Don Ross

One of today's true innovators of guitar composition and technique,
Don Ross has emerged as one of the most respected musicians in Canada and one of the top guitarists in the world. In September 1996, he managed to do what no other player has done: win the prestigious U.S. National Fingerstyle Guitar Championship for the second time (he first won in 1988). The competition, held yearly in Winfield, Kansas, cannot be won only with immaculate technique, but the player's music must also display a high degree of emotion and intensity — hallmarks of Don's style.
Don continues to do extensive touring in Europe, Canada, the United States and Asia's Pacific Rim. When he's not on the road, he lives a quiet life with his family in a small village in southern Ontario, Canada..

"I have been playing the guitar for most of my life. Lord knows, there are a lot of guitar players out there, and a lot of manufacturers. I now own three Marc Beneteau guitars, and they are far and away the most responsive guitars I have ever played. They not only record magnificently, but they put up extremely well with the rigors of my touring schedule. I've lost track of how many times people have run up to me after a concert to ask excitedly, Who makes your guitars?"

Visit Don at www.gobyfish.com

Tony McManus

Tony McManus is acknowledged as one of the world's great celtic guitarists. A native of Scotland and now living in Canada, Tony continues to amaze audiences with his flawless technique and unique approach to this ancient music form. I have had the pleasure of seeing him perform many times and am always blown away by his musicianship and engaging onstage personality. I am now very pleased to announce that Tony is a proud new owner of an "M" model cutaway with an Englemann Spruce top and Cocobolo back & sides.

"Marc's work is exceptional. He stands apart from the traditional school of Canadian luthiers and has cut his own path with the sheer elegance and attention to detail each of his instruments displays. I first came across his work through Canadian guitar icon Don Ross whose style of playing makes great demands of his instruments both in tone and stamina. Don always sounds great!  My guitar is still revealing new facets of its personality and am really enjoying the journey. Thanks Marc."

Visit Tony's site at www.tonymcmanus.com

CRAIG D'ANDREA

It is with great pleasure that I introduce to you a rising star on the acoustic guitar scene. Craig D'Andrea is a 22 year old newcomer to the fingerstyle guitar community, but don't let his age fool you! In 2006 Craig placed 3rd in the fingerstyle competition at the Canadian Guitar Festival in Odessa, Ontario. Craig's fresh take on song structure and groove as well as his personal, yet accessible, melodies have found him loyal fans and a recording contract with Candy Rat Records. Craig recorded his debut release Crazy is Catching for candy Rat on which he demonstrates technique and ability beyond his years. Crazy is Catching will be available through Candyrat on March 15th, 2007. As a bonus, Don Ross contributed to two songs on the CD.

Craig currently plays two Beneteau SJ models. One has Flamed Bubinga back & sides with an Englemann Spruce top and a 25.75" (654mm) scale. The other is a Padouk/Englemann Baritone with a 27" (686mm) scale.
It's safe to say that the future of acoustic guitar music is in good hands with players like Craig coming on the scene.

His music can be heard at www.myspace.com/craigdandrea