First of all, I want everyone to know that I'm still thinking about everyone at this school. I appreciate your patience while I'm traveling, and this week is relatively short compared to most tours, so I'll be back next week to get back into the Video Exchanges that are waiting for me.

I've also had a great time hanging out with the guitarists that I've met from this school. Derick (MangoMachine), Scot Gormley, Jason, Drewseph, Kyle (Kdog), Rielly, and Victor (Varruda), are all familiar faces from their VEs, and it's nice to hang out with them in person.

Now, on to the update from today.

I gave lots of private lessons this morning, did a workshop about scales and arpeggios for all the students, gave more private lessons, did a quick photo session, and then joined Andy Timmons in giving away one of his Ibanez signature model to a lucky student. I had the incredible pleasure to play Gary Moore's "Still Got the Blues" with Mimi Fox. Even though the word "Blues" is in the title, the chord changes are actually closer to a jazz standard, which is extremely challenging to a rock player like me. I must admit I was nervous to trade solos with a world-class jazz pro like Mimi, but I managed to play at the top of my ability, and Mimi shook the stage with a combination of jazz notes and ferocious attack that left everyone stunned. There were so many great moments during the solo sets and jams, that it would be too lengthy to describe them all. And I have to get some rest, so I can have energy for tomorrows lessons, workshops, and jams.

Don't worry, I'll bring back all this guitar inspiration to you next week. More news tomorrow!

Thank you,

Paul

Wow! I just got back to my room after an amazing concert with all the guitar teachers at my camp. Andy Timmons, Mimi Fox, Scotty Johnson, Tony Spinner, and Adam Fulara all played such good songs and solos. We all did lots of jamming together, and got a standing ovation from the audience for both of our last two songs. I truly enjoyed the show.

The Great Guitar Escape began today. I've seen lots of familiar faces already. It's great to meet the real people behind the Video Exchanges.

Ibanez was generous enough to bring two guitars to give away. Tonight the first one (an Ibanez FRM100) went to Lucas (in the photo.)

A friend of mine started a clothes company (Prospective Flow), and asked me to wear some of his clothes for some promo on his website. The clothes are good, so I said yes. I like the photos, but I must say that I don't normally wear my collar that high. It's kind of like Dracula! Waa Ha Ha!

More photos should be up soon.

I'm a big fan of Roger's work with Jellyfish, Imperial Drag, and his solo work as well. Roger has also played on countless sessions and tours with artists like Beck and Blink 182. He is the guy to call in L.A. for 60s and 70s style keyboard playing, keyboard tones, and pop music wisdom.

Bending notes is always a good thing to do. I plugged this pedal in today and got those notes to scream even more. Check out the video above!

And this too: