Tim and Tina Johnson are founders of Lord of the Strings Concerts in Dana Point, Ca. Their labor of love provides a venue for fingerstyle guitarists (and a few other select acoustic musicians) from around the world. They host 24 to 26 shows a year in two venues in Orange County. They have helped dozens of artists fill dates in their schedules, and in the process they have become the premiere venue for virtuoso-class fingerstyle guitar in SoCal. Their concerts are totally family friendly, and they and their team are extremely gracious hosts.
This year in an effort to help promote fingerstyle guitar among young people, LOS launched a scholarship program which was personally funded by LOS patrons Steve and Cindy Olson. They generously provided $1000 to their very first scholar/player...Ben Owens. I am grateful beyond words to Steve and Cindy, and to Tim and Tina for this gracious gift to my son's education.
Tim, Tina, and crew gave our whole family first class treatment last night - free admission, reserved seating, the privilege to hang out with some salt of the earth folks, and the pleasure of seeing Ben open the show and play several duets with Pete Huttlinger. In addition to being a world-class solo guitarist (and a really nice guy) Pete also loves to promote and encourage younger players. Both Pete and his wife Erin are always kind and accommodating.
Last night was a total blessing; an act of kindness and generosity made a lifetime of fond memories for me and my family. Thanks to everyone at LOS.
