Jim Hurst has announced his departure from The Claire Lynch Band after 10 years of faithful service. He worked with her as a member of The Front Porch String Band from 1995-2000, and again with The Claire Lynch Band from 2005 through 2010.

Throughout his times with Claire, Jim continued to perform on the side as a solo act, and in memorable duo stints with Missy Raines. He is accomplished on banjo and mandolin, to go along with his stylistically varied, award-winning guitar picking. On top of that, he is a versatile and engaging vocalist.

Jim said that this was a tough decision, but that he is making the move as a leap of faith..

“…and I’ll deal with whatever comes, and whatever is God’s will.

I spent many hours, days, weeks, really a year or so agonizing over this, and I can tell you, leaving a job with an almost completely empty calendar is gut wrenching and stressful. But, I know it’s the right thing for me. I’ve discussed this and all the associated issues surrounding this with Claire more than just a couple times. No doubt she is relieved that part will be over and done with, as am I.”

That calendar won’t be empty for long. Jim’s wife Judy is handling booking.

Judy Hurst – email – 270-991-2034 or 615-469-4071

No word yet from Claire about a new guitarist for her band. We expect that announcement sometime in January.

UPDATE 2:40 p.m. – Jim mentioned that he is now offering online guitar instruction using video chat (Skype, Gmail, MSN Messenger, etc.). Anyone interested should contact Jim by email.