Student Feedback, continued

Hey there L.A.’ers. I hooked up with John, and he has a well organized, methodical approach to teaching the steel guitar. I’ve tried taking lessons from hotshot steelers that could play circles around me (not hard to do, actually), but they didn’t have the METHOD to teach, and therefore couldn’t be as effective for me.

If you want to get to the next level, McClung’s your man!

Jordan Shapiro, Los Angeles, CA

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There are so many aspects of this instrument that require the utmost care and attention to detail. Without them, it’s nearly impossible to “master the machine” and harness the energy to produce MUSIC — ahh, the beauty of music on the steel...

It is clear that you have spent many, many hours, weeks, months and years in the pursuit of the best way to approach the steel, and in fine-tuning the methods and styles that need to be considered in order to really play this instrument intelligently — yet with all the soul, warmth, and feel that one would hope to get from a true steel player.

I know for a fact that, although I have not accomplished nearly what I have set out to do on the steel, and knowing full well that I am always in need of more practice, I will become the best steel player I can be if I continue to work hard at it, and because of your dedication and careful tutelage. The steel represents much more to me than just the instrument itself: I find that in working at it, and seeing progress and the effects of effort and time that have been invested, it says a lot about an approach to life in general — patience is definitely a virtue! (Or as you have said, “Patience, Practice, Persistence.”)

Needless to say, I truly love playing pedal steel, and in order to work hard at anything that one finds challenging, one must feel inspired. So I just wanted to say that I have found a great sense of inspiration from the sessions, I admire your accomplishments on the steel, and it gives me the impetus to keep moving forward. You are a great steel player, a great teacher, and a great friend, and I do appreciate all the guidance and encouragement you've offered over the last year. Thanks.

George ("Steel crazy after all these years") Saer, Glendale, CA

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