Hello fellow guitarists.

After trying various methods of controlling feedback on archtops with a floating pickup, it's incumbent that I warn you against the use of inflated ballons in the F holes. The ballon inflated near the volume/tone pots will often knock the ground wire off making the guitar basically useless electronically. Henry Johnson e-mailed me saying he has taped his F holes for 25 years.

Also, repetitve hand syndrome will eventually happen usually after years of playing and not slowing down. It's best to maintain some level of good physical fitness and the use of supplements. Small scale guitars also help to avoid it. Carpal tunnel is also very possible. Google 'musicians hand injuries' for further information.

The lesson to me is not to become overly obsessed with a machine such as a guitar. Try to develop other aspects of musicianship, such as ear training, away from the instrument, using techniques such as singing. Barney Kessell's advice to play a chord and sing then play what is sung is a great fun activity.

There are ways to survive the physical perils of playing the guitar. The hardest thing I think is to maybe sacrifice a heavy string and go lighter. Could you imagine Wes sounding like Jim Hall? Jim Hall, by the way, will not touch a guitar for a month after a long tour.

Hope these tips helps!