Bradley Laird's Grass Talk Radio - Bluegrass

GrassTalkRadio.com Episode 065 Practicing Alone - How can you make the best use of your time woodshedding at home? Jams are great fun and there is a lot to be learned there too, but there is no substitute for getting in some quality practice time alone. In this episode I weigh the options, talk a tiny bit about metromones, playing along with records, using practice tracks, hiring a professional band to live in your basement and other more practical ideas. If you enjoy the show you can support what I am doing by visiting my online store at http://www.payhip.com/bradleylaird. For additional goodies, be sure to scope out the show notes here: http://www.bradleylaird.com/podcast/episode-65-show-notes.html GrassTalkRadio is a show for people who play or are learning to play bluegrass--the greatest music in the world!

GrassTalkRadio.com Bonus Episode 01 Mandolin Treasure Chest - Imagine that you have come to possess an aged fragile treasure map. This pirate has for more than four decades roamed where he pleased and collected, not without a fight at times, a staggering quantity of perfect gemstones, pearls, dabloons, ingots, massive gold chains, silver goblets, and even a pouch full of gold teeth pried from the jaws of his feckless adversaries! The hoard is legendary and you have the map! You follow the sparse clues to the cursed spot and, with your trusted assistants, you begin digging in the pale light of a watchful moon. Thirty feet below, your spade strikes something solid in the moist sand. Nearing dawn, as the sun threatens exposure, you and your sweating and cursing cohorts unearth and hoist to the surface an oaken chest, encrusted and wrapped in rusty chains and iron straps. Under the glare of the dwindling carbide lantern you break the bonds with a pry bar and raise the creaking lid. At last! (Next you dispatch your foolhardy companions and throw them in the hole and make off with the treasure. Muwwaahaahaaa! Or something similar.) Enjoy this special bonus episode! If you enjoy the show you can support what I am doing by visiting my online store at http://www.payhip.com/bradleylaird. For additional goodies, be sure to scope out the show notes here: http://www.bradleylaird.com/podcast/bonus-episode-01-show-notes.html GrassTalkRadio is a show for people who play or are learning to play bluegrass--the greatest music in the world!

GrassTalkRadio.com Episode 064 End of a Perfect Day - Was attempted murder justified? Would a jury have acquitted after hearing the accused plead "temporary insanity due to hormones"? I leave it to you to draw your own conclusions about this true tale from a bluegrass festival. If you enjoy the show you can support what I am doing by visiting my online store at http://www.payhip.com/bradleylaird. For additional goodies, be sure to scope out the show notes here: http://www.bradleylaird.com/podcast/episode-64-show-notes.html GrassTalkRadio is a show for people who play or are learning to play bluegrass--the greatest music in the world!

GrassTalkRadio.com Episode 063 How To Fill In - Inevitably, sometimes a band member can't do a gig and that creates an opportunity for someone else to get their foot in the door, help a band in need, and rack up more mileage on the experience-o-meter. Here are my thoughts from both sides of the issue on how to pull it off successfully. Enjoy! If you enjoy the show you can support what I am doing by visiting my online store at http://www.payhip.com/bradleylaird. For additional goodies, be sure to scope out the show notes here: http://www.bradleylaird.com/podcast/episode-63-show-notes.html GrassTalkRadio is a show for people who play or are learning to play bluegrass--the greatest music in the world!

GrassTalkRadio.com Episode 062 V.I.P. Interview - I have a hard time understanding folks with no kids. I am also quite sure they have a hard time understanding those of us with kids. Perhaps this long-promised interview with a very important person will shed some light on this. Dig a hole, put a chicken in the hole, put sand in the hole. Pure genius. If you enjoy the show you can support what I am doing by visiting my online store at http://www.payhip.com/bradleylaird. For additional goodies, be sure to scope out the show notes here: http://www.bradleylaird.com/podcast/episode-62-show-notes.html GrassTalkRadio is a show for people who play or are learning to play bluegrass--the greatest music in the world!

GrassTalkRadio.com Episode 061 Barb Rosenstock Interview - Join me for this interview with Barb Rosenstock, author of the new children's book "Blue Grass Boy", a biographical picture book about Bill Monroe. Listen as she tells how getting lost, winding up at Bean Blossom, and binge listening to Bluegrass Junction led to the creation of this wonderful book. The episode also has a quick bit of news for students using my mandolin instruction videos. If you enjoy the show you can support what I am doing by visiting my online store at http://www.payhip.com/bradleylaird. For additional goodies, be sure to scope out the show notes here: http://www.bradleylaird.com/podcast/episode-61-show-notes.html GrassTalkRadio is a show for people who play or are learning to play bluegrass--the greatest music in the world!

GrassTalkRadio.com Episode 060 Hecklng The Audience - For the audience, the band is the show. For the band, the audience is the show! Join me in this rambling diatribe on a few things I have observed from the stage. No offense to cloggers, cow bell clangers, spoon players, generous drunks, conga-line dancers, clap-along-ers, or any other supporter of live bluegrass music. Have fun. If you enjoy the show you can support what I am doing by visiting my online store at http://www.payhip.com/bradleylaird. For additional goodies, be sure to scope out the show notes here: http://www.bradleylaird.com/podcast/episode-60-show-notes.html GrassTalkRadio is a show for people who play or are learning to play bluegrass--the greatest music in the world!

GrassTalkRadio.com Episode 059 Saints and Sinners - This thought, like a pinball rattling around in my head, has attracted my mind for decades: Is bluegrass some sort of folk religion? Play along with my ride while I stretch this harmless analogy to its limits. Hmmm... Perhaps I'll paint it on velvet one day. If you enjoy the show you can support what I am doing by visiting my online store at http://www.payhip.com/bradleylaird. For additional goodies, be sure to scope out the show notes here: http://www.bradleylaird.com/podcast/episode-59-show-notes.html GrassTalkRadio is a show for people who play or are learning to play bluegrass--the greatest music in the world!

GrassTalkRadio.com Episode 058 Your Timeline - We are all on a timeline. Events and choices come along and affect our ability levels and our life. In this episode I run a timeline of myself and try to reveal what causes the ups and downs. If you enjoy the show you can support what I am doing by visiting my online store at http://www.payhip.com/bradleylaird. For additional goodies, be sure to scope out the show notes here: http://www.bradleylaird.com/podcast/episode-58-show-notes.html GrassTalkRadio is a show for people who play or are learning to play bluegrass--the greatest music in the world!

GrassTalkRadio.com Episode 057 Go To A Bluegrass Festival - Bluegrass festivals are the great tribal gatherings of folks like you. Tired of being surrounded by friends and co-workers who don't "get it" like you do? Pick a festival, make a plan, and go. The start of the show is a little commentary on technology and why you should back up your computer and why I love granny's old cast iron skillet. Have fun! If you enjoy the show you can support what I am doing by visiting my online store at http://www.payhip.com/bradleylaird. For additional goodies, be sure to scope out the show notes here: http://www.bradleylaird.com/podcast/episode-57-show-notes.html GrassTalkRadio is a show for people who play or are learning to play bluegrass--the greatest music in the world!

GrassTalkRadio.com Episode 056 How To Learn From Videos - Online video instruction is taking over from private lessons and books but I am not sure everyone knows how to make the best use of this one way stream of information. Try these ideas if you are using videos to improve your playing. Have fun! If you enjoy the show you can support what I am doing by visiting my online store at http://www.payhip.com/bradleylaird. For additional goodies, be sure to scope out the show notes here: http://www.bradleylaird.com/podcast/episode-56-show-notes.html GrassTalkRadio is a show for people who play or are learning to play bluegrass--the greatest music in the world!

GrassTalkRadio.com Episode 055 Choose One Thing - In this episode I discuss one of the best ways to improve the quality and results of your practice. I make the case for constructive tunnel vision. Have fun! If you enjoy the show you can support what I am doing by visiting my online store at http://www.payhip.com/bradleylaird. For additional goodies, be sure to scope out the show notes here: http://www.bradleylaird.com/podcast/episode-55-show-notes.html GrassTalkRadio is a show for people who play or are learning to play bluegrass--the greatest music in the world!

GrassTalkRadio.com Episode 054 Just Go - In this episode I give an "after action report" on a recent trip to see the Del McCoury Band perform in Athens, Georgia. I explore why you absolutely cannot "do bluegrass" from the comfort of your couch. I also get into the financial realities of the music world and a lot of other thoughts that crossed my mind on the way home. Have fun! If you enjoy the show you can support what I am doing by visiting my online store at http://www.payhip.com/bradleylaird. For additional goodies, be sure to scope out the show notes here: http://www.bradleylaird.com/podcast/episode-54-show-notes.html GrassTalkRadio is a show for people who play or are learning to play bluegrass--the greatest music in the world!

GrassTalkRadio.com Episode 053 You Can Write a Tune - In this episode I do my best to encourage you to try writing your own tunes. I divide my time between technical tips and philosophical considerations of devising new tunes. Have fun! If you enjoy the show you can support what I am doing by visiting my online store at http://www.payhip.com/bradleylaird. For additional goodies, be sure to scope out the show notes here: http://www.bradleylaird.com/podcast/episode-53-show-notes.html GrassTalkRadio is a show for people who play or are learning to play bluegrass--the greatest music in the world!

GrassTalkRadio.com Episode 052 Trivia Night - The worlds oldest profession and performing music have a lot in common. Sell it and you still have it. I yak about that for a bit and then, for the meat of the show, I test your bluegrass knowledge and we play trivia. Have fun! If you enjoy the show you can support what I am doing by visiting my online store at http://www.payhip.com/bradleylaird. For additional goodies, be sure to scope out the show notes here: http://www.bradleylaird.com/podcast/episode-52-show-notes.html GrassTalkRadio is a show for people who play or are learning to play bluegrass--the greatest music in the world!

GrassTalkRadio.com Episode 051 Tuning Talk - This episode goes down the rabbit hole of this thing called tuning. The discussion twists and turns more than Earl's D-tuners. I examine the A440 standard, talk tuning gizmos, introduce you to the concept of equal temperament and the false notion of perfection. Have fun! If you enjoy the show you can support what I am doing by visiting my online store at http://www.payhip.com/bradleylaird. For additional goodies, be sure to scope out the show notes here: http://www.bradleylaird.com/podcast/episode-51-show-notes.html GrassTalkRadio is a show for people who play or are learning to play bluegrass--the greatest music in the world!

GrassTalkRadio.com Episode 050 Timeless Advice - This episode discusses a bit of wisdom which I found lurking in the preface to a 1909 music book stashed in my mother's organ bench. I read it and thought "I've said the same thing to every student I ever had!" Have fun! If you enjoy the show you can support what I am doing by visiting my online store at http://www.payhip.com/bradleylaird. For additional goodies, be sure to scope out the show notes here: http://www.bradleylaird.com/podcast/episode-50-show-notes.html GrassTalkRadio is a show for people who play or are learning to play bluegrass--the greatest music in the world!

GrassTalkRadio.com Episode 049 Magic and Music - There are striking similarities between the art of pulling a rabbit out of a hat and performing a great bluegrass show. In this episode I share what I learned as a magician before I was bitten by the bluegrass bug. Part illusion, part sleight of hand, smoke and mirrors, and a lot of work behind the scenes. Have fun! If you enjoy the show you can support what I am doing by visiting my online store at http://www.payhip.com/bradleylaird. For additional goodies, be sure to scope out the show notes here: http://www.bradleylaird.com/podcast/episode-49-show-notes.html GrassTalkRadio is a show for people who play or are learning to play bluegrass--the greatest music in the world!

GrassTalkRadio.com Episode 048 Finding The One - Finding that perfect instrument for you is a lot like finding a mate in life. Every sort of instrument, be it a mandolin, guitar, banjo, upright bass or slide trombone, will present itself in 5 quality categories. Learn the difference between "barely playable junk" and the coveted "working musician's axe". If you enjoy the show you can support what I am doing by visiting my online store at http://www.payhip.com/bradleylaird. For additional goodies, be sure to scope out the show notes here: http://www.bradleylaird.com/podcast/episode-48-show-notes.html GrassTalkRadio is a show for people who play or are learning to play bluegrass--the greatest music in the world!

GrassTalkRadio.com Episode 047 The Beaver Effect - In this episode I explain The Beaver Effect and give examples of the amazing things it can do for you as a musician or in nearly any endeavor in life. I also talk a little about my early experiences as a bluegrass bass player and how it led to my Bluegrass Bass Instruction Course. If you enjoy the show you can support what I am doing by visiting my online store at http://www.payhip.com/bradleylaird. For additional goodies and links to things I mention in this episode, be sure to scope out the show notes here: http://www.bradleylaird.com/podcast/episode-47-show-notes.html GrassTalkRadio is a show for people who play or are learning to play bluegrass--the greatest music in the world!

GrassTalkRadio.com Episode 046 Band Marketing Basics - In this episode I blast through the list of things you need to think about to get your band some gigs. The basics are pretty simple but a lot of folks miss out because they overlook crucial items. Have fun and happy gigging! If you enjoy the show you can support what I am doing by visiting my online store at http://www.payhip.com/bradleylaird. For additional goodies, be sure to scope out the show notes here: http://www.bradleylaird.com/podcast/episode-46-show-notes.html GrassTalkRadio is a show for people who play or are learning to play bluegrass--the greatest music in the world!

GrassTalkRadio.com Episode 045 Crafting a Good Set List - The set list is the script for your performance. Poorly thought out set lists, or just wingin' it, may lead to less than great performances. In this episode I share my thoughts on putting together good sets. If you enjoy the show you can support what I am doing by visiting my online store at http://www.payhip.com/bradleylaird. For additional goodies, be sure to scope out the show notes here: http://www.bradleylaird.com/podcast/episode-45-show-notes.html GrassTalkRadio is a show for people who play or are learning to play bluegrass--the greatest music in the world!

GrassTalkRadio.com Episode 044 Who You Hang Around With Counts - In this episode I discuss how other people rub off on you, musically and otherwise. The reverse is also true. Think about who you hang out with. Have fun and let me know you are out there! If you enjoy the show you can support what I am doing by visiting my online store at http://www.payhip.com/bradleylaird. For additional goodies, be sure to scope out the show notes here: http://www.bradleylaird.com/podcast/episode-44-show-notes.html GrassTalkRadio is a show for people who play or are learning to play bluegrass--the greatest music in the world!

GrassTalkRadio.com Episode 043 P.A. System Basics - This episode picks up where I left off in #42 and will walk you through the entire signal chain of a typical bluegrass P.A. setup. It concludes with a short course in microphones. You may not need this today but you will some day–with any luck at all! Have fun and let me know you are out there! If you enjoy the show you can support what I am doing by visiting my online store at http://www.payhip.com/bradleylaird. For additional goodies, be sure to scope out the show notes here: http://www.bradleylaird.com/podcast/episode-43-show-notes.html GrassTalkRadio is a show for people who play or are learning to play bluegrass--the greatest music in the world!

GrassTalkRadio.com Episode 042 Playing Over P.A. Systems - This episode discusses the mindset and skills you need to play over other people's P.A. systems. When you are starting out that will be most of your gigs. Or if you do a lot of festivals. This episode will help you deal with the reality of that situation. A future episode will talk about running your own sound. Have fun and let me know you are out there! If you enjoy the show you can support what I am doing by visiting my online store at http://www.payhip.com/bradleylaird. For additional goodies, be sure to scope out the show notes here: http://www.bradleylaird.com/podcast/episode-42-show-notes.html GrassTalkRadio is a show for people who play or are learning to play bluegrass--the greatest music in the world!

GrassTalkRadio.com Episode 041 Dear John... - My friend John Teate allowed me to use this episode to "slice and dice" his playing. There are a lot of "Johns" out there and the advice I give him might help you! Are you improvising everything? Are you faking it when you could be "nailing it"? Food for thought. Have fun and let me know you are out there! If you enjoy the show you can support what I am doing by visiting my online store at http://www.payhip.com/bradleylaird. For additional goodies, be sure to scope out the show notes here: http://www.bradleylaird.com/podcast/episode-41-show-notes.html GrassTalkRadio is a show for people who play or are learning to play bluegrass--the greatest music in the world!

GrassTalkRadio.com Episode 040 Geoff Hohwald Interview - Geoff Hohwald is one of the pioneers in banjo instructional material and an interesting character in the bluegrass world. Join me as I shoot the breeze with Geoff at my kitchen table. I close the show with a tune featuring his hard-driving banjo picking at it's finest. Have fun and let me know you are out there! If you enjoy the show you can support what I am doing by visiting my online store at http://www.payhip.com/bradleylaird. For additional goodies, be sure to scope out the show notes here: http://www.bradleylaird.com/podcast/episode-40-show-notes.html GrassTalkRadio is a show for people who play or are learning to play bluegrass--the greatest music in the world!

GrassTalkRadio.com Episode 039 Let's Rehearse - After a bit of commentary on the state of the world and my theory of "over connectedness", I fully hash out what it takes to rehearse your band so you can perform at your best. Have fun and let me know you are out there! If you enjoy the show you can support what I am doing by visiting my online store at http://www.payhip.com/bradleylaird. For additional goodies, be sure to scope out the show notes here: http://www.bradleylaird.com/podcast/episode-39-show-notes.html GrassTalkRadio is a show for people who play or are learning to play bluegrass--the greatest music in the world!

GrassTalkRadio.com Episode 038 Sink or Swim - Sometimes it is good to jump in feet first and just hope you can make it to the ladder! Sometimes it's good to think things over first. Dive right in and have fun and let me know you are out there! If you enjoy the show you can support what I am doing by visiting my online store at http://www.payhip.com/bradleylaird. For additional goodies, be sure to scope out the show notes here: http://www.bradleylaird.com/podcast/episode-38-show-notes.html GrassTalkRadio is a show for people who play or are learning to play bluegrass.

GrassTalkRadio.com Episode 037 Think About It - At times all bluegrass vocalists are guilty of singing lyrics without imagining what they are singing about. It's easy to concentrate on how you are singing and forget the important element of what you are singing! If you enjoy the show you can support what I am doing by visiting my online store at http://www.payhip.com/bradleylaird. For additional goodies, be sure to scope out the show notes here: http://www.bradleylaird.com/podcast/episode-37-show-notes.html GrassTalkRadio is a show for people who play or are learning to play bluegrass.

GrassTalkRadio.com Episode 036 The Schedule Master - The band that says yes first usually gets the gig! Get your ducks in a row and try the schedule master system. Don't be sittin' home when others are out playing and having a good time! If you enjoy the show you can support what I am doing by visiting my online store at http://www.payhip.com/bradleylaird. For additional goodies, be sure to scope out the show notes here: http://www.bradleylaird.com/podcast/episode-36-show-notes.html GrassTalkRadio is a show for people who play or are learning to play bluegrass.

GrassTalkRadio.com Episode 035 Stringology 101 - You could have a $100,000 instrument but without our lowly, mistreated and under-appreciated friend The String, you pretty much have nothing! Here's my rap on strings. If you enjoy the show you can support what I am doing by visiting my online store at http://www.payhip.com/bradleylaird. For additional goodies, be sure to scope out the show notes here: http://www.bradleylaird.com/podcast/episode-35-show-notes.html GrassTalkRadio is a show for people who play or are learning to play bluegrass.

GrassTalkRadio.com Episode 034 Monarchy vs Democracy - This episode continues the theme of how to organize and manage your part-time or sem-pro bluegrass band. After a little mumbo-jumbo I get down to discussing the two types of band "government" and how they work in the real world. Also includes some rap on tips buckets, just what the folk is a folk and two bands with the same name. If you enjoy the show you can support what I am doing by visiting my online store at http://www.payhip.com/bradleylaird. For additional goodies, be sure to scope out the show notes here: http://www.bradleylaird.com/podcast/episode-34-show-notes.html GrassTalkRadio is a show for people who play or are learning to play bluegrass.

GrassTalkRadio.com Episode 033 Starting A Part-Time Band - Have you ever entertained thoughts about getting involved in an existing band or starting one from scratch? In this episode I try to offer up some ideas to help you make that decision. Have fun and support the show! If you enjoy the show you can support what I am doing by visiting my online store at http://www.payhip.com/bradleylaird. For additional goodies, be sure to scope out the show notes here: http://www.bradleylaird.com/podcast/episode-33-show-notes.html GrassTalkRadio is a show for people who play or are learning to play bluegrass.

GrassTalkRadio.com Episode 032 Instrument Horror Stories - In this episode I describe "the luthier's best friend", various entertaining and wacky instrument destruction tales, and give a bit of advice regarding care of your axe. Have fun and support the show! Please rate and review the show on iTunes. If you enjoy the show you can support what I am doing by visiting my online store at http://www.payhip.com/bradleylaird. For additional goodies, be sure to scope out the show notes here: http://www.bradleylaird.com/podcast/episode-32-show-notes.html GrassTalkRadio is a show for people who play or are learning to play bluegrass.

GrassTalkRadio.com Episode 031 Alkafluence of Inkahol - In this episode I tell the story of one my early brushes with one of the giants of country music. We were wet behind the ears and learned a few things about reality that day way back in July of 1980. Have fun and enjoy the show! Please rate and review the show on iTunes. If you enjoy the show you can support what I am doing by visiting my online store at http://www.payhip.com/bradleylaird. For additional goodies, be sure to scope out the show notes here: http://www.bradleylaird.com/podcast/episode-31-show-notes.html GrassTalkRadio is a show for people who play or are learning to play bluegrass.

GrassTalkRadio.com Episode 030 Bands Versus Jams - In this episode I explore the differences between the bluegrass you hear at jam sessions versus the bluegrass you hear performed by bands. I also describe the stages of development as a bluegrass player, tell a couple of stories and give the "quick and dirty" instructions for how to start a band. Also, I feature a full tune by the Savannah, Georgia band City Hotel. Enjoy the show! Please rate and review the show on iTunes. If you enjoy the show you can support what I am doing by visiting my online store at http://www.payhip.com/bradleylaird. For additional goodies, be sure to scope out the show notes here: http://www.bradleylaird.com/podcast/episode-30-show-notes.html GrassTalkRadio is a show for people who play or are learning to play bluegrass.

GrassTalkRadio.com Episode 029 Self-Hypnosis with Sam Brown - You might wonder what a Berklee School of Music grad, a professional drummer from the UK, hypnotic trance, and Boris the Military Pod have to do with bluegrass. Fair question! In this episode I present an unscripted chat with Sam Brown, creator of the Self-Hypnosis for Musicians audio program, and we venture down the rabbit hole of how the mind works. We talk hypnosis, subliminal messaging, focal dystonia and more. You will not cluck like a hen after listening to this episode. I promise. Enjoy the show! Please rate and review the show on iTunes. If you enjoy the show you can support what I am doing by visiting my online store at http://www.payhip.com/bradleylaird. For additional goodies, be sure to scope out the show notes here: http://www.bradleylaird.com/podcast/episode-29-show-notes.html GrassTalkRadio is a show for people who play or are learning to play bluegrass.

GrassTalkRadio.com Episode 028 Bob Putnam Interview - In this episode I sit down at the kitchen table with my good friend Bob Putnam and talk bluegrass and art. Bob, as an artist, sculptor and art educator, has a knack for describing these fascinating similarities. Enjoy the show! Please rate and review the show on iTunes. If you enjoy the show you can support what I am doing by visiting my online store at http://www.payhip.com/bradleylaird. For additional goodies, be sure to scope out the show notes here: http://www.bradleylaird.com/podcast/episode-28-show-notes.html GrassTalkRadio is a show for people who play or are learning to play bluegrass.

GrassTalkRadio.com Episode 027 Real Listening - In this episode we explore the art of listening. Learning how to focus, filter, isolate or hear "the whole" will make you a better musician. Enjoy the show! Please rate and review the show on iTunes. If you enjoy the show you can support what I am doing by visiting my online store at http://www.payhip.com/bradleylaird. For additional goodies, be sure to scope out the show notes here: http://www.bradleylaird.com/podcast/episode-27-show-notes.html GrassTalkRadio is a show for people who play or are learning to play bluegrass.

GrassTalkRadio.com Episode 026 Simon Mayor Interview - At least one of the roots of bluegrass extends across the pond to Europe. In this episode I sit down with English mandolinist Simon Mayor and compare notes. Enjoy the show! Have fun and please rate and review the show on iTunes. If you enjoy the show you can support what I am doing by visiting my online store at http://www.payhip.com/bradleylaird. For additional goodies, be sure to scope out the show notes here: http://www.bradleylaird.com/podcast/episode-26-show-notes.html GrassTalkRadio is a show for people who play or are learning to play bluegrass.

GrassTalkRadio.com Episode 025 A Table Needs Three Legs - This podcast episode is about balance and stability. What are the three primary supports you need to develop to be a good musician? Discover your strengths and weaknesses and you'll progress faster and further. Enjoy the show! Have fun and please rate and review the show on iTunes. If you enjoy the show you can support what I am doing by visiting my online store at http://www.payhip.com/bradleylaird. For additional goodies, be sure to scope out the show notes here: http://www.bradleylaird.com/podcast/episode-25-show-notes.html GrassTalkRadio is a show for people who play or are learning to play bluegrass.

GrassTalkRadio.com Episode 024 Thoughts on Improvisation - Don't say you can't improvise! You already do. You did it as a baby and continue to this day--with speech! In this episode I talk about the art of music improvisation and how it compares to speech. I try to help you make sense of "hillbilly jazz" and give you tips to become better at it. Enjoy the show! Have fun and please rate and review the show on iTunes. If you enjoy the show you can support what I am doing by visiting my online store at http://www.payhip.com/bradleylaird. For additional goodies, be sure to scope out the show notes here: http://www.bradleylaird.com/podcast/episode-24-show-notes.html GrassTalkRadio is a show for people who play or are learning to play bluegrass.

GrassTalkRadio.com Episode 023 Play Ball! - In this episode I talk about the connections between bluegrass and baseball, historically and "operationally." Bluegrass is a team sport. Enjoy the show! Have fun and please rate and review the show on iTunes. If you enjoy the show you can support what I am doing by visiting my online store at http://www.payhip.com/bradleylaird. The show notes for this episode are listed here: http://www.bradleylaird.com/podcast/episode-23-show-notes.html GrassTalkRadio is a show for people who play or are learning to play bluegrass.

GrassTalkRadio.com Episode 022 Luthier Todd Lunneborg Interview - In this episode I dropped by the shop of luthier Todd Lunneborg and recorded this conversation about set-up, instrument repair, and a lot of other subjects. Todd is a talented musician, instrument builder, repairman, and restorer. Enjoy the show! Have fun and please rate and review the show on iTunes. If you enjoy the show you can support what I am doing by visiting my online store at http://www.payhip.com/bradleylaird. The show notes for this episode are listed here: http://www.bradleylaird.com/podcast/episode-22-show-notes.html GrassTalkRadio is a show for people who are learning to play bluegrass.

GrassTalkRadio.com Episode 021 Something Phishy - In this episode I recount when our band Cedar Hill opened for Phish at Lakewood in Atlanta. I had no idea who they were! I also talk about my father and why we should thank those people who might not play but who helped us along the way. This episode is a testament to how easy it is to be ignorant of so many things. Enjoy the show! Have fun and please rate and review the show on iTunes. If you enjoy the show you can support what I am doing by visiting my online store at http://www.payhip.com/bradleylaird. The show notes for this episode are listed here: http://www.bradleylaird.com/podcast/episode-21-show-notes.html GrassTalkRadio is a show for people who are learning to play bluegrass.

GrassTalkRadio.com Episode 020 Pete Martin Interview - This episode introduces you to the world of Pete Martin. Pete is an accomplished fiddler, mandolinist, teacher, and publisher of instructional materials. I think you will find some useful ideas in this interview. We talk contest fiddling, jazz, tenor guitar, transcribing and all sorts of stuff. I could have talked with Pete for hours! Have fun and please rate and review the show on iTunes. If you enjoy the show you can support what I am doing by visiting my online store at http://www.payhip.com/bradleylaird. The show notes for this episode are listed here: http://www.bradleylaird.com/podcast/episode-20-show-notes.html GrassTalkRadio is a show for people who are learning to play bluegrass.

GrassTalkRadio.com Episode 019 Easier Said Than Done - In this episode I talk about some simple things you can do to improve your playing. Simple to say anyway. Maybe a little harder to put into practice. Have fun and please rate and review the show on iTunes. If you enjoy the show you can support what I am doing by visiting my online store at http://www.payhip.com/bradleylaird. The show notes for this episode are listed here: http://www.bradleylaird.com/podcast/episode-19-show-notes.html GrassTalkRadio is a show for people who are learning to play bluegrass.

GrassTalkRadio.com Episode 018 Mike Marshall Interview - In this episode our guest is world class musician Mike Marshall. We chat about how he got started, how he learned to play, how he became plugged in to the bluegrass and "Dawg Music" scene and a lot of other things. Have fun and please rate and review the show on iTunes. If you enjoy the show you can support what I am doing by visiting my online store at http://www.payhip.com/bradleylaird. The show notes for this episode are listed here: http://www.bradleylaird.com/podcast/episode-18-show-notes.html GrassTalkRadio is a show for people who are learning to play bluegrass.

GrassTalkRadio.com Episode 017 Bill Monroe and Other Tales - In this episode I finish telling the story about the semi-nightmarish, yet fun, jam session on Little Roy Lewis' back porch and then I tell about the first three times I saw Bill Monroe perform. I make my case that you cannot call yourself a bluegrasser without a working knowledge and appreciation for the man Bill Monroe, pater familias. If you don't normally go to the show notes page, this time you should! I put a ton of good stuff over there for this one. You too can experience Man or Astroman?! Have fun and please rate and review the show on iTunes. The show notes for this episode are listed here: http://www.bradleylaird.com/podcast/episode-17-show-notes.html GrassTalkRadio is a show for people who are learning to play bluegrass.