A First-of-Its-Kind Musician Workshop Weekend
Acoustic • Electric • Drums • Bass
Arts Bonita is excited to introduce The Groove Summit, an immersive workshop weekend designed for guitarists, drummers, and bass players who want to elevate their technique, strengthen their musicality, and collaborate with fellow musicians. This is the first event of its kind at Arts Bonita, bringing together four highly respected performers and recording artists from the nationally touring production Floyd Nation.
The Groove Summit is ideal for intermediate to advanced musicians, with material that is still approachable for motivated newer players. Across two days of hands-on learning, participants will experience small-group instruction, practical guidance, and real musical exploration.
What to Expect
Day 1 – Acoustic Guitar Day (Saturday)
A full day of technique, tone, feel, and acoustic performance dynamics, taught in rotating small-group sessions with Ray Nesbit and Brendon McDonnell.
Topics include sitting clearly in a mix, expressive rhythm playing, supportive voicings, tasteful leads, and developing emotional touch. The day concludes with a 4 p.m. showcase.
Day 2 – Electric Guitar Clinic (Sunday)
Electric guitarists spend the entire day in rotating sessions with Ray and Brendon, focusing on tone building, amp setup, expressive phrasing, dynamic control, and expanding note choices beyond the basics. This session is designed to give electric players both practical tools and new creative approaches.
Day 2 – Drum & Bass Clinic (Sunday)
Led by Justin Pupillo and Jason Collins, this clinic explores how drums and bass work together to create groove, pocket, momentum, and communication within a band. Participants rotate into the “hot seat” to interact directly with the instructors while others learn through listening and observation. A drum kit and bass amp will be provided.
Meet the Instructors
All four instructors are core members of Floyd Nation and recently recorded at Abbey Road Studios as part of the group’s exploration of Pink Floyd’s iconic catalog.
Brendon McDonnell – Guitar
A guitarist and instructor with more than 35 years of teaching experience. Brendon has performed with national touring acts such as George Lynch and XYZ, and is known for his deep understanding of tone, effects, and expressive guitar playing.
Ray Nesbit – Guitar, Producer, Audio Engineer
A veteran musician with over 30 years of touring and recording experience. Ray has collaborated with members of AC/DC, The Moody Blues, Cheap Trick, Goo Goo Dolls, The Allman Brothers, and many others. His expertise spans guitar technique, live sound, and studio production.
Jason Collins – Bass
A founding creative force behind Floyd Nation. Jason’s bass playing blends deep groove with narrative expression, shaping emotional transitions and anchoring the band’s expansive sound. His performance career includes recording at Abbey Road and touring nationally.
Justin Pupillo – Drums
A precision-driven drummer known for dynamic control, subtle detail, and thoughtful interpretation. Justin’s approach anchors Floyd Nation’s long-form arrangements and brings clarity and intention to every performance.
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