Andy Maples

Story

I am a full time camp missionary at New Life Bible Camp in Buffalo Mills, PA.

Profile

Instruments

Genres

Influences

Equipment

Languages

What is music to you? What does it give you?

It is a great way to relax. It gives me peace of mind. I play a little bit every morning and usually a bit before I go to bed. Great way to start and end the day.

What is your music dream?

I simply enjoying playing my guitar to back up other people. I did the band thing and the tour thing years ago and now I just enjoy the playing aspect of music, I guess my dream would be to invest what I love about music into the next generations of guitar players that are under my influence.

If you could change the world - what would you start with?

The heart. I think all change begins with the heart. I try to write music and play songs that touch the heart and the soul of those who are listening and responding.

Which is the most memorable song from your childhood?

Boy From the Country by Michael Martin Murphy and performed by John Denver. The guitar arrangement was so beautiful. It influenced my guitar playing in many ways, mainly in trying to give a song beauty and grace, even when playing a style of music not known for those types of sensitivities.

Who are your favorite musical artists or bands?

Michael Martin Murphy and John Denver to start. James Taylor followed. The Doobie Brothers were a huge influence. Recently began following Tommy Emmanuel and Doyle Dykes

What inspires you to make music?

People, events, nature, but mainly the Bible and the writings of Oswald Chambers.

What is the message you want to send with your music?

The message of the Bible is the best message I know

How do you feel when you perform in front of an audience?

I am pretty laid back. I love to tell the story of the songs I am performing. I mostly play for the camp were I work but also play in local churches.

How do you see the musicians’ reality nowadays? What could be improved?

I live at a Bible Camp so not really sure how to answer this question. My reality is that I play for camp kids on a daily basis and I have been able to teach many of them how to play guitar and also the art of songwriting.

What do you think of Drooble?

Love it. Great resources for guys like me

What frustrates you most as a musician?

Playing with musicians who don't know how to listen. I have noticed that a lot of players are so worried about being heard that they miss the point of playing with others.

Do you support your local scene as a fan? How?

There really isn't a local musical scene were I live but I do drive a few hours whenever guys like Tommy Emmanuel and others. I actually met Tommy a few months ago when I drove up to catch his act at State College PA.

What qualities should a musician nowadays have in order to get their music heard by a larger audience?

Patience and a thick skin, and a great agent,

Share some awesome artists that we’ve never heard of.

Doyle Dykes? No one seems to have ever heard of him and he has been around for years. Wonderful man and a wonderful guitarist. His technique is flawless.