Neil Tapp

Drawing from the fingerpicking mastery of Doc Watson, Rev. Gary Davis, and pre-war country blues Tapp embarked on a path of in-depth study, refining his technique and paying homage to the roots of the genre.

His early influences are country blues, ragtime, folk and early jazz. His passion for the art of fingerstyle guitar is obvious as he traces the history and developing styles from the 1920's to today. His repertoire starts with his own songs and ranges from Doc Watson to Leo Kottke to Ry Cooder to Lightnin’ Hopkins and more.

Winner 2022 Billtown Blues Association Blues Challenge Solo/Duo. 
Official Challenger 2023 Blues Foundation International Blues Challenge.

He has been playing coffeehouses, bars, clubs, festivals and house concerts up and down the east coast from Nova Scotia to Georgia since 1975.

"For anyone reading this let me explain something. Guitar players are a dime a dozen. I know. I have been one for over 50 years. GUITARISTS are a very rare breed. They have mastered the instrument through God given talent and endless practice. Neil Tapp clearly falls into this latter group." Bud Rizer

"The world needs more picking. Take a break from your day, close your eyes and just listen."  Clawse Blanchette

“Sounds like we went to the same school” David Bromberg

“…everyone stopped in their tracks the moment you started playing.” Heather Hurlock, 4th Street Cafe

“His playing is a revelation” Dave Brown

“I could listen to him all night” John Costello

"O my god, your CD is great, Canada took my breath away , but then I heard Blue September, I was just really freaked out, thanks, You’re so good."  Diane Hughes

"A great show, as always!" Bev Booth-Jones, Ball and Thistle Pub

"... your guitar work and songwriting talents are extraordinary" John Gerbron

"... your compositions channel those you honor while highlighting your own unique talents." Richard Tarsia