Hamilton Guitar Association: January 2010

Thursday, January 21, 2010

Russ Burns at the HGA January 25

Russ Burns

Russ Burns has been playing guitar and entertaining people for well over forty years. Over the last ten years he has become a mainstay, entertaining at Folk and guitar clubs, open stages and gigs throughout the Hamilton area. As a self taught singer and guitar player he has developed a unique style all his own. Using techniques from finger style to power cords, the guitar compliments a smooth singing style that delivers songs with passion and commitment. Combining this with a fine collection of song writing, it is not difficult to see why he is always warmly welcomed to the stage.

Monday, January 11, 2010

Happy New Year

Happy 2010 everyone, hope you had a great holiday season. The HGA meets tonight (Jan 11) at 7:30. It's my turn to be featured performer so here's all the info.

Shawn Trotter

Shawn Trotter is a full time professional musician, music teacher, producer and composer. His guitar and mandolin styles draw accolades from peers and critics alike. He has toured extensively, performing in concert halls, folk festivals and house concerts. He is also the founder and artistic director of the Hamilton Guitar Association.
www.shawntrotter.com
www.hamiltonguitar.com

S.O.F.G.A.

Southern Ontario Fingerstyle Guitar Association

Some five years ago, I typed finger style guitar into a search engine because that was the type of playing I wanted to explore. Mostly because I was tired of replacing all my lost guitar picks. What I found was the SOFGA, a club dedicated to this guitar style and encourageing new people to learn by providing a non competative performance environment. They met right here in Hamilton, I knew that this was something I had to check out.

What I found was a community of people enjoying each other's music, company and friendship. And the amazing music! Cutting edge acoustic, celtic, old blues , entire bands seems to leap from guitars held by one person. No fake effects or back tape. Each meeting, one great player after the next would play. Then, one of them would take some time to show you thier style.

This is where I found my guitar teacher and mentors and some realley good friends. Though I was just a beginner, these people seemed to have a genuine desire to hear my music. This encouragement was pivital, at a time when the rest of the world just wanted me to forget the whole guitar thing .

Some five years later, when it comes to music, I still don't have it all together most of the time, but I've come a long way, mostly thanks to SOFGA.

Now , it's called the Hamilton Guitar Association but the goal and spirit are the same. That's why I'm happy to slug all the gear up the stairs at the Pheasent Plucker every other week, set up the mics and board, then, watch it all unfold.

Mark V