Andy Smith
I started playing the guitar at the age of 14 with the most important early influences being John Renbourn and John Martyn. Playing improved (but my bank balance was hit) whe I bought my first decent guitar - a second-hand 1959 Gibson J50 - which served me well for many years. However, in the 90s I discovered Lowden guitars and bought myself one of the original series. These days I play a Lowden F50 which has a beautifully balanced tone and great projection. For slide I use a Mattsen Baritone Scroll resonator guitar. I also have a custom-made Craig McAdam guitar.
For many years I ran the Chanticleer Folk Club in Dorking, Surrey and got to book my favourite acts! First as a member of the Ceilidh band Friday Street and later D'Arcy Spice I could be found playing at weddings and social gatherings around the SE of England for 30 years. Having now moved to the Scottish Borders I instigated and co-ordinate the Kelso Folk Festival and am enjoying rediscovering my Scottish musical roots.
Andy Smith
I started playing the guitar at the age of 14 with the most important early influences being John Renbourn and John Martyn. Playing improved (but my bank balance was hit) whe I bought my first decent guitar - a second-hand 1959 Gibson J50 - which served me well for many years. However, in the 90s I discovered Lowden guitars and bought myself one of the original series. These days I play a Lowden F50 which has a beautifully balanced tone and great projection. For slide I use a Mattsen Baritone Scroll resonator guitar. I also have a custom-made Craig McAdam guitar.
For many years I ran the Chanticleer Folk Club in Dorking, Surrey and got to book my favourite acts! First as a member of the Ceilidh band Friday Street and later D'Arcy Spice I could be found playing at weddings and social gatherings around the SE of England for 30 years. Having now moved to the Scottish Borders I instigated and co-ordinate the Kelso Folk Festival and am enjoying rediscovering my Scottish musical roots.