I began learning in 1976 after 8 years of guitar.Where did the Stick come from?
The Stick was invented by Emmett Chapman in 1974. He began experimenting with the concept in the late 60's. Emmett came up with the idea
of tapping with the hands parallel to the strings to fully accommodate the 2 hand playing style. Both the vertical playing position and the construction of the instrument are all designed around this idea. Today, Emmett Chapman is
living and building Sticks in Woodland Hills, California.
Do you play in a band?
Not currently. I have been promoting, recording playing a purely solo style over the past 3 years. My next project will involve other
players.
Have you previously played in bands?
Yes. The main group I performed in was the Stickband. We performed with several different versions of the group from 1976 to 1989. The group was started with long
time partner, Jim Bruno. The main emphasis of the group was the fact we both played the Stick. Later I formed a group called African Rain based around mixing African with Pop Rock music .
When and what is going to be on your next recording?
I have now completed the set of 3 solo albums for the Stick with the completion of The Touch. I have begun writing for my next project. The main concept will be to record
the Stick live with one or 2 drummer-percussionists to create the main sound. I may add a few instruments such as horn, guitar or violin sparsely in the arrangements. The main focus will still be the Stick. Most songs will have
only one other instrument on them. Some songs will be just Stick and percussion.
What kind of music will it be?
