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.