Larry McCabe was born in Kansas City, Missouri. he studied music with several teachers including Eldon Shamblin, legendary swing guitarist, and arranger for Bob Wills. Deciding on freelance teaching as a music career, Larry received his degree in education from the University of Arizona in 1979. Since graduating from college, Larry has taught over 30,000 private music lessons. He has also taught music history with a focus on American popular music and jazz. An experienced blues guitarist, he played in the Gulf Coast Blues Band, wrote a Living Blues magazine column called Blues Box, and is currently on the nominating committee for the annual W.C. Handy awards. He also enjoys playing Irish fiddle music. Larry's vast experience in private lessons has given him a unique understanding of the educational needs of the typical music student. Beginning with Blues, Boogie, and Rock Guitar in 1984, he has written several Mel Bay books on various subjects including guitar, bass, and songwriting techniques.