In 1992, having not played long, Mark attended a week-long course in the UK taught by legendary pedal steel instructor and Grand Ole Opry sideman Jeff Newman. Having taught himself guitar, the world of Nashville Numbers (the way Nashville musicians write charts) was an eye-opener! The thought behind Nashville Numbers was as important as the methodology of writing the charts. Early interaction with Jeff, and lessons with the great Gerry Hogan helped shape the way he approached the learning process. Of course, the internet was still in its infancy… and things have moved on.

Although Mark started with the E9th neck, around 1995 he bought his first D10 (Double neck 10-string) pedal steel. He’s equally practiced on both necks, and prefers that option to the universal tunings.

Tuition is normally tailored to suit the individual player, and typically for half a day. If possible, we encourage players to bring their own pedal steel, volume pedal and amplification. For players that have their own pedal steel we recommend you bring it, and if transport is a problem, we’ll provide the amplification. For students who are just starting, it might be useful to consider purchasing your steel after the first lesson; of course, we’ll provide everything for your first lesson.

If you’re worried you can’t read music, or you don’t know what this or that means… don’t worry! We tailor tuition to suit you. It might be helpful if you have some knowledge of playing another instrument, but it’s not essential.

So, if you’re thinking of learning pedal steel, want to brush up your E9th playing, or get started on the C6th neck, why not book a half-day, and let’s get started!

PS – The Blank Steel TAB is useful to help you remember ideas and parts that you’ve figured out. Keep a few printed sheets handy whilst you’re practicing. Using TAB is covered in our tuition.

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