Album Notes

A collection of contemporary compositions for solo acoustic guitar featuring: Bill Brenckle, Michael Gruber, Matthew Schroeder, Dan Schwartz, and Benjamin Woolman.

"When I first heard of the American Finger-Style Guitar Program offered through the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and the WI Conservatory of Music, founded by John Stropes, I was amazed! Finally there was a program where students could study this unique style that covers a broad array of music which includes: jazz, classical, folk, pop, and various world music. To hear of John's involvement, that he was working shoulder to shoulder with the premier, cutting edge artists like Leo Kottke, Michael Hedges, Pierre Bensusan...I thought it was a landmark program. When I joined the staff, I couldn't believe John's goal setting and what he was expecting these young players to do. His ability to help them achieve these goals was remarkable. John's focus on absolutely uncompromising achievement was what set the tone for the program. He helped them unlock the little subtleties and secrets that make the repertoire come alive!

The compositions on this CD prove the goals of the program were not only well established, but they were well realized by these five graduates. This recording is an important demonstration of the possibilities of American Finger-style Guitar." - Billy Mclaughlin