Jerry: Thanks for your responses re: Dave Van Ronk - please let us know if other tips come to mind from those lessons.

Some time ago, I started a thread titled " Folk Guitar Accompaniment". As a developing guitarist, I was so inspired by the responses, I joined Mudcat.

Next time this year, I'll be regularly singing/playing guitar for audiences. As my guitar style evolves, I get such satisfaction knowing I didn't give up while teaching myself guitar months ago. I truly believe if the music is in you, it will come forth - if allowed.

I was surprised to find that barre chords were not needed to express myself and present the traditional and popular 60's folk music (think PP&M) I love so much. Since I sing lots of songs acappella, adding the guitar gives me extra colors to share.

The more I practice, I discover many little things - like groovy fingerpicking and strumming patterns, lifting a finger off certain chords while strumming or fingerpicking, discovering new open chords (all w/in the first three frets.) And, to think I was once intimidated in learning to play guitar (that is why I insisted on teaching myself.)

If there's anyone reading my post who really feels a desire to learn guitar, I want to encourage you to get started - you can do it. How To Play Guitar by Roger Evans was a big help to me. I found it in a used bookstore. It's the best $3.00 I've spent in some time :)

I hope this thread continues to grow - I'm learning lots :)

cheers,
Folkie