30
Mar
2026
April 2026 Student Spotlight: Neal Smalley
April’s student spotlight is shining on one of the most dedicated and enthusiastic guitar players Stages has ever seen – Neal Smalley. Neal has been playing guitar for 30+ years, but his enthusiasm for the instrument has only grown. In retirement, he practices hours and hours each day and has created a YouTube channel where he captures his hard work through an ongoing video project.
Neal studies with Charles Simon, who says of this stellar student “Neal is a reminder that growth doesn’t have an expiration date. Every week, he shows up ready to challenge himself, whether that’s tacking a demanding classical piece or reimagining the guitar through his own jazz lens. There’s something incredibly powerful about watching someone pursue music purely for the love of it. Neal approaches the guitar with curiosity, discipline, and a deep appreciation for the process of getting better each day.”
He goes on to say “Neal reminds me that music isn’t about where you start or how fast you progress. It’s about showing up, staying curious and continuing to grow no matter where you are in life.”
Read on to learn more about this dedicated guitarist…
What is your instrument and how long have you been playing?
My instrument is guitar and I’ve played for 30 plus years on and off.
What kind of music do you like to listen to and play?
I don’t listen to opera, rap or bagpipes, I love everything else. Classical, jazz, blues, older country and Motown are always welcome.
What’s your favorite thing about Stages or do you have a favorite Stages memory?
My favorite thing about Stages is it’s a one-stop shop, one can learn how to play, perform and record all in the same location. My favorite memory at Stages is the recordings and videos that I’ve done in Studio A. Hoping to do more!
What are your musical goals?
My current musical goals are just to keep learning, it seems every time I think I know it all, Charles proves that just isn’t true!
What stands out most about Neal isn’t just his dedication to practicing and to the guitar, it’s his willingness to step outside of his comfort zone and continue to grow.
If you could collaborate with any musician, who would it be and why?
If I could play with another musician, it would be J.J. Cale. That man gets a groove that not many musicians capture.
What advice would you give to someone just starting out?
To those just starting out, find a qualified instructor, one you are comfortable with and a decent instrument. Most important is practice, practice, practice!
How has music changed your life?
Music has been a big part of my life, from the garage bands playing at high school dances, to playing night clubs, to playing 9 or 10 hours a day now that I’m retired. I would be lost without music!
What’s something you’ve accomplished musically that you’re proud of?
I’m very proud of the recordings and videos I’ve done in Studio A. That has been my retirement project and I’ve enjoyed the hours and hours of lessons and practice to accomplish that.
I always tell Neal that “I want to be like you when I grow up!” and I mean it. He spends his time learning, creating, and pushing himself on the instrument every day.
What are your hobbies or interests besides music?
My other interests are Radio Control airplanes (when it’s warm out) and feeding/watching the backyard wildlife.
What inspired you to start playing music?
I always seemed to enjoy listening to music, however the biggest inspiration was seeing The Beatles on Ed Sullivan.
Who are the musicians that inspire you most?
I have been inspired by many musicians over the years, Christopher Parkening, Charlie Byrd, Joe Pass, Eric Clapton’s early stuff, J.J. Cale, Hank Williams, Enya, Loreena Mckennit – almost too many to list.
Who is your teacher and what do you appreciate about them?
Charles Simon is my instructor, I appreciate that if I have an idea or hear something in my head, Charles provides several options on how to accomplish it. Charles has forgotten more about music than most musicians ever knew. I look forward to every lesson!
What do you love most about playing music?
What I enjoy most about music is where it takes you, or lets you go. If I’m playing a piece of music and playing it well, my mind is blank.
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