Thanks so much to Amy De Groot and to Taylor Guitars for the great job you're doing with your guitar workshops. I
have seen Chris Proctor and Pat Kirtley once each, and Doyle Dykes twice. All the Taylor artists have done an outstanding
job! I am glad your company has the vision to spend this time with your customers.
I have convinced a couple of my friends to purchase Taylors. My friend Matt bought a 514 the day after seeing Doyle Dykes
at Huber-Breese Music (metro Detroit area). I am not a guitar player myself; I play bass (I love the new Taylor bass!). I
have a 10-year-old daughter, Hannah, who loves to go to your clinics. She is always warmly welcomed by the Taylor artists.
Hannah is studying to be a fingerstyle player, and she can't wait to get her hands on a Taylor. I told her "maybe after we
pay for your braces."
Keep up the good work. These clinics are very inspirational, and they cast the vision for young players that if they work
hard, they can achieve great things! Please thank Doyle, Chris, Pat, and any others who take time away from their families
to inspire others!
Ron Zettle
Via the Internet
CAN YOU FEEL THE LOVE?
I play a Taylor. Love the sound. Love the feel. Love the look.
Incomparable value! Just saw a Doyle Dykes workshop in Allentown, Pennsylvania, sponsored by Taylor. Visited his website - and you're there again! Doyle talks about wood
and strings (and Taylor) as if God sent them to earth to be played by Doyle and me! He doesn't "preach" - he just shows his deepest love for the tools of his music in every
note he plays and every word he speaks. He's a great choice for a sponsorship! Please keep it going!
I'll continue to tell everyone I know how great my Taylor sounds and plays, and that there is a guy named Doyle Dykes going around playing a Taylor
(just like mine, occasionally) who makes it sound like "guitar music from heaven"! Truly amazing. Thanks for making it possible to see Doyle. I'm a Taylor
(and Doyle) fan forever.
Tom Gill
Tamaqua, Pennsylvania
Via the Internet
A MASTER AXEMAN, SPOKESMAN
When I saw Doyle Dykes perform for the first time (Valdosta, Georgia, June '99), I left with the feeling that I had just witnessed one of highlights of my
40-year-old life. I knew Doyle was a fingerstyle "master"; I have been listening to his music for the past two years. What I did not expect was the impression
this man would make on me. Doyle Dykes "the guitarist" is second to Doyle Dykes "the person".
Last night, I drove down to Florida to see him again. Being a banker and a businessman, I felt compelled to inform your PR department something I'm sure you
already know: Doyle Dykes is the kind of company spokesperson who can make a huge impact for Taylor Guitars. Doyle has the "stand out" character, the awesome
skill, and an obvious "passion" for the guitar.
To Bob Taylor, from another one of us "Taylor" boys: Doyle Dykes is a marketing gold mine! He has "hero" written all over him! You people at Taylor seem to have
everything going your way! If it's possible to corner the acoustic guitar market (upper end), you will no doubt do it! Be good to Doyle ($$$). I'm also a Taylor
guitar owner. Thanks for allowing Doyle to come to the Southeast.
Rex Taylor
Via the Internet
DUBLIN DOYLE
I was at the clinic given by Doyle in Dublin (Ireland). I have to say, it was an inspiration. I've been playing for 25 years (I'm 37!), and it's not too often that
you see not just a magnificent player, but such a nice guy as Doyle. I've been playing a [different brand] for about 17 years, and have been looking for another
acoustic. I only believe in buying the best gear. After hearing and playing a couple of your guitars, I'm frustrated because I can't decide which one to buy! Anyway,
well done. Doyle was talking about your company. You sound like a great bunch of people. I feel confident in buying from you. Kind regards.
John McWade
Via the Internet
LEMME SEE THOSE HANDS
Not long ago, I had the opportunity to see Doyle Dykes do his thing. I want to thank you for choosing such a great musician to represent you. He is a player
extraordinaire and a blessing to be around. After hearing him play for two hours, I wanted to take my 615 and hit softballs with it. Find out if his hands are
real. Thanks for making Taylors.
Mark Walker
Beaufort, South Carolina
Via the Internet
DOYLE'S TALENT, PLUS TAYLOR, EQUALS MC2
Last spring, the wonderful folks at Ford Music Store in Altoona, Pennsylvania hosted a Taylor guitar workshop featuring clinician Doyle Dykes. I'd seen a tape of him
performing in concert, and had a real good idea we were in for a treat, but you never really experience what transpires at a Doyle Dykes clinic until you see one in person.
This incredible talent unfolding before their eyes awed people. I had a great time looking around at the shear amazement on the faces of those who attended. His God-given
talent, accompanied by the incredible sound of a Taylor guitar, is an equation Einstein himself would have been proud to formulate. During the clinic, Doyle answered guitar
questions with interest and humor that even my wife (a non-guitar player) enjoyed. He answered my question in a way that was so unexpected.
After the clinic I approached Doyle to ask a question. I have muscular dystrophy, and have become quite weak, to the point where I can't play my guitars anymore. It's a
frustrating reality that I accept, but I still love the instrument. So, I told Doyle that I've tried thicker-fretted guitars and different-gauged strings, but, frankly,
the size and weight of the instrument have become the issue.
Doyle asked, "did you ever try a Baby Taylor?" I replied, "no." He sprang from his seat and grabbed his Baby M, which had a Fishman active pickup custom-installed, and
handed it to me. It's 3/4-size fit me like a glove! I began to pick and grin! The action was so incredible, and accommodated my weakened hand strength, and the sound
was so full! I had once owned a small no-name electric guitar, but it was a cute toy at best, so I gave it away. The Baby M is no toy! It maintains the acoustic quality
a serious player desires.
After I handed back the guitar, with thanks, he did something so Doyle-like; he grabbed a marker, signed it, "To my friend, Joe, keep playing, God bless, Doyle Dykes",
and handed it to me, saying, "I want you to have my guitar."
How do you thank someone who has given you back a joy in your life that you thought was lost? Doyle's Christian values and act of giving blessed not only me, but also
those remaining at the clinic. I could not help but hear a person in the distance behind me say, "There are still good people in the world." I play the guitar at churches
now, and people are awestruck at its sound.
Congratulations, Taylor Guitars, for a wonderful instrument, and thanks to Doyle Dykes for being you!
Joe Himes
Via the Internet
SANTA'S MAGIC
I had the pleasure of attending a clinic by Doyle Dykes at Lauzon's Music in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. To say this was an impressive demonstration would be a gross
understatement! Not only did Doyle "wow" the audience with his unique playing ability and style, but his straightforward and honest message to all in attendance to
rediscover their music was indeed refreshing. More than just a salesman for Taylor guitars, he is in fact a messenger for music, and a heck of a nice person.
Looking around at the audience while Doyle was performing his magic was like watching a bunch of children being addressed by Santa Claus! Doyle is a great representative
of your company and I feel truly fortunate to have had the opportunity to hear him play and to meet him. Congratulations, Taylor, for having the insight to sponsor these
clinics. And, "well done, Doyle." I have been impressed with Taylor guitars since I first encountered them some years ago, and am anxiously awaiting the addition of a
[25th Anniversary] Commemorative Model to my guitar family.
I recently received a copy of the video, Taylor on Guitars: New Neck Designs, which I viewed with great interest. I am convinced that the revolutionary neck design will
keep Taylor at the top of the heap of makers of fine instruments. I have yet to play a Taylor that didn't impress me, something I can't say of any other model. It is a true
indication of your professionalism and dedication that you are still looking for innovative ways to make your product even better. Keep up the good work!
David McIntyre
Ottawa, Canada
Via the Internet
BOWLED OVER AND DROOLING
I attended a Doyle Dykes/Taylor workshop (at Melodee Music, in Sterling Virginia), and was bowled over by the whole affair. Great playing, great guitars (Doyle played
about a dozen Taylor models, and even the [other brand] sales reps in the back were drooling). Also, a great, great newsletter (we were given the latest issue of Wood&Steel).
I'm certain you realize what a powerful marketing tool your newsletter is.
I am not yet a Taylor owner, although what I saw of your instruments and newsletter at that workshop has convinced me I should soon become one. I am, in fact, planning to
get my [vintage electric guitar] appraised toward the purchase of a Taylor 500 Series instrument.
Greg Friedmann
Ashburn, Virginia
Via the Internet
TRANSCENDANTAL JOURNEY
I'm sitting here working on my computer with Doyle Dykes' Fingerstyle Guitar playing in the background. What a magnificent musician, and what a marvelous spokesperson
for Taylor! I had the incredible pleasure of seeing and hearing him "live" at Merriam Music - an extraordinary experience. Thank you, Taylor Guitars, Merriam Music, and
especially Doyle Dykes, for that "transcendental" evening.
Although, I must admit that soon into his performance the thought ran through my mind that instead of buying more product, I was so humbled by his touch, feel, sensitivity,
and "sound" that I wanted to pack my GA-MC away and take up the recorder! Nevertheless, his message that "the music is the medium" prevailed, and now I'm faced with the
dilemma of how to get his pickups into my Taylor (oh dear, more money toward the never-ending pursuit of trying to sound like something I'm not).
Anyway, thank you so much for the opportunity to have an evening of bliss, pure enjoyment, some revelation, and an experience with such a fine soul. Please, however it's
done, send more of the same to Merriam Music. Sooner or later, I'll be able to reciprocate (via a couple of Baby Taylors perhaps, and Doyle's pickups, and who knows what
else inspiration drives me to).
Bob Kellermann
Walden Circle, Mississauga, Ontario
Canada
Via the Internet
MELODEE MAGIC
The other night I had the pleasure of watching Doyle Dykes perform
his acoustic magic at Melodee Music in Sterling, Virginia. To say that everyone interested in acoustic guitars needs to hear Doyle's guitar playing
is an understatement. I gazed around the room and noticed that my mouth wasn't the only one half-open in utter disbelief of his talent!
To add to his astonishing musical talents, Doyle has a wonderful sense of humor, and his touching stories of how God has influenced his life
only adds to the overall performance. Doyle Dykes is truly a remarkable man, and Taylor makes a truly remarkable guitar; I just purchased my
sixth last Friday! Keep up the great work and thank you for allowing Doyle to touch the hearts of many through the acoustic guitar.
Bruce Anderson
Alexandria, Virginia
Via the Internet
STEVIE, ALBERT, BUDDY . . . AND DOYLE
I was at the clinic that Doyle Dykes did at Dave Phillips Music and Sound [in Allentown, Pennsylvania] the other night, and I had to contact you
guys to say "thank you". I haven't had much interest in fingerstyle guitar over my years of playing; I have been more of a Stevie Ray/Albert King/
Buddy Guy fanatic. A good friend of mine who just purchased a Taylor dragged me to come see Doyle and Taylor guitars.
I have to say, I was literally blown away, not only by his music, but by the man himself. He not only inspired me to get interested in
fingerstyle playing and Taylor, but also to share my music more with others. You should be very proud that he plays your guitars. Thanks again,
and hurry up on getting his signature model finished, because that is the most beautiful-sounding instrument I have ever heard.
Kris McCasland
East Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania
ADVANCE MAN
I had the honor of sitting in the front row at a Doyle Dykes clinic at Melodee Music in Sterling, Virginia. As a beginner on the guitar (I started
playing six months ago), I did not think I would get much from attending this "advanced" clinic. I am happy to tell you, I was wrong!
Doyle has a wonderful ability to explain his "how-did-he-do-that?" technique in an easy-to-understand manner. Doyle's stage presence and wit are
top-notch. His genuine admiration and respect for the Taylor guitars he plays came through over and over. As for how Doyle plays those fine
instruments, he had me laughing and crying at the same time. Words could not describe how I was moved by his performance.
Thank You, Doyle and Taylor Guitars, for allowing me to experience such a rare and wonderful artist. I will never look at my Baby Taylor the
same again.
Steve Music
Chantilly, Virginia
FIGHTING THE LUST FOR KOA
Last night, I attended my first Taylor workshop, featuring Doyle Dykes, at Melodee Music in Sterling, Virginia. What a wonderful experience!
Just wanted to say "thanks" for sponsoring such a great program. If I didn't already have a Taylor (a 512-LTD of which I am
very fond), I'd be lusting for one. As it is, I have to find good reasons not to go get one of the koa models; they are truly works of art,
both visual and acoustic. I'm looking forward to my second clinic - Steven King, in Falls Church, Virginia. Thanks again.
Michael Rothschild
Via the Internet
LOVE IN LEXINGTON
Not long ago, a friend and I drove up to Dublin, Ohio to attend a Doyle Dykes clinic [at Sawmill Music Center]. Thank you for having him as a Taylor
clinician! The clinic was everything we could have possibly hoped for and much, much more. Doyle is a fantastic person and an incredible guitarist! I
own a 514-C and a Baby Taylor; a friend who attended the clinic with me plays a
914-C; and another friend who plays with us here in Lexington plays an
814-CE (he also has a Baby Taylor). We love our Taylors!
C. Wayne Baker
Via the Internet
CLOVIS IN CLOVER
At his Clovis Music Center workshop, Doyle Dykes played about 12 different Taylor models. This gave us a true quality comparison of sounds produced
by various woods and designs. I've been to several of your workshops, but this was the first time there was such an effective demonstration.
While price is a factor, I believe the forces driving people to Taylors are quality and getting that "just right" sound. My
814-CE is great. Thank you for the joy it has brought me. Finally, the folks at Clovis Music [Clovis, California] are
absolutely tops.
Ed Selleck
Via the Internet
DYKES STRIKES AGAIN
Just a short note to let you know Doyle Dykes was a big hit last night. We had 100 people in attendance and raised $500 for Penelope House, a
home for battered women and children. Doyle was a great sport to consent to be on local TV at 6 a.m.! It was a two-hour show, and they gave Doyle
one promo each hour. We received numerous phone calls about the concert after the show aired. Thanks for your help. Let's do it again.
Jim Andrews
Andy's Music
Mobile, Alabama
NOTHING COULD BE FINER THAN DOYLE IN CAROLINA
Thank you for sending Doyle Dykes to thrill us in the Carolinas this past week. I purchased a ticket long ago for the Smith Music workshop in
Spartanburg, South Carolina, only to be called out of town on business. Last night, I drove about three hours to Brevard, North Carolina, where
Doyle appeared at Celestial Mountain Music. I received a warm welcome from the owners as a walk-in. Mary and Lo could not have been more cordial.
Doyle was inspiring, both as a musician and a person.
Thank you for retaining Doyle as one of your artists, for making these workshops possible at little or no cost to the local musicians, for
retaining only the best dealers to represent your instruments, and for not ignoring the small towns like Brevard in making artists like Doyle
available even to small markets.
Finally, I own a Taylor 422-R and a [different brand]. If the house ever catches fire, I'll have the baby pictures in one hand and a no-brainer
in the other.
Paul Hutchison
Via the Internet
THUMBPICKIN' FUN
I had the pleasure of sitting in on a Taylor clinic hosted by Phil's Music in Mauldin, South Carolina, featuring Doyle Dykes. You not only have an excellent product in your instruments, but Doyle Dykes' clinic was absolutely great. You should be proud to
have an individual of his caliber to represent and demonstrate your company and its products. Enough can't be said about his presentation and command
of the guitar. I'm a flatpicker and have always played [another brand of] guitars. I'm now in the market for a Taylor and some thumb picks. Doyle's style just
looks like too much fun. Keep up the great work.
Mike Bates
Moore, South Carolina
Via the Internet
AND THE WINNER IS . . . A NICE GUY!
I had the pleasure of attending my first Taylor workshop with Doyle Dykes at the Towson, Maryland Guitar Center. In a word, it was fantastic. Doyle is
not only an incredible player but is also a very likeable guy. I think he enjoyed the workshop more than those in attendance. He played for about two
hours and was very attentive to our questions and inquiries. He brought his custom Taylor [prototype of the black Doyle Dykes Signature Model
614-CE],
which was a beautiful instrument, and then played and explained various models and their "personalities".
I've been playing for about 30 years, but I felt like a new player after listening and talking to Doyle. I couldn't get home fast enough to try out some
of the things he was demonstrating. I can't say enough about Doyle; he was kind enough to give me one of his picks and a set of strings to try out.
Taylors are great instruments, but with gentlemen clinicians like Doyle Dykes, your instruments will only get better. I own a Taylor
614-CE and couldn't be happier, but am now looking forward to a Doyle Dykes [Signature Model] Taylor.
Again, I can't thank you enough for providing these workshops, and more importantly for providing the guitar world the opportunity to meet and hear
people like Doyle Dykes. That old saying is wrong — nice guys don't finish last. People like Doyle are at the top of my list.
Dave Ritchie
Via the Internet
A KINDER, GENTLER CLINICIAN
I recently attended a Doyle Dykes workshop in the Chicago area, which you were kind enough to alert me to with your fliers [mailed to Taylor owners
in the area]. I cannot even begin to describe the pleasure of hearing him play and speaking with him. In addition to playing some mind-blowing tunes,
he grabbed just about every Taylor off the wall and played them, including my beloved 714-C
(and even a Baby Taylor), commenting on each one's sound and details of construction. But, far beyond the musician and
clinician, I found inspiration in the man: his polite nature, his encouragement, his depth, and his humor seem a throwback to a gentler time. I came
looking to steal a few licks, and left with a gift far greater. Thank you.
Jeff Sampson
Downers Grove, Illinois
Via the Internet
MILLER'S SIX-PACK
I attended my sixth Doyle Dykes clinic, this time at Phil's Music in Mauldin, South Carolina. As always, Doyle was incredible. I have learned so much
from him in the past year. After I had settled into a comfortable complacency of 25 years with the instrument, Doyle inspired and challenged me to
grow. As a result, he has totally changed my approach to playing the guitar, as well as the way I view my own gift.
Last night, I took the next step and bought my first Taylor, a 514-CE, and have enjoyed letting it ring thoughout my
home all day long. I look forward to many hours of growth and pleasure with this guitar. Thanks for a quality product, and thanks for introducing me to
Doyle and his talented daughters through your clinics.
Keith Miller
Charleston, South Carolina
ZEN AND NOW
I recently saw a Taylor clinic with Doyle Dykes here in Atlanta for the second time, and once again, it was part tent revival, part guitar pyrotechnics,
and part "Zen and the Art of Guitar" — an altogether exhilarating experience! He is obviously a fabulous guitarist, but what sets him apart for me is
that he is able to share his love of music in general, and guitar playing specifically, in such a direct way.
His compositions are also much more musical than most of the other fingerstyle players out there, and he is a living example that to be really
meaningful, the music has to have honest emotion behind it. When he tells everyone towards the end of the show to go home and play your guitars
and make music for friends, family, or just yourself, you feel like it's exactly what you should do.
As a result of his Taylor demonstrations, along with recommendations from trusted friends, I've purchased two Taylors — a Baby Taylor (and you
just can't beat that pint-sized fun machine!) and, just a week ago, a 714-CE. Coming from a classical background, the
714-CE's rosewood/cedar
combination is just what my ears were searching for. I'm looking forward to years of enjoyment with my new guitar, and who knows, there's
always a 12-string possibility in the future. Keep up the good work, and send your clinicians to Austin, so I can enjoy them after
I move back to Texas!
Jay Clement
Atlanta, Georgia
DOYLE EXPOSED
I attended the Doyle Dykes workshop presented by The Only Guitar Shop, in Clifton Park, New York. I was very impressed with Doyle's virtuosity and with the Taylor
guitars. While I don't own a Taylor, yet, there is definitely one in my future. They are the most playable instruments I've ever seen. Thanks for the exposure to a wonderful
musician and to a great guitar line!
Wendell "Wendy" Cook
Via the Internet
ROCKIN' IN ROANOKE
I have been playing the guitar for only about a year now. I take lessons from Stacey Hobbs at the Fret Mill, in Roanoke. He talked me into coming to Doyle Dykes'
workshop. All I can still say is, "WOW." I have never seen anybody handle a guitar like that. He has an incredible gift. I just wanted to thank you for sponsoring
him. He has tremendous stage presence and is quite wonderful to listen to. He is a credit to your company and to your fine guitars. I don't own a Taylor, yet,
but, hopefully — some day. Again, thank you so much for the opportunity.
Sonny Edwards
Roanoke, Virginia
Via the Internet
AIR DOYLE
Doyle Dykes played two consecutive nights in the two local Accent Music stores here in Wilmington, Delaware, and I just wanted to let you know how much I
appreciated getting to hear a world-class musician in an intimate setting near my home. Wow. Hearing someone as talented as Doyle might be so intimidating as to be
discouraging, but he was encouraging and inspiring, instead. He very effectively shared his enthusiasm for your wonderful guitars, as well.
I also appreciated the overarching spiritual grounding that Doyle exhibited in his bearing, and in the way he approaches life. Kind of like having the
Michael Jordan or Tiger Woods of guitar — both outstanding talent and high character!
I had been discussing guitars for over a year with Robert, the capable manager of Accent's Kirkwood Highway store, and he obviously is a Taylor fan
(and owner!). After hearing Doyle, not only did I buy all of his CDs, I also plunked down a payment on an 814-CE! Thanks!
Jim Bosley
Via the Internet
DOYLE, YOUR BUNDLE IS IN THE MAIL
I had the great fortune to attend a clinic by Doyle Dykes at East Coast Music Mall, in Danbury, Connecticut. It was a wonderful experience. Thank you for creating the
opportunity to meet one of my greatest musical heroes. Doyle did a masterful job of explaining and promoting the entire Taylor line. His personal explanation of what he
likes about Taylor design provided a depth of credibility that no advertising could hope to duplicate. I hope you're paying him a bundle, because he sure sold a bunch of
guitars that night.
More important, Taylor is indeed privileged to be represented by such a fine man as Doyle. Not only did he give us a master lesson, he is undoubtedly the nicest
professional musician I have ever met, and took all of our questions graciously, even the stupid ones, at the end of a long night. If Doyle likes Taylor, well,
that's enough for me. Now I only have to figure out which one I want.
Robert Newton
Via the Internet
REPRESENTATION WITHOUT TAXATION
Just a quick note to say a very big "thank you" for sponsoring Doyle's workshops. Had the privilege of seeing Doyle at Clovis Music Center, and it was a real
blessing! Doyle is obviously one of the very best at his craft, but even more than that, he is a superior person. His genuine love of people, humble attitude,
and gracious spirit made for a very memorable evening. I won't miss another opportunity to see and hear him! I almost bought a Baby Taylor to play when it isn't easy
to haul along my 810-WMB. Matt and Jeremy and crew at CMC were very good hosts. I'm sure you know that Taylor is very well-represented by Doyle. Thanks again!
Chuck Stovall
Via the Internet
A PROUD PURCHASE
I attended a Taylor workshop at Senseney Music in Wichita, Kansas, conducted by Doyle Dykes. I almost did not go because of my busy schedule, but I am sure glad that
I did! Not only is Mr. Dykes a phenomenal guitarist, but he also is a wonderful person. It is so refreshing to meet someone of his caliber, with integrity and
devotion to family. I did not have the feeling that I was listening to a "performer"; I felt as if I were listening to a friend. He is an excellent representation of
the Taylor company. I am the proud owner of a 714-CE, and I am proud to have purchased from a company with such fine representation.
Chip Handrich
Via the Internet
DOYLE'S INSPIRING TOUCH
I enjoyed seeing and listening to Doyle Dykes at Guitar & Banjo Studio, here in Beaumont, Texas. It was my third time to see Doyle here, and he gets better and better.
I own three Taylors (LKSM, 514-CW, and Baby Taylor). At 47, I am more passionate about my playing than ever. Doyle inspires all that he
touches. Thank you for having him out here.
P.S. I've lived in lots of places, and Guitar & Banjo Studio is my favorite music store ever!
Roy Herrin
Via the Internet
THE NIGHT THE LIGHTS WENT OUT IN GRIFFIN
I saw Doyle Dykes at my fifth Taylor guitar workshop in Griffin, Georgia. Anyone who has ever seen Doyle play would agree that all of his performances are
unforgettable, but last night was something unbelievable.
While playing a rousing rendition of "Twin Six Shooters" with his daughter Holli, a storm knocked the power out. Suddenly, the auditorium went black and there was
nothing — nothing but the continuing beauty of pure acoustic guitars rising out of the black and filling the air with all that's possible in the right hands.
Doyle finished the remaining clinic with only the emergency lights giving off their dim glow.
Despite the outage, no one even thought of leaving until the last note of the last song was played. The power may have gone out in the building, but the "power"
never left Doyle for a second. I'm sure those present will be talking about "the night the lights went out in Georgia" for some time to come.
Keith Miller
Via the Internet
DOYLE'S ACOUSTIC TESTIMONY
Just wanted to let you know what an outstanding job Doyle did at the Griffin, Georgia workshop, presented by Record Heaven and held at the Second Baptist Church.
You should be proud to have Doyle on your team. Not only is he a great musical talent, but he really sells Taylor product, in a most tactful way. The Record Heaven
had all their Taylor guitars on the stage and Doyle played each and every one of them. To me, a beginner, it was great. He would point out the design, material, and
the intent of design of each guitar, which was a wonderful education.
What I really wanted to tell you about was, towards the end of the program we had a complete power failure. Everything went black, and the only
source of light was the emergency exit lights. Doyle was playing a 612-C, one of the "off the shelf" Taylors that the Record Heaven had on hand,
when the power went off. After the announcement that everything was alright, and we were not having a tornado, Doyle strummed the strings of the
612-C and asked the audience of around 200, "Can everyone hear this?". To my surprise (I was in the front row), everyone said "yes", and Doyle proceeded
to finish the workshop, totally acoustic. WOW!
What a great testimony to your fine line of guitars. Keep up the good work, and thanks for supporting the Taylor workshops.
Jim Crane
Stockbridge, Georgia
HAT'S OFF IN TEXAS
My new 914-CE is my fourth Taylor
(the others are a 422-PF, a 414-CE, and a Baby Taylor). I have
no intention of getting rid of any of them; each has its own attributes and personality.
I came across this 914-CE at a Doyle Dykes workshop put on by Larry Morgan Music in Garland, Texas. Being a fan of Doyle, and
having met him several times before, I asked him to play the 914-CE at the workshop so I could hear it through a good sound
system. He obliged, and his eyes lit up at the playability and quality of the sound. He stated, "This is a guitar Chet [Atkins] would like."
Doyle then played several songs and totally blew the crowd away. I finalized my purchase with Larry Morgan and thanked
him and Doyle for my dream guitar. I owe one more "thanks" to Bob Taylor and crew for producing such a fine instrument,
and my hat is off to Taylor's entire marketing and production team.
With the high standards of quality and workmanship in the guitars, quality dealers like Larry Morgan, and clinicians such as
Doyle Dykes, I believe that other companies throughout the world had better carefully observe, because Taylor Guitars has all the
right pieces in the right places. Thanks again for the entire Taylor experience!
Dan DuBois
Willow Park, Texas
I love the Taylor-sponsored workshops. I've seen Doyle Dykes in concerts/workshops five times, Pat Kirtley three times, as
well as Dan Crary, Beppe Gambetta, and Richard Leo Johnson. I look forward to seeing the other Taylor clinicians.
Matt Sawyer
Via the Internet
Thank you for having Doyle
Dykes on your "staff"! It was quite a pleasure to see Doyle at the Guitar Center in Tempe [Arizona]. He seems so genuine, and
must be a big plus for Taylor Guitars! It was great watching him play, and listening to what he had to say. I can't thank you
guys enough for doing these clinics, and especially to Doyle Dykes for finding the time to do this! I would also like to thank
you for the Elixir strings they passed out.