My first SPAH convention was in 1990. At that time I only knew one "name" in the harmonica industry: Jerry Murad. I was thrilled to be seated at the same table with him for the banquet. At that convention I also met, and heard, for the first time Pete Pederson. I still consider Jerry a large influence for me, but have to rank Pete right up there, also. The harmonica world misses them both. 

Jerry Murad

December 1, 1919 -
May 11, 1996

Pete Pederson

September 4, 1925 -
May 15, 2002

Even as we feel the loss of some of the big influences in harmonica music, there are new players coming in all the time that have a love for our instrument. Maybe my sons will be part of that. Logan is three and loves playing his harmonicas. And maybe you shouldn't build too many expectations for your children, but I can't help hoping that newborn Tanner (who has yet to hold a harmonica) will go far with it, since he was born on Pete's birthday - September 4, 2003.

Music expresses that which cannot be said and on which it is impossible to be silent.

 Victor Hugo