The 4th Annual Harp Guitar Gathering
September 30-October 1, 2006, Naples, Florida
Hosted by Andy Wahlberg
© Stacey Blaustein
![]() |
Andy got us a fantastic cover story in the Naples Daily News. See the entire article as above in PDF form, or easy-to-read web form from the paper's site. |
Event highlights as remembered by the
attendees in their own words
(Presented in order received)
Photo credits at page bottom
Favorite Memories:
Once again, the universal favorite is the
subject of friendship, camaraderie, fun, love.
It's probably the biggest reason why we keep coming back.
Eric Hartshorn
|
Ten most compelling memories: (not necessarily in order of importance) 1) Someone offered to sell me a very sweet instrument! (and although he subsequently received other offers, is honoring mine- what a true gentleman). 2) Came away feeling inspired & motivated (although quite humbled).
3) High Caliber
Performances: Not only great talent & skill, but a vast variety of
styles. 4) Techniques, tips, etc… I picked up many things by watching in person that you don’t get from just listening. 5) See & try out an amazing variety of Instruments: As well as Gregg’s presentation & history. 6) Luthiers: Although the entire group amazed me, It was great to meet Mike Doolin and Ben, and discuss possible future projects in person. It was a real treat to see and hear William Eaton and his newest instrument. Mike’s newest instrument is a true work of art. |
7) Most fun ever had with clothes on ! (Couldn’t sleep the whole weekend I was so overwhelmed). 8) Merchandise tables: Bought many items I already knew I wanted, but saved a lot in postage. 9) Best Birthday present I ever bought myself....Overall good experience –meeting very nice, genuine people. It was especially nice to finally meet people whose talent I have admired from afar. 10) Last, and definitely not least: Gracious Hosts: Not only is Andy Wahlberg a scary bundle of talent, He is a very gracious host. I have no idea where he pulled his energy from being “on” all weekend, then even hosting the after party at his wonderful home. Thanks especially to Kitty for a tremendous job organizing so much of what occurred. |
Gregg Miner |
Where to begin - the guys above stole mine!
Too many. So, in no particular order... |
|||
- Andy McKee's new "do"! | - Bob Hartman surprising me again...I have to conk him on the head and run one of these Gatherings... | |||
- John bringing his brand new treasure...and actually playing it and making history. | - Stephen surprising me with a round of applause after my impromptu George Gruhn impersonation during my lecture. |
![]() |
||
- At long last meeting Tim Donahue (and immediately bonding)...then Saturday, I asked Andy to dim the lights as his first stereo hammer-on chord filled the room. Glorious! | ||||
- Andy Wahlberg driving me to new heights during my impromptu test-drive of Rich Mermer's new Weissenborn. | ||||
- Hearing great new harp guitarists for the first time - Mike Doolin, Matt Thomas, Nate Hagen... | ||||
- The "R-rated" hot tub party Sunday night (or
was it a "soft X"?) Incriminating photo in our Members Only section. |
Michael Schreiner |
My personal Favorite Moment was when I got to show and ask advice about my Gibson 6-bass HG guitar restoration from Ben who is a luthier and expert on Gibson HGs and John Doan who is the only other person I know who owns this model. They seemed as excited about seeing this project as I was to show it. There were many other great moments but that was my favorite. |
![]() |
|||||
Flippics | Player's Workshop | Amplification Workshop | Luthiers' Lecture | New Composers' Workshop | Sunday Bonus Concert |
Standard | Luthiers' Lecture | New Composers' Workshop | Sunday Bonus Concert |
Nate Blaustein's Slide Show | Brad Hoyt's Photo Page | Bill Dutcher's Photo Page |
|
All Site Contents Copyright © Gregg Miner, 2004,2005,2006,2007,2008,2009. All Rights Reserved. Copyright and Fair Use of material and use of images: See Copyright and Fair Use policy. |