Dear friends,

When I was in high school and college, I relished the day school ended because it marked the beginning of a summer filled with music camps, festivals, concerts, and late nights jamming with friends. The summer has always been magical to me- I associate it with a kind of adolescent freedom, discovery, and renewal. It was a time to forget all the restrictions of an institution and live passionately with friends and other music lovers.

Although I work through my summers now and don't have as much time for late night jam sessions, the air is still scented with magic. It's not merely nostalgia for more innocent days- it is truly a more energizing time of year for me. After long months of wearing thick coats and long underwear, I welcome the freedom of shorts and a suntan. It is a time to rediscover music and myself.

There is so much going on this season- I hope that you will make the time for rediscovery. Please send us your stories of what you do this summer. We'd love to hear from you.

Yours in guitar,
Andrew Dickenson