Tom Russ Livres

Four Guitars (more or less) is part memoir and part exposition of the modern handmade acoustic guitar. Like so many baby boomers the author took up playing the guitar again after several decades only to discover the instrument all over again but with a deeper and richer appreciation than in his youth. This book chronicles the relearning to play music but really discovering the guitar for the first time. In searching for the variations in guitars caused by different combinations of musical woods the author embarks on a series of guitar tastings among guitar players that reveal more than expected. The lessons learned go beyond the melody and tempo lessons to more subtle appreciation of the relationships between players and their instruments, the beauty and character of hand crafted instruments and the luthiers that build them. In the end the book is an appreciation of the guitar in general and the relationship with four guitars (more or less) in particular.

No question too embarrassing, naive, complicated or simple - everything that's ever been asked about dementia, answered.

The narrative centers on Dr. Konstantin Frank, a pioneering figure who transformed American wine production after fleeing Soviet Ukraine during WWII. He recognized the potential of the Finger Lakes' terroir and championed the cultivation of vinifera grapes, defying skepticism and ultimately achieving remarkable success. His innovative practices led to the region's acclaim for producing exceptional varietals like Riesling and Chardonnay. The legacy of his work continues through four generations of the Frank family, whose winery consistently earns prestigious awards.