Playing with Passion: A Conversation with Billy Strings and Robb Cappelletto

Billy Strings, a critically acclaimed bluegrass guitarist, and his teacher Robb Cappelletto join forces for a unique conversation on the playing style of the late bluegrass legend Tony Rice.
The conversation took place at Carter Vintage Guitars in Nashville, where Strings and Cappelletto dissected Rice’s technique and dissected his influential playing style.
The playback of a live version of Tony Rice’s version of “Fishscale” accompanied their discussion, which provides deep insights into subtle musicianship, rhythmic feel, and instrumental expertise.

Billy Strings has been taking lessons from Cappelletto since May 1, 2023, and has been seeking guidance from a mentor to elevate his playing skills.
The guitarist has been drawn to Sonora Guitar Intensive, an online program for intermediate guitar players, and has found a sense of community and camaraderie among its participants.
Cappelletto, a renowned guitar teacher, has been instrumental in helping Strings navigate the complexities of bluegrass music and provide a more nuanced understanding of Rice’s playing style.

“I don’t know anyone else at that level who would just sign up for guitar lessons,” said Cappelletto. “It takes a certain amount of humility and wanting to get better, without ego.”

Evolution of Tony Rice’s Playing Style	• Tony Rice’s early playing was characterized by a strong emphasis on rhythm and timing
Subtle Musicianship	Rice’s playing style is marked by a deep understanding of the guitar’s tonal possibilities and a mastery of subtle musical nuances

Leading a Band with Your Ears	• Playing with your ears rather than your hands allows for a more intuitive and spontaneous approach to music-making
The Quiet Power of Playing with Joy	Rice’s playing style is characterized by a sense of joy and freedom, which is infectious and inspiring to listeners

For Billy Strings, playing with passion and a sense of joy is essential to creating music that resonates with others. In his conversation with Robb Cappelletto, Strings discusses the importance of finding one’s own unique voice and style, and the need to cultivate a sense of humility and dedication to one’s craft.

Billy Strings on Playing with Passion

• For Billy Strings, playing is about expressing oneself authentically and connecting with others through music

Robb Cappelletto on Billy Strings’ Progress

• Cappelletto has been instrumental in helping Strings navigate the complexities of bluegrass music and develop his skills as a guitarist

In their conversation, Cappelletto shares his insights on Billy Strings’ progress, noting that the guitarist has shown a remarkable ability to learn and adapt quickly. Cappelletto also emphasizes the importance of staying focused and committed to one’s goals, even in the face of challenges and setbacks.

Robb Cappelletto on Staying Focused

• Cappelletto stresses the importance of staying focused and committed to one’s goals, even in the face of challenges and setbacks

With their conversation offering deep insights into subtle musicianship, rhythmic feel, and instrumental expertise, the playback of a live version of Tony Rice’s version of “Fishscale” provides a poignant reminder of the enduring influence of the late bluegrass legend on the world of music.