Dave started playing guitar in 1968 in Kingston, NY near Woodstock.  In the early 70’s he played in upstate NY cover bands before moving to NYC in 1977.  In NYC Dave played in the top clubs and studios. With former John Lennon sidemen from Elephant’s Memory, he opened shows for Muddy Waters, Jorma Kaukonen and Jerry Garcia as well as backing up Bo Diddley on his New York dates. They were featured in the major film “Hells Angels Forever” which also included Willie Nelson, Jerry Garcia, Bo Diddley and Johnny Paycheck.

    In 1991, Dave moved to Portland, OR and began his focus on acoustic blues where he studied with mentors John Cephas, Woody Mann, Bob Brozman, and John Renbourn.  His passion for playing has led to his success as a mainstay session player and guitar teacher in the Portland/Seattle area. 

    In 2000 Dave joined the teaching staff at IGS in NYC teaching along with his former mentors above as well as artists like Roy Bookbinder, Jorma Kaukonen, and many others. Dave continues to play and teach in the Pacific Northwest.  He has released a solo CD and two instructional DVDs and has begun work on his 2nd CD. (see Store tab)

Photo ©’06 Ric Kasnoff

BIOGRAPHY