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Three of My Favorite ChordsOn the guitar, all inversions are not created equal. Assuming standard tuning, there are certain groupings of notes that the instrument seems to like best. Some shapes make inspired use of open strings, some are exquisitely symmetrical. Some chords test the limits of our physical capabilities, but make us stronger, better guitarists in the pr … read more

A Love Song to the Piedmont BluesI first learned to “Piedmont” pick from the late, great John Cephas of the Richmond blues duo, Cephas & Wiggins. I had just turned 15, and my fledgling identity was intertwined with music. I gravitated towards anything that struck me as sincere and authentic. This took me from punk rock to folk and blues. At the encouragement of my pare … read more

Dr. Z Amps-The Boutique AmplifierFor all your tubular medical needs, Midwood is proud to offer Dr. Z Amps. As the son of a 1950s television repairman, Michael Zaite grew up surrounded by vacuum tubes. As a teen, he was a drummer in garage bands, and performed modifications on his bandmate's amps. He went on to pursue a career in electronics, focusing on medical equipm … read more

    Heritage Guitars-Gibson's early influence In the late 1800s, Kalamazoo, Michigan was a popular destination for wealthy Yankee farmers to send their sons to become leaders of industry. Born a New Yorker, Orville Gibson set up shop in Kalamazoo and … read more

FENDER CUSTOM SHOP has long set the standard for electric guitar design and innovation. We’re smitten with the Fender Custom Shop 2019 and 2020 offerings. Years of studying and repairing vintage Fender electric guitars have granted the luthiers profound insights into what makes their guitars sing. The classics are classics for a reason. If you’re looking for an … read more