Andrew Peterson has become one of my favorite songwriters and musicians. His lyrics have helped me see life through different eyes and the folkish melodies that accompany them have rung true with my Appalachian roots. His 2010 record, Counting Stars, was my introduction to his music. I had the album on repeat for who knows how many weeks. His songs hold an honesty about life, joy in God’s promises, reassurance in trials and puzzling questions, sometimes left unanswered.

But back to last weekend… I purchased my ticket as soon as the pre-sale went live and as it turned out that got me an almost from row seat on the end of an age old, wooden pew. How cool is that? Yes, the concert was wonderful, as I expected it would be, and yes I enjoyed seeing many familiar faces grace the stage that night, but greater than all that was the majesty of the story they were telling. I could go on and on about the evening, but no doubt you’re all quite busy about now, after all it is Christmas Eve! So, I leave you with the words from Sally Lloyd-Jones, read before each performance of Behold The Lamb of God. You’ll find a link to the songs below, and on this Christmas Eve, may I recommend that you gather ’round and listen to the old, old Story!

“No, the Bible isn’t a book of rules, or a book of heroes. The Bible is most of all a Story. It’s an adventure story about a young Hero who comes from a far country to win back his lost treasure. It’s a love story about a brave Prince who leaves his palace, his throne ~ everything ~ to rescue the one he loves. It’s like the most wonderful of fairy tales that has come true in real life!

You see, the best thing about this story is ~ it’s true.

There are lots of stories in the Bible, but all the stories are telling one Big Story. The Story of how God loves his children and comes to rescue them.

It takes the whole Bible to tell this Story. And at the center of the Story, there is a baby. Every Story in the Bible whispers his name. He is like the missing piece in a  puzzle ~ the piece that makes all the other pieces fit together, and suddenly you can see a beautiful picture.”

Click below to listen to the music.

Have you ever had someone find out you play the guitar, then hand you one and ask you to play something for them? Their guitar might be bearable, but usually the pick they hand you is not. Sometimes you can get used to it and compensate, but most likely you’ll fight it till your “performance” is over. Been there? After realizing that this was going to happen to me time and time again I started carrying a pick in my wallet. My point is this, when you have a favorite or preferred type of guitar pick you’re used to playing with, a foreign pick just doesn’t feel right.

Over the years I’ve tried, and liked, several different picks. Some I’ve stuck with longer than others, but for the most part I’ve always had one brand that seemed to be working well for me at a particular time. One such pick, the D’Andrea Pro Plec, had remained my favorite for the last few years, but they didn’t last long, and had to be replaced every so often. Like most musicians I’m always interested in something better, so having heard about a relatively new invention called the Blue Chip Pick, I did a little research. Quickly discovering that a plethora of big name artists were using these picks, I knew I had to get my hands on one. But, there was a catch. Just one pick was going to set me back $38! “Wow,” I thought, “could a pick really sound that good?”

I couldn’t resist the urge to try a Blue Chip for long, and when my TD 60 showed up in my mailbox I was anxious to see if it would live up to the praise it was receiving. I quickly opened the small package hoping my $38 wasn’t spent in vain. From the moment the pick touched my strings it just felt right. I didn’t have to “get used to it” and the amazing part was that I immediately noticed better tone and smoother notes. Of course I sat there for a while switching back and forth to confirm my initial experience, but the more I played with it the more I loved how it felt and the tone it allowed me to achieve.

As with any guitarist, my sound has been shaped over the years by a number of factors, but I believe Blue Chip Picks have had a part in creating what I sound like today. They’re bright, smooth and don’t “color” the sound of your instrument, keeping your guitar’s own unique tone. So, give one a try, but if you’re prone to loosing your guitar picks you might want to work on that habit first.

Throughout the recording they weave in and out of complex harmonies and tasteful arrangements that keep you wondering what’s around the corner. From more upbeat tunes like Russian Rag to slower selections like Sidh Beag Sidh Mor, these two masters take you on a musical journey you’ll travel again and again.

A personal favorite is Turkey Knob, a fiddle tune written by Robin’s uncle and champion fiddler, Clark Kessinger. They’ve taken a fresh look at this old time tune resulting in an arrangement that takes on a life of it’s own. After hearing it I was inspired to relearn the song and film this video.

You can find out more about the recording and preview the album here. Order a copy of Ear Candy today!

There’s a several page article about me and my music and two of my arrangements of Whistling Rufus. I also recorded the tune for the accompanying audio CD. Click here if you’d like to order a copy of the magazine. Dan Miller did a great job with the article. Thanks again, Dan!

If you’d like to hear these guitar pickers live along with over thirty more students performing come see us at the Clay Center on April 28, at 6:30. Free admission!

This time I was joined by fellow musicians Swanagan, Elijah and Salathiel Ray. I really enjoyed the opportunity to perform with these guys. Thanks for joining me fellas!

It was great to once again get to work with Brad, Ed and the rest of the Red Barn crew. The interview segments were a lot of fun too. Brad does a great job directing the show. Hopefully we can do it again sometime!

If you’d like to listen to the show check it out below. You can also find it at the bottom of my About page. As always be sure to let me know what you think. I always enjoy hearing from you!

Adam Hager & Friends on Red Barn Radio Nov. 5, 2008

The CD features 11 good ole’ hymns played and sang bluegrass style. I hope you’ll stop by the the BTM store and order a copy. I’m sure it will bless your heart.

Oh, you can hear me on track 1, “Glory to His Name”. Let me know what you think!

As I look ahead into the coming year I’m excited to see where my musical journey will take me. I’m especially looking forward to a CD release. Yes, it really is happening! I’ve got close to half of the album recorded, and I’m planning to post a “teaser” sample clip soon. So, for all of you faithful fans who are patiently waiting, hang in there!

As Christmas nears don’t forget that Jesus is the reason for the season. God bless you all!

-Adam

Last year the Mill Creek Boys asked me to join them on stage at the festival. I really enjoyed performing with them, and they’ve asked me to play the show with them this year as well. We’ll be playing October 10 (that’s a Friday), at 11:00 a.m. & 2:00p.m. If you’re planning to attend the festivities be sure to stop by and listen to us. Oh, and if you’re at Bob Evans don’t forget to pick up a flyer!