I had the pleasure of taking Ralph's fiddle class at Ashokan many years ago. He was a great fiddle player and a special talent - I was in awe of his capabilities. I also introduced Rick Fielding to him and He went down to pay him a special visit. Unfortunately Rick is no longer with us either. Ralph was a great admirer of Arhtur Smith and played many of his tunes in a similar style - not many play like him anymore - He will be missed in the Old Time Music community.