New Member clocking in

[Haddock]

Hi everyone.

Having spent the last year locked in a cupboard with an LDG I bought from Bob Adams, I'm hoping to engage a little more with the outside world of pedal steel. I live in darkest Argyll so the chances of meeting another pedal player are limited but I've got a few friends who play other things and I've got a few gigs and sessions under the belt, though pretty much sticking to backup and the odd solo. I'm not a total beginner as I've been involved with music my whole life but obviously there's not many other instruments out there requiring quite so much input from all the limbs at once! Hoping to pick up some tips from the rest of the world and perhaps eventually pluck up courage to attend one of the gatherings out there if anyone will have me.
All the best
Calum

[bob adams]

Good to see you here at last Calum and it would be even better to see you at Gartcosh, no need for fear you only get sheep dipped the once!

As for darkest Scotland... don't anyone be fooled he lives in one of the most idyllic spots you could imagine!

If you don't make next week Calum it would be great to see you next year!

[Haddock]

Thanks Bob

I'll not make it this year but hopefully manage a visit in the new year. In the meantime, I'm shifting my practice routine to working up some full tunes. I've spent most of my time so far learning my way round the board, scales, chords etc and getting the hang of improvising along with other musicians. Playing a full tune as the lead instrument is another whole kettle of fish but I reckon it's the way to solidify my technique. I dare say there'll be a list of good tunes somewhere on the forum....
Cheers
Calum

[Danny Mitchell]

Hello and welcome Calum,

You've come to the right place for all things steel. Some time spent browsing through the posts will inform, educate and entertain

I look forward to meeting you when you manage down to Gartcosh. It'll be worth the trip, I promise. Hearing and seeing the guys play, close up, is a tremendous evening out, and that's not including the banter.

If you head over to the "News" section of the forum, you can download the CD the lads recorded and, also most of the backing tracks. This should help, a little, with the next part of your journey

All the best

Danny.

[Haddock]

Hi Danny and thanks for the welcome.
I'll do as you suggest and download the CD right now and if the backings are there, perhaps have a wee go at some. Picking a good set of tunes to work on is a challenge in it's own right so stealing from others is a good start! Look forward to meeting everyone someday.
Cheers
Calum

[Donny Johnston]

Hi Calum, Don't think living in darkest Argyll means you'll escape a visit from me, my job takes me all over the west coast. last week I was in Tayvallich, I have jobs in Oban, Lochgilphead, Campbelltown Tobermory, there is no escape. If you don't want to reveal where you stay on this site my email address is: [email protected]. Let me know if you want to, and I'll tell you if I get around your area. There already is a steely in Oban. I have some basic exercises tabbed out I could send you, If I can help let me know. Regards, Donny.

[Haddock]

Hi Donny
Nice to hear from you and I'll take you up on your kind offer of exercise tabs and feel free to get in touch if you're in the area. I have a soft spot for Tayvallich as it's where my last boat engine exploded leaving me with a small challenge to get back to Colintraive which is where I stay. (I know it's not a good idea to share too much info on forums but I don't suppose that's giving too much away and it's not exactly Ashley Madison!) I'll drop you an email so that you have the contact.
Cheers
Calum

[Donny Johnston]

Calum, I have a client in Colintraive.

[Haddock]

The world is very small really. Turns out I've also known Geoff Noble for years though lost touch a long time ago. Damn fine guitar player...

[Jif]

Hi Callum and welcome to the motley crew!

Sorry it has taken me this long to reply to your post, as you know I haven't been too well of late, but starting to get there I think.

Without turning this into a mutual admiration society, just like to say that Callum is a fine musician and producer and reckon he'll have cracked the beast in short time. In fact I've heard his initial forays and it's just a matter of time and practice.

Hoping to drag you along to Gartcosh soon, all being well with myself. You'll enjoy it despite the long drive, I know I do