John Doyle
Founding member of the Irish band, Solas, is a one of a kind guitarist. His breathtaking rhythm work has revolutionized Irish music and continues to influence most of the Irish acoustic ensembles heard today. What is less well known about John is that he is a nimble and evocative solo performer who invokes fiery and lonesome fingerstyle and flatpicking techniques with inimitable skill and power. He is also a talented singer who breathes fantastic energy into traditional songs.
John Doyle requested a 12 string guitar that could be strung heavy (parallel rather than octave courses) and tuned as low as a B as needed. To that end, this rosewood dreadnaught with a cedar top and composite bracing was constructed for John. He also requested a satin finish and a soundport
"I have been the lucky recipient of a number of Kevin Muiderman instruments. Three 6-string guitars, one bouzouki, and mandola, a 5-string tenor guitar, and, recently, a 12-string guitar.
I use all of these instruments regularly on stage and have also recorded with them and I must say that they are the best instruments I have ever owned.
My dreadnaught guitar is incredibly sweet but also can bite when necessary. Somehow Kevin is able to get the instrument individualized to one's taste, something that I didn’t know existed. I am a light player using a light pick while playing and I needed to be able to have an instrument that has volume and sweetness and a certain agelessness too.
The bouzouki is exquisitely made, easy to play and with quite a unique sound. The resonance is unequaled as far as I am concerned.
My mandola is so sweet sounding, easy to play and yet bites through even in music sessions where one would think this small instrument would be lost. I tour extensively and all the instruments have stood up to the unfortunate battering and bruising that goes along with travelling with instruments.
I am so happy with Kevin's instruments and expect they'll be my favorites for a long time to come."
Visit John Doyle’s website here