BOSSA NOVA BOSSES Who they were, and how they created one of the century’s most seductive styles.
By David Simons
Music to "One-Note Samba"

BEYOND ROSEWOOD AND SPRUCE How guitar makers are using space-age composite materials to create new designs and new sounds.
By Teja Gerken

DEPARTMENTS

JUMP STREET Townes Van Zandt, Artie Traum, Christopher Parkening, Happenings, and more.

A.G. LETTER Blues traveler Del Rey writes from the long and winding road.

REVIEWS Hit List records and books, a Sam McGee reissue, kids’ music by Cathy Fink and Marcy Marxer, and bluegrass divas on disc.

STAGE AND STUDIO Feedback 101: A guide to howl-free amplification of acoustic instruments. By Bob Wolstein

Playin’ by the Book: The ins and outs of bookstore gigs. By Teja Gerken

GEARBOX A visit with Schoenberg Guitars, Larrivée’s VC-09QM reviewed, equipment picks, and a look at new gear.

SHOPTALK Sweet Harmony: Tracing the ups and downs of an American guitar giant. By Michael Wright

PRIVATE LESSONS
Basics: Building Chords. By Scott Nygaard
Building chords from scales

Flatpicking Techniques: Traditional Bluegrass Cross-Picking. By Eric Thompson
Music to "Farewell Blues"

Practice Tips: Taking It Slow. By Kristina Olsen

DEAR A.G. Answers to your questions plus a reader tip.

OFF THE RECORD Ron Forbes-Roberts introduces funky fingerstyle music by Don Ross.
Music to "Klimbim"

GREAT ACOUSTICS Washburn White Rose. By Bianca Soros

MARKETPLACE Browse the classified ads.

Cover: Ex–Heart guitarist Nancy Wilson at her Washington state ranch. Photo by Lance Mercer.