INSIDE THE WORLD OF TAYLOR GUITARS / VOLUME 71 SPRING 2012

Spring Limiteds Koa 300s / Cocobolo 800s Premium GS Minis Baritone 416ce

Builder’s Reserve Rare European Maple Art Deco Guitar + Amp

Latin Guitar Grooves

David Mayfield 2 www.taylorguitars.com 3

ing Wood&Steel for my reading plea- me to develop my own rather uncon- A few months ago, I took her into sure. This company truly cares about ventional left hand technique, which my local Taylor dealer for some repair me and my guitar, and for that I am truly works just right for me. I won’t ever be work. I was pleasantly surprised, as I Volume 71 Letters grateful. The only question on my mind as good as I’d hoped to be, but I love had actually forgotten about the lifetime now is, which Taylor to buy next! playing the Mini. So, thanks to Bob and warranty, which covered everything Spring 2012 Find us on Facebook. Subscribe on YouTube. Follow us on Twitter: twitter.com/taylorguitars guitar store and chanced upon your Fionn Closs the entire Taylor team. Here’s one UK except a re-fretting. In addition, the GS Mini. I was so taken by the beauti- retiree who salutes you with gratitude. technician registered the guitar for me, ful sound and resonance that I could P.S. If this letter makes it into Wood&Steel Alan Sturgess which I apparently neglected to do in Features not put it down. I purchased one soon and my wife is reading, please buy me Gargrave, North Yorkshire, UK 1983! Then, this afternoon, I found my afterwards and play it all the time. I can the suede Taylor guitar strap. first issue of Wood&Steel in my mail- honestly say my acoustic chops have box — another unexpected pleasure. I On the Cover increased greatly due to the playability Downsizing now feel like a long-lost cousin who has of the guitar, along with that wonderful Smooth Operation Last year I finally purchased what I been welcomed back into the family! 18 The 2012 Spring Limiteds tone. I also installed the ES-Go pickup, I would like to thank your team for thought would be the guitar of guitars. I am now saving up for another Tay- Our seasonal serenade revives the which sounds terrific. I had always the great service and instrument quality. It was a 2010 416ce [walnut/spruce] lor to complement Guinnevere. Thanks senses with exotic koa and cocobolo, respected the reputation of the Taylor I called your PR office and asked if they Spring Limited. As expected, I was to the great info in Wood&Steel, I am an ovangkol baritone, and a trio of name but now am a proud part of the could locate a Blue Edgeburst T5-C1 not disappointed with its full but clear thinking either a 512ce or a mahogany premium-wood GS Minis. Taylor family. Many thanks for this won- within 100 miles of my house. They sound. Shortly after the purchase, I real- 12-Fret. Then again, I’m also lusting for derful guitar. immediately followed up with the stores ized there was a problem. I had been an all-mahogany GS Mini. Maybe I’ll Michael Cefola in my area that had acquired this guitar. experiencing some pain issues in my get that while I’m saving for the Grand Scarsdale, NY I called Accent Music in Wilmington, right shoulder and found that the bigger Concert. Going Deutsche Delaware, who did not have any, but size of the GS did not feel comfortable. Thank you for building wonderful Two days ago I received Wood&Steel, they came back with, “We can have I subconsciously began to avoid playing guitars and for your great service. Vol. 70 [Winter 2012], and it is written in Close Friends one for you in a week.” They then called it and instead would pick up the T5 or Dave Morse German. This really surprised me. Gen- I am Michel from Holland, a singer- Taylor and secured the exact guitar the Baby Taylor. I recently realized why, erally, I don’t need a German version, songwriter ever since I started playing and model year I wanted. Everything and thought a slightly smaller guitar and I’m sure most of us here don’t. But in 1973. I have played many guitars, but went smoothly until I opened the case. might do the trick. I visited my local Energy Boost it shows your relation with one of your 4-1/2 years ago, I fell in love with the Wow! I almost lost it. This is not only Taylor dealer, and lo and behold, they I wanted to share with you the posi- most important markets. And the deci- Taylor 315ce. I was looking for a new a beautiful work of art, but a smooth- had a 412ce-LTD in stock. It took only tive experience I had in a chance meet- sion to go that way is absolutely correct. guitar after losing my sister in Novem- playing, great-sounding guitar. I am five minutes to realize I had found the up with [Taylor district sales manager] Congratulations. Reading it will give me ber of 2006, my mother in February highly impressed. I have been playing perfect acoustic guitar for me. After Eric Sakimoto here in Longmont [Colo- hours of relaxation. of 2007, and her friend that March. It for 10-plus years and own over 15 gui- negotiating a trade on my 416ce, I rado]. This past Christmas I purchased Frank Kern made me understand that you have to tars, some very high-end. I would like brought her home and I am playing and a little Taylor Swift Baby Taylor for my 6 David Mayfield’s Americana Parade (XX-RS, XX-MC, DCSM) live your dreams when you’ve got the to thank Bob, all the craftsmen, and the smiling more than ever. Just about all 8-year-old daughter. My goal was to get The generously bearded newgrasser reflects on chance, because tomorrow everything rest of your team for making my new the reviews on guitars are about the her excited about playing music and his bluegrass past, humor-laced performances, can change. So I went to a big store year start off very well. sound or the bling. But you don’t read expose her to positive energy. We had and recording his Taylors with vintage gear. Guitar Sustain in Amersfoort, where they had about Philip Oneschuk much about the fit — how it feels when just finished up a guitar lesson when I just finished reading the latest issue 800 guitars in stock and many differ- you have it in your arms. I found that to we were approached by Eric. He had of Wood&Steel and want to thank Bob, ent brands. Once I started playing the be very important. I am so thankful that spotted her Taylor guitar and asked 12 Builder’s Reserve V: Euro Meets Deco Kurt and everyone at Taylor for actively Taylor I was lost, and there was no way Mixed Feelings you make several great shapes in each how she liked it. She was surprised Our latest small-batch guitar/amp release pairs European maple with European pursuing business practices that sup- back. When I retired, I vowed to do what wood combination. This 412ce-LTD has and excited that anyone took notice spruce and embraces a vintage Art Deco aesthetic. port the environment and promote envi- The 315ce became my closest I’d never done throughout my life: settle such beautiful sound in the highs, mids of her guitar! He showed her a super ronmental sustainability. When I’m play- friend. He talks to me, listens to my down and really learn to play guitar. At and the lows. For a fingerpicker who nice Taylor and asked her if she’d like Cover photo: (L-R) Cocobolo 814ce-LTD, GS Mini Maple ing my Taylor guitars it is nice to know heart, and helps me to express my sad- that time I had an acoustic dreadnought doesn’t wander from the designated to hold it, which she did and was just 14 Latin Guitar Grooves Wayne Johnson explains how to weave independent thumb and finger picking that I not only have a great-sounding ness and joy. Since then I’ve written and a 12-string. I made pleasing pro- music room in the house and plays for thrilled. Thanks to Eric and Taylor Swift, patterns together to create Latin rhythms with percussive effects. and great-playing guitar, but that I am many new songs with it. It was the best gress until — Ouch! — I sliced my left pure self-enjoyment, there couldn’t be you now have a lifelong customer! We also supporting a company with a con- choice I could ever make. Playing it palm when woodworking. Blood eve- a better size/wood combination. My met with her girlfriends after that, and 16 12 science. I applaud Taylor for setting an convinced other friends to buy a Taylor, rywhere. My local hospital delayed too shoulder loves it too. Thank you! all she talked about was the guitar and 16 The NAMM Show example and taking the lead in this area. too. Thank you for building such beauti- long before microsurgery; as a result, Gary Livesey how cool it was. She’s always playing We showcased a colorful lineup of guitars and artists at one of our industry’s Fred Leonard ful guitars. My Taylor will keep me com- my left hand index finger has virtually no Knoxville, TN her guitar now, and soon she will be top trade shows. pany on my search through life. feeling, and my middle finger has seri- playing for friends and at school. I guar- Michel Risseeuw ously impaired feeling. If “finger memo- antee you other parents are going to 22 Guitar Spotlight: The Nylons Slow Ride Sprang-Capelle, Holland ry” exists — and I now definitely believe Life With Guinnevere be looking into Taylor guitars! Anyway, I We’ve put a modern twist on the classical guitar with the help of our slim, easy- Thank you for the great article that it does — it was as if those fingers In 1983, after playing guitar for a was appreciative of Eric’s professional- playing necks. Choose from 16 models and an array of appointment packages. “Slowly But Surely” [Winter 2012]. I no longer knew where to go when I few years, I went shopping for a “good” ism and passion for getting kids excited always wanted to learn to play the guitar Full Service was playing unless I watched them guitar. I went to the local guitar store, about music. but knew I was musically challenged, I recently bought a Taylor T5 [Clas- closely and controlled every movement. expecting to try Martins, Gibsons and Cory Dudley 28 What Are You Working On? intimidated and worried about failure. sic] with the ovangkol [top] and all-nat- Guitar sizes became an issue, and I a few other brands, but there in the A look at humidity control within the factory, repairing a crack in a sunburst top, My wife finally bought me a guitar and ural finish, and besides being the best lost motivation. rack were three Taylor guitars, a brand and laminating and bending Baby Taylor sides. then a lesson. While my progress has guitar I have ever played, your service Several years after the accident, I I had never heard of. They were a 515, been slow, the article was very inspiring. and customer care are absolutely encountered the GS Mini. The com- a 615 and a 555. Of all the guitars We all learn at a different pace, and if second to none! When my battery com- bination of size, shape, shorter scale, in my budget range, the 615 was the you keep playing, progress will come. partment door failed a short time after sound and comfortable feel trans- one I fell in love with. The appearance Departments Pat purchase, I had my guitar whisked away formed my musical life and banished and craftsmanship were outstanding; I We’d like to to [repair technician] Al Clegg from my hitherto lost sense of motivation. I couldn’t believe a guitar that size could hear from you 2 Letters 5 Editor’s Note 27 Taylor Notes Waterloo, Ontario. He not only repaired enjoyed playing again! Maybe not per- be so light and vibrant. Twenty-eight Chance Encounter the problem under warranty, but also fectly, but definitely enjoyably. years later, other guitars have come Send your e-mails to: 4 Kurt’s Corner 10 Ask Bob 30 Events I have been an electric guitar player lowered the action a little and restrung My fingers have never regained their and gone, but I still have “Guinnevere.” [email protected] 5 BobSpeak 24 Soundings 31 Calendar all my life, dabbling in acoustic guitars it. It was back in my hands before my sense of feeling. If anything, things have She is my lifetime guitar, the one I will every now and then. I was at a local next gig. Now I am thrilled to be receiv- worsened, but the GS Mini has allowed never sell. 32 TaylorWare

4 www.taylorguitars.com 5

Volume 71 Editor’s Note Spring 2012

Publisher / Taylor-Listug, Inc. Produced by the Taylor Guitars Marketing Department Sounds of the Season Vice President of Sales & Marketing / Brian Swerdfeger Out here in San Diego, our consistently pleasant climate occasionally Director of Brand Marketing / Jonathan Forstot takes a jab from transplants who pine for the more dramatic seasonal Editor / Jim Kirlin changes they’ve experienced in other regions of the country. As a native of the East Coast myself, I understand, although, more often than not, the Senior Art Director / Cory Sheehan quibbles I hear mostly stem from missing the bold-colored scenery of fall. Art Director / Rita Funk-Hoffman Winter, not so much. Graphic Designer / Angie Stamos-Guerra Though we might not experience quite the same dynamic shifts from Photographer / Tim Whitehouse Mother Nature here each quarter, people who spend time here come to appreciate the incredible diversity of our regional microclimates — the Contributors ocean, inland valleys, mountains and desert — which present us with a Jonathan Forstot / David Hosler / Wayne Johnson / David Kaye / Kurt Listug variety of year-round outdoor options. We actually have an abundance of Shawn Persinger / Shane Roeschlein / Bob Taylor / Glen Wolff / Chalise Zolezzi seasonal changes; they’re just different. Wildflowers bloom in the desert Technical Advisors each spring. Gray whales migrate along our coastline each winter. Surf Ed Granero / David Hosler / Gerry Kowalski / Andy Lund / Rob Magargal swells and ocean temperatures change throughout the year. Mike Mosley / Brian Swerdfeger / Bob Taylor / Chris Wellons / Glen Wolff It’s not so different here at Taylor. Like the weather, there’s a level of year-round consistency to our guitar production, thanks in part to people Contributing Photographers like our internal climate control guru Jim Setran, whose role we explore Rita Funk-Hoffman / David Kaye / Steve Parr in this issue’s installment of “What Are You Working On?” Yet we also have our own seasonal product developments that bring new guitars to Circulation Printing / Distribution the world: the debut of our new guitar line each winter; spring and fall Katrina Horstman Courier Graphics / CEREUS - Phoenix Kurt’s Corner BobSpeak limited editions; Builder’s Reserve specials; and usually something fun each summer, too. ©2012 Taylor Guitars. TAYLOR, TAYLOR (Stylized); TAYLOR GUITARS, TAYLOR QUALITY GUITARS and NAMM’s Music-Making Mission to meet face-to-face with Congressional Design; BABY TAYLOR; BIG BABY; Peghead Design; Bridge Design; Pickguard Design; 100 SERIES; A Glimpse Ahead I was reminded of the benefits of working for a Southern California 200 SERIES; 300 SERIES; 400 SERIES; 500 SERIES; 600 SERIES; 700 SERIES; 800 SERIES; guitar company as we planned an outdoor photo shoot for this issue’s You’ve likely heard of the NAMM ing these shows, but that’s far from all officials and urge their support for music Matt Guzetta and I were once the Which is why I’m amazed at times accomplished player, one who knows 900 SERIES; PRESENTATION SERIES; GALLERY; QUALITY TAYLOR GUITARS, GUITARS AND spring limiteds and realized we’d be able to shoot outside in warm, blue- Show before, and in this issue you’ll that NAMM does. NAMM is a non-profit education. CASES and Design; WOOD&STEEL; ROBERT TAYLOR (Stylized); TAYLOR EXPRESSION SYSTEM; entire tooling department at Taylor Gui- that I ever bother wondering what the the difference between good and great sky conditions, in mid-February. It was the perfect kind of day for sitting read about our presence at this year’s organization, endowed with a mission NAMM has filmed scores of video EXPRESSION SYSTEM; TAYLORWARE; TAYLOR GUITARS K4; K4, TAYLOR K4; TAYLOR ES; DOYLE tars. Or should I say, I was, and then next thing of interest will be at Taylor, guitars. He designed this guitar to in the sun and strumming one of our beautiful new GS Minis. Wherever winter show. NAMM stands for the to expose more people to the benefits testimonials with musicians, celebri- DYKES SIGNATURE MODEL; DYNAMIC BODY SENSOR; T5; T5 (Stylized); BALANCED BREAKOUT; Matt joined me. But Matt had been an and when it might present itself as a sound…well, how can I say it, perfect? R. TAYLOR; R TAYLOR (Stylized); AMERICAN DREAM; TAYLOR SOLIDBODY; T3; GRAND SYMPHONY; major project. The world keeps unfold- It has perfectly even notes in volume, you live, I hope the weather has invited you to get outside and play. National Association of Music Mer- of playing music, create more music ties, athletes and politicians who have WAVE COMPENSATED; GS; GS MINI; ES-GO; V-CABLE; and GA are registered trademarks of the com- industrial next-door neighbor for years, chants and is the U.S.-based trade makers, and grow the industry. I had the one thing in common: they love to play pany. DOYLE DELUXE; GA MINI; YOUR TONE. AMPLIFIED; and FIND YOUR FIT; NYLON SERIES; with his own shop, making motorcycle ing before our very eyes, even in the from the open strings to the 20th fret. — Jim Kirlin organization representing the musical opportunity to learn more about all that music. The video spots all feature the KOA SERIES; WALNUT SERIES; GRAND AUDITORIUM; GRAND CONCERT; SIGNATURE MODEL; accessories, and we shared ideas even midst of record production and sales, They all work together, without beating person sharing why they play music and GS SERIES; LIBERTY TREE; LEO KOTTKE SIGNATURE MODEL; DAN CRARY SIGNATURE MODEL; before he joined Taylor. Soon after Matt alongside a fulfilling array of new each other up. The tone is clear, loud, instrument industry. NAMM is best NAMM does, as I just finished a three- DYNAMIC STRING SENSOR are trademarks of the company. Patents pending. Prices and specifications known for the huge trade show it pro- year term on the organization’s Board of what benefits they derive from playing subject to change without notice. joined us, the workload began to pile up, designs, projects and inventions. Can I harmonious and sweet. It’s musical. duces each January in Anaheim and its Directors. It was an honor to serve on an instrument. You may have seen a so we decided we needed help. give you just a little glimpse? I know all And what blows my mind is that Andy summer show each July in Nashville. The the Board, and it was an enriching expe- few of these on TV, such as the spot by We were in the middle of some proj- you bass players are sitting up straight pre-destined it to be like that, taking shows provide an exhibition for those rience for me. Robert Downey, Jr. You can check these 2012 Taylor Factory Tours & Vacation Dates ects that seemed like they’d never be right now, hoping for news about a his theories and then fashioning them working in the industry, such as music NAMM works in many ways to grow out at www.wannaplaymusic.com. A free, guided tour of the Taylor Guitars factory is given every Monday completed, so Matt called his machinist new bass, but alas, I’ll talk about gui- into a guitar that performed like he store owners and employees, along with our industry and help create more music Have you ever wanted to hear one through Friday at 1 p.m. (excluding holidays). No advance reservations are friend, Pete. Pete was running a home- tars. Sorry, guys. hoped. Yeah, he’s a better guitar maker the press, as opposed to a public show makers. It provides grants to many of the founding members of the Doors necessary. Simply check-in at the reception desk in our Visitor Center, located based machine shop and was pretty David Hosler is at it again. He’s than me. I don’t do too badly, but I’m busy, but Matt wooed him, saying that reinventing guitar pickups. It’s true, happy to have him on my side. that’s open to anyone. In terms of its organizations that teach people to play talk about how the band was formed? in the lobby of our main building, before 1 p.m. We ask that large groups (more Or how BB King came to buy his first Taylor Guitars was a fun and stable and this is something new altogether, We’re deep into a guitar case with these we’re starting very slow and So today I thought I’d give you all scope, it is one of the largest musical an instrument or expose people to the than 10) call us in advance at (619) 258-1207. amplifier? Or how Gary Hurst developed place to work. He told Pete about proj- and really quite remarkable. You know, design project. Cases and bags are learning our craft and the market at the a glimpse of some of the things we’re instrument trade shows in the world, benefits of playing music, such as Little While not physically demanding, the tour does include a fair amount of rivaled in size by only the Musikmesse Kids Rock (www.littlekidsrock.org), Mr. the Tone Bender? Do yourself a favor ects we were behind on and how we ideas come when they come, and always a big challenge as we try to same time. working on for the uncharted future. Or walking. Due to the technical nature, the tour may not be suitable for small held each spring in Frankfurt, Germany. Holland’s Opus Foundation (www.mho- and visit the Oral History section of needed his help. this one came to him probably in the keep the cost reasonable enough to This issue is filled with all the cool as Matt always says, “We don’t work, children. The tour lasts approximately one hour and 15 minutes and departs The NAMM Show is an exciting pus.org), or Music Monday (www.music- NAMM’s website, in the Library section As Pete considered, he had one night. Now we’re pouring considerable not eat up any profit we might try to stuff we’re doing right now. Guitars we just come in and play!” And since from the main building at 1980 Gillespie Way in El Cajon, California. event to attend, with virtually every musi- monday.ca). The work these organiza- (www.namm.org/library/oral-history). question: “What am I supposed to do resources into the idea, and we’ll have make from our guitar operation and you can buy now, our latest work, our I’m on the subject of Matt, and might Please take note of the weekday exceptions below. For more information, cal instrument manufacturer or distribu- tions do, and the events they produce, There you’ll find more than 1,000 oral when we finish this machine you want something to show before long. yet still deliver a nice case. Look at an best efforts. Yet it seems that even not get the chance again, I’ll share my including directions to the factory, please visit taylorguitars.com/contact. tor present displaying their newest prod- all serve to create more music makers history interviews with the talented musi- me to build?” We told Pete not to worry, Now remember, these are glimpses, average hardshell case sometime and while people are signing their credit favorite Matt-ism with you all. This is ucts. The exhibit halls are full of creative, and generate more positive news stories cians, inventors and entrepreneurs of We look forward to seeing you! that we had lots of work for the future, not announcements. My service reps ask yourself how that can be made card receipt as they purchase a new for when we try, and fail. Matt likes to optimistic people who feel passionate about the benefits of playing music. this great industry. I know you’ll have a even though we couldn’t tell him what it will probably clobber me because you’ll and sold for the $100 price tag that’s Taylor guitar, they often ask me what say, “Well, we might be slow, but we about the things they’ve invented or pro- NAMM also provides a voice in lot of fun. was yet, because we didn’t know. all start calling and asking when the on it. The dollar constraints we have is next for us. I often shrug and say, do bad work!” That’s the kind of fun duced, and are anxious to tell the world Washington to those of us who are in The executives and staff of NAMM Holiday Closures Pete retired from Taylor a year or new pickup is coming out, but we don’t on the product make it very difficult “We’ll do something of value, I prom- we poke at ourselves that keeps it real about them. There are non-stop musical the business of making and selling musi- do a terrific job, some of it quite appar- so ago at over 70 years of age, and he know, we honestly don’t know; we still to get the job done, so we’ve put our ise. I just don’t know exactly what the around here. performances on stages throughout the cal instruments. Lawmakers need to ent to the eye, such as the highly- Monday, May 28 literally had to break away from the work have to finish inventing it. I just thought best minds on it, and together we’re next thing is.” convention center, in exhibitors’ display understand the impact of the decisions successful NAMM Show, and much of it (Memorial Day) he was doing. It turned out that there I’d share how we keep finding new exploring new ground. I believe we will ­­ — Bob Taylor, President booths, in performance rooms such as they make and the legislation they pass, behind the scenes yet equally important. was sufficient work for him, even though things here that are worthy to develop. have something to be proud of within a Taylor’s huge room, in nearby concert and they wouldn’t know their impact on I encourage you to take a moment to Monday-Friday, July 2-6 when he left, the department had about Andy Powers, who I believe to be couple years. venues, and in the hotel lobbies until music stores and musical instrument visit NAMM’s website and learn more (Independence Day/Company Vacation) 20 people working alongside him. I think the most talented guitar maker I’ve ever We’re trickling out a limited number well after midnight. Many of our musical manufacturers if NAMM wasn’t there about the important role the organization Matt might be hitting the happy trail of met, walked into my office the other of ukuleles and guitar amps now as retirement at the end of this year, but day with a new prototype guitar that well — just enough to put something heroes can be seen performing live, and telling our story and representing our plays in keeping music alive and in the Monday, September 3 Online forefront in our culture. we all will believe it, and mourn, when is an all-new body shape, and also an nice into the market and test the we have the opportunity to see them up interests. To help facilitate this, NAMM (Labor Day) close and speak with them afterwards. organizes an annual Advocacy Fly-In we see it! There’s plenty of work for him all-new sound. As I’ve explained, Andy waters. We want to branch out and NAMM does a fabulous job produc- Event, sending members to Washington ­­ — Kurt Listug, CEO as well. is a fantastic player. I mean a really make nice musical instruments, so Read this and other back issues of Wood&Steel at taylorguitars.com 7

THE WOOD&STEEL INTERVIEW After seeing David Mayfield’s rollicking set

in the Taylor room at the NAMM Show, of the Black Keys. When the band getting a great sound as a whole, as one impression lingered above the oth- members amicably parted ways, May- opposed to all the separate little isolated ers: This guy is fully committed to his field recorded an album as the David sounds in more modern studios. So, craft. Though the set was shorter than Mayfield Parade, with “parade” serving once we got in there and the first couple a normal gig, and the audience atypical as an apt description for the fluid cast songs were recorded, we knew it would compared to a public show, Mayfield, a of musical contributors, including the be easy. self-confessed ham since he was a kid, Avetts and his sister, who have helped didn’t hold back, embellishing his well- bring his music to life. Why did you record in the two dif- honed Americana tunes with playful, We caught up with Mayfield in early ferent studios? Vaudeville-meets-Hee Haw humor and February, a few weeks after the NAMM At first we had talked about doing it showmanship. By the end of the set, Show. He had just finished recording all at RCA B and found out later that it the entire room had become an exten- his sophomore DMP record at a pair probably wasn’t the best room for the sion of the stage, with Mayfield reveal- of historic studios in Nashville and was really loud, rocking stuff because of the ing a fondness for on-stage tumbling, gearing up for the first leg of a tour that layout. It would be tons of bleed onto Retro Fit a knack for flatpicking solos while lying will cover about 200 dates in 2012. He everything because you’re so close in on the floor surrounded by the crowd, talked about how his Taylors — a pair of this room. So that’s when Mike Janas, ROOTS REVIVALIST and an eagerness to test the weight DN3s and a DN8 prototype — fit into the who engineered the record, recom- limits of our TaylorWare counter in the recording sessions, reflected on what mended that we go over to Quonset back of the room. he learned as part of an itinerant family Hut, which was kind of RCA’s arch But what makes Mayfield’s stage band, explained the benefits of working enemy back in the late ’50s when they antics ultimately work is the substance with a shifting ensemble of musicians, were each other’s biggest competition. of the music behind it — strong, heart- and offered his thoughts on the cur- That room was set up so we could get DAVID MAYFIELD TALKS felt songwriting and musicianship. A rent mainstream embrace of Americana those sounds easier. We did the softer, nimble flatpicker with a sweet, high- music. more acoustic sounds at RCA B and the lonesome tenor, Mayfield is something louder, rowdier ones at Quonset Hut. of an Americana alchemist, adept at How did the recording sessions go? tapping the different strains of tradi- Great. We got the whole record done Did you record with the band you tional roots music and stirring them into with the exception of a few overdubs had out at the NAMM Show? ABOUT HIS BLUEGRASS a rich melting pot. His songs are like and maybe some guest spots that I used them and I used a few other heirloom recipes he has inherited and we’ll do after this tour. We were in two musicians as well, and some people preserved, and yet made his own. From studios. One was RCA B, which is the who may be touring with me in the vintage rock & roll to lovelorn bluegrass historic studio where all the Roy Orbison future. It kind of feels like a parade of ballads, his tunes have elicited waves hits were recorded, and where Elvis musicians, which was kind of what we PAST, THE ART OF of critical raves, and some of his big- recorded a bunch of songs, and Dolly were going for — not making it some gest fans are acclaimed Americana Parton and Jim Reeves. We did three kind of star-studded roster, or a giant list peer-friends like Mumford & Sons and days there and then three more days of different people on every song, but the Avett Brothers. at Quonset Hut, another famous studio there’s a core and then lots of different Bluegrass is in Mayfield’s bones. where “Crazy” was recorded by Patsy flavors added. His parents each played in bluegrass Cline. It was really neat to not only be SHOWMANSHIP, AND bands prior to meeting and eventually in those spaces with all that history but I wanted to ask you about that formed a band together. As a pre-teen to use that same equipment. I sang into because as I’ve listened to your growing up in Kent, Ohio, Mayfield got the same microphone that a lot of those music and read about your career, in on the family act, as did his younger hits were recorded on. It was pretty cool you’ve had a lot of interplay with sister Jessica Lea. The road became to be in there and to have vintage micro- different artists and ensembles. Do home after his folks sold their house phones and all this warm analog gear, you see it as a natural part of the THE WAY HIS TAYLOR and bought a 1956 Flex touring bus, and then a brand new Taylor. Americana scene? which they lived in for three years as I just like to play with as many differ- they traveled between festivals and per- That vintage vibe just suits your ent people as possible. I’m constantly formed together. The experience taught music so much. For some people, learning from people and getting dif- Mayfield the ropes both as a musician the studio experience can feel ster- ferent ears on my tunes because, like DREADNOUGHTS SUIT and entertainer. The family later settled ile, but in this case I would think a lot of songwriters, I tend to go to the in Nashville for a time before ultimately it would be a compatible environ- same places a lot of the time because returning to Ohio, but Mayfield migrated ment. Did you feel comfortable? that’s where I’m comfortable. So then back to Music Row to ply his craft. He Yeah. I think before we got into the you bring someone else in, and they scored a gig as a touring guitarist with studio the anticipation was killing me may have radical ideas about my ideas, country artist Andy Griggs, and also because it is such a special space — so and then that takes things to a differ- HIS VINTAGE SOUND played bass with his singer-songwriter much greatness has been captured ent place. If you just play with the same sister. It was through her that he met there that I didn’t want to do it any people, then you can end up in the Scott and Seth Avett (the Avett Broth- injustice. But once you get in there, you same places as well. So, it’s always ers), who became good friends and understand why so much great music nice to bring new people in and stretch By Jim Kirlin encouraged Mayfield’s own musical was recorded there. It’s just a really your comfort level. Also, I just think this pursuits. Mayfield joined the acclaimed great environment to work in, in the way type of music, Americana or folk-rock or Photo by Josh Joplin newgrass band Cadillac Sky in 2009 it’s laid out. Everyone’s in a big room [at whatever you want to call it, has always and contributed substantially to their Quonset Hut] and can see each other, been very collaborative. 2010 album Letters in the Deep, pro- and you don’t need to wear headphones duced by fellow Ohioan Dan Auerbach to be isolated; you just treat it more like continued next page 9

I did. On the one I put the D’Addario them into it. I said, “I could play bass,” go out there and milk some cows, and high-strung set — Nashville tuning — so and they said, “We don’t have a bass.” he’d end up teaching me chords on a it’s an octave up, and we added that So I said, “Well, buy me a bass and I’ll fretless gourd banjo. Living in a bus for on some tracks. I strung the other one learn to play it,” and they said, “How three years, we had all these strange with a set of flatwounds. So we kind of about this: You learn to play bass on adventures. But it was great. My family had this whole spectrum of tone that the guitar, and then we’ll buy you a was so close, and it made us all feel we could layer up acoustically. We had bass.” So I practiced and practiced, like we were equals, even when I was the rosewood powerhouse [DN8 proto- and I learned to play a bunch of their 13 or 14 years old, because the whole type], and then we had the high-strung songs just on the bass strings of a family was supporting itself. It’s not like DN3 for sparkle, and the flatwound one Fender acoustic that my papaw had dad was busting his ass all day and I for that kind of dead, thuddy sound. On bought for me at a pawn shop. We’d was home playing video games. We all one song we used the flatwound Taylor sit in the living room and practice, were going to clubs and county fairs, for almost the whole thing, and then and I’d pluck as loud as I could so working as a family, and busking on the on the last chorus played the proto- they could hear me play those bass streets of Nashville. type, and it sounded like someone just lines. I think my dad got an income kicked some kind of amazing filter on tax [refund] check and took me down It must have helped you hone your the guitar and it just opened up. to the store and bought me an elec- performance skills. Did you learn tric bass. So I joined the band. And how to be not only a musician but When you use your Taylors on my younger sister, who’s now a very also an entertainer, or did that stage do you use the ES pickup? talented singer-songwriter in her own come later? My DN3s came without pickups, and right, Jessica Lea Mayfield, she joined No, I definitely was a ham back then, I put other pickups in them, but I used the band a few years later, and then and that’s one thing I really thank my the Expression System on the DN8 I my parents had to let the non-family parents for. They made me aware of played at NAMM and it blew me away. members go, and we became more of what an entertainer’s role in society So I plan to get a DN8 as my next road a straight family band. Then my parents could be. My dad would say it’s no dif- guitar and use the ES with that. decided to sell their house and we ferent than a janitor. It’s not about us. bought an old bus and dropped out For a lot of musicians I think it’s turned I wanted to touch on your forma- of school and just lived in the bus and into this ego thing. I have no problems tive years and musical develop- traveled the country kind of as this with ego because you can’t play rock ment. You won some guitar and bizarre gypsy bluegrass family. & roll without ego. But I think a lot of mandolin competitions when you people forget that the audience comes were young. Were you a flatpicker? What are your memories of that and pays their hard-earned money to Yeah. When I was 13 or 14 I was period? You must have met so be entertained, and that’s the whole going around to the different festivals many interesting characters. idea for the David Mayfield Parade. It in Ohio and Kentucky and Indiana just Yeah, it was so bizarre. We went into would be this almost vaudevillian, Hee trying to get into that world. I won a home schooling, and you hear people Haw-inspired show, and when we do few little contests, and some mandolin say that home schooling is great but our full-on set there’s a lot of comedy contests. there’s no social interaction for the and a whole scope of unpretentious, kids. I definitely had the social scene unbridled entertainment. And my par- You also played in your parents’ covered, but it was always with people ents really instilled that in me in those band as a kid. What was that like? who were 30 or 40 years my senior years on the road with them. Above: Photo by Josh Marx; Below left: Mayfield in the studio with a My parents actually met at a bluegrass and were completely crazy. We’d play prototype DN8. Note the double pickguard on his DN3 in the background. festival. They were both in bands, so at some festival or something, and then Do they ever come out to your Photo by Crackerfarm they had a band ever since they were we’d have a week before our next run shows these days? together, and I think I was about 12 of shows, so some old widower at the Yeah, if we play Cleveland or some- Mayfield and his Parade at NAMM when I decided that I should probably festival would say, “Come park your where nearby they’ll come. We’re tap- be in the band as well. I kind of talked bus on my farm for the week.” So we’d ing a PBS special later in February just bunch of harmonies on my last record, pyrotechnics. So, I think people are outside of Nashville, and they might and when I started my own band they [feeling that] folk and Americana music How does the material on this a lot of diversity, as a listener it Yeah, I miss the days of getting a looked like a tobacco sunburst and they’d say, “Oh, yeah, that sounds make the trip down for that. It’s us and had me come and open shows for are real, and it could be them doing it. record compare to your previous felt really cohesive, and there was record and lying on my belly on the DN8. good. What’d you do?” It’s so funny The Civil Wars. them. That’s what a lot of people loved about record? enough variation that it felt like a floor with headphones on and just div- Yeah that’s the prototype we got from because I come from the bluegrass Dylan — he was just a guy with an I definitely feel like it’s a more mature journey. I don’t know how much ing in and really exploring it. Now even Soundcheck [a staging company that and folk world. I’m not supposed to Throughout your career, you’ve You also have played with Mum- acoustic guitar. That could be me, or I record than the last one. On the last you worked on the sequencing of more so with Spotify, where you just supplies music gear, rehearsal space play a Taylor; I’m not even supposed played with some interesting ford & Sons. What’s your take on could be Mumford & Sons. Or even the one, some of my songs were really old, the songs. pull a record up and flip through songs and storage]. I don’t know a whole lot to like a Taylor. So it was cool to have bands that have become pretty the rise and mainstream popularity Avett Brothers. They’re not virtuosos and I feel like that record jumps genres Yeah, I pained over the sequence for a a little bit or hear the single. The art of about it, other than that it was rose- these guys there in these old studios popular, like the Avett Brothers. of these Americana bands? on their instruments. It makes it seem a lot — like, this is my country song, little while. I worked on the sequence the album is being sort of lost some- wood with a spruce top. [Ed. Note: It’s who have recorded all these [vintage Did you connect with them when This kind of music has always been more attainable. There’s a lot of that and this is my AM radio song — and it of this next record before we ever went where along the way, so I really like one of several revoiced Dreadnought guitars] and hear them talk about how you were playing with your sister? going on; it’s just now starting to be produced pop stuff that I still enjoy dances around because I had all these into the studio. It was telling a story. It’s current bands that are keeping that up. prototypes that Taylor luthier Andy Pow- easy it is to record that Taylor because I did. I was playing bass for her, and more readily accepted I think in part listening to, but it doesn’t grab me in different songs that I had been working not quite a concept album, but there ers brought to Nashville last summer.] it’s so even; it’s just a balanced sound. we opened for them for a bunch of because you really can’t go much fur- the same way. It might grab me as ear on and none of them had really found are songs here and there that are kind Will you be pressing your record They didn’t have to try to move the shows and just kind of instantly hit it ther in the world of digital pop music. candy or something to dance to, but a home, and that’s kind of where I was of attached to each other in some way. in vinyl? How did it sound to you? microphone around to the right place to off. I think at that time they were only I don’t know where innovation is going it’s not going to really tug at my emo- prompted to do a record. Now that I’ve Yeah, definitely. I would like to put it Amazing. Actually I had a very similar get rid of things. selling a hundred tickets here, 200 to be unless it’s just the computer tions. had a year of really solid touring and In the past you’ve talked about a out on cassette tape, too, just to make [other brand] guitar in the studio that there, so they were growing but hadn’t writing the songs and singing them. growth, this next record feels a lot more couple of your favorite albums, my dad happy because he’s got a tape my buddy had brought for me to use if I From talking to people over the had that big Rick Rubin blowup yet. But I think people are like, OK, after For more on David Mayfield, visit focused and more aware of a whole Simon & Garfunkel’s Bridge Over player in his truck. wanted. I said, “I have this prototype, so years, I’ve heard of other instances We just made good friends with them, Lady Gaga, where else is there to go www.thedavidmayfieldparade.com. You vision, as opposed to just a bunch of Troubled Water and Randy New- I’ll see how it sounds.” The other guitar where artists and engineers have and I actually played drums with them but back to something like Mumford can also watch a NAMM performance songs thrown together. man’s Sail Away, and made the I wanted to ask you about using was rosewood with an Adirondack top, ghost-recorded with Taylors for for a bunch of shows, including Bon- & Sons, which is just four guys with clip from the Taylor room on the point that the records that really Taylors on the record. One of the almost a sloped shoulder design. They’d similar reasons. You also had both neroo. I’m not even a drummer; I was acoustic instruments. They could Wood&Steel page at taylorguitars.com. I will say in tribute to that first stick with you feel like a cohesive photos from your recording ses- be in the control room, and I’d switch of your Taylor DN3s in the studio, just faking it [laughs]. But they’ve been play their show in your living room. record that although there was whole. sions showed you playing what from the other guitar and grab the Taylor, right? a big help, and they played and sang a They don’t need big TV screens and 10 www.taylorguitars.com 11

After years of fighting against your It’s not necessary to send it to our Fac- because of that. We don’t want to try the board for recording. The sound non-armrest guitar with an armrest very sensible humidification advice (I tory Service Center for installation.] to make that guitar be a different gui- man recently doing the recording one, one above the other. My local just couldn’t trade the sight of those tar, or it wouldn’t be that guitar. Make for me was using a mic close to the stores (Russo’s and Guitar Center in beautiful instruments and spur-of- sense? soundhole, but I thought it might be Omaha, NE) have never had Taylors Ask Bob the-moment picking for ugly piles of better to plug in directly. He advised with armrests when I’ve been there, guitars in cases around my playing Two quick questions: 1) According to against it, but I thought I would ask so I don’t know if I’ll ever see one in area), my Road Show-purchased your “tone guide” [a visual chart cre- if you or others have experience in person! Sinker redwood, pore-filling pumice, and K26ce spurred me to give in. For ated by Taylor to show the frequency I have owned a lot of Taylors through this area. Michael Wolfe a couple of years I hid that beauti- ranges of different tonewoods], koa the years. You guys have always Tracey McFadden armrest impact ful koa guitar in its case (yes, with and walnut have a break-in period been innovators. When will you Michael, it requires some pretty tricky Humidipaks and everything), but it [for the low-end frequencies to release an acoustic 12-string with a Well, Tracey, that’s a big one. The most woodworking. The outside of the body broke my heart to do it. This week I emerge]. What is the ballpark break- neck narrower than 1 7/8, perhaps 1 natural sound will come from using a is the exact same size, and yes, the I saw the sinker redwood/Massacar spruce-top GS guitar solve those guitars, I didn’t. The filler is really not decided to order a glass-front dis- in period in hours? 2) True or false: 3/4? Those of us with small hands mic. Period. So that’s that. But what armrest does take away a little of the ebony guitar on the back of Volume “problems”? My shop doesn’t have that bad, and those are Rick’s words. play case from Acoustic Remedy in Applying fretboard oil to condition need it. Also, would an Engelmann if you don’t want a perfectly natural vibrating top. But they still sound great, 69 [Fall 2011] of Wood&Steel, and all one. I could only compare an 814 to I’m just agreeing that something like Wisconsin. The AR case has a UV- the fretboard has an effect on tone, spruce top on a 12-string GS prove sound? What if you like the sound of and most people wouldn’t hear the I could say was “Wow!” To my sur- a 514 — and the 514 won. Should I pumice and French polish would be the glass option, an upgrade I ordered since hydrating the fretboard would to be more fragile over a long period the pickup? Then plug it in. You know difference. And remember, like I said prise, a few days later my wife com- take a beautiful 514 and that’s it? ultimate. on the assumption that UV radiation affect its ability to transmit vibra- of time? what? Some people love the recorded in response to another question, it is mented on how beautiful it was and Bastian Schwinghammer can’t do any instrument long-term tions. Jim Nakao sound when you do both. And that what it is. suggested that I sell my koa T5 and good, but that led me to wonder John Hlasney Huntington Beach, CA gives you lots of tonal control. It’s my 914ce and get one. It was the Bastian, take the beautiful 514 and go about something. Since Taylor uses Flemington, NJ music — there are no hard and fast first time she’d ever noticed anything make music. Every rule can be broken. I am not a huge fan of standard UV to cure its guitar finishes, might Jim, first, the Engelmann. No, it’s plenty rules, so you can experiment. But a in the magazine, so I thought I’d bet- These are generalities that we talk cutaways on acoustic guitars. How- there be some particular relationship John, the break-in period is a cross strong. We make a narrower neck on good mic will always record a sound ter pay attention. My previous Taylor about when it comes to tone. One of ever, I think a Florentine cutaway is between sunlight and Taylor guitars between playing and time. I’d have to the T5 12-string, and people seem that is closest to what you hear with was a cedar-top 710ce. How would the big contributors to tone is what beautiful. I recently looked at a 2010 that would make UV protection more say the first change happens within to dig it. Maybe we could offer it on your ears when you play unamplified. that redwood GC compare in tone to we call “bone tone,” which is the tone Fall LTD 816ce with the Florentine appropriate for them than for tradi- days and the next change happens acoustics someday as a BTO option. the warmth of the 710, or the trans- that you bring to the guitar. Don’t worry that was amazing. Why doesn’t Tay- tional varnish or lacquer finishes? years later. As for your second ques- Good idea. We’ll consider it. parency and clarity of the 914? Also, about liking a cedar guitar that most lor make more Florentine cutaways Don Jonovic tion: false. Oiling the fretboard doesn’t please explain what you mean by people like for fingerpicking. You can available on standard guitars? change the tone of the guitar. Whatever A few years back I decided to pur- “sinker redwood.” play your Motörhead songs on it. It’s Brad Hennessee First of all, Don, bravo for buying a effect it has on the tone could not be chase a Taylor nylon-string acoustic Bruce Stevenson all good. humidified display case. I’m glad you heard by any of us, in my opinion. I live in Tallahassee, which is in the simply for the fact that I could be Frisco, TX Good question, Brad, and not every- realize that a fine musical instrument’s very northern part of Florida. The more flexible with my fingerpicking. one gets a “good question” from me! primary function is playing music, not summers here are long, hot and I wanted a guitar that had a wider 1 Body depth of a standard maple Bruce, first off, sinker redwood is a It’s like when the waiter says “Good being on display. Display is great, if humid. My guitar friends tell me I 7/8-inch or 2-inch nut so I could get Grand Auditorium term that all of us luthiers, not just Bob, have you done any research on choice, sir” when I order; I feel like I one takes care of the environment, In September I purchased an awe- should never take my Taylor 510 a little more fingerpicking room for Taylor Guitars, have coined to describe the pore-filling process using pumice passed a test! The answer is really sim- so thanks for setting the example. To some custom GC TF [12-Fret] outside in the summer (due to the my technique. The nylon’s nut width these redwood trees that the rivers up during the French polishing proce- ple and practical. Florentine cutaways answer your question, the UV that we with AA rosewood, a particularly strik- effects of the humidity) or even dur- helps me a lot, but I miss the sound in redwood country cough up once in a dure? Would it not be better to have are more detailed and time-consuming expose the guitar to during finish curing ing sinker redwood top, and a Gothic ing the cold winters. That said, while and comfort of steel strings. Do you while. The trees sank a hundred years stone (pumice) up in those pores to make. There’s just not enough time doesn’t imprint any need for the guitar Vine fretboard inlay. It’s truly one of reading the latest edition (Volume offer any steel-string guitars with a ago. A storm can dislodge them, and on the open-pore woods rather than in the day to make them. It would also to be protected from UV light in its the most beautiful guitars I have ever 70/Winter 2012) of Wood&Steel, I wider nut width? An electric would we make guitars out of them. It’s a cool gummy, tone-deadening filler? I real- raise the price of guitars a bit. The seen. How much lower is the string couldn’t help but notice the cover My sweetheart and I have a few Taylor guitars future. UV light will darken the spruce be even sweeter. thing. A GC compared to your 710 ize French polishing is not the best Venetian cutaway is one piece and and lighten the koa, and make the tension due to the shorter scale, showing you and Andy Powers Eric S. will sound, well, smaller. Just smaller. for average or professional use, but rounded, so it’s not only integral with between us: a Baby, a SolidBody and a 414ce. I’m guitar’s appearance age quicker, as it and is the top braced more lightly in playing the guitars outside. Then Brighter and not as good for strum- the open-pore woods need to be the side, but the binding work is simple writing about this last one in particular. We play would with any other guitar. consideration of the reduced string I noticed all through the edition Eric, we do offer a wide neck option ming. Overall, I’d say that the sound filled before finish can be applied. by comparison. Considering how many tension? If I wish to go to an alternate that the guitars are presented at together frequently (at home, open mics, bars, jam for acoustic steel-string guitars through I think of when I hear Macassar and I have done some research on the cutaway guitars we make every day, we tuning, should I consider tuning up picnics, truck tailgates, etc. I love our BTO program (but sorry, not for redwood is what I like to call “low-fi” in Stradivarius violins. Sandpaper was just wouldn’t have the capacity to piece sessions) and want to get another acoustic gui- rather than down? it! Will my guitar sustain any dam- electrics), and that neck width is 1 7/8 that it’s clear but in a duller sort of way. not invented yet, so this is what they together Florentine cutaways on all tar to complement the 414’s sound when we play I have crowned my Taylor collection Mark Kantrowitz age (short- or long-term) from being inches (47.6mm), which would probably A maple Grand Auditorium with How’s that? Clear and dull? Yep, that’s used, along with soaking the wood in those guitars. Hillsdale, NJ played outdoors due to humidity or an armrest together. Can you recommend some Taylor models (11 acoustics) with a 710 (cedar top, make you a happy guy. Anytime you’re what I said. It reminds me of some of various solutions. Is this the secret built in 1998). This guitar is a beauti- cold? I always keep my Taylor in its ready, we have our tools out, sharp- the cool old Gibsons. And note that I to the famous tone? This subject has that would give us and our audience a pleasing ful masterpiece and beats everything Mark, to be clear, let’s not confuse a case and always inside my home ened and waiting. said “reminds me” of them, not “sounds always intrigued me. What do you contrast of sounds? I played before. The sound is very 12-fret with a short scale. A 12-fret and or office. I would really enjoy taking like” them. Compared to the clarity of think? I was fascinated by your article a 14-fret have the same string length. it outdoors and letting it be more a Dave warm, clear and brilliant. The fret- Got a the 914, it wouldn’t be as clear. The Rick H about building a classical guitar and board is a dream for fingerpicking. The bridge is farther back on the top to part of my lifestyle. main thing is that you need to compare Los Banos, CA wanted to know what progress has Menlo Park, CA Unfortunately the guitar is without compensate on the 12-fret. That said, Paul A. Posey, CPA I love the photos of your guitars in question for body size to body size, and then start been made on that project. electronics. I do not want to ruin the all of our GCs have a shorter scale the [winter] Guitar Guide issue that Bob Taylor? talking about the wood differences. Yes, Rick, it would be better. Better Robert Wheeler guitar with a pickup installation in than our other models, independent of Paul, your guitar is granted parole this comes out each year, but I’ve always tone anyway. So, I will agree, and if the sides, and soundhole pickups do where the neck meets the body, and very day! Its whereabouts must be had a question about the armrest Dave, if you and your sweetheart strum, I’d add a Shoot him an e-mail: we could do a French polish finish Robert, we’ve made some progress not look very nice on the guitar. Is that scale is ¾ of an inch less than our monitored, and it isn’t allowed to carry feature on some of the higher-end GS to your quiver. But if Sweetheart likes to finger- [email protected] after that, it would be incredible. But in the area of “thinking,” which is a there any under-saddle system Tay- other, longer scale. The tension is a bit a handgun or work in a carwash, but it guitars. The pictures are usually at

It’s been said that spruce tops are here’s the deal: Someone would have way of saying that over the last eight pick while you strum, or if you like using capos and lor uses or recommends? less, but that tension changes the feel can go outside accompanied by you as an angle, and I wonder how the body If you have a specific best for strummers, and cedar fits to pay for that. You might be interested months we haven’t touched them. But getting high up on the neck, then I’d add a GC, as Dr. Udo Steppat and the tone, so we don’t want to try long as you return it to its rightful rest- size and shape are affected by the fingerpickers. I play in a duo, songs we’ve thought a lot about them. Actu- to compensate for that by changing ing place at the end of the day. Do it repair or service to know that we’re working on some being little would be a real sweetie-pie together Frankfurt, Germany addition of the armrest. Is the top like “Crash Into Me” by Dave Mat- hand-applied finishes, very much like ally, in the practical world, we’re in the the bracing, if you know what I mean. now, and send us a photo of you play- smaller? Is the body larger? If it’s concern, please call thews but also Motörhead, so I do those you describe, which may be an process of making some tooling that with the 414. So, strum equals GS, and fingerpick Udo, we like both Baggs and Fishman The tops on GCs are lightly braced ing it outside. all the same, how did you do that!? our Customer Service both. I sometimes strum very hard, available option in the future, and could will allow the development to continue, equals GC. pickups. They both have systems that because of the size of the guitar, more A picture of the body from the lower department at though I like the warm sound of be cool for the person who wants and we’re totally committed to the proj- do not need holes in the guitar, so that’s than because of the length of the bout end — lying flat, like taking a (800) 943-6782, cedar much better than the clearer an extra pop of tone from the guitar. ect, so you will see it come to fruition where I would start. string, but it all marries together any- picture of the end pin and the bat- and we’ll take spruce sound. Are there any disad- Now, before some readers get cranky before too long. [Ed. Note: These other brands of after- way. You can tune up or down; they’ll I own a 714ce and wondered if tery compartment — would really care of you. vantages regarding the cedar top because they think I admitted that we market pickups can be easily installed both work. The thing to remember it’s a good idea to run the [guitar help me visualize how that works. when strumming hard? Could a use gummy, tone-deadening filler in our by most qualified service technicians. is that it is what it is, and you like it cable] directly into a mixer and into Especially one that compares a ur special celebration of amplified acoustic tone continues this quarter with our Builder’s Reserve V Series, as we unveil the latest in boutique-level O Taylor craftsmanship with an ultra-limited guitar/amp pairing. Each Builder’s Reserve offering is uniquely inspired by select tonewoods, and for this small-batch release, Bob Taylor personally secured a cache of European maple and chose to pair it with European spruce tops. European maple is lighter in color and density than the more prevalent Big Leaf maple that we typically use. As a result, it pro- duces a slightly more complex tone, adding a splash of extra warmth to the clear, focused tone associated with maple. Similarly, the European spruce yields a distinc- tive sonic profile relative to other spruce species, blending the power and head- euro deco room of Adirondack spruce with a touch of cedar’s warmth. The unique tonewood For our latest Builder’s Reserve guitar/amp pairing, combination is paired with our Grand Auditorium body style, making for a guitar that rare European maple and European spruce receive will match well with sophisticated chords and fingerstyle arrangements, strummers with a firm attack, and any player looking for a fast, clear response. the Art Deco treatment, while a neo-vintage cabinet Inspired by the shared European heritage of the woods, Taylor guitar designer Andy Powers revisited an earlier era of guitar-making and conjured an Art Deco design echoes the sentiment aesthetic reminiscent of European design in the 1920s and ’30s. Figured Hawaiian koa provides a dramatic visual counterpoint to the blond hues of maple and spruce, appearing as a back mini wedge, backstrap, armrest and binding. The fretboard and headstock inlays also feature a contrasting mix of maple and koa, arranged in a geo- metric Art Deco design that blends diamonds, triangles and circles in a symmetrical descent down the neck. Geometric elements also appear within the alternating koa and maple rings of the rosette. The retro, wood-rich aesthetic carries over to the beautiful hand-built cabinet for our Expression System® acoustic amplifier. The cabinet is crafted from figured Big Leaf maple and embellished with an Art Deco “cloud lift” that extends out from each side. A contrasting speaker baffle of figured koa, adorned with three maple “fins,” helps transport the amp to another era, evoking the elegant look of a vintage radio cabinet. The Builder’s Reserve V guitar and amplifier are sold as a pair, and only 50 sets will be made. For a list of dealers who stock them, along with full specifications and photos, visit taylorguitars.com.

Guitar Amplifier Model: BR-V Model/Type: BR-V ES Acoustic Shape: Cutaway Grand Auditorium Power: 40 Watts Back/Sides: European Maple with Technology: Solid State Koa Mini Wedge Speaker Size/Type: 8-inch Custom Top: European Spruce Poly Cone Woofer, 1-inch Textile Dome Backstrap: Hawaiian Koa Tweeter Binding/Armrest: Hawaiian Koa Speaker Arrangement: Bi-Amp Inlays: Maple and Hawaiian Koa Cabinet: Big Leaf Maple Speaker Panel: Hawaiian Koa with Maple Fins

Right: The BR-V’s contrasting wood details include (from top) a figured koa mini wedge, armrest and binding; koa/maple inlays adorn the headstock and fretboard, and form the rosette

Below: The maple amp cabinet features a triple cloud lift on the sides, a figured koa front panel, and contoured maple fins 15

newly learned pattern(s) and make not change. That said, I’d like to note a music, you’ll want to turn the TV off little detail regarding your fretting hand and your creative brain back on! This that’s holding down the Am7. As you process will be like learning to ride a start the pattern (on the “&” of 4), the bike: unnatural at first, but once you get first chord is “tied” over the bar line to Fig. 1a Latin Guitar it, you’ll never forget it. the downbeat (1), which is why that Let’s look at Figures 1a-c. Here you downbeat is not played. You should see all three elements (guitar chords, hold down (sustain) the chord through percussive finger clicks, and bass this beat (1) until you re-pluck it on the notes) in a two-measure pattern that “&” of 1. This re-pluck is not sustained repeats over and over via notation and as it is followed by a rest. This is when tablature. We are going to divide each you can let up on the chord, or “take a measure into eighth notes, so we’ll breath,” as we say when talking about have eight beats per measure: four phrasing. The following “&”s are played downbeats and four upbeats. Notice the same way (in groups of two): first Fig. 1b that the pattern starts on the “&” of long, then short, long, short, long, short, beat 4 going into it. A metronome will etc. And that’s the whole chord pattern. be helpful as you count these eighth Grooves notes in your head or out loud: Combining Patterns & [: 1 & 2 & 3 & 4 & | 1 & 2 & 3 & 4 & :] Now let’s try putting our two Everything in this lesson is either separate patterns (Fig. 1a and 1c) on a downbeat (1, 2, 3 or 4) or on the together. This is the part that’s like “&” beat, an upbeat. Visualizing both is climbing on a bike for the first time. helpful for proper rhythmic placement Hang in there. You’ll get it and it will Fig. 1c while playing. be fun! We’ll get to the third element, the percussive click, in a moment. In The Bass Pattern playing them together we’re going to Let’s start with just your thumb slow the process down and look at the playing the bass line (Fig. 1c). Keeping activity for each individual eighth note. your fingers in place below strings 4-1, Your beginning “&” of 4 starts with both start with your thumb on top of the sixth parts. Pluck your thumb (bass) and string, using mainly the side of your fingers (chord) simultaneously, Am7. thumb’s flesh. All bass notes are down On the downbeat (1), re-pluck just strokes. Remember, we’re holding your thumb (bass) on the sixth string down that Am7 bar chord on the fifth (A) while your fingered chord remains fret with your other hand. Count off one held down from the initial pluck. On measure: 1 & 2 & 3 & 4 &. You start the the “&” of 1, while holding down your pattern on the “&” of 4 and come right bass note, pluck another upbeat with back to play the downbeat (1), holding your fingers (chord). Now let’s insert it through beat 2. On the “&” of 2 you the percussive click (Fig 1b). On the play the E on the fifth string, seventh downbeat (2), continue to sustain the fret, and then come right back and play bass note, but take your fingers that it again on the downbeat (3), holding it just plucked the chord and tap them With a little practice, you can weave through beat 4. At this point, it simply back into playing position between the separate fingerstyle patterns together starts over again. The second measure strings to create a percussive sound. is identical to the first. Often, a finger or two will make it all to create your own Latin rhythm Note the rhythmic symmetry for the way to the guitar’s top as you tap, your bass line. You play four times per which is where the “click” term comes just your thumb (bass) on the fifth string to be aware of when playing different removable pickguards. If you need more section By Wayne Johnson measure on beats 1, “&” of 2, 3 and from. I’ll cover these percussive clicks E while your fingered chord remains chords is the string order of bass information, contact Taylor’s Customer “&” of 4. The first two notes are A, the more in the companion video. held down from the previous eighth notes. Depending on whether the root Service department. second two notes are E. The notes on So far we’ve covered four eighth note. On the “&” of 3, while holding of each chord is on the sixth string That wraps up this lesson. As I beats 1 and 3 are sustained, and the notes, with three individual patterns down your bass note, pluck another or fifth string, your first degree to fifth mentioned earlier, because of the beats on the “&”s are shorter. I’m sure (bass, chord and percussive click) upbeat with your fingers (chord) degree bass line will either be sixth specific details presented here, my you’ve heard this common Latin pattern played simultaneously. Rhythmically, and finally, on the downbeat (4), you string (root/first degree) to fifth string companion video will provide a useful ’m excited to share one of my I’ve developed many different patterns, in a variety of situations with all of position! For your fretting hand, we’re picking hand pattern going. Since this before. Practice it over and over with you’re done! These four eighth notes perform another click. (fifth degree), as in this lesson, or fifth visual reference. Watching it will favorite guitar-playing techniques: but they all have a common thread: my gigs, on different guitars, and for going to use a basic Am7 bar chord is more of a physical exercise and a metronome until it’s ingrained in your simply repeat to complete the measure, Since we started our measure string (root/first degree) to sixth string help you smoothly integrate these I a Latin rhythm fingerstyle pattern to simulate all the essential parts of a different musical textures, not just Latin on the fifth fret. For your picking hand, you’re actually trying to promote muscle soul. It will be the backbone for not only with one alteration: the bass note with an eighth note pickup on the “&” (fifth degree). When playing a chord pattern elements. I’ll also include with percussive effects. I first learned band’s rhythm section — bass, drums/ grooves. With some practice, you’ll be you’ll want your thumb on top of the memory, you may find it less fatiguing this pattern, but many derivations. Next, (thumb) changes in this second half of beat 4, we are now back to the whose root is on the fifth string, the fifth extra tips, including an extended the “coolness” of independent right percussion, and harmony (guitar) — able to do the same. sixth string and fingers 1-4 below (once you start to “get” it) to watch TV it starts to get interesting! of the measure to the E, fifth string, beginning of the pattern, ready to start of that chord is always on the same fret chord progression using this lesson’s hand thumb and finger playing from played simultaneously. One last note before we begin. strings 4-1, in that exact order. You while you practice. When I first moved seventh fret (remember the opening it all over again for the identical second (as the root), sixth string. technique, along with several variations. lessons with Mick Goodrick, a jazz This is a fingerstyle concept, so There are several details to incorporate should be touching every string except to Los Angeles and started working The Chord Pattern exercise, Fig. 1c?). Let’s walk through measure. Down the line when you feel One final note on percussive clicks: Good luck and make it fun! guitarist and instructor at Berklee if you use a pick, you can lose it for into this lesson (although it is only the fifth. Your thumb will eventually play on my right hand thumb and finger Now we’re going to add our chords this last half measure with the bass comfortable with this two-measure If you grow your fingernails out for College of Music, back in Boston now. Thumb picks are acceptable, two measures long). Because these it as it alternates between strings 6 independence, I would practice these on top of this bass line. Fig. 1a is note change. We left off on the Am7 pattern, try substituting another picking, and especially if you use a You can watch Wayne’s video many years ago. Since then, it seems but I prefer the sound and feel of the details are very visual, it may be helpful and 5. and other fingerstyle string sequence what this looks like. Notice that this downbeat 2 performing the click. chord in the second measure, such coating to strengthen them, be aware lesson at taylorguitars.com, in our I’ve always had gigs that featured thumb’s flesh. Although this style of to watch my companion video to This playing pattern can take a lot of patterns while watching a movie every pattern also starts on the “&” of beat Now this eighth-note pattern starts as D9. (The Am7 to D9 pattern is very that aggressive “clicks,” where you Blog section under “Lessons & solo guitar and vocal at some point in comping seems to be made for nylon- this lesson now, which you’ll find at repetition before you feel comfortable. afternoon, not thinking too much but 4. What is unique about this chord all over again on the “&” of 2 with popular.) From here, you can start actually tap the guitar top, can leave Tips.” You can also find him at www. the evening — including shows with string guitar, you can also apply it to taylorguitars.com (under “Lessons & If your fretting hand cramps up along working on the patterns to develop that pattern is that it continues being played the bass (thumb) and fingers (chord) playing different chord progressions very small dents in the finish. Over WayneJohnsonOnline.com Manhattan Transfer, Rickie Lee Jones, steel-string and even electric guitar, Tips”). In fact, you may be able to “get” the way, feel free to change chords muscle memory. It was amazing what I on every “&” of all four beats (every playing together, but this time our bass and entire songs. You’ll probably be time it can become more visible. You Bette Midler and Natalie Cole — so I’ve with each instrument producing a most of the lesson just from the video. or even let go of the neck entirely was able to accomplish in a week. Of upbeat). This constant upbeat makes note is the E on the fifth string, seventh coming up with your own derivations can protect the guitar top in that area put this to good use. Over the years unique sonic flavor. I use this concept OK, time to assume your playing for a break, but be sure to keep your course, when you start to apply your this pattern totally symmetrical. It does fret. On the downbeat (3), you re-pluck of this pattern as well. The only thing with a variety of non-adhesive, cling-on, were more hugs than handshakes.” Tennessee Ernie Ford’s “16 Tons” and Members of our European sales “Tonight’s the Night” by Neil Young. team were equally enthused about The David Mayfield Parade (see the year ahead, especially after a year the W&S interview this issue) kept spent building the infrastructure of our the retro vibe going with their unique Winter NAMM European headquarters in Amsterdam. amalgam of old-school roots, drawing January 19-22, 2012 They were excited to see the winter from bluegrass, early rock & roll, coun- issue of Wood&Steel printed in Span- try and folk. Frontman David Mayfield Anaheim, California ish, French and German — a move, they was equal parts bandleader, singer and said, that demonstrates Taylor’s level of comedian, reeling in the crowd with his commitment to European dealers and plaintive tenor, on-stage banter, fero- customers. cious flatpicking, and comical interplay with listeners — which culminated at On the Taylor Stage the end of the set with him climbing up As we do each year at NAMM, Tay- on our TaylorWare counter in the back lor hosted several artist performances of the room in a parody of over-the-top in the afternoons. On Thursday, the showmanship. Wayne Johnson Trio, featuring Steve Saturday brought a special appear- Haas on drums and Rufus Philpot on ance by rocker and former Runaway bass, pumped out an adventurous blast Lita Ford, who played acoustic ver- of jazz-rock fusion. Wayne confessed sions of her classic hits “Kiss Me Dead- it was his first live gig with the new ly” and “Close My Eyes Forever” joined lineup, an impressive feat given the by guitarist/producer Gary Hoey. Goo band’s nimble interplay and polyrhyth- Goo Doll John Rzeznik also dropped mic grooves. The sonic shapeshifting by with guitarist Brad Fernquist and veered from Wayne’s Latin-flavored played a surprise two-song set featur- nylon fretwork (914ce-N) to electro- ing their hits “As I Am” and “Broadway.” industrial space funk. Wayne played In between songs, Rzeznik thanked his red SolidBody Classic on most Taylor for making guitars that he said songs and noted it was the first time he have helped the band carve out their played a trio gig with single coil pick- sound over the years. ups, which he had swapped out as a Other featured performers included loaded pickguard. singer-songwriter Javier Colon, win- Later that day, our friends from ner of the first season of NBC’s “The Sixwire, a bona fide sideman super- Voice,” who opened with a knockout group, dialed up a tight, rocking set cover of Adele’s “Someone Like You,” filled with soaring vocal harmonies wowing the crowd with his vocal and well-groomed electric tones. The chops. Colon performed a mix of origi- band played several catchy new tunes nal tunes from his new record, Come from an album-in-progress, along Through For You, plus other covers, The Silent Comedy on the Taylor stage at NAMM with a pair of cover tune medleys that ending with a soulful rendition of “Time have become fan favorites: one with After Time,” the song he played in his a nod toward strong vocal harmonies audition for The Voice. Taylor’s 2012 guitar line came alive in were widely embraced as they debuted (à la The Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, the Closing out the day was Grammy- their expanded range of appointment Eagles, the Doobie Brothers, etc.); winning gospel artist Israel Hough- the hands of our many guests packages. On the electric wall, people the other (dubbed “The Beast”) stitch- ton with his band New Breed, who marveled at the breadth of our electric ing together some of the best-known reprised last year’s inspired NAMM For four days in January, Taylor’s dealers across the nation, and it was line, especially the flexible options classic guitar riffs in rock history and performance with another raise-the- annual home away from home at Winter gratifying to be recognized by so many offered with the SolidBody. Taylor Prod- serving as the ultimate showcase for rafters set. The 10-piece gospel/R&B NAMM was abuzz with music and con- of our retail partners. Taylor was also uct Specialists Corey Witt and Kelly Taylor’s SolidBody pickups. Frontman ensemble’s electrifying sound segued versation as we welcomed old and new recognized elsewhere at the show. One Hulme handled electric demos during Andy Childs talked about the band’s seamlessly from song to song, with friends and unveiled our 2012 guitar of the NAMM U Breakfast Sessions the show and said the swappable longstanding relationship with Taylor Houghton and his band in command line. A steady stream of guests, includ- was hosted by marketing and social pickup/pickguard assemblies especially and acknowledged our receptiveness every step of the way. He thanked Tay- ing dealers, artists, industry peers, the media expert and bestselling author impressed players. The nearby Builder’s to their feedback on our electric models lor for designing a custom T3/T5 hybrid media, vendors and other Taylor-loving David Meerman Scott (“The New Rules Reserve wall was never lonely, as visi- over the years. with separate outputs, which he played drop-ins, stopped in for some hang of Marketing and PR”). Scott spoke tors were eager to check out our first Friday brought a pair of neo- throughout the set. time, blissfully surrounded by walls of about the importance of engaging ukulele and acoustic amp. Americana roots acts. San Diego’s When all was said and done, the guitars, including some Build to Order customers through real-time marketing, Our domestic and European sales The Silent Comedy played a rousing Taylor room had once again proven to stunners. One of the most enticing and cited Taylor-playing musician Dave team spent a lot of time with dealers at set that swelled from dark, haunting be a dynamic microcosm of the greater aspects of the room is the ability to play Carroll’s “United Breaks Guitars” viral the show, and the meetings set a great balladry to exuberant, foot-stomping music world. From Bob and Kurt affa- and compare so many different Taylor video from 2009 as a case study. Scott tone for the year. folk-punk. bly chatting with dealers and artists to models in one setting. That, coupled chronicled Taylor’s quick response on “This proved to be one of our most Steeped in traditional music but not players eagerly gorging on cool guitars, with our friendly and helpful staff, the Web, which in turn provided play- positive NAMM shows in recent his- confined by it, the band mingled tradi- there was no doubt that the show had always makes the room a favorite desti- ers with helpful information about flying tory,” reported Director of Sales Monte tional instruments like banjo, mandolin helped re-inspire the musical pursuits nation of many. with guitars. Montefusco. “Dealers were enthusiastic and acoustic guitar with electric guitar, of many. The show opened on a sweet Among our new offerings, the about our refreshed model lineup and adding quirky touches like donkey To watch performance clips and see note, as our 814ce was named “Best redesigned Koa Series and vintage- thanked us for our efforts to keep cus- jawbone as a percussion instrument. more photos from the Taylor room at Acoustic Guitar” by the music trade look 700 Series were big winners. The tomers excited. The majority of dealers The spirited urgency of the music con- NAMM, visit taylorguitars.com. attending NAMM grew their business The Wayne Johnson Trio publication The Music and Sound mahogany-top GS Mini also found its nected with the crowd as they blended Clockwise from top left: Sixwire, Javier Colon, David Mayfield, Israel Houghton and New Breed, Houghton with his custom Retailer. The awards are voted on by way into lots of hands, while our nylons with us in 2011. Like last year, there originals with covers that included T3/T5, (L-R) Goo Goo Dolls Brad Fernquist and John Rzeznik, (L-R) Gary Hoey and Lita Ford n the heels of refreshing the 2012 line, Bob Taylor and his design crew keep the O creative juices flowing with an inspired batch of Spring Limited Editions. For this year’s run, ever-popular cocobolo joins the 800 Series, exotic Hawaiian koa pays a rare visit to the 300 Series, an ovangkol baritone brings a unique voice to the 400 Series, and the GS Mini adds a triple-shot of fun with three premium laminate models. Look for the Spring Limiteds at local Taylor dealers. For more photos and full specifications, visit taylorguitars.com.

Cocobolo 800 Series Models: 814ce-LTD, 816ce-LTD

Few woods can match cocobolo’s assertive visual beauty, expressed through bold, fiery hues and dramatic variegation. Tonally, cocobolo is known for its volume and a deep low end that’s balanced by an overall brightness, making it a favorite among players. Normally used for our Presentation Series and Build to Order guitars, this spring we’ve paired cocobolo with our SPRINGA seasonal selection premium 800 Series appointments, featuring contrasting curly maple binding and our popular pearl inlay design. of exotic woods, plus an ovangkol baritone, ’ highlight this year’s PICKIN Spring Limiteds

Front and back of a cocobolo 814ce-LTD. (Note: Some cocobolo backs feature light-colored sapwood, while others do not) GS Mini Limiteds Hawaiian Koa 300 Series Models: GS Mini Blackwood, Models: 310ce-LTD, 312ce-LTD, 312ce-N-LTD, GS Mini Rosewood, GS Mini Maple 314ce-LTD, 314ce-N-LTD, 316ce-LTD

The raves keep coming for the mighty GS Mini as it continues to redefine what Hawaiian koa occupies rare air among tonewoods, and for good reason: Its tone is a small-bodied guitar can be. A big sound, a real Taylor playing experience, crisp and complex, its figure can be variegated and striking, and it is among the more and a do-it-yourself add-on pickup option already make it hard to resist, but difficult woods to procure. Though it’s normally reserved for the upper end of the Taylor we thought we’d up the ante with some beautiful wood veneer options, too. line, our years of buying whole koa logs can sometimes yield sets of wood that have all GS MINI GS Choose from gorgeous maple, blackwood and rosewood laminate for the KOA 300 the tonal character and charm of premium koa but aren’t quite as figured as the most Mini’s backs and sides, all with a solid spruce top. prized sets reserved for the Koa Series. That’s where our 300 Series Koa Limiteds come in, offering a special treat and a great value. Clockwise from left: GS Mini Rosewood, Maple and Blackwood 416ce-LTD Baritone

We’re excited to bring the Taylor Baritone-6 to the 400 Series in this one-of-a-kind Spring Limited, taking advantage of ovangkol’s full midrange and bright top end. Though slightly less dense than most rosewoods, ovangkol shares much of rosewood’s clarity and fidelity. This pairs well with our baritone design, producing a deep, rich voice with rosewood-like richness and clear note definition. The baritone’s lower B tuning, coupled with a 27-inch scale length, make it possible to generate tonal depth with normal string tension, giving players a familiar playing experience. It’s a great choice if you have a lower vocal range or favor a de-tuned guitar sound. BARITONE

L-R: 314ce-LTD, 416ce-LTD Baritone GUITAR SPOTLIGHT 23 Nylon

MeshOur hybrid nylon-string models blend the best of both worlds: evocative classical tone and an easy-playing Taylor neck. For 2012, they join our steel-strings in an expanded array of L-R: 914ce-N, 712ce-N, 612ce-N models and appointments. ob Taylor has built a flourishing (a classical fretboard is typically flat, Jason Mraz, blazing flatpickers such as by expanding our selection, doubling the rosewood laminate 200 Series is a guitar-making enterprise by while our steel-string acoustics have a Zac Brown, and scores of touring side- our available models to 16 and add- wonderful option. By Jim Kirlin B following a deceptively simple 15-inch radius). The radius helps push men have embraced our nylon-strings ing new tonewood pairings to the mix. The next time you’re at your local premise: remove the barriers to a the middle strings into a player’s hand, as an expressive tool that delivers a Now our 300 through 900 Series music store, try one and see where good playing experience. He began making it easier to fret cleanly, particu- range of sonic textures, from mellow to feature Grand Auditorium and Grand it takes you. Whether you’ve always with a fresh take on the steel-string larly on barre chords. Another modern dramatically percussive. For the guitar- Concert nylon-string models, while our wanted to learn “Classical Gas,” jazz acoustic, delivering slim, comfortable feature was a cutaway, which steel- ist who’s on the hunt for new tonal 200 Series offers both a cutaway and up your repertoire with some Jobim, or necks with the playability of an electric string players had grown to appreciate flavors, a nylon-string is an essential non-cutaway GA. New wood choices cover your favorite Willie Nelson tune, guitar. Years later, our nylon-string for the access it offered to the upper addition to one’s musical quiver. For include mahogany/cedar (500 Series), our nylons promise to make it easier to models arrived in response to a similar register. Lastly, we added onboard people with hand ailments, the lighter rosewood/Engelmann spruce (700 get there. crossover goal: to rethink the traditional electronics, making it easier to bring string tension reduces hand strain. And Series), and ovangkol/Sitka spruce classical guitar with the contemporary that nylon tone to a performance envi- for those of us who often fall into the (400 Series). All Taylor nylon-string models come 814ce-N steel-string player in mind. Once again, ronment. The end result was a design rut of familiar playing patterns, a nylon- By weaving our nylons into different with ES-N® electronics. As a standard we retooled the neck, splitting the dif- that invited more players to explore a string can make those well-tread chord series, we’ve also diversified the visual model option, any nylon-string guitar ference between a wide, two-inch clas- classical guitar’s unique tonal flavors progressions — or even a simple arpeg- appeal. Our 600 Series offers a vibrant can be ordered without a cutaway at sical neck and the standard 1-3/4-inch with the familiar feel of a Taylor neck. gio — come alive in fresh, exciting ways. palette of color options. The 700 Series no additional charge. Top substitutions neck found on most of our steel-strings, These days, the nylon acoustic This year brings the deeper integra- presents a dark, vintage look. The 800 are also available on the 500-900 opting for a 1-7/8-inch width and our sound is more popular than ever, tion of our nylon-string models with Series brings a splash of contemporary Series. comfortably thin profile. We also intro- across a full spectrum of musical their steel-string siblings throughout style. Our 900 Series exudes upscale duced a gentle 20-inch fretboard radius genres. Singer-songwriters including our acoustic/electric line. We began sophistication. For players on a budget, 24 www.taylorguitars.com

famous song and video-gone-viral, than just flash and sizzle, someone whose the Taylor website in our media gallery. “United Breaks Guitars,” to detail his music made a visceral connection. www.joshdoyle.com frustrating customer experience after Our own Chalise Zolezzi from United Airlines caused irreparable Taylor’s marketing team attended the Soundings damage to his beloved 710ce. Now showcase, which was emceed by Carroll is using his voice to give other musical tastemaker Nic Harcourt, the Covert Operation: consumers a voice. A new website he longtime Music Director of Los Angeles Time Machine Guitar co-founded, Gripevine.com, is a first- radio station KCRW and former host As some Taylor owners can appreci- Strait Talk of-its kind social media platform for of the influential program Morning ate, a custom Taylor guitar is capable of When country legend George Strait kicked off a cool online promotion to collecting consumer complaints and Becomes Eclectic. Among the finalists transporting us to a place no other gui- (custom cocobolo 910) reached out to showcase his new release, Where seeking resolution with the companies were Taylor strummers Sarah Bella tar can. Then there’s Ralph Covert’s us late last year to order a custom Taylor We Meet, and engage his passionate involved. Visitors to the site, including (GS Mini), Josh Doyle (GS Mini with time machine guitar. Covert (514ce, 910 as a Christmas gift for his songwrit- fan base. Wells and his label, Position representatives of the reported com- ES-Go pickup), Ashlee Williss (Cus- 614ce), a Grammy-nominated singer- er son, Bubba, we couldn’t resist asking Music, are asking fans to cover “Free- panies, can browse by company and tom cocobolo GA), Caleb McGinn songwriter and creator of the family the elder Strait what he remembered dom,” the first track from the album, complaint type, and respond directly to (310ce) and Madilyn World (GS music rock group Ralph’s World (www. about his first Taylor playing experience. and upload their version onto YouTube. their customers or leave a comment to Mini), each of whom performed origi- ralphsworld.com), wanted a custom- “It was so much easier to play and com. (He posted his original rendition seek resolution. nal songs for the packed room, with ized Taylor to facilitate time travel on a had such a great tone,” he shared. “The of the song on YouTube with the lyr- “At the end of the day, a company Shanks on hand to crown the winner. new show he has in development, Time neck just felt right. My hands aren’t the ics and guitar chords.) The winner, as knows exactly what they need to do in “All the singers deserved to be Machine Guitar. Alas, as that specifi- greatest for getting around a guitar, but selected by the label, will receive an order to get the complaint resolved to here,” Shanks said after taking in the cation wasn’t offered on the options it all seems easier on my Taylors.” opening slot for Wells at an upcom- the satisfaction of the consumer,” says performances. “What I loved about menu of our Build to Order program, he After George and Bubba co-wrote ing show, a GS Mini guitar, backstage Carroll. “It’s just a matter of bringing everyone is that their music is very enlisted the show’s director and cin- the hit tune “Living for the Night” from passes, tickets and more, with addi- it to their attention in an informative, timely.” ematographer, Eric Hurt, to add some Strait’s 2009 release, Twang, the two tional prizing given to second- through precise and direct manner. We are in a In the end, he chose Josh Doyle, radical aftermarket modifications to ramped up their shared tunesmithing, fifth-place entrants, all to encourage unique position to level the playing field a husband and father of two originally his 114e to equip it for “a rock ‘n’ roll collaborating on seven songs from fans to express themselves. between consumers and companies by from England now based in Antioch, adventure across time.” Covert recently George’s latest album, Here for a Good At press time, the contest had ending the negative stereotypes that Tennessee, who had performed his unveiled the tricked-out guitar (see Time. George says his favorite part generated more than 50 videos, and are often unfortunately associated with song “I Figured the World Out” on the photo, opposite page), and we think it’s about the co-writing experience has Wells was preparing for the release of customer service.” GS Mini he won as a finalist. Doyle pretty cool. been seeing the creative side of his son the new record, his fifth studio effort, Meanwhile, Carroll has finished said afterward that he’d been con- Covert has used the guitar to visit fully emerge. debuting songs from the album at the writing his first book, “United Breaks cerned about playing his GS Mini into Ben Franklin, Beethoven and Bach with “For so long he was focused on his South By Southwest Music Festival Guitars: The Power of One Voice in a mic in the venue, so he purchased his friends on the show: Beauregard, rodeo career, which I also loved, but I in Austin, Texas in mid-March. From the Age of Social Media,” which will and installed the ES-Go pickup the day who’s part Portuguese water dog; always bounced ideas off him just to get there, he and his band were headed be published by California-based Hay before the show. Malcolm, a psychic cat; and Rani, a a feel for what his tastes were in music,” out on a multi-city headlining tour House Publishing in May. The book While Doyle says he has always squirrel who can fix just about anything. Clockwise from top left: Josh Doyle’s winning perfor- he elaborates. “He listened to everything across the U.S. will detail Carroll’s United experience, been confident in his music, without With the help of the fundraising site mance; The Refugees (photo by Lance Craig); Ralph but would always come back to country www.tyronewells.com cover his time on Capitol Hill lobby- the support of a label, he felt his reach kickstarter.com, Covert and his produc- Covert and his time machine guitar (photo by Billy Hunt); music. Maybe he had a little bias there, ing for musician’s travel rights, and was limited. He hopes that winning the tion crew have launched a sponsorship Sam Gray; cover art for Dave Carroll’s new book but we tried not to discourage him from chronicle the way he parlayed his contest will help change that. campaign to help them independently listening to other kinds of music. In the social media savvy into consulting work “I work a job that barely pays the produce the show in Charlottesville, Vir- end, though, to be able to share and Gray’s Brighter Day for various companies to help them bills, so not only does this prize mean ginia as they shop it around to broad- create songs together is a very reward- We recently caught up with rising improve their customer service func- money, which will help with that burden, cast networks. To learn more about the ing thing for me. I’ve been fortunate as a UK-bred singer-songwriter Sam Gray tions. it will also help me find ways to get my show and see photos and video clips, parent to be able to share in his love of (510ce, 710ce), who’s been juggling www.davecarroll.com music out there to more people,” he check out www.timemachineguitar.com. rodeo and songwriting.” several high-profile music projects. said afterwards. “Plus, the studio time With Strait’s amazing track record Set to kick off a tour around the UK, with John Shanks will get me on the of hit songs, we asked what advice he Gray has been out promoting his lat- radar of business folks and get me the might offer an aspiring country artist. est album, Brighter Day, and recently World Figure high-quality recordings I’ve been crav- Three of a Kind “Stay focused. Don’t let outside influ- debuted a video for his new single In our fall issue, we announced ing to showcase my songs.” Fans of warm, well-braided vocal ences affect your choices, whether it be “All of My Life.” Gray also recorded an the Guitar Center Singer/Songwriter As the winner, Doyle receives an harmonies are bound to love Three, material or other career decisions. Take in-studio session at the BBC’s Radio contest that Taylor and other industry 814ce and quality gear from other con- the latest release from the Refugees, what you can get out of them, but in the 2, and is featured on Q Radio and players were sponsoring to give one test sponsors. “All I really, really wanted, the singer-songwriter super-trio fea- end make your own choices. If they’re Bauer playlists. After spending time artist a career-boosting opportunity: a no word of a lie, was to win the Taylor turing former Taylor clinician Wendy good, it’s very rewarding. If they’re bad, in Germany writing for The Voice, he three-song EP with Grammy-winning GS Mini,” he shares. “I was playing an Waldman (XXX-MS, 910, GSRS), you file it away, live with it, and move on.” planned to head back to work with Katy producer John Shanks (914ce, Bari- acoustic with issues and was too broke Deborah Holland (812ce) and Cindy Strait launched a tour in January and Waissel and Abi Phillips from The X tone 8-String, 855ce), plus studio to buy another one. It’s an awesome Bullens. Dubbed “Crosby, Stills & in March celebrated the 30th anniver- Factor and Hollyoaks, a UK-based TV time, cash and gear, including an guitar. It is very easy to play, which Nash with humor,” the trio’s rich musical sary of his annual Team Roping Classic soap opera. You can learn more about 814ce for the Grand Prize winner and means I can do more with it chord-wise, chemistry is readily on display, giving rodeo event. He says he plans to do Gray and see the video for “All of My 10 GS Minis for the 10 finalists. The or picking-wise. The sound of it is very the record a cohesive sound that often another record sometime after that, but Life” at www.samgray.co.uk. contest generated nearly 17,000 sub- rich and full. Also, I tour the UK when feels as intimate as a living room house that it’s not set in stone. “In the mean- missions and was whittled down to a I can since I have a lot of fans over concert. Each is an accomplished time,” he says, “I’ll work in a lot of fishing final pool of 200, from which 10 were there... it easily stores in the overhead individual songwriter in her own right, and golf.” hand-selected by Shanks to perform at compartment of a plane even with other and the way their respective talents www.georgestrait.com Heard it Through the an industry showcase at Hollywood’s bags up there, and even on domestic complement each other makes for a Gripevine Hotel Café venue in mid-February. flights there’s no added stress trying to collaborative synergy that’s truly spe- Add Internet entrepreneur and Shanks, who has worked with find room.” cial. Three’s contemporary Americana author to the resume of Halifax, Nova the likes of Kelly Clarkson, Bon Jovi, In the coming months, Doyle will sound runs from coast to coast, from Online Meet-up Scotia-based singer/songwriter Dave Michelle Branch, Keith Urban, Stevie be recording his three-song EP with the Appalachian bluegrass of “Can’t Singer-songwriter Tyrone Wells Carroll. Carroll, you may recall, shot Nicks and Van Halen, told us he was Shanks. You can watch Doyle’s perfor- (GSRS, 814ce, 810, 714ce) recently to fame in 2009 after using a now seeking to select a winner with more mance of “I Figured the World Out” on continued next page 26 www.taylorguitars.com 27

Stop Now” (with Sam Bush on fiddle) “Winning a Grammy is flattering for studio of audio engineer/mixer Chris- “A lot of acoustics do one particular affair, making for some great cross- their ideas and expertise in the rede- soon became known as the musical It’s a unique size that most shipping to shimmering SoCal folk-rock. Wald- any musician, but to win for a project Lord-Alge in Los Angeles, Cavallo thing, which is fine,” he explains. “This pollination of vintage and new forms sign effort. outpost for musicians between Chicago services won’t have in stock. How- man’s former Bryndle bandmate, Scott we really believe is incredibly satisfy- reflected on his first exposure to Taylors, actually has a lot of range of control. of Americana music. Taylor staffers Our next wave of website enhance- and the West Coast. Tuft’s commitment ever, many music stores will give you Babcock, adds drums and percussion ing for us,” Tim Battersby shared in a what he likes about them as a player, It’s a very expressive instrument. Andy Lund and David Kaye manned a ments will include a completely to instruments and the local music a box or sell you one cheap. to the largely acoustic arrangements, recent call. “It’s something we’ll always, recording engineer and producer, and “It’s kind of bright, but it’s also mid- booth that featured some of our new Taylor Notes revamped TaylorWare store later this scene would attract some of the folk with earthy mandolin and accordion always, treasure.” how they fit into some of the hit records rangy — it gives you a good throw,” he 2012 models and offered free string spring, along with a new dealer loca- and rock world’s great talents to his 3. Try to get a Taylor box with the textures adding to the acoustic guitars. Proceeds from the album’s sales he’s made with bands over the years. elaborates. “… If you play it light, you changes to attendees. Both reported tor that will be integrated with Google store, from Joan Baez and Jack Elliott black plastic inserts. The inserts hold Through their passionate harmonies, benefitted the Pacer National Bully- Cavallo signed both Green Day and get a nice bell tone, but it’s also very that plenty of Taylor artists participated New Federal Aviation Bill our recent design overhaul. One of the Maps. Also in the works are an expand- to Muddy Waters and Sonny Terry to the case securely within the box and these three friends prove to be musical ing Prevention Center. The project the Goo Goo Dolls, producing multiple aggressive sounding, so if you want to in the conference, which featured main goals of the site renovation, which ed Sustainability section that will spot- Jim Morrison and Frank Zappa. The cushion both ends. Otherwise, you’ll sisters capable of tapping into some- attracted a some heavy hitters, includ- records for each, and his creative guid- play it and hit it, you can make it sound various workshops as well as musical Creates Consistent Policy for was introduced the same week as the light our innovative sourcing partner- Folklore Center celebrates its 50th need to use layers of bubble wrap thing deep, pure and true together, ing Steven Van Zandt (Bruce Spring- ance has shaped some of the most heavy.” showcases that ran into the wee hours Flying with Instruments Winter NAMM Show in mid-January, ships around the world. As with every- anniversary this year. Congratulations to or balled-up newspaper to cushion and it sounds like they had a lot of fun steen’s E Street Band) and children’s popular pop-rock sounds of the last 15 Cavallo estimates that Excalibur of the night. Among our Taylor friends Good news for troubadours who was to offer visitors a better browsing thing we do, we’ll continue to bring Harry on the many musical pursuits he the ends and fill the voids. Do not doing it. author Barry Louis Polisar (“Juno”), years, including records from Alanis has been used on close to ten No. at the show were Steve Poltz, Jimmy fly with their guitars: The American experience by making it easier to navi- new refinements as we move forward, has helped inspire. use packing peanuts, as they shift www.therefugeesmusic.com and collected a variety of themes as a Morissette, Fleetwood Mac, Jewel, 1 hits, including Green Day’s “Good LaFave, Wendy Waldman, Justin Federation of Musicians (AFM) and gate the site. For starters, a mid-page and we welcome your feedback. and settle, allowing the case to move means to encourage kids to stand up Paramore, Shinedown, Eric Clap- Riddance (The Time of Your Life),” The Roth, the Dunwells, Mary McAd- the Federal Aviation Administration navigation/menu bar on the home page inside the box. to bullying. ton, the Dave Matthews Band and Goo Goo Dolls’ “Slide” and “Iris,” and ams, Brian Ashley Jones, Caleb (FAA) have approved a uniform national helps you get to a lot of different places Service Tips: The duo is currently at work on Switchfoot. Shinedown’s “Second Chance.” Eric Hawley, Dan Navarro, Annabelle policy regarding musical instruments without being overwhelmed by details Repair Revisits the Shipping Your Guitar 4. Once you have the guitar boxed Flatts Screen their next album, I’m on the Old Side Cavallo’s musical companion Clapton used it to record the ballad Chvostek, The Flyin’ A’s, Kathy on airplanes as part of a new FAA bill. or having to hunt through layers of Spirit of ’76 As a Taylor owner, at some point up and taped shut, you’re ready to Fans of country megastars Rascal of Young, and will be on the road this throughout the interview was his trusty “Blue Eyes Blue” for the film Runaway Mattea, Jon Vesner, Joel Rafael, The new law means that all airlines menu options. Repair department manager Josh you may find yourself needing to ship ship. We suggest going directly to a Flatts (714ce) are invited to submit a spring. 1996 514c (“my first real studio-quality Bride, and liked it so much he bor- and David Jacobs-Strain. must adhere to a policy that allows Another change to the site’s orga- Mundt from our Factory Service Cen- your guitar to our Factory Service UPS customer center to avoid the guitar design to the band for a chance www.battersbyduo.com acoustic”), dubbed “Excalibur” by Bil- rowed it for six months to score a After five years in Memphis, the any instrument that can be safely nization makes the Taylor guitar line ter in El Cajon flagged our Marketing Center in El Cajon or Amsterdam for extra service charges tacked on by to win a flyaway prize package that www.pacerkidsagainstbullying.org lie Joe Armstrong of Green Day for its movie. conference will move to Toronto in stored in the overhead compartment or accessible in more ways than ever. department in February when a 1976 a repair, service package or Expres- retail shipping services. Visit ups.com includes a Taylor guitar. The unique legendary status as a hit machine over You can watch the interview with 2013 and then on to Kansas City, underneath the seat to be brought on Now you can conveniently explore our Taylor 810 arrived for service. The sion System® installation. We thought or call 1-800-742-5877 in North contest was put together with the help the years. Early on, Cavallo says, it Cavallo at taylorguitars.com in our Missouri in 2014 and beyond. Special board as carry-on luggage. Additionally, acoustic models based on shapes, “vintage” Taylor Dreadnought was one of the band, their label, Big Machine established itself as the go-to acoustic media gallery. thanks go out to our dealer Eric Martin the bill sets standard weight and size woods, series or guitar categories. of the guitars Bob and Kurt built dur- Records, and CMT. Through April 30, The Legend of Excalibur in the studio, especially because the of Martin Music for helping us with requirements for checked instruments, We’ve also refined our Support section ing the year the company made the fans can submit artwork to be featured We love sharing personal stories young bands with whom he was work- our booth, and to all the other cool and permits musicians to purchase a to make it easier to register your guitar, switch from being the Westland Music on the spruce soundboard of a Taylor about Taylor owners and their guitars, ing typically didn’t have the money for a Memphis people whose kindness and seat for oversized instruments, such care for it, and arrange for service and Company to Taylor Guitars. As a year GS guitar, and the winning design will so when an opportunity arrived to good acoustic guitar. It quickly became For Folk’s Sake Southern hospitality have enhanced as cellos, that are too delicate to be repair. Our new Community section of firsts, 1976 also marked the first be screen-printed on a pair of GS8s shoot a video segment with veteran a personal favorite for him and his art- The 24th International Folk Alli- the Folk Alliance events over the last checked. Prior to this law, each airline houses a Media Gallery, featuring an year we began the numbering system that band members Joe Don Rooney music producer Rob Cavallo, cur- ist clients. He calls it “a player’s guitar,” ance Conference was held February several years. was allowed to set their own policy array of photos and videos — including to denote model types and started and Jay DeMarcus play during their rently the Chairman of Warner Brothers in reference to its sound, reliability and 23-26 in Memphis, Tennessee, and www.folkalliance.org regarding musical instruments, and size performance clips from NAMM — while building guitars using Indian rosewood summer tour. Fans can visit cmt.com, Records, we happily seized it. From the versatility in a variety of playing contexts. as usual, it was a multi-generational requirements varied widely for both our beefed-up Blog content covers in addition to Brazilian rosewood. The where they’ll find a link to the contest carry-on and checked baggage. Presi- everything from the latest factory devel- 810 is among the first batch of Taylor page. There they’ll be able to access a dent Obama is expected to sign the opments to artist news to lessons and guitars to feature a bolt-on neck design. template of the GS shape and an array approved bill into law. Additional infor- tips. Look for more Taylor voices and The guitar needed some minor work of graphic elements that can be incor- mation about specific measurements stories to be added to our online con- but was in relatively good condition. porated into the design and then saved and weight restrictions can be found on versation over time. Our repair technicians started by stabi- and submitted. Fans will also have either organization’s website. So far, the user response has been lizing the guitar at an optimum humidity chances to win band-autographed GS www.afm.org overwhelmingly positive, and we were level of 45 percent. Then they reset the Mini guitars at select concert dates, www.faa.gov thrilled to learn that in March, our site neck, replaced and dressed the frets, on CMT Radio Live with Cody Alan, was chosen as the “website of the and gave it a good all-around cleanup. and at CMT.com. More information is New Taylor Website week” by Communication Arts maga- available at www.rascalflatts.cmt.com. zine, one of the most prestigious of Taylor Guitars Honored Entrants must be residents of the con- Launches all visual design magazines. We’d like tinental United States. If you’ve been to the Taylor web- to thanks our friends at Digitaria, the as Chamber Business site in the last few months, you’ve no digital design agency with whom we Member of the Year we’d share some advice based on the America for a location near you and doubt experienced the first stage of partnered to create the new site, for On Thursday, February 16, Taylor thousands of guitars we’ve shipped to get an estimate of the shipping Guitars was recognized as the San and received over the years. While it charges. (We also use UPS as our Songs Against Bullying Diego Regional Chamber of Com- requires a few steps, it’s not hard to main carrier in Europe. Consult the For over 30 years, Tim and Laura merce’s Member Business of the do, and it’ll increase the likelihood of a website for the phone number.) The Battersby have entertained children Year. The award, as voted on by the smooth journey for your guitar. You can average acoustic guitar box is 21” x and enchanted audiences with their Chamber’s Board of Directors, hailed also check with your dealer to see if 9” x 47” (54 x 23 x 122 cm) and has whimsical musical follies. With the help Taylor as a thriving business in the com- they can assist you. a dimensional weight of 25 pounds of their Taylor guitars (855ce, 916ce), munity and noted the company’s local (11.34 kilograms). Be sure to insure the couple has performed for the likes charitable efforts in supporting music Here’s what to do: your guitar for the current retail value. of national audiences, country presi- education through the Taylor Guitars 1. Call our Customer Service This amount will be supplied when dents and the iconic character Big Bird for Schools program. Taylor representa- department to get a service ticket you call for the service ticket number. from Sesame Street, notching numer- tives attended the dinner, including Bob number. The number in North America ous appearances on PBS, CBS, ABC, Taylor, who accepted the award. is 1-800-943-6782; in Amsterdam, 5. Track your guitar to see that it’s UPN, Fox and NBC shows, as well the number is +31 (0) 20 667 6033. been delivered. You’ll get a call from winning as an Emmy award. In 2011 (European customers can also check Taylor’s Customer Service department the musical couple earned a Grammy Harry Tuft Inducted to the our website for each country’s toll- to go over all the details, usually the nomination, but 2012 proved to be Colorado Music Hall of Fame free number.) Please have the serial day after it’s been delivered. If your their lucky year. On Sunday, February We’re happy to share the news that number of the guitar handy when you guitar needs repairs, we’ll give you 12, the couple shared the Grammy Harry Tuft, owner and proprietor of the call. a thorough diagnosis, including turn- award for “Best Children’s Album” for Denver Folklore Center, a Taylor dealer, around time and any potential costs. their song contribution, “I Know a Kid,” was inducted into the Colorado Music 2. You’ll need a guitar shipping box. You can rest assured that your guitar to the compilation album All About Rascal Flatts (photo by Randee St. Nicholas) Hall of Fame in February. Tuft founded Ideally it’s the same Taylor box we use will be in great hands and will receive Bullies…Big And Small. the Folklore Center in 1962, and it to ship new guitars to our dealers. the utmost care. 29

ing a humidity level of no less than 50 Spending a little time with Jim percent. The cell itself is heated to reveals a mere fraction of his overall between 80-85 degrees, and together scope of responsibility. Like other Taylor with the moisture, the controlled envi- employees, he is not only busy, but also ronment provides the optimized climate deeply committed to his work. conditions to give the guitars a flawless “There’s a pride in taking care finish. of both employees and guitars,” he The machine, like the others in the explains. “As a company, there’s been factory, can be recalibrated based on such an impact on the music world.” WHAT ARE YOU feedback from production staff within That impact includes his favorite the factory — and beyond it. For exam- band, the Rolling Stones. ple, at one time our guitars were built at “When I see someone like Mick an overall humidity level of 47 percent, Jagger come out on stage with his 414, but over time that has been adjusted I’m just so proud to be part of the team to the current 44 percent to help them here,” he says. fare better in the sometimes dry condi- tions of the retail world.

It was just over a year ago that Roy Because the crack ran through the While at the service center, the gui- Willems learned of the opportunity to sunburst color gradient, Roy not only tar will also undergo a “Revive” service work in the new factory service center had to repair the crack itself, but also package that includes a neck angle By Chalise Zolezzi Roy that was being established as part restore the color. He started by remov- adjustment, a full fret dress, a Tusq nut Willems of Taylor’s European headquarters in ing the bridge, so when the time came and saddle replacement, re-humidifica- Amsterdam. As an independent guitar to match the color he’d have a clean tion if needed, and more. All told, the Working On? Guitar Repair shop owner, Roy had seen just about slate. The crack ran along the bass side process of repairing this guitar will take everything in the repair world. He’d also of the lower bout, and he repaired it two days to finish, but it’s the challenge Technician built his fair share of electric guitars using “Jet and buff,” a combination of of getting it perfect that Roy relishes. On any given day, the Taylor factory is flush with creative activity. In our recurring feature, we offer a closer Repair & Service with his business, Roy Willems Guitars Jet glue and buffing to seal the dam- “Restoring this guitar completely so look at the work our employees do. With this installment, we see the critical impact of climate control on Department, (www.roywillemsguitars.nl), located in age. Once dried, he says, the guitar will that the customer is satisfied is what I guitar production, check in with our repair and service center in Amsterdam, and visit our factory in Tecate his hometown of Assen, the Nether- undergo a color treatment to match the like,” he says. to examine the work that goes into laminating and bending guitar sides. Amsterdam lands. Roy jumped at the chance to be sides so that no trace of damage is vis- a part of Taylor’s international growth, ible and the sunburst color is perfectly What he’s and Amsterdam, he decided, was a matched, a process that will take an nice place to live. hour or two, he estimates. working on: Via Skype, he displays a guitar he’s After the color is successfully Repairing a been working on: a sunburst 514ce restored, Roy will give the guitar a coat with a top crack, the result of a player of Taylor’s UV-curable gloss finish, then environment within Taylor’s walls. wall-mounted humidification units, tive climate-controlled areas like Final top crack dropping the guitar. sand it. The guitar will undergo another Jim’s job is not tied to a normal which have copper water supply and Assembly. “This kind of repair is hard because round of finish and be rubbed out and Jim workday. Whether an air filter needs drain lines and a high-temperature hose “Since the guitars are built in differ- there’s color on the top,” he explains. buffed further, for a smooth, glassy to be replaced at 2 p.m. or a machine to deliver steam. The two units for the ent areas and each component under- “But I like it because it’s challenging.” finish. Setran breaks down at 2 a.m., he is there. Visitor Center each can release 10 goes a different process, it’s important Arguably his most important focus is pounds of water in an hour. (One gallon that they’re constituted in the same climate control. He takes great care of water weighs about 8.35 pounds.) humidity levels,” Jim explains. “Here in HVAC Manager each day, and often nights, to ensure The larger Final Assembly area uses Final Assembly, just because the com- Building that optimum humidity in most areas four humidification units that each have ponents are already built doesn’t mean Just a short, 40-minute drive gle sheet of sapele veneer to be used leave the laminating area and head of the factory remains at 44 percent. the capacity to pump out 30 pounds that humidity is any less important. Gui- separates Taylor’s El Cajon factory on a Baby Taylor, Yuri takes a thin to a computer-controlled mill, where Maintenance Some areas, like the Visitor Center in of water per hour. Using electrodes to tars should be assembled at the same Yuri complex from our production facility in sheet of poplar wood, which will serve it will be cut lengthwise down the Department our main building, can be challenging heat the water, the humidifiers send the relative humidity levels so that when Ramírez Tecate, Mexico. Here, employees craft as the “meat” in the lamination sand- center and then trimmed at the ends to maintain due to the high ceilings and steam down a ventilated tube through it comes time to ship, each guitar has our laminate models: Baby Taylors, wich. Next, she meticulously inspects to create a perfect pair of sides for a constant opening and closing of the an air conditioning duct that is routed been stabilized at the same level.” Serrano Big Babys, GS Minis, and 100 and it for any blemishes that could dimin- Baby Taylor. Once it has had a day to What he’s front doors. through the Visitor Center. An area where one might not 200 Series guitars. Yuri Ramírez Ser- ish its strength. After guiding the reacclimatize to the relative humidity in working on: “Humidity is subject to spatial dis- As with all the humidity control suspect a need for humidity control rano has been with Taylor for nearly poplar through the glue roller, which the factory, it will be matched with its is the finish spray cell, where each Sidebender/ Checking placement,” Jim explains. “If we keep machines at Taylor, the system is linked five years, first in sidebending, and coats both sides, she places it onto back and top. it at 44 to 45 percent, we can help to to a main “dashboard” that Jim can guitar receives its beautiful finish. In Lamination as a result of her expertise there, one sheet of sapele and then places During her shift, Yuri will complete humidity levels offset the greater air exchanges that access through his computer to monitor the rafters directly above the cell sits a she’s now leading the new laminating the other piece on top of it. With a 65 sets of sides, including all types of Laminating within the happen here.” levels. Each humidity machine is auto- machine that looks like a cross between department, which consists of several quick flick of her wrists, Yuri rocks the laminate models. She feels proud of a hotel icemaker and water heater. The Department, factory Two humidifiers are responsible for regulated, so in the event of too much sidebending machines, back presses piece of wood back and forth in her her role at Taylor and says she appre- about two thousand square feet of the humidity in the air, a machine will make 480-volt polyphase steam generating Tecate Factory that create the slight arch in the back hands as she makes her way to the ciates Taylor’s high quality standards Visitor Center. They protect the 40 or adjustments. cylinder takes water in through a filter of certain laminate models, and a sidebending machine, which is heated and the amount of processes that go so guitars that are displayed on the While on the factory floor, Jim system, ensuring that most mineral large glue roller. to 220 degrees. Here she’ll lay the into crafting a guitar. She also enjoys walls for guests to pick up and play. receives a call asking him to check deposits are removed, although, as What she’s The sides will be laminated and piece to rest for three minutes. the environment. Heating, ventilation and air condi- a 13-year Taylor veteran, is responsible From the Visitor Center, Jim follows a on a climate control system just down Jim explains, some mineral content is working on: bent as one double-wide sheet and “The heat from the machine helps “It’s a peaceful place to work,” she tioning may not sound as hip as crafting for every machine and filter that uses short hallway to an adjoining area of the hall. In a small room, two 15-ton desirable because it increases the con- later cut into two separate sides. To to harden the glue,” she explains. says. Laminating and guitars, but without Jim Setran and his air, from the computer mills that employ the factory, a wing of our Final Assem- compressors are responsible for both ductivity between electrodes, improving begin the six-step lamination process, With a gentle touch, she places the colleague, Gustavo Vicencio, the Tay- vacuum pressure to hold guitar parts in bly department, where bridges and comfort cooling (temperature control the heating efficiency of the units. More bending Baby the interior and exterior wood layers wood in the bender and clamps it in lor factory would not be the nurturing place to the industrial humidifiers that electronics are added to the guitars. for employees) and dehumidification, than 155 pounds of water per hour are Taylor sides must be perfectly aligned to ensure a place. Three minutes later, a curved cocoon for guitar “birth” that it is. Jim, maintain an optimized guitar-building Up toward the ceiling are two large, which provides consistency in sensi- pumped into the spray cell, maintain- smooth finish. After inspecting a sin- form emerges. After cooling, it will 30 www.taylorguitars.com 31

She filed the following report at the style, setting the perfect tone for deal- The second night featured a dinner end of her trip. ers to get better acquainted with not cruise through the canals of Amster- For all the latest Taylor event listings, visit taylorguitars.com/events only their fellow Taylor dealers but dam, allowing dealers to see some of Over a two-week period, we had the Taylor staff from San Diego and the sights of the city and get to know Calendar Events four different groups come to our Europe. In true Italian style, the meal the Taylor staff on a personal level. Amsterdam facility for training. In the lasted about three hours every night, The third day started early once A new season of award-winning Taylor Road Shows is officially underway, both in North America and Europe. Bergenfield, NJ San Diego, CA Edina, MN Lincoln, UK Graz, Austria words of Brian Swerdfeger, our VP of and everyone had become friends by again at the Amsterdam facility. Brian Mon., June 18 19:00 Admission to the events is free, and each attendee will Thu., May 3 7:00 p.m. Mon., May 21 6:30 p.m. Mon., June 18 6:30 p.m. Wed., May 2 19:00 Australian Road they had had for some weeks, so my Sales and Marketing, it was all about the evening’s end. walked through our electric line O. Dibella Music Guitar Trader / Music Power Guitar Center Musicroom Musik Hammer gut said that people would be more good friends, good food and great The second day began early at the and explained how our fused string have a chance to enter to win a custom Taylor guitar Show Tour (North America only). We’ll also be presenting more February 7-15 likely to skip guitar school and go guitars. Amsterdam facility with a deep virtual grounds work. We also brought out Wilmington, DE Monroe, NC Lawrence, KS Epsom, UK Wien, Austria straight to the beach,” Kelly recalls. The first group featured 20 dealers factory tour led by Brian Swerdfeger 12-15 Build to Order guitars and Find Your Fit sales events, featuring personal, one-on-one Mon., May 7 6:30 p.m. Tue., May 22 7:00 p.m. Mon., June 18 7:00 p.m. Thu., May 3 19:00 Tue., June 19 19:00 Make Music The Taylor Road Show crew didn’t “But 68 people later, I was willing to from Scandinavia and the sales rep and me. We’ve brought the El Cajon explained our BTO program. A lot of consultations with one of our friendly factory experts to Guitar Center Holloway’s Music Center Mass Street Music Guitar Guitar wait long before launching its first tour admit I was wrong. They had a great help you find the Taylor model that’s right for you. If we for that territory, Peter Samuelsson. factory to Europe with the help of 50 dealers in Europe are less familiar Waldorf, Germany make it to your area, we hope you’ll join us! Manchester, NH Laguna Beach, CA Sioux Falls, SD Jönköping, Sweden of 2012. Fresh from the Winter NAMM display, which included all the shapes The week wrapped up with a second videos that show everything that goes with this program than our dealers in Mon., May 7 6:30 p.m. Tue., May 22 7:00 p.m. Tue., June 19 6:30 p.m. Mon., May 7 19:00 Wed., June 20 19:00 Show, multi-tasking man-at-large in the 400 Series.” group of 17 dealers from Germany and into building a guitar. This helped the the U.S., so this proved to be a great Manchester Music Mill The Guitar Shoppe Guitar Center Nya Musik Session Musik Waldorf Andy Lund from our El Cajon complex The next show was at Cranbourne Austria and included our two sales Europeans get a clear sense of our way to explain, with visual examples, North America teamed up with Australian product Music, located about 50 minutes out- reps for those countries, Stephan operation in the States. It was eye- the different appointment options that Knoxville, TN Hanover, MA Los Angeles, CA Salina, KS Stockholm, Sweden Wels, Austria Wed., June 20 19:00 manager Kelly Hulme for a string of side Melbourne. The show was well Fuchs and Peter Alexius. The second opening for most dealers, who came are available. Some dealers fell in love Wed., Apr. 18 6:30 p.m. Tue., May 8 7:00 p.m. Wed., May 23 7:00 p.m. Tue., June 19 7:00 p.m. Tue., May 8 19:00 Guitar Center Music Unlimited The Fretted Frog SM Hanson Music Deluxe Music ER Guitars events in Australia in early February. attended, with about 45-50 Taylor week brought 20 dealers from France, away with a deeper appreciation for all with certain guitars and ended up

The two traveled by road and air, stop- enthusiasts in attendance, plus staff along with sales reps Marc Camps of the detail and hard work that go into purchasing them for the store on the Bozeman, MT Worcester, MA Greenwood, SC Omaha, NE Nottingham, UK Brilon, Germany ping at eight stores across five states and instruments from their other two and Frederic Mardelle, followed by each guitar we make. spot! This day wrapped up with a Q&A Sat., Apr. 21 5:00 p.m. Wed., May 9 7:00 p.m. Wed., May 23 7:00 p.m. Wed., June 20 6:30 p.m. Tue., May 8 19:00 Thu., June 21 19:00 in nine days, and flying over 10,000 km stores. On Valentine’s Day, the two a dealer group of 21 from the UK After lunch, Brian Swerdfeger session and lunch. In the afternoon, Music Villa Union Music Newell’s Music Guitar Center Dave Mann Music Music World Brilon (6,300 miles). presented a show at KC’s Rock Shop, and Ireland, accompanied by the and Dan Boreham, our UK-based we took the dealers back into town Köln, Germany “We traveled from coast to coast, in Boronia, about 45 minutes outside sales reps for those territories, Simon marketing manager, demonstrated to purchase souvenirs and explore Fishers, IN Dallas, TX Cherry Hill, NJ Myrtle Beach, SC Wichita, KS Umeå, Sweden Tue., Apr. 10 7:00 p.m. Sat., Apr. 21 1:00 p.m. Wed., May 9 6:30 p.m. Thu., May 24 7:00 p.m. Wed., June 20 7:00 p.m. Wed., May 9 19:00 Fri., June 22 19:00 top to bottom, to stores that have Melbourne. Blundell and Paul Chalder. the body shapes and tonewoods that Amsterdam one last time before they Reno’s Music Dallas Guitar Show Guitar Center Andy Owings Music Center Senseney Music Umeå Musikanten Musicstore Cologne not had Road Shows to date,” Kelly “We had some romantic couples Each 2½-day training session distinguish our acoustic line, and then headed to the airport or train station to reported afterward. “We ended up and about 40 singles,” Kelly reports. began with a welcome dinner on the explained the Taylor NT® neck and begin their journey home. Lexington, KY Chico, CA New London, CT Thousand Oaks, CA Des Moines, IA Coventry, UK Nantes, France using three different sets of Road “This show really solidified the over- first night at Pasta e Basta, an Ital- Expression System®. Our logistics We definitely had a great repre- Tue., Apr. 10 7:00 p.m. Mon., Apr. 23 7:00 p.m. Thu., May 10 6:30 p.m. Thu., May 24 7:00 p.m. Thu., June 21 6:30 p.m. Wed., May 9 19:00 Tue., June 26 19:00 Show guitars to be sure that stock whelmingly positive response to the ian restaurant located in the heart of manager in Europe, Dave Kentie, led sentation of Taylor folks at the TGU Willcutt Guitar Shoppe Herreid Music Caruso Music Instrumental Music Guitar Center Express Music Michenaud would be waiting for us at each Road Grand Concert shape we’ve had Amsterdam. This is no ordinary Ital- the dealers around the warehouse, events, including Frank Stevens, our Bowling Green, KY Auburn, CA East Brunswick, NJ Roanoke, VA Arkansas City, KS Borlänge, Sweden Domont, France Show destination. The traveling sets throughout the tour. This was the sec- ian restaurant: All of the servers also and our service manager there, Uwe Director of European Sales, Jonathan Wed., Apr. 11 7:00 p.m. Tue., Apr. 24 7:00 p.m. Thu., May 10 6:30 p.m. Mon., June 4 6:00 p.m. Thu., June 21 7:00 p.m. Thu., May 10 19:00 Wed., June 27 19:00 consisted of 15 guitars, including GS ond night in a row we sold a 412ce, double as singers. Throughout the Dierkes, demonstrated some of the dif- Forstot, our Director of Brand Market- Kentucky Music Encore Music Guitar Center Fret Mill Music Co. Sparks Music Musikcenter Guitare Village Mini and Baritone models, with a range and we’ve seen more hands in the air night, the servers take turns singing ferent processes that our repair facility ing, and the entire service and admin- of Grand Auditoriums in different tone- for the GC than any other shape this songs that include pop, rock and even in Amsterdam is capable of, including istrative staff from our Amsterdam Valparaiso, IN Grapevine, TX Kansas City, MO Savannah, GA Harlow, UK Paris, France woods, plus a complement of T3, T5 time around.” some Italian opera. A pianist was even a demonstration of our UV-curable fin- headquarters. Wed., Apr. 11 7:00 p.m. Tue., Apr. 24 6:00 p.m. Mon., May 14 7:00 p.m. Mon., June 4 7:00 p.m. International Thu., May 10 19:00 Thu., June 28 19:00 Woodbrass and SolidBody guitars.” The tour’s last stop was Mega on hand to accompany each singer/ ish and our ability to repair scratches Front Porch Music Grapevine Guitar Works Big Dudes Music Portman’s Music Road Shows Gig Gear

The tour started in southern Sydney Music in Perth, Western Australia, server. The meal was served family and dings. Lansing, MI Helena, MT Natick, MA Dover, NH Mons, Belgium Lisbon, Portugal Coulommiers, France on February 7 at Wollongong Music drawing about 45 folks, many of whom Thu., Apr. 12 6:30 p.m. Tue., Apr. 24 6:30 p.m. Mon., May 14 6:30 p.m. Mon., June 4 6:30 p.m. Tue., Apr. 17 19:00 Tue., May 22 19:00 Fri., June 29 19:00 (a 90-minute drive south of Sydney). lingered long after the show had ended Marshall Music Co. Piccolo’s Music Guitar Center Earcraft Music Omega Music Trovador MDS From there the next stop was west of to talk guitars. Sydney about 45 minutes to Guitar Kelly said the tour helped boost Paducah, KY Santa Rosa, CA Toronto, ONT Roanoke, VA Herentals, Belgium Port, Portugal Guildford, UK Factory Parramatta, part of a larger awareness of Taylor’s guitar-making Thu., Apr. 12 7:00 p.m. Wed., Apr. 25 7:00 p.m. Tue., May 15 7:00 p.m. Mon., June 4 6:00 p.m. Wed., Apr. 18 19:00 Wed., May 23 19:00 Wed., July 18 19:00 chain that has enjoyed success with philosophy among both dealers and Allen Music, Inc. Bananas at Large The Twelfth Fret Fret Mill Music Co. Key Music Castanheira Porto Andertons Music

Taylor Guitars over the years. The show customers in an entertaining and infor- Fort Wayne, IN Spokane, WA Joplin, MO Jacksonville Beach, FL Den Haag, Netherlands Santiago de Compostela, Spain London, UK was held in a small space that didn’t mative way. Friday, Apr. 13 7 p.m. Wed., Apr. 25 6:00 p.m. Tue., May 15 7:00 p.m. Tue., June 5 6:30 p.m. Thu., Apr. 19 19:00 Thu., May 24 19:00 Thu., July 19 19:00 take long to fill up. “As a direct result of the Road Sweetwater Sound Hoffman Music Earnie Williamson Music George’s Music Rock Palace Estudio 54 Rose Morris “We had over 30 at one stage and Shows we connected with about 350 could not have fit another human in the people and sold a significant number Nashville, TN Weatherford, TX St. Joseph, MO Burlington, VT Amsterdam, Netherlands Middlesbrough, UK Find Your Fit room,” Kelly says. “The crowd was very of instruments to end users and to Fri., Apr. 13 7:00 p.m. Wed., Apr. 25 7:00 p.m. Wed., May 16 7:00 p.m. Tue., June 5 6:30 p.m. Fri., Apr. 20 19:00 Mon., May 28 19:00 Sales Events World Music Nashville Craig’s Music Lanham Music Advance Music Dirk Witte Steven James Guitars responsive, and the intimacy made it stores,” he reflected at the end of the Fort Wayne, IN quite enjoyable. The floor staff there is trip. “It was a busy, enjoyable and suc- Louisville, KY Richland, WA Portland, ME Barboursville, WV Sulzbach, Germany Wigan, UK Sat., Apr. 14 enthusiastic and really engages well cessful series of events. I look forward Sat., Apr. 14 6:00 p.m. Thu., Apr. 26 6:30 p.m. Wed., May 16 6:30 p.m. Tue., June 5 7:00 p.m. Mon., Apr. 23 19:00 Tue., May 29 19:00 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. with the customer base.” to the next tour.” National Guitar Museum Ted Brown Music Guitar Center Route 60 Music Six & Four Symphony Music Sweetwater Sound The following show was at Derrin- gers Music in Adelaide. Baton Rouge, LA Fremont, CA Niagra Falls, ONT Dothan, AL Aschaffenburg, Germany Reading, UK Catonsville, MD Taylor Guitars Mon., Apr. 16 7:00 p.m. Thu., Apr. 26 7:00 p.m. Wed., May 16 7:00 p.m. Wed., June 6 7:00 p.m. Tue., Apr. 24 19:00 Wed., May 30 19:00 Sat., Apr. 14 “This is a great store, or really a University C&M Music Allegro Music Murphy’s Music Metro Music Guitar Place Dawsons Music 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. group of stores,” Kelly noted. “The February 13 - March 1 Appalachian Bluegrass Shoppe beautiful guitar store is in a turn-of- Charleston, SC Irving, TX Nashua, NH Pittsburgh, PA Bochum, Germany Birmingham, UK the-century former residence, with Amsterdam Mon., Apr. 16 6:30 p.m. Thu., Apr. 26 7:00 p.m. Thu., May 17 6:30 p.m. Wed., June 6 7:00 p.m. Wed., Apr. 25 19:00 Thu., May 31 19:00 Bozeman, MT high ceilings and wooden floors with Taylor marketing manager Katrina Guitar Center Murphy’s Music Center Guitar Center Empire Music Music Pommerin Guitar Guitar Sun., Apr. 22 fireplaces.” Horstman spent two weeks at our 12 p.m. - 5 p.m. Monroe, LA Williamsport, PA Hamilton, ONT Carlisle, PA Köln, Germany Göteborg, Sweden Music Villa After a show at The Music Spot European headquarters in Amsterdam Tue., Apr. 17 7:00 p.m. Mon., Apr. 30 7:00 p.m. Thu., May 17 7:00 p.m. Thu., June 7 7:00 p.m. Thu., Apr. 26 19:00 Tue., June 5 19:00 in Brisbane, Andy and Kelly drove starting in mid-February as she helped Matt’s Music Robert M. Sides Family Music Ctr. Pongetti Music JW Music Guitar Center Cologne Andreasson Musik San Francisco, CA two hours north to Mooloolaba Music coordinate our first-ever Taylor Guitars Fri., Apr. 27 in Mooloolaba, a beautiful holiday University sessions with several groups Greenville, SC Allentown, PA Columbia, MO Pensacola, FL Gateshead, UK Oslo, Norway 12 p.m. - 7 p.m. destination on the Sunshine Coast of of European Taylor dealers. The train- Tue., Apr. 17 6:30 p.m. Tue., May 1 7:00 p.m. Thu., May 17 6:00 p.m. Thu., June 7 7:00 p.m. Mon., Apr. 30 19:00 Wed., Jun 6 19:00 Haight-Ashbury Music Center Queensland. ing is designed to immerse our inter- Guitar Center Dave Phillips Music & Sound Blue Guitar Music Co. Tringas Music JG Windows Myhrbraaten Musikk Taylor’s Brian Swerdfeger (top right) and Dan Boreham with a dealer group at Taylor’s European headquarters Lee’s Summit, MO “They had put a big sign out on the national dealers in Taylor’s culture and in Amsterdam. Photo by Katrina Horstman Hattiesburg, MS Asbury Park, NJ Raleigh, NC Hauppauge, NY Leeds, UK Sandvika, Norway Sat., May 19 highway promoting the Road Show, provide a detailed understanding of our Wed., Apr. 18 6:30 p.m. Wed., May 2 6:00 p.m. Mon., May 21 7:00 p.m. Thu., June 7 6:30 p.m. Tue., May 1 19:00 Thu., Jun 7 19:00 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. but it was a beautiful day and the first innovative guitar-making techniques. C&M Music Russo Music Asbury Park Harry’s Guitar Shop All Music’s Rock n’ Roll Uni. Dawsons Music Backstage Musikk Legacy Music 33 ® shirts for the Taylor fan

A) Men’s Appliqué T 100% cotton, fashion fit. TaylorWare Distressed-edge TG appliqué CLOTHING / GEAR / PARTS / GIFTS on front, Taylor Guitars label on side, small round logo on back. (Smoke #1250; M-XL, $28.00; XXL, $30.00) A B) Men’s Logo T F Darren (Materials Management) and Jessica (Sales 100% pre-shrunk cotton. (Prairie Dust #1700; S-XL, Administration) help keep our shipping operation $20.00; XXL-XXXL, $22.00) and dealer payment programs running smoothly. C) Men’s Long-Sleeve Logo T and dealer payment programs running smoothly. 100% pre-shrunk cotton, ribbed Darren sports our new Baseball T, while Jessica cuffs. (Black #2060; S-XL, models our Ladies’ Nouveau T in red. $25.00; XXL-XXXL, $27.00) models our Ladies’ Nouveau T in red. D) Ladies’ Nouveau T 100% cotton jersey, pigment B dyed for a slightly faded effect. “Nouveau” inlay elements from our Presentation Series form a Taylor spring 2012 headstock. (Charcoal #4110, Red #4120; S-XL, $22.00) E) Taylor Dri-Fit Polo Dri-Fit fabric draws away sweat to keep you dry and comfortable. Embroidered Taylor logo on chest. G Made by Nike. (Charcoal #2705; M-XL, $49.00; XXL, $51.00) F) Full Zip Hooded Sweatshirt, C Cross Guitars Unisex, regular fit eco-fleece with kangaroo front pocket. Enzyme-washed for a super soft feel. Taylor screen-print with crossed guitars and label on side. (Black #2812, Olive #2813; H M-XL, $48.00; XXL, $50.00) G) Men’s Vintage Peghead T New D 100% combed cotton. Also available (Black #1480; S-XL, $24.00; in Charcoal XXL-XXXL, $26.00) (see website) H) Taylor Half-Zip Pullover 100% yarn-dyed French rib cotton with embroidered Taylor logo, imported by Tommy Bahama. Warm and soft, with relaxed style. (Brown #2800; M-XL, $96.00; XXL, $98.00) I) Taylor Work Shirt Permanent press, stain-resistant poly/cotton blend. Two front pockets. I Distressed screen print over left pocket and on back. (Charcoal #3070; M-XL, $34.00; XXL-XXXL, $36.00) Baseball T (shown left) New E Cotton/poly blend for an ultra soft, worn-in feel. 3/4 raglan sleeve, with Taylor Guitars headstock banner print. (White/Sand #2295; S-XL, $28.00; XXL, $30.00) 34 35 great gift ideas

new for spring A) Taylor Plush Towel Oversized 40 x 70” heavyweight towel. 100% cotton. White body with Taylor hibiscus design in red, orange and gold. (#74000, $39.00) New A Jonathan from Marketing kicks it poolside with a blackwood GS Mini in our new Dri-Fit Polo (listed on page 33).

B) Tattered Patch Cap Flex fit, two sizes. (Brown, S/M #00150, L/XL #00151, $25.00) C) Military Cap Enzyme-washed 100% cotton chino twill, Velcro closure, one size. (Black #00400, Olive #00401, $22.00) D) Taylor Guitar Beanie Featuring Taylor name with a guitar emblazoned along the side. 100% acrylic. (Black #00116, $16.00) E) Driver Cap Classic style, wool blend, sweat band for added comfort. Taylor label on back. One size fits most. 1 (Black #00125, $25.00) 2 3 F) ES-Go™ Pickup Exclusively for the GS Mini. hats (#84022, $98.00) G) Loaded Pickguards Swappable pickup/pickguard unit for your SolidBody. For a complete list of F ordering options, go to 6 B C 5 taylorguitars.com/taylorware. 7 $195.00 accessories (Single HG Humbucker: $148.00) H) Travel Guitar Stand Sapele, lightweight (less than 16 ounces) and ultra- 4 portable. Small enough to fit 9 in the pocket of a Baby Taylor 8 gig bag. Accommodates all Taylor models. (#70198, $59.00)

D G

1) Guitar Lessons by Bob Taylor. (Wiley Publishing, 2011, 230 Headstock Tuner. Clip-on chromatic tuner, back-lit LCD display. pages; #75060, $20.00) 2) Taylor Porcelain Cup. 11-ounce (#80920, $29.00) 6) Taylor Silver Dial Watch. By Fossil. thermal cup, flexible lid, Taylor peghead icon on one side, Taylor Stainless steel, Taylor-branded tin gift box included. (#71025, logo on the other. (#70008, $15.00) 3) Black Flex Fit cap. $99.00) 7) Men’s Wallet. Genuine leather with embossed Taylor ® H Taylor logo on comfortable six-panel brushed twill with a matching logo. Card slots, I.D. window and bill compartment. By Fossil. red guitar embroidered on the back. One size fits all. (#00370, (Brown #71302, $40.00) 8) Taylor Picks. Marble or solid color. E TaylorWare $25.00) 4) Suede Guitar Strap. (pictured Honey #62000; not Ten picks per pack by gauge. Thin, medium or heavy. ($5.00) CLOTHING / GEAR / PARTS / GIFTS shown Black #62001, Chocolate #62003, $48.00) 5) Digital 9) TaylorWare Gift Card. Visit our website for more information.

Visit taylorguitars.com/taylorware to see the full line. Presorted A Publication of Taylor Guitars Standard XX% U.S. Postage Volume 71 / Spring 2012 PAID Cert no. SCS-COC-001210 Cert no. SCS-COC-001210 Phoenix, AZ | | | Taylor Guitars 1980 Gillespie Way El Cajon, CA 92020-1096 taylorguitars.com Permit No. 5937

The paper we used is certified by the Forest Stewardship Council. The FSC is a non-profit organization that supports environmentally friendly, socially responsible and economically viable management of the world’s forests.

Electric Improv “This board would make some killer electrics,” gushed Taylor’s Brian Swerdfeger as he spied a beautiful hunk of figured Hawaiian koa while surveying wood for our Spring Limiteds. Sometimes that’s all it takes for an incredible new guitar to take shape around here. The koa happened to be wide enough for a SolidBody or even a T5. We carved the koa into a SolidBody Standard with a double cutaway, inset a figured koa top, installed uncovered Vintage Alnico pickups, and borrowed the new Koa Series fretboard inlay. We don’t have many boards at this width, but we’ll keep building until the wood is gone. These models don’t even have a name yet, but if you tell your Taylor dealer you want a “back cover” koa electric, we’ll take it from there.