Guitar Nine Columns

A celebration of "functionally unusual" guitars, their utilitarian purpose, and the visionaries behind their design.

Guitarist Neil Brocklebank`s logistics manager has some advice for you if you stubbornly intend to pursue a life-style fully supported by that original material only you believe in.

Indie marketing guru Tim Sweeney discusses why your home city is one of the most critical to your success.

Virtuoso classical guitarist and instructor Jamie Andreas on how to make progress, real progress, in your abilities.

Mike Campese is back with powerful compositional tool (and a play out of Satriani`s playbook).

Indie marketing guru Tim Sweeney discusses the biggest mistake bands using e-mail.

Guitarist Neil Brocklebank`s logistics manager talks about the concept of the iconic guitar figure who influences the way we play.

Virtuoso classical guitarist and instructor Jamie Andreas answers the burning question.

Music industry guru Christopher Knab has practical advice on selecting the right entertainment attorney.

Tom Hess is back with the twenty concepts you need... and the five things to forget.

Insider tips on selecting a useful mic, with Canadian guitarist David Martone.

The Mutant Guitar series would be void and incomplete without mention of Emmett Chapman and his creation.

Michael Knight looks at the elements of composition as they relate to the guitar solo.

Greg Brown talks about tapping into the power of visualization.

How do you write something fast, expressive and musical? Randy Ellefson is here with some tips.

I just wanted to explore a mellower kind of psychedelic thing on the last record. There¥s some great stuff on it. It got really great reviews in the United States, all over the place. But the record company actually fell apart and now it¥s not even available.

Heavier Than Typical Progressive Metal

Aggressively Hopped, Full-Bodied Metal

Excellent Guitar Work Supports Rock/Pop Release

Making Jazz The Way It Used To Be Made

Capturing Guitar Acumen In A Pop Format

A Fingerstyle Guitar Showcase

Exploring Neo-Classical Influences

Progressive Metal, Texas-Style

Appealing To Guitarists & Laymen Alike

Guitar-Driven Electronica

Country/Blues Instrumental Mix

Blazing Instrumental Shred From Italy

I run my business, do my own booking, I do everything! We don`t have no managers, no agents, none of that. That`s what I tell these kids now. You`re better off making your own record, selling it at your own place and owning the rights to your own records.

Of course besides the music, there is another very important part of your musicianship, which is to learn how to market yourself. It all starts with acting professional, being on time, learning your parts. Learn to ask for advice when you need it from players that have more experience than you.

Try to become proficient in marketing, and develop a keen business sense. This includes your recordings, music book publishing, other merchandising endeavors, etc. The music industry is a very, very tough one, and it takes serious dedication and an unbelievable work ethic to survive.

Music industry guru Christopher Knab provides a basic outline to the key parts of a recording contract.

Mike Campese shifts into high gear with these high tech shred licks.

Useful tips on miking up a full drum kit, with Canadian guitarist David Martone.

Tom Hess discusses how creativity can be enhanced and stimulated to improve songwriting and improvisation.

Dan Lambert with a story about gigging abroad.

Bryon Thompson on discovering new ways of writing stronger and more original material.

Guitarist Neil Brocklebank`s logistics manager talks about the difficulties facing a small time touring band.

Indie marketing guru Tim Sweeney discusses how to get the most from your Internet presence.

Communicating Beauty, Peace, And Joy

Having The Guts To Play What They Feel

Old School Metal Rises Up