I grew up listening to the American folk music that was popular in the late 1950s and 1960s. As a teenager, my interest moved towards bluegrass -- this was the time when “Dueling Banjos” could be heard on AM radio, which is all I had in my VW van. My 1962 Van had “Old and In the Way” written on the back; only a few people in the area knew it meant anything besides a description of the van. That album led me to look for other Vassar Clement’s albums, which took me to the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band’s Circle album. That led me to Doc Watson, which led to other old-time sounds. That was finally enough for my first wife, so she left. I got to keep the van and the LPs.

Since that time, a fair bit of water has flowed downstream. I still like old-time music, fake a bit of bluegrass from time to time, but my main interest now is Celtic music, particularly Scottish fiddle. I regularly play for the local Scottish Country Dance group, and play for contra dances from time to time. I also dress up in old-time clothes and play at rendezvous, Civil War encampments, and the annual Museum Comes to Life in Julia Davis Park, Boise.

All this is just to let you know what type of music I play. If you’re interested in Texas-style contest fiddling, I’m probably not the teacher for you. There are several teachers of that style in the area and I’m happy to offer referrals. They are friends and clients of mine.

I believe it is best to learn by ear. I can offer written music -- either standard notation or tablature -- if that’s what you prefer. I have no objection to written music, in fact, I use it all the time to supplement my faulty memory. But, to actually learn fiddling, I think it is best to develop the ear. Then, when you read music, it will sound right.

I also teach beginning clawhammer banjo, also known as frailing. I can fake a bluegrass roll, but it’s not my strong point.

I charge $15 for a half-hour lesson. Conventionally, these lessons are offered once a week, though many of my adult students prefer the every-other-week schedule. I have a limited number of slots available, and will do my best to work with your schedule.

When you come to the lesson, bring your instrument, a notebook, and a blank cassette tape. If you don’t have an instrument, I’ll be happy to show you what I have available for sale or rent.