30 years of letters to Captain Fiddle!
I've received many unsolicited letters concerning my teaching, performances, recordings,
and publications over the years. These letters and excerpts are all authentic. I've
decided to share them with you! This page contain letters from 1999 to the present. To
read letters from 1978 - 1999 click here:
Here are letters from the most recent, back to January, 1999
May 26, 2008
Ryan,
Thank you. You are an awesome teacher. I have nearly worn out my beginner's DVD Thank
you so much for the wonderful things you do to promote music. especially for us
"lefties." best regards,
M.G.
May 2, 2008
Hi Capt. Fiddle,
I am still trying to wear out your great instructional dvds and cds.
I favor the Irish fiddle and thanks to you I can play quite a few Irish
tunes so keep those Irish tunes coming.
Bob M.
April 29, 2008
Hi Ryan -
Thanks so much. Every summer we spend some time playing with a contra dance band,
and the fiddler in that group likes to play all sorts of arcane, esoteric and little-known
tunes. It's great to have your chord book handy for those things. We've lent out the
copies we had, and they didn't come back, but we're glad that others are getting to use
them.
Best wishes.
J.S.
April 10, 2008
Ryan,
I have your "Great Bay Stomp Banjo" CD and can play several of your tunes
off that one. "Watch Those Eels" really impresses a lot of people I've played that one for.
My wife got me a Fiddle a few Christmases ago but I've found it to be the most
challenging stringed instrument I've ever tried to play. I'm writing this from work right
now, so I will have to look at getting an order in to you later once I get home.
Regards
T. C.
Bremerton, WA
April 9, 2008
Hi Ryan,
What tunes are played on your Banjo Clawhammer DVDs? I purchased your Accordion DVD
- Superb - Its really got me going!
regards,
P.S.
UK
February 15, 2008
Hello Ryan,
A few years ago my wife bought me a walking stick flute after hearing one played in
colonial Williamsburg by one of their cast members. So I recently bought your DVD
"Celtic Wooden Flute" to start learning how to play it. Thanks for making the DVD!
D. C.
Jan 4, 2008
Hi Captain Fiddle,
I just want to thank you for having the best fiddle lessons on the internet. I have both
fiddle DVD's and I have learned to play every tune thanks to your slower clear instruction,
unlike some of the other DVD's that teach at almost full speed which are very hard to
follow.
B.M.
East Meadow, New York
Sep 30, 2007
Dear Ryan - What a wonderful contribution you made at my family's event! Hope we can
do it again! Thought you might appreciate the photo. Thanks again!
Donna S.
Sanford, Maine
November 30, 2007
On Behalf of the Winter Holiday Stroll Committee, thank you for your participation in
the 14th annual Winter Holiday Stroll. We are grateful for your partnership with
downtown Nashua and Great America Downtown. Thank you!
Anne Maas, Chairperson
Oct 22, 2007
Dear Ryan -
Our thanks to you and your son for coming to our celebration Friday night and adding so
much fun and specialness to the event. You are both just wonderful and we really
appreciate you taking the time!
warm regards,
Ann and Laurie
October 20, 2007
Many thanks for your DVD accordion Jamming. Really Excellent
P.S.
UK
September 22, 2007
He did a wonderful job for our seaside wedding! He was very accomodating and overall a
lovely person to deal with. Great job!
A.V.
Portland, Maine
September 15, 2007
Dear Ryan and Brennish,
Laudetur Jesus Christus! Thank you so very much for your enthusiastic participation at
our festival last month. Your set was most enjoyable and your leading of the contra
dance indispensable!...Thank you again and may our lady bless you!
Sister Maria Philomena
Saint Benedict Center Blueberry Fiddle Festival 2007
September 5, 2007
Ryan,
This is the BEST way for me to learn. Since watching the DVD, I got up the courage to
take out the fiddle and ran into the bony collarbone against the shoulder rest and went
out and got a different one based on your DVD suggestions and i'm off and running. I still
haven't finished the DVD as i keep going back and redoing parts. It is so realistic that at
one point i walked around my computer thinking i could see the other side of you if i
did. So, to wrap up, I'm living my dream: retirement and at least TRYING to fiddle and
now i feel so much more confident as if i have a question, i just back it up and listen
again. I'm more relaxed at home and I think that helps too. The book is great as well. I'm
using them together.
THANKS AGAIN, this was the BEST investment i ever made for my music dreams. A MAJOR
BARGAIN AT TWICE THE PRICE!!! And you can quote me on that!
Best,
S.S.
Gloucester, Massachusetts
September 4, 2007
Dear Crawdad Wranglers,
Thank you for your support in this year's First Annual Cultural Festival.
Helen Franco. Americorps Vista Member
August 26, 2007
Thanks Ryan,
I learned a lot from your Irish fiddle dvd and I can play three of the tunes with hardly any
mistakes and I am now working on learning the other tunes due to your very thorough
direction. I hope that you come out with more Irish fiddle dvd's soon.
R.M.
East Meadow, New York
June 22, 2007
Ryan,
S and I enjoyed your dual concert with your son very much last night...it sounded even
better after we moved inside. I'll be ordering several of your CDs over the weekend.
Thanks again!
B. K.
Salem, New Hampshire
June 10, 2007
Thanks Captain Fiddle,
Jill and I are learning a lot from your book. What a joy this little instrument. I thank our
maker each day for it. Though I'm sure my neighbors don't yet share my joy. Have a great
day. I look forward to your next project and once again thank you for such a great teacing
tool.
M.
New Mexico
May 26, 2007
Greeting Ryan, A few weeks back I purchased the wash tub bass DVD from you. I just
want to let you know how much fun I'm having with it, I made the bass and its great.
Thank you so much for producing what you did and your son was just amazing in it!
T. V.
Bethel, Vermont
April 29, 2007
Hey Ryan,
One week after NEFFA and I've been working away on Lesson 1 in your Banjo
kit. By george, I think I've got it ! Getting ready to go on to Lesson 2.
Thanks for the great teaching method you use on your DVD's. They're
definitely working for me.
B.B.
Toronto, ON Canada
March 1, 2007
I just happened upon your web site and I spent quite a bit of time reading all of the
interesting areas. I found it to be very well done and very interesting.
J.L.
Durham, New Hampshire
February 5, 2007
I love this book. (Folk Musician's Working Guide) I play clawhammer banjo by ear and was
mystified by some things.
R.W.
Port Townsend, Washington
December 9, 2006
Hi Ryan:
I am enjoying your instructional materials. Learning has been fun.
Happy Holidays! Thanks,
R. S.
Margaretville, NY
November 30, 2006
Hi captain fiddle!
I'm Matteo from Italy. I already have your dvd on piano accompaniment and I would like
to know if you are going to realise the level 2......
thanks so much U R GREAT
M.
Italy
October 24, 2006
Ryan,
I received your Clawhammer Banjo Kit yesterday. It's FANTASTIC! I am so pleased with
the way
you teach. I may eventually get your fiddle course. Thanks again,
D. C.
Jenkintown, Pennsylvania
Sept 26, 2006
I have really enjoyed your Fiddler's Almanac, thanks for sharing your wisdom!
K. C.
Chantilly, Virginia
September 18, 2006
Hi, received the cd/tab book yesterday. Love your playing and choice of tunes. All I have
to do now is get down working my way through the tab!
Cheers, F. ( just north of Liverpool on the Irish Sea coast)
September 14, 2006
Hey Ryan,
Just writing to say thank you for your performance at our wedding reception. We
recieved so many compliments on the music. We had a number of overseas guests who
had never heard Cajun or Old-Time music and they all loved it! I especially enjoyed
jamming with you all for a few tunes. Thanks for adding a special touch to our wedding
day!
B. and M.
August 8, 2006
Thank you for making our festival a great event!
A. T.
July 15, 2006
Dear Ryan - I thought you would enjoy having these photos from the Arts Conference - I
always get duplicates. It was a wonderful week for me - thank you so much for your
generous musical gifts to us - the music that just seems to "happen" is always a treat.
J.S.
Hamden, Connecticut
July 4, 2006
Hi, I just ordered your Great Bay Stomp tab book (I already own the CD and really enjoy
it).
D.F.
San Francisco, Califronia
June 28, 2006
Thanks again for a wonderful, informative and entertaining week. (Star Island
Conference on the Arts)
T.C.
Plymouth, Massachussetts
June 26, 2006
thanks alot for putting together such a great book of chords; i already have one and
wanted another for a gift.
J.K.
Lowelville, Ohio
June 13, 2006
Thank you again - we all loved your music.
D. H.
Kingston, NY
May 24, 2006
Ryan - I really like both CDs! I play the contra dancing one while shaving and showering -
good acoustics in the bathroom!
R.R.
Newburyport, Massachusetts
May 6, 2006
It was a pleasure working with you. Everyone said great things about you too. Thank you
for adding something very special to an already special day.
L.H. New York
February 28, 2006
Dear Ryan,
I just wanted to let you know I received your book and have really enjoyed using it.
Several of our friends play various instruments and jam regularly. I don't play by ear or
read music well, so your book has allowed me to play along with most of the tunes they
play. Thanks so much.
C. B.
Stewartstown, Pennsylvania
December 6, 2005
We went to your fiddle workshop at Nomad ages ago and have since taken up the fiddle.
Liked your first book so much I am getting this one for my daughter for Christmas.
J.N.
Connecticut
November 15, 2005
Dear Ryan,
Thank you again for bringing your wonderful musical talent to our wedding. It was so
much fun and a real pleasure to meet you - Your playing added so much.
J.
La Jolla, California
November 4, 2005
Thanks so much. I played music last night with a group in C. (9 fiddles, 2 mandolins and a
couple of guitars - talk about a wall of fiddles!) and one of the players had your book. I'm
one of the mando players, but your chord book is perfect to tuck in the case when we
come up against a tune we don't know.
M. J.
Oct 10, 2005
Thank you. Your kind gift to Light the Night Again! will help lighten the lives of patients
and their families cared for by Seacoast Hospice. On behalf of River Woods at Exeter and
Seacoast Hospice, and those they serve, we acknowledge your generosity and we thank
you warmly.
August 29, 2005
Hi There: Heard your music on Sandy Sheehan's show(WUMB). I loved it & thanks for the
free shipping(much appreciated especially for a music fanatic like myself). Keep the
great music coming. All the best,
John C.
Boston, MA
May 19, 2005
Hi Ryan,
Thanks for the book! I have been benefiting from your helpful suggestions -- I especially
took to the advice of practicing all patterns through the circle of 5ths (F# and C# --
yuck!). It's also very nice to have discography, printed material and camp resources all in
one place.
thanks again!
C. B.
Minneapolis, MN
May 9, 2005
Dear Mr Thomson
Our Enrichment Day was a tremendous success due to your generous contribution of
time, effort, and enthusiasm. The students here are still talking about the things they
learned and the activities they experienced first hand.
thank you again,
Diane Sawyer, Enrichment Day Coordinator
Cooperative Middle School
Stratham, New Hampshire
April 26, 2005
I strolled by your workshop and it certainly looked like the kids were enjoying
themselves. I'd love to have a day like that! Thank you so much for coming and
sharing your talents.
Dale Velena,
Oyster River Arts Fest
March 16, 2005
Thanks for bringing a special touch to our wedding. We received several compliments
from our guests on your music and everyone said it made the dinner quite special.
P and K. M.
Massachusetts
February 6, 2005
Thank you, Ryan, for entertaining at our Parish Appreciation Social. We all enjoyed your
music. Thanks again.
C.B.
St. Mary's Church
Rochester, New Hampshire
January 15, 2005
Dear Ryan,
Thank you for doing such a fabulous job playing at our October 23rd wedding. You were
so easy t work with. It helped make a stressful time that much easier. We only wish we'd
been in the room to hear more of your music! What we heard was exactly what we'd
hoped to have at our wedding, and our guests had a ton of praise for your fiddling as
well. Wishing you all the best in the new year,
A.S.
Natick, Massachusetts
January 9, 2005
Hi Ryan,
I got your CD a few days ago, so the shipping was very fast!
It´s a nice CD, good no-extra-frills old-time sound! Of different banjo
styles I like most clawhammer and Irish tenor, so I'm happy to have your CD.
Clawhammer solo albums are not especially numerous...;-)
A.L.
Helsinki, Finland
January 9, 2005
WOW! thank you so much! We got your booklet and built the washtub very easily with
your excellent instructions...
D.K.
December 30, 2004
Loved the c.d. Because we listen to Bluegrass every Saturday night after Prairie Home
Companion, our son was given the Saturday Night Fiddler, which he thought was very
special. George got the cajun and I, got duets...how much more perfect could it have
been....
Thank you so much!
P.
December 27, 2004 -
My son is enjoying your first left handed banjo lesson and I'm sure once he's learned the
first, he'll be wanting your second version lesson.
D.T.
November 4, 2004
Dear Ryan,
Just a little note to let you know that we were so impressed with your musical talents!
All of our guests commented about the outstanding music. Thank you for helping to
make our 300th house celebration such a special and memorable day for all!
with sincere appreciation,
the G. family
Marshfield, Massachusetts
October 23, 2004
Dear Ryan,
Thank you for helping to make our wedding day so special, and for being so easy to work
with.
A. and M.
Natick, Massachusetts
October 18, 2004
Hi, Ryan -- Thanks for playing at the Manchester dance. We had a great time being away,
and I understand the dancers had a great time while you were there!
A.
September 22, 2004
Hi Ryan,
THANKS for sticking with us on Saturday. You were a trooper--and definitely added a bit
of cheer to an otherwise pretty dreary day! Plus--you made the paper (nice photo!) On
Sunday the crowds came out with the sun, and we had our best day ever. Thanks again
for being with us this year, even in the wet and soggy circumstances. We really
appreciated your music and your good spirits.
Suki Casanave
Festival Co-Chair, Newmarket Heritage Festival
September 12, 2004
Ryan I hope you enjoyed your time in P.E.I. Claire enjoyed her lessons with you.
J. Q.
West Boylston, Massachusetts
August 28, 2004
Ryan,
We'd like to thank you for a wonderful performance last Saturday -- it was all we had
hoped for and more. Everyone attending said they had a mighty time. Your fine music
made the afternoon fly -- and we had nothing but complements about you're playing.
We'll keep track of you on your web site -- we'd certainly like to hear a few more of your
performances and we do get up your way quite frequently.
Thanks again.
P.K.R
Dedham, Massachusetts
June 30, 2004
Dear Capt. Fiddle,
Thank you so much for making the long and perilous journey to the Cape last night to
teach us.
I think that I echo everyone who was there in saying thank you, we all enjoyed it
immensely and found it very helpful. Hope to see you soon.
Another aspiring fiddler,
R.T.
June 30, 2004
Hey Ryan-thanks soooo much for our class last night. I really enjoyed it. I am the biggest
novice of our fiddle group and my teacher stopped giving lessons so I am just learning
from the group now. Of course if I practiced more I would get better but there is only so
much time in a week when you work full time. I know...a bad excuse is better than none.
Anyway, I will listen to your tapes and try to play along as many of the songs are ones the
group does that I don't know. Hope you had fun and a safe trip home. Come again
sometime when you can spend some time and enjoy the Cape.
P.M.
June 30, 2004
Hi Ryan!
Thank you so much for making the long trek to Cape Cod (Land's End!) to share your time,
energy and gift of music with our fiddle group! You reached all levels of players with your
down to earth, calm and fun approach to learning. The tips you gave us were invaluable
and we love the new tune we learned.
I've been receiving emails all morning thanking me for working on creating a "master
class" track for our group.....most of whom have never had any classes or specialized
training. I'm so happy that L. recommended you to us and assisted in getting you on our
calendar!!! I think you are the favorite by far!!!!
I had to chuckle as this morning several emails indicated friends had stayed up last nite
to listen to your cds or tapes! HA! That is certainly the sign of getting motivated and
excited about the potential learning ahead.
I hope you got to drive out to Ptown and experience the Outer Cape and how wonderful
this area is......I've only been here three years but it is a special place.
K. is very excited (the "maybe" left hander!) that she will be in your neck of the woods
for school this fall and may be able to do some studying with you....we are all jealous!
Can't tell you how many comments I've already received wishing you were closer to take
lessons from. I said that is where your resources can help us out......I have picked out so
MANY of your books and CDs to order....so much music, so little time!!!!
Ryan, it was such a pleasure having you among us...you are a real treasure! May our paths
cross in the future....and thank you again from a very appreciative new fan!!!!
Have a wonderful July 4th holiday!
J.S.
June 30, 2004
Dear Ryan,
I hope you enjoyed your time at the cape and teaching us as much as we did! I found
your teaching style to be just excellent! I appreciated the slow build up to the tune. I'm
sure I will enjoy the CDs and hope to send for more in the future.
I hope we can get you to come back and teach again, too!
B.A.
June 17, 2004
I just got it* and played through about half the book. Lots of variety, crystal clear
printing, no spine to mess with...I'm very impressed. I can see using this book for a long,
long time. Thanks for putting it together.
J.S.
Columbus, Ohio
*Waltzes for Folk Instruments and Country Dancing
June 15, 2004
Ryan,
Thanks so much. I'm FINALLY starting to get this clawhammer style.....and it is really a
lot of fun. Your DVD is "a picture being worth a thousand words". So, these songs are
really getting fun to play. Thanks again.
M. M.
Nashville, Tennessee
June 13, 2004
I'm retired, and I enjoy music as a student. I must say that I really enjoyed your book,
"Fiddler's Almanac.......I was amazed how jam packed with facts, stories, varied articles
and down right good info."
J.G.
Aston, PA
June 8, 2004
Dear Ryan,
Thanks so much for braving the cold and rain to come play at this year's festival. I wish
the weather had been better so more people could have heard you, but those who did
really enjoyed it. Many thanks,
Susan and the festival committee
Hadley Spring Arts Festival
June 7, 2004,
Ryan,
Thank you, very much, for performing at our event. You were great and what a nice
personality you have!! I look forward to hearing you play at other events (and maybe at
our's again next year!!). Your donation of time and talent is much appreciated!
Linda Higgins
Executive Director
Ethel's Tree of Life, Inc.
May 20, 2004
Ryan,
I am a purchaser of your Great Bay Bay Stomp CD and Tab and have since learned many
of the tunes. It is a really great CD and I continue to enjoy it very much, especially when
playing it on my Honda Goldwing while cruising down the road.
C.T.
Bremerton, Washington
May 20, 2004
Dear Ryan,
Thank you very much for sharing your story with the Fort Worden Oral History Program.
Your memories are a precious gift, one that only you could give to the future. We are
working to make them accessible to scholars, genealogists, and historians by archiving
the tapes, transcripts and other memorabilia according to professional standards.
Patience Rogge
Fort Worden History Center
May 10, 2004
Hi Ryan,
First, I want to greatly thank you for writing the book "A Folk Musician's Working Guide
To Chords, Keys, Scales, And More." I had put off my passion for music till "midlife" and
now I am trying to quickly learn the crucial basics while an hour glass snickers behind me.
Your book is clear, concise, greatly needed and ... approachable. Nice job.
B.D.
New Hampshire
May 5, 2004
Thanks Ryan,
Please pass this note along. I'm spreadin the fiddlin' fever out here in the Rockies -
teaching lessons from the lessons my father taught me from the lessons you taught him.
J.I.
Lake City, Colorado
May 3, 2004
Dear Mr. Ryan Thomson,
I received your excellent CD named "Great Bay Stomp" and
their Banjo Tab Book today. I received it by perfect safety package.
I have listened your CD soon. I like your clawhammer style very much.
And your tab book is wonderful. I am enjoying your tablature and
very rare pictures on it. Thank you very much. I don't forget your kindness.
S.I.
Tokyo, Japan
April 29, 2004
You always seem to have such a fun group*, and such wonderful music.
Thanks - Cathy Walz
Director - Kittery Adult Education
*I taught an 8 week course in "How to Play in A Contra Dance Band, " finishing up with a
contra dance at the last session.
April 17, 2004
Dear Ryan, i loved your C.D. it was great, I have been listening to it alot. anyone into
good clawhammer music should hear this album. thanks again.
M. E.
New Orleans, Louisiana
March 26, 2004
Hi Ryan, heard your music, inspired, bought a open backed
banjo, and being taught "clawhammer drop thumb" way
of playing. thank you for "getting me goin" glad you
like our music god bless
K. W.
Wales, UK
March 22, 2004
...by the way, I have your banjo CD and your learn the fiddle CD/Book set, Enjoying them
a lot! Your playing motivates me to reach new levels. Thanks for the motivation and
inspiration!
T. L.
West Sand Lake, New York
February 3, 2004
Dear Captain Fiddle,
I'm tired of loaning out my book, so would like to purchase two more: the Great Bay
Stomp banjo tablature....
K.J.
Montana
January 24, 2004
Fast delivery and the clawhammer CD is awesome...well worth the money!!!
November 11, 2003
Dear Captain Fiddle,
I loved your music. It was EXACTLY what I had envisioned for my wedding. Thanks so
much for agreeing to be present.
C.L.
Massachusetts
November 7, 2003
Hi, I really enjoyed Great Bay Stomp CD! It is hard to find good clawhammer solo work--I
really dug it. I was trying to figure out what tuning you were playing "Cold Frosty
Morning", because I only know how to play it in the "sawmill tuning".
Best,
J.
November 4, 2003
Dear Ryan I wanted to thank you again for performing at the Richmond Blueberry Fiddle
Festival. We really enjoyed your music and wanted to thank your for the two CD's you
gave us. With your help, the festival was a big success for the first year.
Sister M. P
Immaculate Heart of Mary School
Oct 5, 2003
Hi,
I have several if not all of your cds. I find them very helpful and very rewarding to learn
something by listening. I am an adult fiddler that just started teaching myself 3 years
ago. Ok so I learned Jesusita Lindo Polka, great song! Fun to play!
R.B.
May 18, 2003
Ryan !
I found you on the net a year or so ago, lucky me. I ordered the cd's for learning fiddle, I
was a little premature for your cd's but I'm glad now I have them, so much to learn by my
self.
L. S.
Gallop, New Mexico
April 10, 2003
Ryan,
Thank you so very much for the "Tune Collector" sampler CD you sent me. I've got it on
right now and it is really good. I really like the diverse mixture of tunes you got on there.
I'm a "tune collector" myself, but I have no musical talent. Instead, I own 3000+ CDs and
DJ on college radio. By the way, I'll be featuring your CD in its entirety on my May 4
program. Once again, thanks for the CD and for keeping the music alive...
Johnny Timewarp (Matt Schuyler)
WFCS 107.7 FM
March 25, 2003
Dear Mr. Thomson
The Newmarket Historical Society thanks you very much for joining us last evening and
giving us such a fun and interesting talk on music. We enjoyed hearing you play and
learning about the different instruments. I do hope you will join us again.
Sincerely,
Corresponding Secretary
Eleanor McCormick
March 13, 2003
Hi Ryan,
Last Fall your performance at our Jumelage dinner was a delight to everyone. So, we are
having a similar dinner on Friday, May 4, this time with a "seafood" theme, and were
hoping that you might be available, and interested, in a return gig
P. K.
Winchester/St Germain en Laye twin-city group
March 10, 2003
I love the Captain Fiddle's Tunebook #1 Its my favorite thing to read when I get home
from work.
T.
March 8, 2003
Ryan:
I received the CD and tab book and wanted to tell you how much I am enjoying both of
them. I really like your clawhammer style. The tab book is very helpful in learning the
tunes the way you play them. Any more clawhammer publications in the future?
Thanks Again!
D. A.
Winter Park, Florida
January 10, 2003
Ryan,
I just received your Banjo Solo CD - I love it!!!
S.K.
Bogalusa, Louisiana
January 2, 2003
Dear Ryan,
Thank you for sending your CD. The music you make is so fantastic. Thank you so much
for being able to help children smile. It is great to turn to your music just to help a child
as they struggle with challenge.
Elaine Tillman - Wish Coordinator
Springfield Regional Center
Springfield, Missouri
December 16, 2002
Ryan
I'll pass on a quick story. I went to a dance camp a few summers ago in Buffalo Gap.
Never did anything like it . I'm an electronic musician, had bought a 12 string acoustic a
few years back and enjoy playing it. They were forming a waltz band at the camp and I
was eager to learn but didn't know many of the songs. The camp had a little shop filled
with all things dance, including your books, including the 1400 fiddle tunes. I bought it,
and in a few days was up and performing in a waltz band filled with guitarists and
fiddlers. What a great time that was. I'll never forget it. Thanks for making it easy to
make music.
all the best,
B.B.
Silver Springs, Maryland
December 1, 2002
I E Mailed you a few months ago asking for advice on playing the Polka in an exam. I took
your advice and kept to the Polka rhythm throughout and have just got my results and
am pleased to say that I got 97%. (Distinction) Thank you very much for your time. I am
now a great fan of the Polka and have bought more Polka tunes to play and have been
adapting other tunes, so I can now play a few medleys in the style of the Polka. I will
always be greatful to you. I live in England and getting help from someone so far away is
magical. A Big THANK YOU once again.
Greatfully
E. L.
England
November 21, 2002
Ryan:
Bravo! Great class! Thanks again for such a wonderful class*..... I loved hearing the music
each
week and the event last night was wonderful. Thanks for all the work you put into this
class.
Pauli Rines, Director
Kittery Adult Education
*I taught an 8 week course in "How to Play in A Contra Dance Band, " finishing up with a
contra dance at the last session.
September 23, 2002
Dear Mr. Thomson:
Thank you for granting the Lincoln Center Institute permission to use excerpts from the
Fiddler's Almanac in our "Window on the Work."
Best wishes,
Alison Lehner-Quam
Library and Publications Director
Lincoln Center Institute for the Arts in Education
August 1, 2002
Thank you for being part of New England Folk Festival
Angela Taylor
NEFFA
July 24, 2002
Mr. Thomson, you kindly sent me your demo CD a few months ago, and after a hectic
summer, I am only now finding time to review it. It's wonderful! Your skill on such a
variety of instruments is quite impressive.
sincerely,
S.D. Coordinator
CHRISTOPHER DOCK ARTS CENTER
July 9. 2002
Great little book! Exactly what I needed. Thanks a bunch! (Fiddle and Violin Buyer's
Guide)
P.
July 8, 2002
I checked out your 1985 Fiddler's Almanac from my local library, I enjoyed it very much.
And judging from the condition of the book so have many others.
Alan
June 22, 2002
Ryan,
Thank you for sharing your knowledge and experience with us.
sincerely,
Muriel Orcutt
ASTA /NSOA American String Teachers Association
June 11, 2002
Thank you. You were terrific.
Barbara Massar, Production Coordinator
Market Square Day 2002 25th Anniversary Celebration
May 3, 2002
Dear Ryan,
On behalf of the students, administration, faculty and Cultural Arts Committee, I would
like to thank you for donating your time and talent at the 2002 Oyster River Arts Fair. The
students truly enjoyed the experience. We hope you enjoyed your time with them as
well.
Don Lafferty,
Principal
Oyster River High School, Durham, New Hampshire
May 2, 2002
Ryan....I like the CD....good fiddling work!!!!....I'm an old time fiddler
too here in the Atlanta area....so I can relate (Flop Eared Mule)
D.S.
Atlanta, Georgia
April 13, 2002
Smooth!!! Great clawhammer banjo picken!!!!! Thanks
Dave
April 11, 2002
Every banjo lover should have Ryan's Great Bay Stomp CD. It's terrific!
April 2, 2002
I wanted to let you know I received the book, and am enjoying the heck out of it.
(Fiddler's Almanac)
A.P.
Malapan, New Jersey
February 24, 2002
I thoroughly enjoyed your performance at the Stratham NH school a
few weeks past.
Thanks,
C.W.
Dover, NH
Jan 18, 2002
Ryan,
I received the Fiddler's Almanac in today's mail. I got so engrossed in it that I am just now
getting this acknowledgement off to you. I am enjoying the heck out of the wide variety
of
information you have compiled and the anecdotal stories are great fun! By the way, a
personal
friend of mine is mentioned several times in your book. His name is Byron Berline.
T.W.
Oklahoma
Dec 24, 2001
Ryan,
The CD arrived and it is a lot of fun to listen to. I am relearning frailing
after many years of playing bluegrass. More recently I am playing Irish Tenor
banjo mainly to get back to my roots. Old Time seems to fit right in.
M. K.
December 19, 2001
Hey Ryan, I got the Almanac and its great.
thanks,
T. A.
St Charles, Missouri
December 4, 2001
Dear Ryan,
Thanks for your site! My part of the world isn't filled with Scottish fiddlers,
and browsing your articles has made me feel a bit more connected.
B.
Akron, Ohio
December 4, 2001
Received it today, and it is great! (Great Bay Stomp banjo CD)
R.C.
Yakima, Washington
December 3, 2001
Hi Ryan,
.........I think I got a great deal. I still enjoy your cd "Flop-eared Mule."
N.S
Pinole, California
December 1, 2001
Ryan- the CD got here today- sounds great. Thanks a lot. (Newmarket Duets) Would your
music theory book be helpful to an "advanced beginner/ early intermediate mando
picker? Santa's been asking what I want!
T.D.
November 30, 2001
Ryan,
Just wanted to let you know how much we appreciated your joining us and performing
for our Russian guests on November 1. It was most gracious with such short notice and
everyone had such a good time. Thanks again.
Macy Morse for
Portsmouth - Severodvinsk Connection
November 15, 2001
Ryan,
Just a short note to let you know I received the banjo CD today. Thanks! It's great! I
listened to it 3 times straight through, nice playing. Do you have any more banjo CD's
that you have done? I love the fact that it is solo banjo too. I may order the tab book
soon. Good job!
D. H.
Yakima, Washington
November 5, 2001
Ryan,
Received your CD today; am sitting here enjoying your playing! It is good listening and
very good work! Cold, Frosty Morning is a very nice cut! I also like your Packers Falls! The
"double bounce" on Soldier's Joy is a neat touch! (Great Bay Stomp)
J.C.
Dayton, Ohio
November 5, 2001
Hi Ryan,
I got the CD today. It's great. (Great Bay Stomp)
Thanks,
K. B.
Spring Hill, Florida
Oct 27, 2001
Hi -- Received the CD (Newmarket Duets) yesterday and am enjoying it very much! Will
check into others later.
L.S.
Klamath Falls, Oregon
Oct 26, 2001
Hi:
This is just a quick message to let you know that I received (and enjoyed playing) the
"Flop Eared Mule" CD.
Thanks again,
C. S.
Texas
Oct 24, 2001
I received the " Fiddle and Violin Buyers Guide " and am very pleased with it.
R.F.
October 20, 2001
Dear Ryan,
Thank you so much for being a part of the Maritime Folk Festival and all the wonderful
music you brought with you.
Best regards and wishes for lifetimes of music.
Elsa Steffanson
Folk Horizons
Oct 5, 2001
Ryan,
Thanks once again for all your help at our camp. We truly appreciate your talents,
knowledge, enthusiasm, energy... Great reviews on your workshops!
Ellen Carlson and Kathy Zimpfer, Directors,
Fiddleheads String band Camp
Bristol, New Hampshire
Oct 2, 2001
Hello Ryan, The book (Fiddler's Almanac) arrived today, nice book! You will be hearing
from me for some other items in your catalog
D.S
Akron, Ohio.
Oct 1, 2001
I recently bought the Great Bay Stomp CD from you and love it.
V.B.
Chicago
Sept 27, 2001
Hi Ryan, project's done, your part sounds great! (I played accordion on Denis's new CD, "I
Go Wild.")
Denis Coughlin
Massachusetts
September 3, 2001
I loved your CD, Ryan. You're really enjoying yourselves, and that's my first requirement
for any music I listen to. I'm going to work on about three of the tracks, including that
great chicken introduction. What a fine opener.
T.B.
Aug 21, 2001
Hi Captain Fiddle or Ryan,
I have ordered beginner fiddle tapes from you and they helped greatly. I would be
interested in getting mail and I thank you very much.
My name is H.W. and my address is.....
August 20, 2001
Hey Ryan,
I've been playing along with your tapes since November of 2000 and I just went to my
first Fiddle gig and was actually able to play along with my friends. Thanks so much for
the CDs they have really helped!
L.B.
July 2, 2001
Dear Ryan,
On behalf of everyone here at Pro Portsmouth, as well as the tens of thousands of
people who enjoyed the day, we want to thank you and your organization for your help
in making Market Square Day 2001 the great success that it was.
thank you,
Sara Hamilton
Interim Executive Director
July 1, 2001
Hello Ryan, the old time CD arrived at it's new home in fine shape yesterday.
I'm playing it right now. It's a toe-tapper! Love it.
Thanks much.
Irene
May 9, 2001
Dear Mr. Thomson
My sincere thanks for all of the wonderful music you provided to the annual South
Boston's Saint Patrick's Day Breakfast. The Breakfast was a huge success, due in part to
the fine performance by Curragh's Fancy. Please know that your contribution was greatly
appreciated and noted by those in attendance. Once again, thank you for your wonderful
talent and hard work.
sincerely,
Stephen F. Lynch
State Senator, Commonwealth of Massachusetts
May 7, 2001
Hi Ryan,
I received the CD and Book today in the mail. I am pleased with both items. I
sat right down and started reading the book and it is a 'good read'. ...
I just got through listening to the Newmarket Duets CD and I like it. I
especially liked the "3 tunes from Quebec" since they were new to me.I will
listen more thoroughly to the tunes as the time goes by.
Thanks again
G.S.
New London, MN
May 3, 2001
Hi, Ryan,
I have enjoyed your fiddler's almanac very much. I received it from the ebay auction.
S.K.
ingwood, TX
April 24, 2001
Ryan,
Just wanted to let you know i received your books and CD's. I have learned some valuable
things and I know they will help me to improve my playing.
Thank you,
S. S.
April 14, 2001
Hi Ryan -
Great that you had the evening free and could play with us. We had many compliments.
S.M.
Strathspey and Reel Society of New Hampshire
Tartan Ball
March 29, 2001
To the attention of Ryan THOMSON.
I'm G. P. S. I write from ITALY.
Thank you very, very, very much for the Cd you envoyed to me.
I already put it into my radio program and it had immediately a good success.
So thank you very much again and best regards.
G. P. S.
March 21, 2001
Dear Performer,
Thank you for making the Downeast Country Dance Festival 2001 such a great success.
We have been receiving wonderful feed back from the dancer's evaluation forms. We
hope you enjoyed the festival as much as we enjoyed having you there.
The Scheduling Committee
February 28, 2001
Thanks again for the fun evening...such a variety of ages to entertain...great job!
Judi K. (Family Fiddle Fun)
Gilford Public Library
Gilford, New Hampshire
February 12, 2001
Hi Ryan,
I got the CD today (Great Bay Stomp) and am listening to it as I write. Nice sound and
style.
D.S.
February 5, 2001
OK got the CD. Its perfect. Just the simple. old timey, easy to hear music and a great
selection of songs...some of my favorites and a few tunes new to me. Question: Do you
publish the tablature to this CD? Would sure like to get it so I can use this to practice
with.
Thanks
M.C.
Las Vegas, NV
January 17, 2001
Nice CD, Ryan. Thanks. I've just listened to "Give me Your Hand" about 10
times -- great traditional tune. (Newmarket Duets)
I'll have to think about some of your instructional materials, too. I'm
thinking about replacing my (first) student violin with something that has
more "character," better sound (no great hurry yet). You're the first one
I've seen who actually lists a "Buyer's Guide"!
B. W.
Champaign, Illinois
January 7, 2001
I've been playing clawhammer banjo for a few years but live in a place where I can't find a
teacher. I bought your Great Bay Stomp cd and book at the Maritime Folk festival in
Portsmouth this October and have been able to learn almost all the songs. Mostly I just
played the CD lots and lots and after a few months the tunes were pretty familiar and
that made it very easy to read the tab and get the sound right. Thanks a million. It has
made playing the banjo a whole world of fun.
D. H.
December 25, 2000
Dear Captain Fiddle,
I am in possession of your excellent publication, Swing Fiddle, an Introduction. I am
learning a great deal from it. I am a beginner fiddler. Please send me more information
regarding your other publications Ryan Thomson. Thank you for your great contributions
to the world of fiddling.
sincerely, J.M.
Stuart, Florida
Dec 15, 2000
Hi Ryan,
I just purchased your fiddle buyer's guide. Good book and thanks again. I managed to pick
up a nice Schweitzer copy at an auction recently.
Thanks,
B.N.
Dec 13, 2000
Hi there!
I received the Fiddler's Almanac today and it looks great! I can't wait to get into it!
Thanks for signing it! I teach fiddle and step dancing full-time and I'm sure I will learn lots
of new stuff to pass on to my students.
Fiddlingly Yours,
C.
Canada
November 22, 2000
Dear Ryan,
The book arrived in pristine condition. Many thanks! It will make a great
Christmas present for my niece the fiddler.
A. K.
November 16, 2000
...Also, on a personal note, I have befriended a classical violin teacher here in
Switzerland who is giving me free lessons now so that I can learn a few "proper
techniques". In turn, I am showing her how to improvise, some fiddling bowing action,
and playing rhythm guitar while she tries her hand at country fiddling. It is a great
arrangement. Yesterday I let her hear my copy of your solo fiddling CD and she absolutely
loved it. I also lent her my copy of the Fiddler's Almanac, which she loves, and I will be
giving her the second copy I bought from you as a gift when I return to Europe in
December. I just wanted to say thanks for helping me bring a little of the good old music
back to Europe. Wait till they hear the banjo in January. I am bringing it back with me on
the plane as well. With the help of your CD and book, I should be claw hammering in no
time!
Yours Truly,
J.C.
Switzerland
November 2, 2000
To Ryan Thompson and his band, what can I say? You guys are the best, and the dance
was really fun. My orchestra members left saying they wished we could do it every week.
Thanks, Ryan, for a great evening the other night. It was a pleasure to hear you play, and
great fun to dance. Everyone had a marvelous time.
Bob Eshbach
Director, UNH Symphony
Durham, New Hampshire
October 15, 2000
Hey Captain: I love your stuff. I started with the Beginner's Fiddle Book and tape and
then went to CDs 2 - 5.........My dad has played fiddle since he was about 35. His father,
whom I never met, also played fiddle. And now, at the age of 52 I have suddenly gotten
the bug. Thanks to you and my dad, I can play about ahalf a dozen tunes where the dog
doesn't howl anymore. Thanks.
P.C.
Florida
Oct 25, 2000
Hello Ryan,
I received your package yesterday. It came very quickly, I was surprised. I LOVE both the
book and the CD. They are both excellent tools for learning. The solo fiddle CD is
perfect. It really lets you hone in on what the fiddle is doing. Your version of the
Bonaparte's retreat is great. (Flop Eared Mule CD) I am working on that one now. I was
really impressed to see the catalog, at the wealth of materials you have written.
Do you have any plans to record further solo fiddle CDs? I think it would be an excellent
idea. I would buy them. It is hard to find old tunes like Billy in the Low Ground and the
Arkansas Traveler. ... I appreciate your time and courtesy. You have already greatly
helped my fiddling. Take care,
J. C
Switzerland
August 18, 2000
Ryan,
Thanks again for a wonderful performance at both Market Square Day and Exeter. Fiddling
in Europe sounds like a great way to spend your summer.
regards,
Nancy
July 10, 2000
Dear Ryan,
This is a belated "hello" and thank you for fiddling with my son and me at the Old Songs
Festival outside of Albany, New York. Your suggestions on improving Will's banjo
technique were great. Will is visiting with his grandparents for a couple of weeks and
expressed an interest in working on some new banjo songs. Enclosed is a check for your
Great Bay Stomp CD and book of Tablature.
very truly yours,
J.S.
Slingerlands, New York
July 7, 2000
Hi Ryan,
Just wanted to let you know that I like your CD very much! I wish when I got it that I had
known you had a tab book to go with it! Bet I would like that, too. Hope the check
arrived OK and that you are having a good vacation.
Thanks,
C. T.
July 3, 2000
I just received my signed 1985 copy of the Fiddler's Almanac. I am so engrossed I could
barely put it down to write to you. But when I saw the print on page 2 of the Angel
playing the violin with the children at her feet I just had to stop and ask you if this print
is available for purchase
anywhere. If you could tell me what it's called or tell me where I can obtain one I would
be so grateful. It is just beautiful. Every illustration in the almanac is, to me, just
breathtaking. I am so thrilled to have this copy. No bidder would have appreciated it
more. I will treasure it always.
And I have to admit the picture of Ryan on page 138 just blew me away. What a hunk! I
wish I could hear him play. I would also like to know how far is Newmarket from
Londonderry? I have a brother in Londonderry and never bothered to visit, since I am in
Florida. However, a trip to
your store would be a thrill for me! I do so want to be a fiddle player someday. I've only
just begun, considering I've only played 18 months or so, but you are correct when you
say this almanac would set a fiddler's desire on fire! I want it more now than ever and I'm
not a teenager anymore! I hope to hear from you soon. And thanks again for the
almanac - it's priceless!
P.W.
Florida
June 18, 2000
Ryan,
I just wanted to personally thank you for donating your time to the Ranger Foundation.
Market Square Day was very successful for us and your performance added substantially
to that success. I am including a copy of a letter Tom Cocchiaro, The Ranger Board
Chairman, sent to the Portsmouth Herald. Also, if you have any suggestions that could
improve upon this year please feel free to send them along.
Regards,
N.M.
June 9, 2000
Hi Ryan,
I just wanted you to know that I received the book (Fiddle and Violin Buyer's Guide) and
am very pleased with it. I started reading it almost right away and had a hard time
putting it down. Very interesting! Thanks a bunch
C. B.
June 6, 2000
Hi there Ryan
Your memory and musical discrimination were right on target last Thursday
night. ....Thank you for a pleasant series of classes.(Kittery adult education fiddle
classes) See you next fall or so.
J.S.
East Taunton, Massachusetts
June 1, 2000
I'm really enjoying my cd and just ordered your book to it. this is really
great and look forward to many more cds you have. (Great Bay Stomp)
thank you,
D. P.
Dayton, Ohio
April 29, 2000
Hello Ryan,
I just received the Almanac today (Saturday).
WOW!!! This is going to keep me busy for a while. Lots of fascinating things in there for a
fiddle lover. You did a hell of a job with this publication...nice work!!!
Thanks Ryan,
B.L.
Malden, Massachusetts
April 27, 2000
Hello! Ryan,
Thank you for sending the two books. I received them yesterday. Your books are
exceptionally impressive....FIDDLER AND VIOLIN BUYERS GUIDE BOOK, and THE FIDDLER'S
ALMANAC. Thank you for your autograph, too. I am truly impressed with the way you run
your business. Truly.
Sincerely,
S.T.
April 14, 2000
Hey Ryan,
I received the Fiddler's Almanac and your cd today. Thanks for the autograph too. Your
fiddling style reminds me of a legendary Irish fiddler from Co. Clare, Paddy Canny.
Thanks again.
M.N.
Albuquerque, New Mexico
April 10, 2000
Howdy Captain Fiddle! - I recently got the high bid on a copy of your fiddler's almanac.
Anyhow..... I just finished reading your fine book and just wanted to tell you how much I
enjoyed every page. I'm 28 years old and just started playing the fiddle this year and I
can't believe how happy it has made me. Your book has even managed to make me even
more excited about fiddle music! I've played guitar and mandolin for years (and made a
few too) and I can tell that the fiddle will continue to be a bigger and bigger part of my
life. My fears of beginning the instrument too late in life have been happily subdued with
every practice session, every perusal of your book, and every time I listen to the music.
Thanks for sharing all your information and putting it all
together so nicely. I don't mean to ramble on - just thought you'd like to know that your
book did its job. You made a fellow fiddler very happy.
Thanks again and take care,
M.P.
April 3, 2000
Ryan,
A very special thank you for the beautiful music you provided us with
yesterday. We all really enjoyed your playing. Thank you for the excellent musical
choices. I think the selections you made were precisely what I wanted and the music
just "made" the party!
Thanks so very, very much for making so many people happy.
Sincerely,
M. H.
Portsmouth, New Hampshire
April 2, 2000
Dear Mr. Thomson:
I believe I met you years ago at the festival at Univ. of Mass at Dartmouth, when I bought
your Tune book #1, thinking that someday it might be interesting to look at.
I pulled it out of its hiding place last year, when my son Sam, age 7, and I needed a little
bit of relaxation from the daily grind of Suzuki repertoire, and it became our guide into
the world of fiddling.
We've acquired a lot of books since then, but keep coming back to yours, as the best
balance between being too easy (like the Mel Bay Easy Fiddling Book) or too challenging
(but instructive!) like the Mel Bay "Fiddling Across America."
B.D.
Marion, Massachusetts
March 31, 2000
Ryan,
I got the book/tape. Thanks! Although I'm not purchased instructional
fiddle books before, I have purchased many for guitar. Your publication
seems to be much better thought out than most and the tunes are great.
I'll keep you appraised of my progress.
Thank you and all the best.
A. F.
Baldwinsville, New York
March 17, 2000
Hey there,
Well awwwright!!!! Great CD. I am really impressed with Packers
Falls.....you have lots of talent. I play old timey banjo, and I am always
interested in hearing fellow players. I like the sound you have, did you
record that in a studio? I am in the process of figuring how to get a decent
"home" recording. Mic vs. Pick-up....direct hook up in to the tape player or
directional mic.....I am not sure.
Anyhow...have you any Tab books of your music? I would gladly buy one. What
type of banjo do you play?
keep on keepn' on,
Julie
Feb 21, 2000
Ryan,
Once again, it was a wonderful performance!! (Crawdad Wranglers concert) Several of us
are thinking of attending the March 25th event you mentioned.
Regards,
Pamela Wildes
Assistant to the Director
Institute for the Study of
Earth, Oceans, and Space (EOS)
University of New Hampshire
Thank you Ryan for the information about the check . By the way, my daughter loves the
CD! (Flop Eared Mule) She plays the fiddle also. My great great grandfather played her
fiddle in the mining camps in the 1860's.He was blind and part of a group of 4 called the
Blind Troupe or( blind boys ). They performed also in many towns along the North Coast,
even in our town of Red Bluff I found an article about when they played here.
Keep up the good work!
Linda
January 9, 2000
Dear Ryan,
Happy New Year 2000. Once again, many thanks to you and Brian for your very enjoyable
presentation, with so many musical instruments in our Extended Day Program for the
Ipswich students on December 16, 1999.
Wilma S. Gooby
Director of Extended Day Program
Dec 2, 1999
Ryan,
Just a follow up:
I received the Flop Eared Mule CD and the Fiddler's Almanac on Monday 11/29/99 in good
condition.
Have listened to the CD numerous times already. Great CD and I enjoy your old
timey style. Same style I play too.
D.M.
November 30, 1999
Got the CD yesterday and listened to it last night. Great job. Nice
selection of tunes and played very well. (Great Bay Stomp)
D.N.
Pennsylvania
November 26, 1999
Hey you probably don't remember me from a few weeks ago. I was asking what
the difference between a fiddle and a violin were. Well, I went to the
Music store and bought me a 21yr old fiddle and bow for $220. Believe it or
not, the first time I ever picked one up , My parents actually let me play
in the house. And they can recognize what I'm playing. But again, thanks
for your help, and Happy Fiddling.
Jonathan!
November 15, 1999
Hi. I'm sure you don't remember me. I ordered and received your beginner tape and book
about 1 month ago. We exchanged an email and your encouragement was great. I just
wanted to update you on my progress, due to your instruction.
Sunday, I played a real fiddle tune successfully for family and friends at an annual
chicken stew! This is an event I've attended and dreamed of impressing the crowd with
my very own fiddling for 15 years! It's one that my Daddy once played at and his presence
was sorely missed when he died in '87. My fiddling wasn't perfect, but good enough to
grab their attention and show some promise.
I played "Boil Them Cabbages Down" and wanted to thank you for the clear, step by step
instruction your materials offered. The folks that play bluegrass/old time fiddle around
here are good at playing but, they're shy and backward when it comes to teaching
someone else.
I'm now working on "Old Joe Clark" which is a little more challenging. The great tip about
leaving the fiddle out on a table for easy pick up has helped greatly too. I jokingly tell
friends I have the fiddling fever. I often hear the tunes in my head when I lay down at
night. My children go around the house humming my songs, too.
You were right about the clogging, too. My children love to dance while I play and that
encourages me even more. I didn't realize how much dancers seem to applaud the
players before now.
Anyway, thanks again. I really think I'm gonna be a fiddler!
Best wishes,
J. M.
Low Gap, North Carolina
Oct 29, 1999
Dear Mr. Thomson
Thank you for being a part of Jackson Hill Cider Day. Your music added a special tone to
the day and the event.
Peter Michaud
Society for Preservation of New England Antiquities
Oct 20, 1999
Thank you for helping us create a wonderfully successful event! The crowd was pleased.
Karen Goddard
Chair, Harvest River Festival
Nashua, New Hampshire
October 6, 1999
Ryan:
Thanks for the absolutely delightful time on Sunday! Enclosed please find your
honorarium.
S.S. Kensington Public Library
September 28, 1999
Dear Ryan,
Thank you so much for your participation in our Ist annual Fall Festival at Harold Parker
State Forest....We also hope that you will again be willing to participate.
B.B. State Forest Interpreter
September 28, 1999
Ryan,
I would like to thank you again for stopping by the radio station. I really enjoyed your
passion for your music. Its a joy to see someone be so happy. It made me happy too!
Thank you!
Kenny Tibbetts
Atlantic Star Communications Inc.
August 29, 1999
Hello Ryan,
A few years ago I found your fiddle book at our library and I really enjoyed it, last week I
checked it out again and read it through.
S. C.
Battle Ground, Washington State
August 23, 1999
Ryan,
Do you teach beginner fiddle? I enjoyed learning form you at SAMW, you explain things
well and don't intimidate the hell out of me! Plus, you're the only person who ever
explained theory in a way that I understood. I know you're a ways away, but I travel a lot
so it would be no big deal for me.
B.W.
Boston, Massachusetts
Aug 21, 1999
Good Evening Ryan:
Your Flop Eared Mule CD arrived today and sounds terrific.
M.P
Rapid City, South Dakota
August 18, 1999
Ryan,
The Fiddle and Violin Buyer's Guide arrived safely today. Thanks! I enjoyed
reading it.
R.L.
August 16, 1999
Dear Ryan
You helped make this festival a success.
Angela Taylor
New England Folk Festival
August 4, 1999
Hello Mr. Thomson,
Just letting you know I received your New Hampshire Hornpipe CD and I love
it! Have you ever performed here on Long Island by any chance?
Thanks and good day!!!!!
C. R.
Commack, New York
Aug 2, 2001
Thank you for being a part of New England Folk Festival. Hope that you had a good time.
Angela Taylor
June 29, 1999
got the fiddle & bow guide, thanks for fast svc and I am enjoying the book.
S.B.
June 24, 1999
Thank you for your prompt response. I've already read the book through once and was
very pleased with it. I'm 40 and took up the fiddle two years ago( I've played guitar for
26 years). .....Your book has a lot of information that will be great to have at my finger
tips, it lives up to all the reviews I read.(Swing Fiddle)
Thanks again
Hope to see you play sometime
M. B.
April 27, 1999
The fiddle book (The Fiddler's Almanac) arrived yesterday and it is great. My husband
loves it. He
is always looking for new fiddle books that he doesn't have. We will be looking forward to
dealing with you again.
L.M.
Fishers, Indiana
April 22, 1999
Ryan,
I am really enjoying the cd! (New Hampshire Hornpipe) Tell me about your cajun cd... Are
there vocals? I am specifically seeking music that I can ride my horses in rhythm with the
music?
That means 2/4, 3/4, and 4/4 time? Some of the pieces on the cd I purchased from you
are suitable and extremely original and fun!
Thank you very much!!
D.W.
Groton, NY
March 29, 1999
Dear Capt. Fiddle
A few years ago I ordered a Fiddle method from Captain Fiddle. I learned the first song,
Bile Them Cabbages Down, the first time I tried to play. I mainly play guitar, but your
method got me playing fast. Thanks for the help.
J.A.
North Richland Hills, Texas
March 10, 1999
Dear Ryan,
Thank you so very much for participating in the Celebration of the Arts at the Main Street
School. The staff and all of the students greatly enjoyed your "fiddling" talents. It was
very generous of you to spend a day sharing your craft with the children. I hope that you
enjoyed it as well. Thanks again,
Robin Baker
March 2, 1999
Dear Sir,
Your website is outstanding. It is effective and easy to get around in. Mr. Thomson has a
very interesting line of products and services. My show is "Old Time Country and
Bluegrass." On the program I have all kinds of Folk, Country, Celtic, and Cajun music.....
Thank you and God Bless,
Bob Newton, WHDM radio, McKensie, Tennessee
February 25, 1999
Hi Ryan,
Just a note that I received the book today in great shape, I read some
of it and was highly impressed with it. I'm also going to order the
Fiddle and Violin Buyer's Guide from you. It's good doing business with
you.
Thanks
D.S.
February 23, 1999
Hi Ryan,
Received your book. What a treasure!! Thanks for autographing it. (Fiddler's Almanac) Did
you
ever write and publish Vol. 2 and if so, is it available? .....Thanks again.
Regards,
R.C.
February 17, 1999
Your books and tapes are great!
M.B.
Hillsboro, NH
February 6, 1999
Thanks Ryan,
.....Incidentally, I recently bought your Fiddlers Almanac on e-bay, and am enjoying it!)
Regards.
C.G.
Raleigh, North Carolina
January 12, 1999
Ryan,
I went to fiddle camp this summer in Bristol and learned a lot from you.
do you hold jam sessions or know of any coming up? or can you put me in
touch with fiddlers who wouldn't mind an intermediate beginning fiddler
playing with them?
thanks,
L.G.
New Hampshire
January 11, 1999
Dear Captain Fiddle -
I enjoyed looking over some of your publications while visiting the Country Dance and
Song Society office recently. Please send me a listing of your fiddling-related
publications. I learned violin as a school kid in the 60's, and have recently picked up my
violin again, aiming to fiddle-style play. I'm an avid English Country dancer.
Thanks!
L.B.
Worcester, Massachusetts
January 11, 1999
..... Also wanted to let you know my wife and I are really enjoying
The Fiddler's Almanac. It is very interesting. It sounds like you
are about the same age as we are. We, however, only began the fiddle
a few years ago. I don't know if we'll ever amount to much starting
this late in life, but we are enjoying it.
B.G.
New Cumberland, Pennsylvania
January 11, 1999
Hello
Just got your CD, very nice. Any more banjo solo's in the future?
Play some myself and love listening to others.
E. S.
January 2, 1999
I am a fledgling fiddler, even after 5 years and all your books! I live in a very "old-time
music challenged" city (Las Vegas) and have to teach myself mostly. When it is running,
we go to the California Traditional Music Festival in Calabassas, CA. Do you ever come
west to teach any workshops? Do you ever teach at any of the week long camps like
Augusta or Swannanoa? I like your materials and think you would be pretty good as an
instructor!
M.S.
Las Vegas, Nevada
To read letters from 1978 - 1999 click here: