Michael Stedman is a wonderfully talented musician, listening to him playing classical guitar is always a pleasure on the ear. It was wonderful to have him as our Featured Business.
We were treated to some live and on the spot music during our interview on Facebook. And, our Twitter Chat was great too. We learnt about Michael playing and tutoring. Don’t worry if you missed it. I’m going to round it up for you now.
Q1: Who are you and what is Classical Guitar?
My name is Michael Stedman, I hail from Wicklow and have been playing classical guitar for nearly 15 years. I graduated from DIT conservatory of music and drama and have continued to pursue music professionally since.
Classical guitar is an intricate fingerstyle version of guitar-focused on classical composers with music from the likes of Bach, Beethoven, Villa-Lobos, Satie and more. I would utilise a number of different guitar techniques to create and enthral my audience in a different soundworld.
Q2: Would guitar work for my event?
Yes, guitar is an extremely versatile instrument and suitable for many occasions. For years the guitar has been a part of many different genres and not confined to one in particular.
Themed events or weddings are easily completed with the repertoire available on the guitar. I have played at Spanish themed weddings and even played a few Disney songs. Most instruments are transcribed for the guitar there’s a lot of possibilities.
The guitar can play a more virtuosic role in your event or amplify the atmosphere. As a small instrument with a typically quieter sound, it often draws the listener in.
Q3: I have a small event and venue. Would guitar work?
Smaller events are perfect for the guitar with light amplification, while bigger events require a slightly larger setup however, that is not as intrusive into the event space.
My setup is relatively small: amp, music stand and me. I can fit into a snug corner or at the entrance and not take away from the needed space.
Q4: Could I learn to play?
Yes, depending on what song you wish to do. It is possible to learn a song in a month (provided you practice everyday!) Simple chords and strumming is a lot faster to learn and can be extremely romantic to serenade your partner on their special day or for an anniversary.
I provided vouchers for this purpose. With time and preparation, it would be possible to learn a small classical piece which could be recorded or added to a video of your event.
Q5: Can anyone learn?
As a versatile instrument, the guitar is open to many different people of all levels and abilities. I teach many students that have special needs and not only are they a joy to teach they have progressed steadily.
Their parents and I have been delighted with the progress they have made. As well as the enjoyment and skills they’ve gained during the lessons. We have is no set plan. And, many lessons are conducted with mutual learning. Figuring out together what way to best improve and learn.
You can contact Michael on his website or on his social media platforms and chat with him about playing at your event or wedding.
Here’s a clip from our Facebook interview earlier. We had some fun and Michael played us a couple of tunes as well.
We really do love having our featured businesses come on to Irish Wedding Chat. We are always happy to help our fellow suppliers find a bigger audience and our Twitter Hour helps us do that.
Join us me and our wonderful community of wedding and event service providers, suppliers and venues Wednesday’s at 8pm on Twitter when we show off our gifts, gowns, services, cars, cakes, flowers and so much more. It’s a virtual wedding fair. Hosted by Deirdre of 2D Graphic Design. And, check out our Instagram – which the lovely Sarah of SVS Concierge is there to look after you.
Reach out to us if you have any questions – we are happy to help.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/jukebox-45-s-85571873-5b6c7dd7c9e77c00255dda51.jpg)
