Music Teachers

Banjo, Mandolin, Fiddle

Gary Waldrep is a renowned bluegrass and old-time music instructor specializing in banjo, mandolin, and fiddle since the early 80s. His exceptional mastery of the old-time clawhammer style of banjo picking has made him a captivating performer and earned him the title of "The Old Time Player of the Year" for two consecutive years. With numerous awards, including a Grammy nomination for his recording "Vintage Bluegrass," and induction into the Alabama Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame, Gary's musical success is undeniable. He made a memorable debut on the Grand Ole Opry stage in 2017 and continues to share his expertise and passion for music through teaching.

Guitar, Bass

Floyd's musical journey started at age nine when his father, Lavone Hooper, gave him guitar lessons on an old Gibson Dove. Over time, he explored various genres and became influenced by Chet Atkins, Merle Haggard, and Buck Owens in the 1970s. Captivated by country music in his teens, Floyd taught himself and learned licks from his dad and other country artists. In his twenties, Floyd and Lavone formed The Revelators, a Southern Gospel Quartet, recording in Tennessee and Alabama. They later became The Hoopers, sharing stages with The Greens, The Isaacs, and The Hoppers. They recorded the album "A New Beginning" in the early 1990s. Today, Floyd enjoys playing guitar and teaching music theory.

Advanced Guitar, Bass

David Daniel is a highly experienced guitarist, teacher, and musician with 50+ years of playing. Throughout his career, he has worked with diverse artists in jazz, rock, country, and liturgical styles. As a former adjunct professor in the University of Alabama Jazz Guitar Program, David has studied under esteemed Jazz guitarists Herb Ellis, Barney Kessel, and Joe Diorio. Currently, he serves as the principal accompanist at St. William Catholic Church in Guntersville and actively contributes to bands such as Lake City Jazz, Joe Ceravolo's Duosonix, Act III, and the FBC Pickers. David's dedication to music extends beyond performing and teaching, as he also specializes in guitar and bass repairs and setups. Learn from David to take your understanding of music to new heights.