Days at the Dog

Thinline Lap steel

2011-09-08T09:35:00.003-05:00

I've had this idea floating around in my head for a year now. I cut the center part out a few months ago and made a few attempts to bend sides for it. I felt like the bent sides weren't robust enough so I tried laminating them ....still unhappy I shelved it. Last week I glued up some offcuts on a pattern and I like it so far.

3 times Un lucky

2011-07-11T11:59:00.003-05:00

This headstock break was in for the third time, the first 2 breaks were in different spots but the wood was compromised and a more involved repair was required. Some of the neck was removed from across the break and 10 new pieces (including the overlay)were laminated in. The neck was reshaped and is now ready for finishing.

Mentors

2011-03-04T22:51:00.003-06:00

I worked part time for Joe Kovacic in the 80's. I was his electronics guy I would come in and wire up the 5 instruments he had made that week. It was a great experience ....Joe was intense and passionate about his craft. He was also riotously funny and a wealth of information. He could be all these things and more in the span of 10 min. His passion meant I was the focus of his anger on a few occasions (I remember Anna comforting me )

Mostly we got along and I learned fundamentals from a master. After a particularly enlightening chat about guitar building I said to Joe "There's so much to learn when does it stop" I can hear this like he's right here in the room "Johnny, you learn and you learn all your life and then you die stupid" then he laughed and went back to cutting wood.

Joe would run (no kidding) from one machine to the other ....focused and efficient ...then "Johnny it's time for coffee" He would read the Sun and comment on it and be entertaining for 15 min and then it was back to work.

Joe is probably the most prolific guitar builder in North America, he is a master craftsman and although I haven't talked to him much in recent years he is a good friend. He still builds guitars and has an 18 week teaching course in Lindsay Ontario. http://jklado.com/

Jambsticks

2011-02-23T22:18:00.002-06:00

They come in GorD keys... but you can tune up and down ...open or altered...capo - explore your inner modal_______bottom line they're fun to play (have to work at playing a wrong note)

There are 3 string and 4 string Jambsticks... 1st string is doubled up for 4 string ....KD suggested this and I like both

They're made from different kinds of wood ....reassigned birch and beech (an old dresser and an old bed) mahogany and maple ...cedar and spruce. Ty BR

I'll upload the chord chart soon for the owners of the first fifty.

gtrdoc59

Hockey Stick Headstocks

2010-06-02T07:56:00.012-05:00

Broken headstocks are always an excercise in creative clamping. The hockey stick headstocks, like this Jackson are like trying to clamp a watermelon seed.

I cut a jig out of plywood and bolted the headstock to it reducing it from a 3 to 2 dimensional clamping situation. I use wedges all the time and this was the ideal place for them to apply pressure, a clamp would push the pieces apart. After a few rehearsals I was ready, this clamping arrangement got good glue squeeze out all the way around the gluing surfaces and I was even able to get a clamp from tip to heel of the headstock.After 24 hours I can do the clean up the touch up and the setup.

Fabulous Fingerstyle Guitar Show

2010-04-14T09:32:00.003-05:00

Don't miss this show, these guys are great.

Tim Sparks on you tube

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1AnZDJJy3QE&feature=related

Tim Sparks' long journey to the 1993 National Fingerstyle Guitar Championship, and beyond, began modestly in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, when he started picking out tunes by ear on an old Stella flat top. He was given his first guitar when a bout of encephalitis kept him out of school for a year, and the music he heard around him was traditional country blues, and the gospel his grandmother played on piano in a small church in the Blue Ridge mountains.

Phil Heywood is a fingerstyle guitarist with a bluesy swing and a bucketful of whatever it is that helps a performer turn an instrumental piece into an arresting lyrical narrative. His lucid playing encompasses the down-home rhythmic groove of a Mississippi John Hurt or Leadbelly, and the sheer fluidity and flair of Leo Kottke. Phil has played with Chet Atkins on NPR's A Prairie Home Companion.

For more info click the link below

http://www.wecc.ca/site09/performers/Sparks_Heywood.html

The Doc

Guardian Fiberglass guitar case

2010-03-23T06:05:00.005-05:00

Just in and not for long, this is a seriously tough guitar case. Heavily padded with a thick PVC seal, your guitar will stay dry and comfortable inside it's fiberglass armour. It's not as good as a Calton case but it's a fraction of the price and doesn't take months to come in.

Fiberglass shell
PVC seal
D hooks for shoulder straps
Dark Grey
Comfortable leather handle

Price $229 (only available for dreadnaughts)

It's finished

2010-02-25T09:35:00.002-06:00

My kids took a vote and decided on blue, I like it. It will be hanging around the shop for awhile but won't be for sale until a few more are made. The guitar hangers we use in the shop will be available soon too.

John

I'm looking for a name

Stick Dulcimer (it needs a better name)

2010-02-17T10:38:00.003-06:00

We used to sell Stick Dulcimers a number of years ago but the guy who made them moved away. A week ago I thought I'd look into making them in house. After an evening of careful planning I came up with a design that could be made mostly from one piece of wood.

I used the wood from an old dresser that I had taken apart last summer. The drawer fronts were cut into 1 1/2" strips and glued up in twos. Then they were cut to make the neck and sides (all one piece) and fingerboard. I got an off cut piece of spruce for the top and utilized the dresser drawer bottoms as a back. The fingerboard is fretted like a dulcimer (diatonic scale) meaning you can't really play a wrong note on them. This makes them fun for the novice and an interesting challenge for a player.

I plan to make more of these and sell them in the store, it will 3 or 4 weeks before they are ready and I want to keep the price under $150.

John

I'm just sayin'

2010-01-29T10:45:00.003-06:00

Late at night when everyone is sleeping and there is $25 in your Paypal account, you to could end up with Gold Chicken Head knobs. I have black buffalo horn from a similar event.

Humidity

2010-01-18T11:57:00.002-06:00

Lack of humidity keeps me busy this time of year. Often older guitars seem to be more resilient in the dry cold winters, don't be fooled I get guitars in that are 30 and 40 years old showing thier first damage from dry winters. Humidify your instruments.

Old case humidifiers should be replaced by the latest great new humidifier, right now that would be the Oasis Plus not the regular blue one but the Plus model that is made for climates like ours. Years ago I liked the Dampit (green worm shaped thing) Two years ago we were pushing the Planet Waves humidifier and had great hopes for thier system that required no refilling.

The Oasis Plus wins the Sled Dog Music Award for best conceived and executed humidifier on the market today. It's a gortex tube with ¼ tsp of crystals in it, add distilled water and the water turns into a gel. You get a controlled evap rate in a sealed container. When the container is empty it shrivels, giving you a visual that it needs to be filled again.

I just placed an order for Oasis humidifiers, we've gone through several dozen this winter and we're low in stock I expect to see more in two weeks.

John

Soon to be expatriate

2010-01-12T08:10:00.003-06:00

Manitoba Hal is moving to Nova Scotia, so it's farewell to Manitoba for Hal. (there should be a song in that) I'd like to set the record straight, under the category of the-one-thing-everyone-knows-about... fill in the appropriate bit of common knowledge.

Hal is not changing his name, the marquees will not be sporting the name Nova Scotia Hal, Liverpool Louie, or the transvested Glace Bay Gladys. No he will be billed as (expatriate) Manitoba Hal. Ex Pat Pat is probably going to far but I thought I'd throw it out there. In 9 days Hal will be touring east through Canada on his way to NS, you can follow him on his website, Facebook, Twitter, My Space and podpigeon.

If you see Hal in the next nine days don't try to change his name, wish him well and say goodbye.

John

Guitar to tres conversion

2007-09-27T13:04:00.000-05:00

A few weeks ago, a month actually, I was asked to convert a 3/4 size guitar into a tres. ( Google Cuban tres guitar) I have worked on several of these instruments installing pickups and putting them back together. Many of them are modified guitars, converted with varying degrees of success. Some are made to be a tres, again with varying degrees of sucess.

The Ebase 3/4 size guitar which features a cutaway and pickup is a well-made $150 guitar, and as it turns out is an ideal candidate for the conversion to a Tres. I was able to fill 4 of the bridge pin holes (leaving the two outside holes intact) with ebony bridge pins cutting and trimming them flush after the glue dried. I then reconfigured the bridge pin holes, one forward and one back to accommodate the tight string spacing necessary for double courses ( like a 12 string guitar ) .

To layout the nut correctly I had to establish where the 2 outside nut slots would be. Measuring to the center of the nut positioned the middle course of strings. A new saddle was required, the original being compensated in a way that was no benefit to a tres. After this, clean up and stringing were all that was needed to be done to complete the conversion.

John

Pick up rewinding

2007-06-12T10:54:00.000-05:00

Broken pickups can be saved by rewinding, you get the benefit of the aged magnets and brand new wire the best of both worlds. We'll be getting parts in soon to make custom pickups.

John

We can fix anything!

2007-02-10T12:02:00.000-06:00

Well okay, maybe not anything but certainly most typical guitar repairs to acoustic and electric guitars. John has been repairing guitars professionally for over 25 years. If he doesn't know how to fix it, it can't be fixed! So bring by your favorite baby and get a complete makeover done. We can lower the action, fix the old cracks and make your guitar play the best it possibly can.

New Year - New Home

2006-12-28T11:59:00.000-06:00

Folks were getting ready to move the whole store to the store front just East of our present location. We'll open up Jan 2nd at our new home at 1326 Portage Avenue. We'll be busy all this week getting ready for the move so if you drop by we might be closed. Fear not! We're probably just next door moving something over or painting a wall. Regular hours apply all this week, however we'll be closed on New Years Day (won't everyone) and re-opening on Jan 2nd. See you in 2008 at the new Sled Dog Music!

Christmas Cheer

2006-12-19T14:06:00.000-06:00

Folks we're open all this week from 10am-6pm Monday to Thursday and 10am-5pm on Saturday. We're also open from 1pm to 5pm on Sunday Dec 24th. Drop on by for those last minute items or just to share in some Christmas cheer.

We have loads of great guitars, a wicked Violin package for under $200.00 and a special on gig bags! We're moving right next door early January and the less stuff we have to carry over the better. Get on in here and take it all home for the holidays.

We're moving again

2006-11-03T16:12:00.000-06:00

To anyone who has seen the "For Lease" sign in our window, don't worry, we won't need to borrow your truck. We'll be moving the store one unit to the east (or to the left in the picture) at the end of the year. It's a cost effective move that will give us a bit more room and a better space for the store not to mention a shorter commute time for me. We'll be opening Jan. 1st at our new location but come in and see us before then.

John

Should You Humidify Your Guitar?

2006-09-11T12:00:00.000-05:00

If you live in Manitoba you should. Our winters are known for being dry and cold and both these conditions are hard on acoustic instruments. At risk are all the braces that keep the instrument top from collapsing, the bridge, the fingerboard and the top itself. Lack of humidity is your guitars enemy #1. Wood shrinks when it drys out and that leads to cracks and warping. Glue fails when it is dried out and that can cause a whole host of troubles for any instrument.

What can you do to protect your favorite guitar? You can store it in a sealed climate controlled room or you can own a simply and inexpensive guitar humidifier. Planet Waves makes a guitar humidifier that is easy to use and works much better than older methods like the sponge in the plastic tub. Refilling the humidifier is easy with the supplied syringe and moisture is dispersed evenly from the suspended reservoir.

Before the cold weather settles in you should bring it in for us to check out and get yourself a humidifier to take care of it over the winter.

Labour Day Hours

2006-08-31T15:53:00.000-05:00

Happy Labour Day! On this festive and restful long weekend we will be open the following hours.

Saturday: 10:00am - 4:00pm
Sunday: Closed
Monday: Closed in observance of Labour Day

And the following week our usual hours. Enjoy this last blast of summer with your families and friends.

The New Sign is Up!

2006-07-18T16:37:00.000-05:00

Six String Nation Guitar Set up at Sled Dog!

2006-07-10T12:43:00.000-05:00

Here it is folks. The Six String Nation Guitar. If you haven't heard about this yet this is the guitar that was made with various pieces of Canadian historical icons. The instrument was built by George Rizsanyi from a collection of Canuck artifacts Jowi Taylor painstakingly collected, such as Pierre Trudeau's canoe paddle, the ship deck of the Bluenose II, and Paul Henderson's hockey stick.
The guitar had it's debut July 1st on the steps of parliment in Ottawa played by Stephen Fearing. We had the honour of setting up the instrument before it was displayed at the Winnipeg Folk Festival this year.

Here is John holding the guitar after he finished the work on it. It is a national treasure and we are honoured to have worked on it. Thank you Jowi Taylor!

Summer Planning

2006-07-04T14:19:00.000-05:00

Camping season is here, are you prepared? Do you have enough guitar strings? What about a better case for that old mandolin? Do you know how to take care of your guitar while you're at the cottage, or folk festival? We do and we'd be happy to help you take care of your little baby. Bring your guitar (or mandolin, or ukulele) by for a summer checkup before you go away. Sled Dog Music - Home of acoustic instrument repairs and maintenance.

Happy Birthday Paul!

2006-06-17T12:23:00.000-05:00

Paul McCartney turns 64 on June 18th. Paul, the answer to your famous song "When I'm 64" is yes! We still need you and apparently we will still feed you (if your tour reciepts are anything to go by). So happy birthday, happy father's day and just generally thanks for making some of the best music of our lives.

Father's Day Sale

2006-06-14T11:31:00.000-05:00

In honour of our Dad's we're offering $5.00 off all Set Up gift certificates. That's right, until Saturday June 17th you can purchase a Set Up Gift Certificate for only $35.00 CAD. This is $5.00 off the regular price. Setting up an instrument is like tuning your car. There are a number of adjustments that once made will make your old favorite guitar play the best it possibly can. We adjust the height of the strings, the relief of the neck, tighten all screws, clean the whole instrument and lastly change the strings.

Doesn't your Dad deserve a guitar that plays well?

ARIA Parlour guitar really rocks

2006-05-27T19:33:00.000-05:00

Hey there Sled Dog fans. Here I am playing the ARIA AP-STD Parlour guitar. This baby has a solid mid range poke and really works well as a fingerstyle guitar. I'm playing blues on this guitar and it really likes slide guitar and strong bass thumb action. If you're looking for an affordable axe to really bring out your picking then you can't go wrong with this baby.

Local Hero - Will Johnston

2006-05-18T17:05:00.000-05:00

Here is Will Johnston. Will is the proud owner of the Larrivee Guitar you see him holding here. He is also the vocalist for a hip local band named Shakey Gunn. They are about to release a new CD. You can hear a preview track on MySpace. Will Johnston - one more reason why Sled Dog Music is here.

May Long Weekend Sale - May 19 & 20

2006-05-08T14:22:00.000-05:00

The boss is going away so we're gonna have a sale!

Come in May 19th and 20th for in store special pricing on guitar packages, tuners, strap and other accessories. This is an excellent time to get that guitar for the cottage, or that new tuner for your guitar case. Don't miss out!

Jacob Moon Guitar Workshop

2006-04-29T10:10:00.000-05:00

Acoustic Guitar Workshop withJacob Moon - $20.00 (www.jacobmoon.com)

Saturday May 6th @ 4pm

Signpost recording artist, Jacob Moon will focus on looping technology, songcraft and harmony. Moon is becoming known as a "must see" artist. His skill on the guitar is accented by his skillful use of looping technology which enables him to sound like a full band on his own. This will be a great workshop for singer/songwriters who are looking to broaden their performance skills. Pre-registration is required. Call 783-2542 to register or e-mail.

FREE CIRCUS TICKETS

2006-04-20T10:51:00.000-05:00

We have a bunch of free circus tickets to the Shrine Circus this coming May 4 & 5, 2006 to the MTS centre. I remember going to the Shrine Circus when I was young and watching the acrobats and the lions and the man getting shot out of a canon. Such fun.

The tickets are a Two-For-One Adult ticket and FREE kids tickets. We got lots of tickets so if you want to go and take your kids for FREE just get on down here and grab a bunch. Heck take all the kids from the neighborhood! I know I'll be there, scarfing down some popcorn and candy floss.

new Sign progress report

2006-04-05T14:53:00.000-05:00

Here it is! The new sign is almost together. This shot was taken about 1 hour ago as I was attaching the letters to the shape background. This only leaves hanging it and adding the 'Music' portion of the sign. I hope we'll have it all finished and hung before Easter. I've been taking pictures all along and some video and I'll upload it when its all done.

Jacob Moon Guitar Workshop

2006-03-29T10:26:00.000-06:00

Acoustic Guitar Workshop withJacob Moon - $20.00 (www.jacobmoon.com)

Saturday May 6th @ 4pm

Signpost recording artist, Jacob Moon will focus on looping technology, songcraft and harmony. Moon is becoming known in the folk circuit as a "must see" artist. His skill on the guitar is accented by his skillful use of looping technology which enables him to sound like a full band on his own. This will be a great workshop for singer/songwriters who are looking to broaden their performance skills. Pre-registration is required. Call 783-2542 to register or e-mail.

Local Hero - Dave McKenzie

2006-03-18T14:14:00.000-06:00

Dave McKenzie dropped by with his new CD Take It Back. Dave is the front man for the band Lost Frequency. (www.lostfreq.com) Dave is one of our devoted customers and has been shopping here since we opened ten years ago. Lost Frequency will be releasing their CD to the public on May 4th at the King's Head Pub. See ya there!

Upcoming Workshops

2006-03-17T09:47:00.000-06:00

Our Mandolin Series was a great success and I'd like to thank Fred Redekop and Al Popowich for providing solid group instruction. We have more workshops planned. Here are a few of the workshops coming up in the next few months.

April 13th - Bottleneck Slide Guitar w/Hal Brolund- $20.00 (www.manitobahal.com)
Hal will demonstrate and share the arcane magic that is bottleneck slide guitar. Handouts will be provided. Subject matter will include damping techniques, alternate tunings, scales, chords and using your right hand. Hal has travelled Canada playing slide guitar in festivals and concert venues with such artists as Dr John, John Mayall, Colin James, Colin Linden, Ken Hamm, Big Dave McLean, Johnny V, Kelly Joe Phelps etc...

May 6th - Acoustic Guitar w/Jacob Moon - $20.00 (www.jacobmoon.com)
Signpost recording artist, Jacob Moon will focus on looping technology, songcraft and harmony. Moon is becoming known in the Christian folk circuit as a "must see" artist. His skill on the guitar is accented by his skillful use of looping technology which enables him to sound like a full band on his own. This will be a great workshop for singer/songwriters who are looking to broaden their performance skills.

There is more stuff in the works so stay tuned to our website for announcements regarding these and more workshops.

Mandolin Workshop Wednesday March 15th - 7pm

2006-03-11T10:21:00.000-06:00

The last of our Mandolin workshops happens this week on March 15th at 7pm. This last session is all about Soloing and Improvising and will be led by Fred Redekop and his staltwart accompaniest Al Popowich. Fred will demonstrate various approaches to soloing and discuss how to best compliment a piece of music. The workshop cost is only $10.00. There are a few seats left but you MUST pre-register to guarantee a place. Contact Hal at 783-2542 or e-mail hal@sleddogmusic.com to register. See you there!

Ike Derksen - Larrivee Owner and Local Hero

2006-03-08T06:58:00.000-06:00

The guy in this picture is Ike Derksen, he is...

A) Upset about that last bad note he played,
B) Sorry he drank too much water before show time,
C) Wincing with delight about his Larrivee purchase.

I'll give you a hint, the answer is C. This is one more reason why Sled Dog Music is Winnipeg's Acoustic Guitar Store!

Durango B-48

2006-03-02T15:38:00.000-06:00

Check out this guitar! Solid Spruce top, Flamed Sycamore Back & Sides, Bone Nut & Saddle and a very cool inlay on the head stock. These guitars were recently reviewed in Acoustic Guitar Magazine (January 2006) as having authentic vintage vibe and an unbelievable price. This model is their Mini Jumbo model. The tone is big and proud!

Mandolin Workshops

2006-02-15T10:21:00.000-06:00

Don't forget pickers our Mandolin series continues next Wednesday with the Chords & Rhythm workshop. Fred Redekop will be joined by guitarsmith Al Popowitch and they will demonstrate techniques for effective accompaniement. There will be lots of playing and opportunities for questions. Cost is only $10.00 but we have limited seats available so you MUST pre-register. Call (204)783-2542 to register or e-mail Hal.

Doc's Restringing Guide

2006-02-13T15:33:00.000-06:00

Well it was first published in 1996 and now it's back. Doc's handy guide to restringing your guitar ("How to String Your Guitar So It Stays In Tune"). Simply follow this link and the mystery of the ages will be revealed to you.

New Look for the Website!

2006-02-11T10:30:00.000-06:00

It seems redundant to show a pic here since you're looking at the website now, but here it is. The new look of the Sled Dog Music website. Notice the new logo and the improved navigation.

We've kept our web log (blog) up front and streamlined the catalogue navigation. Also we've given more screen space over to the content reducing all the navigation to a banner on the top.

Tell your friends...tell your neighbors...heck tell the whole world! And it turned out nice again today.

Mandolin Workshop Pics

2006-02-08T17:11:00.000-06:00

Here are a couple pics from the first of the Mandolin Workshop series. Fred Redekop led these folks in basic techniques of achieving good tone. The workshop focused on string and pick selection as well as how to hold the pick to get the best tone possible as consistently as possible. It was a real cool experience learning from Fred as he shared his wealth of knowledge regarding the mandolin, including many tricks he learned from David Grissman and Chris Thile at the Mandolin Syposium.

The 2nd workshop (Chords & Rhythm) will take place on Wednesday Feb 22nd and will focus on choosing chords to accompany a soloist or singer. Fred will be bringing his friend Alan Popowitch with him to provide the soloist and guitar duties. If you haven't registered yet you can do so by calling 783-2542 and giving us your name and number. The workshop is at 7pm and cost is $10.00.

Here is a Quicktime clip of the participants playing "Old Joe Clark" to finish out the night. The clip is 4.52MB. Enjoy!

Harvey Levy - Local Hero

2006-02-03T11:46:00.000-06:00

The gentleman you see here on the left is Harvey Levy. Harvey is a great songwriter and all around nice guy. Plus he has one of the sweetest left handed guitars we've ever seen. Harvey is also one of the fellows behind Levy's Gig Bags and Straps worn by Best Dressed Players Worldwide. Harvey's next gig is on Friday Feb 10th at Academy Coffee Company. Show starts at 8pm and there are a bunch of good songwriters featured.

Happy Groundhog Day!

2006-02-02T14:06:00.000-06:00

Well folks it's official! Wiarton Willie has predicted that we will have an early spring. That news couldn't come soon enough for us here at Sled Dog. Don't get me wrong we enjoy the long dark nights and cold wintery days but here in Winnipeg the city comes alive in the spring. Folks start sitting out on their porches playing guitar and heavy winter coats give way to much more attractive attire. Ooooo boy I can't wait.

The Mandolin Workshop series begins tonight at 7pm with Fred Redekop taking us through the basics of Tone & Technique. If you haven't registered yet call 783-2542 and get your name down. Each session is $10.00 and seats are limited so call now! The next session, Chords & Rhythm is on Feb 22nd at 7pm and the final session Soloing & Improvising is on March 15th. We'll see ya there!

Blair Hordeski - Local Hero

2006-01-23T13:11:00.000-06:00

Blair Hordeski is one of our local heros. He has been rockin' in the Peg since at least 1997 (when I first met him). His band (Daniel Roy, Steve Lagimodiere and Brent Pearen) play the last weekend of every month at Finn's Pub at the forks.

Don't let the acoustic guitar fool you this guy ROCKS and the band is pretty durn hot too. Check out the pics from his gigs at www.blairhordeski.com.

Mandolin workshops

2006-01-13T11:32:00.000-06:00

We are pleased to announce the Sled Dog Music Mandolin Series. These three sessions are designed to develop your skills as a player whether you're a complete beginner or a more advanced musician.

The first session "Tone and Technique" includes a brief discussion of mandolins, strings, picks, tuning, set up and so on, along with developing good fundamentals, exercises, designed for building good tone and technique. This session will be held on Feb 2nd at 7pm.

The second session "Chords and Rhythm" - how to find them and how to (as well as how not to) use them. This session will be held on Feb 22nd at 7pm.

The third and final session "Soloing and Improvising" will teach the basics of playing behind a singer..improvising on a fiddle tune........generally the subject of what to do when your turn to solo comes at the jam. This final session will be held on March 15th at 7pm.

These sessions will be led by Fred Redekop (Ain't No Mountain Boys, Keystone Bluegrass Quartet) and held at Sled Dog Music 1328 Portage Avenue. The cost is $10.00 per session and you can register by calling (204) 783-2542.

Tune into CBC 98.3FM this Sunday at 12 noon.

2006-01-07T12:46:00.000-06:00

Sunday, January 8, 2006, 12:00 p.m.
08/01/06

Head for the Vinyl Cafe this weekend. Host Stuart McLean tells the story about how John and Sled Dog Music helped start The Wailin' Jennys. Nicky, Ruth and Cara sing three songs throughout the show. Heaven When We're Home, Arlington and Old Man (by Neil Young). Of course this show is a repeat of an earlier broadcast and all of you know that Cara has left the group and Annabelle has taken her spot. Recently the girls were playing Town Hall in New York with Garrison Keeler and the Prairie Home Companion show. Way to go Jennys!

Larrivée L-05 in stock

2005-12-29T13:52:00.000-06:00

We just got this sweet guitar in. Mahogany back and sides with a nice solid Sitka Spruce top topped off with Birch binding. The tone is clear and bright and this baby feels alive the moment you pick it up. We are commited to tone around here and this guitar meets our criteria completely. Check it out!

Merry Christmas from Sled Dog Music!

2005-12-25T10:07:00.000-06:00

Merry Christmas to all of you from us here at Sled Dog Music! This pic was taken at 3:30pm Christmas Eve just before we both went off to our families and parties. We wish you the best of the season and hope that your celebration is filled with love, grace, joy and peace. It has been an honour and a pleasure serving you this year and we look forward to many more years of excellent customers.

Boxing week hours
We will be closed on boxing day and will re-open on Tuesday Dec 27th with our regular store hours of 10am to 6pm. We will close at 4pm on New Years Eve - Saturday Dec 31st. Please drop by during Boxing Week. We will have some special sales that will only happen those 5 days. Certain items will sell at close to cost so don't be late.

Christmas Hours at the Dawg

2005-12-17T10:07:00.000-06:00

We got some new hours this coming week (Dec 18 - Dec 24) to make shopping at Sled Dog Music easier. We'll be open;

Sunday 12pm-4pm
Monday and Tuesday 10am-6pm
Wednesday to Friday 10am-8pm, and
Saturday (Christmas Eve) 10am-4pm.

On Christmas Eve we have our annual open house starting at 2pm. We have a standing invitation to all our customers to come and enjoy some Christmas cheer and hospitality. We'll have a glass of eggnog and some munchies and visit before all going off to our respective celebrations. There are some last minute specials as well so mark it down on your calendar and come join us on Christmas Eve!

Christmas Guitar Sale

2005-12-03T22:34:00.000-06:00

Folks when you come by the shop you may notice that we've started advertising in our window. This ad is for our Christmas guitar sale. Until Christmas we're offering our starter guitar the ARIA AW-35 for only $229.95. The normal list is $259.95.

The AW-35 features a Solid Sitka Spruce Top, Mahogany Back, Sides, Bone Nut and Saddle and sealed cast machine heads. This guitar sounds full and with a strong bass and even highs. It is a great first guitar or an amazing cottage/campfire guitar. Either way this is one gift that will keep on ringing into the New Year!

Find out more about the AW-35 here.

Electric Violin

2005-11-28T10:56:00.000-06:00

The Sojing electric violin is a great violin for those folks who need something quiet to practice with or those folks who want to plug and and 'rock' the house, fiddle style! Comes complete with gig bag, wood bow, headphones, plug in cable, chin pillow and rosin. Everything you need to get going quickly and easily. Even Batteries!!! Makes a great gift this Christmas!

Ode to Link Wray

2005-11-21T09:40:00.000-06:00

Link Wray - May 2, 1929 - November 5, 2005
Early rock pioneer Link Wray, who invented the power chord and thus influenced some of the genre's most famous musicians, has died at the age of 76. If you've ever played a power chord then you've been influenced by this man. If you enjoyed the soundtrack to Pulp Fiction or Desperados then you've heard this man. The world is now a poorer place.

New Larrivee Guitar

2005-11-18T10:53:00.000-06:00

This 'sweetheart' guitar arrived yesterday. On the first strum I was stunned by it's sparkling midrange and punchy bottom end. Even a hard strum couldn't break this baby's tone up. Strong and full and with all the lovely Larrivee appointments including black tuning buttons and a lovely tortoiseshell pickguard. You have GOT to come see this one.

Songwriting Workshop Report

2005-11-18T09:58:00.000-06:00

James Keelaghan tunes up the Blueridge BR140 to demonstrate an alternate tuning for the participants.

Songwriters learning from a master.

The folks who took part in our first songwriter workshop were treated to an inside look at the process that Keelaghan uses to develop his songs. The session was user directed so there were tons of questions and answers and examples culled from Keelaghan's extensive catalog. All agreed that this event was a success and more are in the works. Look for another songwriting workshop with Steve Bell in the new year as well as instrumental and technical workshops.

Manitoba Digs Out

2005-11-15T11:30:00.000-06:00

Wow! What a change from the weekend. I was walking around on Friday night with just a light coat as temperatures hovered around 10 above. Then over last night snow started falling and kept on falling. As of Nov 15th we are under snow once again.

I always like this time of year because I get to spend more time indoors playing guitar and writing music. And cabin fever hasn't hit yet so I enjoy the closeness and the intimate feeling of the early nights. By February I'll be wishing it would end too, but for right now...give me a guitar and a long winter night to strum away!

Songwriting Workshop update

2005-11-07T09:53:00.000-06:00

We still have a few tickets left for the James Keelaghan Workshop on Wed Nov 16th. James will be working with each participant on their songs and songwriting technique. This is a golden opportunity folks.

Join James Keelaghan for an evening songwriting workshop. Seating is limited to 15 participants and and tickets are only $25.00. James is a JUNO winner and two time winner of the USA Songwriting Competition. James is a true international performer with fans in several countrys around the globe. Don't miss your chance to work with a true Canadian master songwriter!

What: Songwriting Workshop with James Keelaghan
Where: Sled Dog Music 1328 Portage Avenue
When: Wednesday Nov 16th @ 7pm
How Much: $25.00

Tickets at Sled Dog Music.

Both guitars have sold!!

2005-11-06T13:11:00.000-06:00

Thanks to those who came down and checked the guitars out. Both of them have sold and two lucky people got some outstanding deals!

GUITAR SALE!!!

2005-11-04T11:59:00.000-06:00

Yup. You got it. We are selling these two acoustic/electric guitars at an unbelievable low price. Both are brand spanking new and come with full featured electric pickups and preamps. No we haven't lost our minds (although that ain't far from the truth), we just want to pass along some savings to our loyal customers.

If you know anyone who's looking for a guitar send em down.

Alana Levandoski CD release Nov 19th

2005-11-02T10:41:00.000-06:00

Alana Levandoski is one of our local heros. She a talented songwriter and performer who is starting to get noticed by the music industry in Canada and the US. She will be releasing her debut (and long awaited) CD at the West End Cultural Centre on Nov 19th. I hope you all buy tickets to see this talented girl.

Happy Birthday Charlie Daniels!

2005-10-28T10:19:00.000-05:00

On this day in 1936 Charlie Daniels entered the world. Happy sixty nine Mr Daniels!

Hey did you know we got violins? We stock about 20 different violins and have everything from starter specials to real nice players. I'd love to say that Charlie Daniels comes here but that just ain't true. If he did though he'd say we got the best selection in all of Winnipeg. Check us out!

Songwriting workshop update

2005-10-22T11:12:00.000-05:00

There are still a few tickets left for the James Keelaghan songwriting workshop. I've had a few questions about the form of the workshop. Basically it will be a hands-on workshop focused on developing your songwriting skills. James will be on hand to talk about song structure and the development of an idea and to help you with your own writing. You will bring your "works in progress" and an instrument and work with James on developing the skills needed to write great songs.

The workshop is on November 16th (Wednesday) at 7pm here at the shop.

Hal

Songwriting Workshop - Nov 16th with James Keelaghan

2005-10-03T16:16:00.000-05:00

Join James Keelaghan for an evening songwriting workshop. Seating is limited to 15 participants and and tickets are only $25.00. James is a JUNO winner and two time winner of the USA Songwriting Competition. James is a true international performer with fans in several countrys around the globe. Don't miss your chance to work with a true Canadian master songwriter!

What: Songwriting Workshop with James Keelaghan
Where: Sled Dog Music 1328 Portage Avenue
When: Wednesday Nov 16th @ 7pm
How Much: $25.00

Tickets at Sled Dog Music.

Colder days coming - time to prepare your guitar for winter

2005-09-29T10:14:00.000-05:00

Now is the time to make sure that your humidifiers are ready and that your guitar is prepared for the coming winter.

Winnipeg winters are particularly hard on acoustic instruments because of the dry heat that is in most of our homes. Furnaces, electric heaters and fireplaces may keep us warm, but they also dry out our environment. This lack of humidity does damage to the glue that holds the instrument together not just to the wood itself.

We have humidifiers for guitars as well as for smaller instruments such as violins and ukuleles.

Also you may notice your guitar is no longer playing as well as it has earlier in the summer. This is a natural result of the change in temperature and humidity and can in most cases be corrected quickly in our shop. We do these minor "truss rod" adjustments free on the spot. For bigger problems we can set up the instrument back to the way you remember it.

2005-09-22T11:31:00.000-05:00

What is special about today? It is the first day of fall, it is David Coverdale's birthday (go White Snake) and it is a bright sunny day here in Winnipeg.

New items in the store include a pair of sweet parlour guitars, hardshell ukulele cases, two Macaferri style guitars and the Schatten HFN artist pickup.

Work is progressing on our sign and we hope to have that installed before too long.

Have a good day today and we'll see you soon!

Happy Birthday BB King!

2005-09-16T13:16:00.000-05:00

Happy Birthday BB King! Reily B King was born on this day in 1925 which makes him a wonderful 80 years old! Man I wish I could be doing as many shows as he does when I'm his age.

Gypsy Guitars Now In

2005-09-09T16:05:00.000-05:00

I just got back from Ontario to find these really cool Macaferri style guitars have arrived. They are cool, sound and play great and are very affordable too! Get your groove on manouche!
MM-10 | MM-20

Tales from the road

2005-09-02T10:10:00.000-05:00

Hey there Sled Dog viewers! Manitoba Hal here out on the road in Ontario. I've been camping and playing music and checking out music stores all over the southern Ontario area. You know what I've learned? We carry the same quality instruments that you can get anywhere and for the same or (in some cases) even less than other retailers. I find it very interesting to see how many stores are chasing after the very real vibe that we have at Sled Dog. Mom and Pop stores are trying to be more folksy and big chains are trying to appear more friendly and helpful.

I saw some cool stuff including a new handmade parlour guitar that is made in Peterborough. Rick Fines was playing it when I sat in with him in a pub in Cobourg. The guitar was fantastic and reminded me of those old parlour guitars that Martin used to make.

What do you think, do we need more parlour guitars in our inventory? Is this something you'd like us to carry? Drop us a line and let us know so that we can order stuff if we need to.

News from the East

2005-08-18T14:34:00.000-05:00

Hey there Sled Dog readers. I'm on Manitoulin Island waiting for a ferry to Tobermory so I thought I'd drop you folks an update. Summer and construction. It ain't just true in Winnipeg. I've been stopped so many times for road work on the highway that I think it might have been faster to walk! Not really, but on the last 200Kms I was stopped for almost an hour if you add up all the road stops. Five minutes here, five minutes there.

Fifteen minutes for this cool bridge that opens every hour and takes the quarter hour to open and then close again. As 20 cars lined up waiting to cross, one sail boat floated through.

This weekend is the famed Summerfolk. Now in it's 30th year it should be an amazing weekend. I'll try to update you next week. Of course I have photos of all the festivals and will post some when I return.

Hal

View from the Highway

2005-08-09T06:32:00.000-05:00

Hello Sled Dog friends and family! I'm out here in Ontario moving onto the second of my summer festivals. The weather has been wonderful out here with highs in the mid 20s and nice cool nights. I have a mild sunburn but otherwise am doing great.

At the first festival I played I noticed alot of different guitars among the musicians. There was an Alan Beardsell. If you remember we had one of his hanging in the shop not too long ago. They're amazing guitars. One artist was carrying around the Blueridge BR140. Of course you know that we think he has excellent taste. Plenty of Larrivees were seen and a few Gibson and Martins. It is interesting to hear what people say about their guitars. One artist I talked with was drooling over the Beardsell guitar while yet another wanted to upgrade his Larrivee to a upper level model. Still another was hoping to buy a handmade guitar from a local luthier named Richard Harvey. It just goes to show you that no one guitar will suit everybody. That is why we are on the lookout for great guitars all the time. Because we want to have what you need when you're looking for it.

I'm off to another festival today and will check in again later on. For now that is the view from the highway.

Hal

2005-08-03T22:06:00.000-05:00

Here is another of our local heros! Chris Funk is an extremely fine guitar player who also happens to like climbing through a tennis racket. Actually Chris is also a Magician. He came by the shop last week and showed us how he does this routine. One more reason we like what we do!

2005-07-30T10:50:00.000-05:00

This is a mock up of the front of our store with our new sign. We're busy painting away and getting ready to mount this puppy on the building. I'm taking some pictures as we work away so keep a lookout for pics in the next few days. CYA

Take Me Out To The Ball Game!

2005-07-28T14:18:00.000-05:00

Hey Gang wanna go see the Goldeyes? Sled Dog Music is going to the Goldeyes game on Sunday Aug 31st. The game is at 1:30pm at the CanWest Global Ballpark.

We would love to see you out there with us at the ballpark enjoying a hotdog and cheering the Goldeyes to victory against the Saint Paul Saints!

Summer at the Dog

2005-07-25T10:57:00.000-05:00

We've been enjoying the benefits of air conditioning down here at the shop this summer and I'm pleased to say that it is always cool and comfortable inside even when it is hot and humid outside. We also have almost ZERO mosquitos inside and therefore no need of fogging to enjoy the environment.

I know what you're thinking, you're thinking what does this have to do with anything? Well here it is, come on down and hang out with us at the shop for a while. Try out some guitars or a mandolin. Enjoy the mosquito free atmosphere and the air conditioning. Then when you've had enough rest from the trials of summer in Manitoba you can return to the hot, humid mosquito filled air of the summer in Winnipeg.

Oh I also wanted to let you know we have a Blueridge BR-140 on the way. The BR-140 is a solid Mahogany back and side, solid spruce top dreadnaught. This is a real honey of a guitar and I invite you all to come down and try it out.

See you at the Dog!

2005-07-18T11:04:00.000-05:00

Happy Birthday Ricky Skaggs! Ricky is one of our favorite bluegrass players and the current torch bearer for the legacy of Bill Monroe. Ricky was born on July 18th in 1954. Happy 51st Birthday Ricky and keep on pickin!

Pure Acoustic Tone

2005-07-16T10:06:00.000-05:00

You know it isn't just a marketing phrase around here. We really search for the best possible acoustic tone at all price points. That means that we choose which pickups we will stock based upon customer satisfaction with the product and our own evaluation of how well it does the job. That means that you will always get the best pickup for the money that you can afford whether that is $100 or $1000 we've got some choices for you.

Pure Acoustic Tone is our quest. Is it yours?

2005-07-12T10:09:00.000-05:00

Here I am with the legendary Dr. John at the Thunder Bay Blues Festival. It was a real honour to meet the "Night Crawler" himself and learn a little about "THE FONK".

One thing is certain, I'll find it hard to top this past weekend. Wish you were with me!

Blueridge BG-140

2005-07-07T10:27:00.000-05:00

Every single Blueridge guitar we get in makes us bigger and bigger fans of this company. The BG-140 is no exception. Solid Mahogany back and sides and a solid Sitka Spruce top adorned with a vintage sunburst make this a real 'eye catcher". The tone is magic and full with just the right amount of bass and sparkle on the highs. I'm sure it won't be long before we have to order more so you should come down soon!

1956 Gibson Southern Jumbo auction

2005-07-04T17:38:00.000-05:00

We're selling a really sweet Gibson Southern Jumbo guitar on eBay. The guitar has been refinished, but sounds really sweet and plays great. The auction can be found here.

Please take the time to check it out.

Beard Gold Tone Square Neck Resonator

2005-07-04T12:40:00.000-05:00

This new resonator is head and sholders above anything we've had in the shop before. Designed by Paul Beard for Goldtone, this dobro features his open soundwell design as well as a USA made resonator and spider bridge. We went one step further and got it from Paul Beard himself. This unit plays like a dream is really quite loud. It comes with a custom hardshell case. You have got to try this out!

Larrivee D-05

2005-06-29T13:37:00.000-05:00

Thought I'd shine a little light on this guitar. The Larrivee company has been making guitars since the early 70s and there is no doubt that they have the process perfected. The D-05 model features solid Mahogany back and sides and a Solid Sitka Spruce Top along with a smooth gloss finish and a sterling sliver headstock border.

Comes complete with a Limited Lifetime Warranty and a hardshell case with the Larrivee logo silk screened proudly on the side.

Local Hero - James Hickerson

2005-06-24T12:19:00.000-05:00

James Hickerson is one of our very fine customers. He is a talented guitarist, banjo picker, bass player, mandolinist and singer/songwriter. His first CD SURE came out last year to much critical acclaim. You can catch James playing with the trio Small Rooms, Darcia Senft or backing up Stephen Johns in the S.J. Louders. Check this guy out and tell him you saw him on the Sled Dog Blog!

First Day of Summer

2005-06-21T10:48:00.000-05:00

Happy Summer Solstice everybody! Today is the first day of summer and an important day for guitarists everywhere. Why is it important for guitarists you ask? Well aside from the fact that it is Ray Davies birthday. it's also the first day that guitar players should be getting their guitars "set-up" after the long winter.

Now by "Set-up" we don't mean the blind date way, but we mean the seasonal tune up that every guitar needs. Most of you are probably noticing that your frets are buzzing a little and that your old friend is maybe not responding the way it used to. We take care of those little buzzes and make sure that your axe is up to the grind.

Happy first day of summer pickers and we'll see you soon!

New Blueridges!

2005-06-15T10:19:00.000-05:00

We've got a couple of these beauties on order and I'm expecting them next week. This guitar features a solid Spruce top with a classic "vintage sunburst" and solid Mahogany back and sides. Unmatched playability and tone at an unbelievable price! That's Blueridge!

Another Local Hero - Greg Glatz

2005-06-13T11:45:00.000-05:00

Greg is one of our regular customers. He comes in about once per week to visit, talk to us about guitars and to generally make our life better. He also helped me build my fence! Greg is the pastor at the Central Baptist Church on Ellice Ave. at Wall St. Drop by on Sunday morning and tell him that you saw him on the Sled Dog Music Blog!

New Sidewalk for Sled Dog Music!

2005-06-10T09:25:00.000-05:00

This is what passes for fun here at the Dawg. Yesterday there were at least 8 and as much as 10 men laying a sidewalk outside the store. It was fun watching them and I felt like a six year old kid peaking through a hole in the fence. When they were done, John and I wanted to put our initials in the fresh concrete. Unfortunately they had a guard watching or we might have done it.

Songwriter Starter Kit

2005-06-03T10:54:00.000-05:00

Just add one songwriter. We start with our famous ARIA AD28 guitar outfitted with quality EPM electronics and complete the stage rig with the unbelievable sound of the Ultrasound AG-30 acoustic amp. Comes with a great gig bag and a 15' patch cord to plug the axe in and you're set to rock! This combination sounds amazing for this price who can argue!

Sweet! 1950s Martin Ukuleles for sale

2005-06-02T13:01:00.000-05:00

We've got two wonderful MINT collectors ukes for sale on eBay. The auction numbers are as follows; Martin Soprano Style 2 #7327568287, Martin Tenor # 7327576216.

I have played both of these and they are amongh the finest Martins I have ever seen. Both have minimal scratches and scuffs. Nothing to take away from the pleasure of ownership, plus they come with the original case! Very cool!

Buy them before someone else does!

2005-05-30T15:02:00.000-05:00

We got a new shipment of these amazing little amps. The AG30 is a single channel amp optimized for a piezo pickup. You simply have to hear this amp to believe it! 30 watts of power, Active Bass and Treble controls, Sweepable notch filter and an effects loop make this the PERFECT amp for anyone playing acoustic guitar. OH! It has a DI output on the back so you can plug direct into the main PA! All for about $300 bucks! WOW!

2005-05-27T11:04:00.000-05:00

Here's the guitar you've been looking for! This little plastic beauty has four strings but it ain't a ukulele or a banjo. Seriously though, we've got something for everyone. Stop on by and pluck your self a beauty today!

Local Hero Profile

2005-05-11T16:31:00.000-05:00

This is one of our customers and a fine songwriter to boot. Stephen Johns has a wonderful new CD out called Seven Songs. I encourage each and eveyone one of you to pick up this great CD. His website is www.stephenjohns.com. He is more than just a local hero to us, he is our friend. Thanks Stephen!

2005-05-04T11:59:00.000-05:00

This is a pic from 2004's Great Canadian Ukulele Expo. The expo is a great opportunity for folks to get involved with the ukulele and see masters of this instrument strum, pluck, smack and caress the sweet sweet sound. The date for the expo is Saturday May 7th (or this coming saturday). Tickets are only $50.00 for the whole day and that includes a 3 hour concert at the end of the day featuring 7 acts from the US and Canada! See you there!

Wall-O-Ukes

2005-04-30T10:38:00.000-05:00

This lovely trio of ukuleles is just part of the selection we have here at the DAWG. Pictured above are two FLEA brand ukuleles and an ARIA soprano ukulele. We keep at least 6 varieties of ukuleles on our wall at all times. Hey don't forget to check out the Great Canadian Ukulele Expo on May 7th at the Winnipeg Art Gallery. All our ukuleles and songbooks will be available there for sale. Uke ON!

2005-04-25T10:44:00.000-05:00

Ever wanted to build your own custom guitar? Well now is your chance! We just got these great Do-It-Yourself guitar kits in that come with pre-fitted parts and all the souldering done for you. All you need to do is assemble and play. The kit comes with finishing instructions and a paddle headstock so you can express your personal creativity. I can't wait to start on mine!

Bluegrass Jam tonight at Sled Dog Music. 7:00pm

2005-04-21T11:24:00.000-05:00

Don't forget that tonight is bluegrass night at Sled Dog Music. Come on down at 7pm and join the Manitoba Old Tyme Bluegrass Society as they jam the night away.

We are at 1328 Portage Avenue (one block west of Advance on the south side of Portage)
783-2542

Ukulele Circle Meeting - April 18th 7:00pm

2005-04-18T11:45:00.000-05:00

Grab your ukulele and come on down to Sled Dog Music @ 1328 Portage Avenue tonight for the monthly ukulele circle. Meeting starts at 7:00pm and is open to all players beginner on up. Bring your song sheets and a positive attitude and we'll strum away them spring blues. This will be your last circle before the big Ukulele Expo on May 7th at the Winnipeg Art Gallery. See you tonight!

Eastman MD515 is in!

2005-04-15T13:55:00.000-05:00

Every single Eastman we get just knocks us out. This MD515 is no exception. With features like a hand carved top, hand rubbed finish, ebony fingerboards and a deluxe case all for a reasonable price, how can you go wrong? Come on and check them out for yourself.

This ain't your uncle's ukulele!

2005-04-11T11:43:00.000-05:00

Nah! This ain't your uncle's ukulele. This hot little number is the TIKI Flea ukulele from the Magic Fluke Company. Cool graphics over an Australian Hoop Pine Top and ABS back set off this modern take on the soprano ukulele. If you're looking for a uke that sounds great, plays great and looks dangerous then this is the uke for you! Comes with a cool Flea Bag!

A tale of accident woes

2005-04-08T13:26:00.000-05:00

If you're going to have an accident...

Yesterday as the day was coming to a close I heard the screech of tires and the crunch of metal outside the shop.

I went outside to see what had happened and found that a Firefly had rear ended a tow truck. The two drivers got out of their vehicles and exchanged information. The driver of the car then climbed into the truck while the tow truck driver hooked up the car and took them away.

Really, you can't make this stuff up.

Sled Dog Customers Win JUNO Award

2005-04-04T10:55:00.000-05:00

A hearty congratulations to our friends The Wailin' Jennys for their JUNO win for Best Roots and Traditional Album - Group. We've been fans of this group since their inception and are so glad that everyone else is finally starting to get behind these lovely and talented ladies. Hey did you notice the mandolin Annabelle was playing during the finale? Well it was on loan from the store, so if you hurry down you might get to own a piece of Manitoba music history. An electric mandolin played by a Wailin' Jenny.

The Best Capo in the World!

2005-04-01T12:34:00.000-06:00

This is the best capo in the World! Really! I'm not making it up, Acoustic Guitar magazine gave it 5 stars and calls it an indispensible tool. This capo can be used one handed and works without over-tensioning the strings. You simply squeeze it closed to the desired tension and it stays there. Cool!