Guitarist Craig Thatcher, in addition to leading his Craig Thatcher Band, is an International Clinician/Ambassador for C.F. Martin & Co. of Nazareth, Pa., as well as an instructor and recording artist.

Thatcher began playing guitar in 1964, inspired by the Beatles, and two years later was in his first band, which in two more years was being paid to perform.

In those formative years, Thatcher was influenced by the music of guitarist Eric Clapton (whom he will honor in the BJF concert), and then Jimi Hendrix. Over the years he has added many genres, including folk, funk/jazz, blues and rock. He has performed in every state and in more than 35 countries.