Using a cappuccino to bribe John Dearman to stop by, I spoke with John about his experiences as a member of the Grammy Award-winning ensemble, the Los Angeles Guitar Quartet. We had a great conversation about how they rehearse, the keys to their success and sheer staying power—the group is now in its third decade—their particular group dynamic, as well as his great suggestions on arranging and transcribing for guitar quartet. Winter is the perfect time to listen to Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker Suite, and with heat waves all over the U.S., it seems all the more appropriate to hear it from a guitar ensemble based in Los Angeles. Additionally, you’ll hear the L.A.G.Q. (John Dearman, Scott Tennant, William Kanengiser, and Matt Greif) play selections from their amazing version of El Amor Brujo, a Jobim medley from their recent release Brazil, and lot’s more.