producers are Lyzy Lusterman and Stephanie Campos Dal Broi.

The Acoustic Guitar Podcast is produced by the team at Acoustic Guitar magazine, including:

Publisher: Lyzy Lusterman
Editorial Director: Adam Perlmutter
Managing Editor: Kevin Owens
Creative Director: Joey Lusterman
Digital Content Director: Stephanie Campos Dal Broi
Digital Content Manager: Nick Grizzle
Marketing Services Manager: Tanya Gonzalez

Special thanks to our listeners who support the show on Patreon.

Support the show

Doc Watson Memories May 17, 2023

To celebrate 100 years of Arthel Lane “Doc” Watson, we invited 11 distinguished guests to share their stories and reflect on his legacy. You'll hear from a range of talented musicians, producers, and makers—including bluegrass titan Peter Rowan, monumental mandolinist Sierra Hull, flatpicking ace David Grier, and more. From poignant memories to laugh-out-loud moments, we explore this great guitarist’s far-reaching and enduring influence on roots music and our lives.

Support the show:

Join our community on Patreon
Make a one-time donation on PayPal
Leave a review on Apple Podcasts (This helps other guitarists find the show and helps us. We really appreciate it!)

Thanks to our guests: Alan Barnosky; B Townes; Beppe Gambetta; David Grier; David Mathis; John Leventhal; Lindsay Craven; Mitch Greenhill; Peter Rowan; Sierra Hull; Tommy Emmanuel.

Additional Resources:

Read this 1993 interview with Doc Watson from the Acoustic Guitar archives.
Take a flatpicking master class with Alan Barnosky, where you'll learn to think and play like the greats, including Watson.
Learn more about Merlefest.
Learn more about the Doc Watson Signature Model from Gallagher Guitar.

Recommended Listening:

The Acoustic Guitar Podcast theme music is composed by Adam Perlmutter and performed for this episode by Alan Barnosky.

This episode is hosted by Nick Grizzle, produced by Tanya Gonzalez, and directed and edited by Joey Lusterman. Executive producers are Lyzy Lusterman and Stephanie Campos Dal Broi.

The Acoustic Guitar Podcast is produced by the team at Acoustic Guitar magazine, including:

Publisher: Lyzy Lusterman
Editorial Director: Adam Perlmutter
Managing Editor: Kevin Owens
Creative Director: Joey Lusterman
Digital Content Director: Stephanie Campos Dal Broi
Digital Content Manager: Nick Grizzle
Marketing Services Manager: Tanya Gonzalez

Special thanks to our listeners who support the show on Patreon.

Support the show

Dom Flemons Apr 26, 2023

Join us for an illuminating discussion about the past and present of roots music with the American Songster himself: Dom Flemons. We explore the history behind the songs and instruments he's collected, his new album, Bob Dylan, and a whole lot more.

Support the show:

Listen to Part 2 on Patreon, and learn how to incorporate traditional music into your set lists.
Make a donation on PayPal
Post a review (this helps more guitarists find the show - we really appreciate it!)

Additional resources:

Check out Dom Flemons' website (and see if he's performing near you.)
Listen to Traveling Wildfire and American Songster Radio.
Watch Dom Flemons play "Too Long I've Been Gone" on his custom Fraulini Angelina for Acoustic Guitar Sessions.

The Acoustic Guitar Podcast theme music is composed by Adam Perlmutter and performed for this episode by Jeffrey Pepper Rodgers.

This episode is hosted by Nick Grizzle, produced by Tanya Gonzalez, and directed and edited by Joey Lusterman. Executive producers are Lyzy Lusterman and Stephanie Campos Dal Broi.

The Acoustic Guitar Podcast is produced by the team at Acoustic Guitar magazine, including:

Publisher: Lyzy Lusterman
Editorial Director: Adam Perlmutter
Managing Editor: Kevin Owens
Senior Editor: Blair Jackson
Creative Director: Joey Lusterman
Digital Content Director: Stephanie Campos Dal Broi
Digital Content Manager: Nick Grizzle
Marketing Services Manager: Tanya Gonzalez

Special thanks to our listeners who support the show on Patreon.

Support the show

Kaki King Apr 12, 2023

Join us for a lively, honest conversation with boundary-pushing guitarist Kaki King. Learn how she develops new tunings, the story behind the passerelle bridge, and why the third-to-last show is always the best performance of a tour.

Thanks to Elixir® Strings for sponsoring this episode. Get a set today at ElixirStrings.com.

Support the show:

Additional resources:

Visit Kaki King's website.
Watch her 2016 Acoustic Guitar Sessions performance.
Learn to play "Ingots" from Legs to Make Us Longer.

The Acoustic Guitar Podcast theme music is composed by Adam Perlmutter and performed for this episode by Jamie Stillway.

This episode is hosted by Nick Grizzle and Jamie Stillway, produced by Tanya Gonzalez, and directed and edited by Joey Lusterman. Executive producers are Lyzy Lusterman and Stephanie Campos Dal Broi.

The Acoustic Guitar Podcast is produced by the team at Acoustic Guitar magazine, including:

Publisher: Lyzy Lusterman
Editor: Adam Perlmutter
Managing Editor: Kevin Owens
Senior Editor: Blair Jackson
Creative Director: Joey Lusterman
Digital Content Director: Stephanie Campos Dal Broi
Digital Content Manager: Nick Grizzle
Marketing Services Manager: Tanya Gonzalez

Special thanks to our listeners who support the show on Patreon.

Support the show

Writing Songs with Sunny War, Madison Cunningham, and Adam Levy Mar 29, 2023

Join our illustrious panel for an in-depth conversation on songwriting. Each of our guests has a unique perspective and process – Sunny War forged her singular folk-punk style busking on the Venice Beach Boardwalk; Madison Cunningham won this year’s Grammy for Best Roots Performance; Adam Levy is a songwriter and guitarist who’s worked with Norah Jones, Tracy Chapman, and many others. What they all have in common is commitment to their craft and the belief that you can write songs, too.

Thanks to PRS Guitars for sponsoring this episode. Check out PRS Guitars' full-line of acoustics at www.prsguitars.com/products/se_acoustics.

Support the show:

Listen to Part 2 on Patreon, where our guests discuss how and when to share songs-in-progress, co-writing, and more. Plus, Sunny War shares the first song she ever wrote as a kid (spoiler alert: it’s a real banger!)
Make a one-time contribution to the show on Paypal
Leave a review on Apple Podcasts (This helps other guitarists find the show and helps us. We really appreciate it!)

Additional resources:

Learn more about Sunny War at her website and read our 2018 profile here. Listen to Anarchist Gospel.
Learn more about Madison Cunningham at her website and learn to play her song “Life According to Raechel.” Listen to Revealer.
Learn more about Adam Levy at his website and learn to play his composition “Clandestino (Elegy for a Cheesemonger).” Listen to Marie (EP).
Check out our book Play Guitar Like the Great Singer-Songwriters (featuring lessons by Adam Levy, Jeffrey Pepper Rodgers, and other great teachers).
Download Songwriting Basics for Guitarists

The Acoustic Guitar Podcast theme music is composed by Adam Perlmutter and performed for this episode by Adam Levy.

This episode is hosted by Nick Grizzle and Jeffrey Pepper Rodgers, produced by Tanya Gonzalez, and directed and edited by Joey Lusterman. Executive producers are Lyzy Lusterman and Stephanie Campos Dal Broi.

The Acoustic Guitar Podcast is produced by the team at Acoustic Guitar magazine, including:

Publisher: Lyzy Lusterman
Editor: Adam Perlmutter
Managing Editor: Kevin Owens
Senior Editor: Blair Jackson
Creative Director: Joey Lusterman
Digital Content Director: Stephanie Campos Dal Broi
Digital Content Manager: Nick Grizzle
Marketing Services Manager: Tanya Gonzalez

Support the show

Students of Segovia Feb 22, 2023

Andrés Segovia was born on February 21, 1893. To mark his 130th birthday, we spoke with three contemporary guitarists who each studied with the Maestro: Lily Afshar, Liona Boyd, and Michael Chapdelaine. Each of our guests shares their unique (or infamous) experience and how playing for Segovia when they were students impacts the way they see music today.

Support the show:

Listen to Part 2 on Patreon, where Liona Boyd and Michael Chapdelaine debate what Segovia’s legacy will be in another hundred years.
Make a one-time donation on PayPal
Leave a review on Apple Podcasts (This helps other guitarists find the show and helps us. We really appreciate it!)

Additional resources:

Learn more about Lily Afshar at her website and read her “Letter from Tehran” here.
Learn more about Liona Boyd at her website and read about the ups and downs of her journey with focal dystonia.
Learn more about Michael Chapdelaine at his website and check out his “Steel-String Guitarist’s Introduction to Nylon-String Techniques and Repertoire” and video lesson on how to play the classical guitar standard “Romanza.”
From the Classical Guitar magazine archive, a 17-part centenary celebration of Segovia.

The Acoustic Guitar Podcast theme music is composed by Adam Perlmutter and performed for this episode by Jeffrey Pepper Rodgers.

This episode is hosted by Nick Grizzle and Blair Jackson, produced by Tanya Gonzalez, and directed and edited by Joey Lusterman. Executive producers are Lyzy Lusterman and Stephanie Campos Dal Broi.

The Acoustic Guitar Podcast is produced by the team at Acoustic Guitar magazine, including:

Publisher: Lyzy Lusterman
Editor: Adam Perlmutter
Managing Editor: Kevin Owens
Senior Editor: Blair Jackson
Creative Director: Joey Lusterman
Digital Content Director: Stephanie Campos Dal Broi
Digital Content Manager: Nick Grizzle
Marketing Services Manager: Tanya Gonzalez

Special thanks to our listeners who support the show on Patreon.

Support the show

Steve James Jan 25, 2023

Join us for a rollicking conversation and to hear some original tunes performed by the late legendary roots-and-blues raconteur Steve James.

In this episode, he shares stories and insights about his guitars and guitar heroes, treats us to some favorite songs and explains the writing process behind them, and entertains and educates us in the way that only Steve James can.

Please note: James passed away in January 2023; this recording session took place in August 2022. Read more about the life of this great musician and our cherished friend here.

Additional resources:

Listen to Part 2 of this episode, where you’ll hear more stories from the road and more songs.
Explore our book collaborations in the Essential Steve James collection.
Buy albums through Hobemian Records and Antone’s Records (or stream on Spotify or Apple Music.)
Learn more about the National Guitars ResoRocket.

You'll find expanded show notes, including photos and articles, on AcousticGuitar.com.
This episode is hosted by Nick Grizzle and David Lusterman, produced by Tanya Gonzalez, and directed and edited by Joey Lusterman. Executive producers are Lyzy Lusterman and Stephanie Campos Dal Broi.

The Acoustic Guitar Podcast is brought to you by the team at Acoustic Guitar magazine, including:

Publisher: Lyzy Lusterman
Editor: Adam Perlmutter
Managing Editor: Kevin Owens
Senior Editor: Blair Jackson
Creative Director: Joey Lusterman
Digital Content Director: Stephanie Campos Dal Broi
Digital Content Manager: Nick Grizzle
Marketing Services Manager: Tanya Gonzalez

Special thanks to our listeners who support the show on Patreon.

Support the show

Achieve Your Guitar Goals Dec 28, 2022

Let’s talk about New Year’s resolutions. Want to make the leap from beginning to intermediate player? Feel more confident soloing? Whatever intention you set, this episode offers not-to-be-missed tips and ideas for making 2023 your best year of guitar yet. Our panel of experts – featuring David Hamburger and Marlene Hutchinson – shares practical advice for setting, measuring, and achieving your guitar goals.

Support the show:

Listen to Part 2 on Patreon – this time, it’s unlocked and free for everyone! Happy new year!
Leave a review on Apple Podcasts (This helps other guitarists find the show and helps us. We really appreciate it!)

Additional resources:

David Hamburger’s website. Check out The Acoustic Guitar Method books andAcoustic Guitar Slide Basics, plus his lesson series at fretboardconfidential.com.
Marlene Hutchinson’s website. Also check out her Learn to Play Guitar in a Day course and Tips for Guitar Playing Success podcast.

The Acoustic Guitar Podcast theme music is composed by Adam Perlmutter and performed for this episode by David Hamburger.
This episode is hosted by Nick Grizzle and Jamie Stillway, produced by Tanya Gonzalez, and directed and edited by Joey Lusterman. Executive producers are Lyzy Lusterman and Stephanie Campos Dal Broi.

The Acoustic Guitar Podcast is produced by the team at Acoustic Guitar magazine, including:

Publisher: Lyzy Lusterman
Editor: Adam Perlmutter
Managing Editor: Kevin Owens
Senior Editor: Blair Jackson
Creative Director: Joey Lusterman
Digital Content Director: Stephanie Campos Dal Broi
Digital Content Manager: Nick Grizzle
Marketing Services Manager: Tanya Gonzalez

Special thanks to our listeners who support the show on Patreon.

Support the show

Shop Visit: Independent Guitar Stores Dec 08, 2022

Take a virtual road trip across the United States to visit four independent guitar stores and learn what makes them vital to the communities they serve. As you’ll hear, each of these shops is more than just a retail outlet – and each of these shopkeepers has a unique perspective on why that is and what to look forward to in the future.

Catch up with Richard Johnston of Gryphon Stringed Instruments in Palo Alto, California; Stan and Lillian Werbin of Elderly Instruments in Lansing, Michigan; Raymond Morin of Acoustic Music Works in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; and George Gruhn of Gruhn Guitars in Nashville, Tennessee.

We’re releasing this episode during peak holiday shopping season for a reason. Please visit your local music store for all your gifting needs (or to treat yourself!) When you buy from local, independently owned businesses, 29.3% of the revenue is recirculated into the local economy (as opposed to 5.8% from Amazon.) And, please leave a comment on our website to give a shout out to your favorite store, wherever you live!

Support the show:

Join our community on Patreon, where you’ll find bonus podcast episodes, guitar lessons, and plenty more great perks.
Make a donation on PayPal
Leave a review on Apple Podcasts (This helps other guitarists find the show and helps us. We really appreciate it!)

Additional resources:

Acoustic Music Works (2142 Murray Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15217)
Elderly Instruments (1100 N Washington Ave, Lansing, MI 48906)
Gruhn Guitars (2120 8th Ave S, Nashville, TN 37204)
Gryphon Stringed Instruments (211 Lambert Ave, Palo Alto, CA 94306)
If you’re shopping for a guitar, you might be interested in our guide to identifying acoustic guitar shapes and sizes. Also check out “Ask the Expert: Why Does My New Guitar Need a Setup?” and “How to Shop for a Used Guitar.”

The Acoustic Guitar Podcast theme music is composed by Adam Perlmutter and performed for this episode by Jeffrey Pepper Rodgers.

This episode is hosted by Nick Grizzle and Elton Bradman, produced by Tanya Gonzalez, and directed and edited by Joey Lusterman. Executive producers are Lyzy Lusterman and Stephanie Campos Dal Broi.

The Acoustic Guitar Podcast is produced by the team at Acoustic Guitar magazine, including:

Publisher: Lyzy Lusterman
Editor: Adam Perlmutter
Managing Editor: Kevin Owens
Senior Editor: Blair Jackson
Creative Director: Joey Lusterman
Digital Content Director: Stephanie Campos Dal Broi
Digital Content Manager: Nick Grizzle
Marketing Services Manager: Tanya Gonzalez

Special thanks to our listeners who support the show on Patreon.

Support the show

Jazz Guitar Talk [BONUS] Nov 23, 2022

Does the Great American Songbook endure because the songs themselves are timeless or because musicians give them a fresh spin? San Francisco–based jazz guitarists Mimi Fox, Nick Rossi, and Paul Mehling weigh in! Join us for a lively roundtable discussion on acoustic jazz standards and making jazz accessible to all kinds of listeners.

Support the show:

Leave a review on Apple Podcasts (This helps other guitarists find the show and helps us. We really appreciate it!)

Additional resources:

Mimi Fox’s website
Nick Rossi’s website
Paul Mehling/The Hot Club of San Francisco’s website
Watch Mimi Fox perform “Blackbird” for Acoustic Guitar Sessions and learn to play her jazzy arrangement of “America the Beautiful.”
Paul Mehling plays “Minor Swing” in this Acoustic Guitar Session. If you’re feeling inspired to play like Django Reinhardt, check out Mehling’s gypsy-jazz lesson, “Learn the La Pompe Manouche Style in 6 Easy Steps.”
Nick Rossi teaches the rhythm of Harlem Swing greats Freddie Green, John Trueheart, Bernard Addison, Morris White, and Al Casey in this video lesson. And learn the Nick Lucas classic “Picking the Guitar” here.

The Acoustic Guitar Podcast theme music is composed by Adam Perlmutter and performed for this episode by Mimi Fox.

This episode is hosted by Nick Grizzle and Mimi Fox, produced by Tanya Gonzalez, and directed and edited by Joey Lusterman. Executive producers are Lyzy Lusterman and Stephanie Campos Dal Broi.

The Acoustic Guitar Podcast is produced by the team at Acoustic Guitar magazine, including:

Publisher: Lyzy Lusterman
Editor: Adam Perlmutter
Managing Editor: Kevin Owens
Senior Editor: Blair Jackson
Creative Director: Joey Lusterman
Digital Content Director: Stephanie Campos Dal Broi
Digital Content Manager: Nick Grizzle
Marketing Services Manager: Tanya Gonzalez

Special thanks to our listeners who support the show on Patreon.

Support the show

Sarah Jarosz Oct 26, 2022

Join us us for an in-depth discussion on the songwriting process and the importance of following your ear with trailblazing singer-songwriter Sarah Jarosz. We explore her evolution as a multi-instrumentalist, her guitars, and how she leaned into the unfamiliar to create some of her most powerful music yet.

Support the show:

Listen to Part 2 on Patreon, where you’ll learn how Jarosz prepares for songwriting sessions and how her 2021 album Blue Heron Suite came to be, despite and because of the pandemic.
Make a donation on PayPal
Post a review

Additional resources:

The Acoustic Guitar Podcast theme music is composed by Adam Perlmutter and performed for this episode by Jeffrey Pepper Rodgers.

This episode is hosted by Nick Grizzle and Jeffrey Pepper Rodgers, produced by Tanya Gonzalez, and directed and edited by Joey Lusterman. Executive producers are Lyzy Lusterman and Stephanie Campos Dal Broi.

The Acoustic Guitar Podcast is produced by the team at Acoustic Guitar magazine, including:

Publisher: Lyzy Lusterman
Editor: Adam Perlmutter
Managing Editor: Kevin Owens
Senior Editor: Blair Jackson
Creative Director: Joey Lusterman
Digital Content Director: Stephanie Campos Dal Broi
Digital Content Manager: Nick Grizzle
Marketing Services Manager: Tanya Gonzalez

Special thanks to our listeners who support the show on Patreon.

Support the show

Why Should I Plug In? Sep 28, 2022

Did you know you can expand the sonic possibilities of your acoustic guitar simply by plugging in? But how do you use a guitar, pickup, preamp, and effects to craft your own particular sound? How do you fight feedback? When is it worth investing in high-end gear? We get answers from the recording engineer who wrote the book on acoustic amplification: Doug Young.

Support the show:

Listen to Part 2 on Patreon, where you’ll learn how to choose the right pickup for your playing style (plus find out what gear iconic artists like Billy Strings and Jimmy Page use!)
Make a donation on PayPal
Give a rating and review

Additional resources:

Doug Young’s website
Acoustic Guitar Amplification Essentials by Doug Young
Explore some recent articles by Doug Young for Acoustic Guitar: Online Learning Resources and Digital Tools for Acoustic Guitar and Learn the Essential Techniques of Fingerstyle Acoustic Guitar
Check out our reviews and how-to articles on home recording, amplifiers, and other gear. Plus, host Nick Grizzle’s roundup of pickups and microphones.

The Acoustic Guitar Podcast theme music is composed by Adam Perlmutter and performed for this episode by Doug Young.

This episode is hosted by Nick Grizzle and Elton Bradman, produced by Tanya Gonzalez, and directed and edited by Joey Lusterman. Executive producers are Lyzy Lusterman and Stephanie Campos Dal Broi.

The Acoustic Guitar Podcast is produced by the team at Acoustic Guitar magazine, including:

Publisher: Lyzy Lusterman
Editor: Adam Perlmutter
Managing Editor: Kevin Owens
Senior Editor: Blair Jackson
Creative Director: Joey Lusterman
Digital Content Director: Stephanie Campos Dal Broi
Digital Content Manager: Nick Grizzle
Marketing Services Manager: Tanya Gonzalez

Special thanks to our listeners who support the show on Patreon.

Support the show

Eric Bibb Sep 14, 2022

“I feel drawn to using my ability, talent, and platform to fill in some gaps that I feel are being hewn into the historical record… We have to do more than just tap our feet.”

We Zoomed from California to Sweden to talk with the great guitarist, singer, and songwriter Eric Bibb. Tune in for captivating stories and insights about his musical upbringing, the limits of being known as a blues player, and the role music plays in uniting and shaping the world today.

Support the show:

Listen to Part 2 on Patreon, where Bibb demos guitars from his collection – including the 12-string he played for the King of Sweden and BB King. Plus, Bibb shares what he looks (and listens) for at guitar shops.
Make a donation on PayPal
Give a rating and review

Additional resources:

Visit Eric Bibb’s website.
Listen to Dear America.
Learn to play guitar like Eric Bibb.
Watch his Acoustic Guitar Sessions video.
Read Blair Jackson’s review of Global Griot.

The Acoustic Guitar Podcast is produced by the team at Acoustic Guitar magazine, including:

Publisher: Lyzy Lusterman
Editor: Adam Perlmutter
Managing Editor: Kevin Owens
Senior Editor: Blair Jackson
Creative Director: Joey Lusterman
Digital Content Director: Stephanie Campos Dal Broi
Digital Content Manager: Nick Grizzle
Marketing Services Manager: Tanya Gonzalez

The Acoustic Guitar Podcast theme music is composed by Adam Perlmutter and performed for this episode by Eric Bibb.

This episode is hosted by Nick Grizzle and Elton Bradman, produced by Tanya Gonzalez, and directed and edited by Joey Lusterman. Executive producers are Lyzy Lusterman and Stephanie Campos Dal Broi.

Photograph of Eric Bibb courtesy of Michael Wall.

Special thanks to our listeners who support the show on Patreon.

Support the show

The Joy of Teaching Aug 31, 2022

Join Happy Traum, Jane Miller, Jess Baron, and Sean McGowan for an uplifting roundtable on teaching (and learning) guitar. We discuss community building, the pros and cons of different lesson formats, the challenges and opportunities of starting guitar at any age, and much more. Not to worry – this episode isn’t just for music instructors, but should prove illuminating and encouraging to all guitarists.

Support the show:

Listen to Part 2 on Patreon, where Happy Traum gives an impromptu lesson and all of our panelists share their favorite things about teaching guitar.
Make a donation on PayPal
Give a rating and review

Additional resources:

Visit Happy Traum’s website, Homespun Music Instruction, and learn a few songs from his storied career.
Visit Jane Miller’s website, check out Triads for the Improvising Guitarist, and explore some of her lessons for Acoustic Guitar.
Learn more about Jess Baron and Guitars in the Classrom, read this story about the nonprofit in our sister publication, Ukulele, and check out her book Your Musical Child.
Visit Sean Mcgowan’s website, check out this collection of his 5-star rated books, and videos on Truefire.
Visit co-host Jamie Stillway’s website and lessons for Acoustic Guitar.

The Acoustic Guitar Podcast is produced by the team at Acoustic Guitar magazine, including:

Publisher: Lyzy Lusterman
Editor: Adam Perlmutter
Managing Editor: Kevin Owens
Senior Editor: Blair Jackson
Creative Director: Joey Lusterman
Digital Content Director: Stephanie Campos Dal Broi
Digital Content Manager: Nick Grizzle
Marketing Services Manager: Tanya Gonzalez

The Acoustic Guitar Podcast theme music is composed by Adam Perlmutter and performed for this episode by Jamie Stillway.

This episode is hosted by Nick Grizzle and Jamie Stillway, produced by Tanya Gonzalez, and directed and edited by Joey Lusterman.

Special thanks to our listeners who support the show on Patreon.

Support the show

Molly Tuttle [BONUS] Aug 17, 2022

We were so excited to talk with bluegrass superstar Molly Tuttle, we couldn’t wait to share the conversation with you! So here’s a bonus episode, outside of our regular monthly schedule. Tuttle discusses her guitar education, playing music with friends, and how a surprising wood made its way into her signature Thompson dreadnought. Plus, we learn about her guilty pleasure listening and what the punk music she grew up on has in common with the music she’s making today.

Support the show:

Additional resources:

The Acoustic Guitar Podcast is produced by the team at Acoustic Guitar magazine, including:

Publisher: Lyzy Lusterman
Editor: Adam Perlmutter
Managing Editor: Kevin Owens
Senior Editor: Blair Jackson
Creative Director: Joey Lusterman
Digital Content Director: Stephanie Campos Dal Broi
Digital Content Manager: Nick Grizzle
Marketing Services Manager: Tanya Gonzalez

The Acoustic Guitar Podcast theme music is composed by Adam Perlmutter and performed for this episode by Jeffrey Pepper Rodgers.

This episode is hosted by Nick Grizzle and Jamie Stillway, produced by Tanya Gonzalez, and directed and edited by Joey Lusterman.

Special thanks to our listeners who support the show on Patreon.

Support the show

Tommy Emmanuel Jul 27, 2022

Tommy Emmanuel is a Certified Guitar Player, an honorific bestowed on him by fingerstyle legend Chet Atkins. Emmanuel has recorded over 35 albums, sells out venues across the globe, and is renowned for his virtuosic solo guitar skills. We explore his approach to writing and arranging; collaborating with fellow musicians; and what makes a great guitarist. (Hint: it’s not being a purist with your sound or mastering every bit of music theory.) We hope this conversation inspires you to pick up your guitar and let the music flow through you!

Support the show:

Listen to Part Two, our bonus episode, on Patreon. You’ll learn all about Tommy’s guitars and gear, how he chooses who to tour and record with, and more.
Make a donation on PayPal

Additional resources:

The Acoustic Guitar Podcast is produced by the team at Acoustic Guitar magazine, including:

Publisher: Lyzy Lusterman
Editor: Adam Perlmutter
Managing Editor: Kevin Owens
Senior Editor: Blair Jackson
Creative Director: Joey Lusterman
Digital Content Director: Stephanie Powell
Digital Content Manager: Nick Grizzle
Marketing Services Manager: Tanya Gonzalez

The Acoustic Guitar Podcast theme music is composed by Adam Perlmutter and performed for this episode by Tommy Emmanuel.

The show is hosted by Nick Grizzle, produced by Tanya Gonzalez, and directed and edited by Joey Lusterman.

Special thanks to our listeners who support the show on Patreon and to the Freight & Salvage in Berkeley, California for their hospitality.

Support the show

My First Guitar Jun 27, 2022

In our first episode, we share stories of first guitars. Tune in for renowned musicians Eric Bibb, Bruce Cockburn, Courtney Hartman, Richard Thompson, Badi Assad, Sharon Isbin, and Tommy Emmanuel; heartwarming, inspiring, and surprising tales from the community; plus previously unheard recordings of Doc Watson and Michael Hedges. Find out who volunteered to study music out of a sense of family duty, who had his first guitar smashed, and who's still playing theirs today.

Support the show:

Listen to Part Two, our bonus episode, on Patreon. You’ll hear more fascinating guitar stories, including Dick Boak demonstrating the first instrument he ever built, long before his storied career with C.F. Martin & Co began.
Make a donation on PayPal

Additional resources:

Learn more about the artists who shared their stories in this episode:
- Badi Assad, Eric Bibb, Dick Boak, Bruce Cockburn, Tommy Emmanuel, Courtney Hartman, Sharon Isbin, Richard Thompson.
If you want to keep your first (or second, third, or 30th!) guitar in top playing condition, check out the Acoustic Guitar Owner’s Manual and Acoustic Guitar Care & Maintenance guides.

The Acoustic Guitar Podcast is produced by the team at Acoustic Guitar magazine, including:

Publisher: Lyzy Lusterman
Editor: Adam Perlmutter
Managing Editor: Kevin Owens
Senior Editor: Blair Jackson
Creative Director: Joey Lusterman
Digital Content Director: Stephanie Powell
Digital Content Manager: Nick Grizzle
Marketing Services Manager: Tanya Gonzalez

The Acoustic Guitar Podcast theme music is composed by Adam Perlmutter and performed for this episode by Jeffrey Pepper Rodgers.

Thanks to Nick Grizzle and Jeffrey Pepper Rodgers for hosting this episode, to Tanya Gonzalez for producing, and to Joey Lusterman for directing and editing.

Special thanks to our listeners who support the show on Patreon.

Support the show

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