Student Testimonials:
"Grant is a player's player and a teacher's teacher. His personalized teaching elevated this beginner's playing to the next level. I soon returned to learn how to teach others. In doing so, Grant provided both information and inspiration."
Rob Thomas
I began studying harmonica with Grant about ten years ago. I had worked with books and other instructors, but something was missing; I wanted someone who could help me understand the harp and connect with it deeply. Grant and I spoke between sets at a gig at the Fiddler's Inn. Not only was his playing incredible, but it was clear that his understanding, commitment and passion for the instrument was genuine. From the time I began lessons I have felt fortunate to be one of Grant's students. Grant has an amazing set of skills that make him the ideal harmonica instructor. As a professional player he has "the sound" and then some. His tone and vibrato are unbelievable, his range of styles, from blues to old timey to gospel (check out his CD "Crossing That River"!) are astounding. These skills alone would make for a great instructor, but Grant brings something more. As a teacher he has the rare insight to understand his student's connection to the harmonica, then helps guide that connection to undreamed of levels. Grant is the kind of instructor that makes this journey a joyous adventure. In short, if you're serious about harp, check Grant out. Get ready to understand and play the harmonica in ways you won't believe!
Jeff Brown
The Real Thang!
That's what I can say about Grant Dermody as a blues harp player of the first order, and the reason I can enthusiastically recommend him as an instructor. The cat knows his way around a diatonic harmonica like few players I've met. More than that, he is uncanny in his ability to lead you to better playing, no matter what level you are at (or think you're at). He's a terrific person, a true gentleman, and a great teacher. I had the pleasure of studying under Grant at the Acoustic Blues Camp that's in association with the annual Telluride Brews and Blues Festival (a fine festival in its own right, and the associated Acoustic Blues Camp is 4-days of pure joy). Grant makes some sweeping claims at the outset of his instruction, but true to his word, he makes good on all of them. Better tone, better phrasing, better comping to other's play, better soloing, better tongue blocking; it's a complete package that Grant offers.
Even if you've played many years, don't make the mistake of thinking you know all this. Even the most accomplished blues harpers will benefit greatly by spending some time together with Grant and your harps. Singly or in groups, Grant has a knack at reaching out to individual players and tailoring a personalized course of study. I've studied with other great harp players, but none has had the teaching skills that Grant offers. In my experience, most great harp players teach by example, but Grant offers and can demonstrate specific steps to improve your playing. After listening for a few minutes, he can tell you things about your playing that you didn't know yourself. And he won't let you go away without charting a course to continue your learning experience long after your lessons are over.
The bottom line: If you are a diatonic harmonica player and get a chance to study with Grant Dermody, jump on it! You won't regret it for one minute. I know I'm looking forward to my next opportunity!
Michelle LeFree
site: Deepwood Studio
