We have struggled to recruit members and are a 'hard-core' of 4 - three pedal steel players, Tony, Derek and myself and one steel/plank player, Keith. Keith also plays guitar and brought a 'Django Reinhardt' Macaferri copy guitar last Sunday which was a treat to play. We have BIAB backing tracks that Derek and Keith put together and circulate in advance and they are able to produce backing tracks, by request. We are very friendly and open and there are no prima donnas. There are good opportunities to learn from each other both musically and technically and to try out new things (and each other's guitars!) in a supportive environment. My playing has improved considerably through attending our meetings. We intend to keep on meeting, but it would be GREAT to see some new faces in the New Year.
We know there are a number of steel guitar players in and around the Yorkshire/North East area who might attend - do come and join us. Any standard of player from newcomer to experienced, slide, dobro, steel or pedal steel. If you are a singer/guitarist, come along and see what steel guitar can add to your sound - this is an great opportunity to feed the 'inner musical self' - and, who knows what Santa might bring you that might just need a good 'airing'
Regular visitors to this forum will know that there are thriving groups that meet in London and Glasgow and there's a BSS monthly meeting in Bristol. These local events help to keep alive the steel guitar in all its forms and we are a 'niche market' that needs the oxygen of playing, sharing and learning to keep the genre going. So, whether you are an old hand or just a bedroom dabbler, there's much to enjoy - but you have to get off your ar
Come and join us!Feel free to drop me a PM if you want more info and watch this space for the January date and tunes.
Nick
