Guitars and Other Instruments

Musical instruments are extremely personal to me. I can't just go to the store, buy an instrument and be happy. It's almost like adopting a child or something. There is a process and story behind every musical instrument you see me play. For example, my on stage acoustic guitar is a 30 year old Alvarez Yairi DY-90 hand made acoustic. It is an absolute beautiful guitar, and people drool over it when they see it. But that wasn't always the case. I always wanted a Martin acoustic but at the time I was back in college with a wife and a small child with very little income. There was no way I could afford a Martin. Therefore I did a little research and discovered that about the closest thing to a Martin in looks and sound was this Alvarez Yairi. So I saved my money and bought it, thinking that I would play it until one day I could afford a Martin. Ten years later I can afford just about any Martin I wanted, but I would put this Yairi, sound and feel  wise, up against just about any Martin around. To top it off, several years ago I put a top of the line L.R. Baggs acoustic pickup system in it, and when I start playing it, every musician stops and looks at the guitar. And trust me when I say it isn't me. The only other acoustic guitar in my line up is a 1980s Ovation Custom Legend. Again this guitar has a story behind it. My dad bought this guitar in the mid 1980s and I wanted it ever since. He always told me the only way I would leave his house with that guitar is when he was dead. In September of 2012 I brought that guitar home. I guess you can see my sentimental attachment to this guitar.

Currently I have two electric guitars in my arsenal, a late 60s Fender Telecaster, and a early 2000s Fender MIM Stratocaster. I also have a late 60s Gibson Les Paul Custom that I have had since high school. I don't play it much, but even though it is worth a little bit I wouldn't take twice what it is worth. Its value extends way beyond money, and yes it does have a very good story. I'll save that though for another time.

Just remember when you see me playing, whether it is on stage, in a bar, or in my garage, the guitar I'm holding has a history and a story to tell. Just ask me, I'll be glad to tell it to you.

My Dos Centavos