Greetings from Nick

[Nick_hudis]

Hi

Just joined.

I'm hoping to find some advice and encouragement. I've played the guitar for around 40 years: first as a reasonable classical player and teacher, then a long break from playing after which I re-emerged as a folkie playing DADGAD guitar and inspired by the likes of Pierre Bensusan, Martin Simpson and Alec Stone Sweet. Not many people play that kind of music on nylon strings - I do.

I find myself being pulled inexorably towards exploring jazz, a genre I have absolutely no experience of but initial listening is suggesting an affinity with Gypsy, Cool, Modal and Bossa Nova.

I know I want to continue with nylon strings and fingerstyle and I want to develop my improvisational skills above all.

Any suggestions about how to proceed. Good books, inspiring players would be most welcome.

[saponsky]

For Gypsy the imperative recommendations is Django Reinhardt. My personal favorites are Joe Pass, Ed Bickert, Jim Hall, Barney Kessel, Mimi Fox and Wes Montgomery among others.

[derek]

Welcome Nick. If you are interested in nylon string based jazz, then there are the deceased masters Charlie Byrd and the great Lenny Breau. Of the living, you have Ken Hatfield, Gene Bertoncini, and Jeff Linsky. If you are listening to Bossa then you have discovered Jobim et al.

[Nick_hudis]

Thanks for the suggestions. iTunes has provided me with a nice selection of albums. Byrd and Breau are a revalation.