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Chet brings his personable and interactive musical style to every performance. He continues to hone his skills on the street corners of popular shopping destinations, in the halls of retirement and care centers, and at various restaurants and bars. Chet's repertoire spans songs from the 1950s to today, covering a wide range of genres. Suggest an artist, and he’ll do his best to accommodate your request—performances are always livelier when the requester sings along!

As a graduate of Guitars for Vets, Chet donates ten percent of all contributions he receives to help teach fellow veterans to play the guitar through the same program that inspired him. He also serves as an instructor for the organization, sharing his skills with others.

My Story

What began as a lighthearted pastime has blossomed into my lifelong passion for music. My musical journey started in public school, where I played the trumpet and tuba in school bands, laying the foundation for a love that would grow over time. In 2018, my current adventure took shape—somewhat playfully—with a light blue toy ukulele and a whimsical question: what if I could earn a living playing music?

This path led me to Guitars for Vets, a remarkable nonprofit I discovered through a YouTube video featuring Sully Erna of Godsmack during the COVID-19 lockdown. Guitars for Vets pairs veterans with instructors for ten free guitar lessons, culminating in the gift of their own guitar upon completion. My experience with the program transformed me, and I now give back by donating ten percent of all my music-related earnings to support its mission. I’m also proud to serve as a guitar instructor in their virtual program, helping other veterans discover the joy of music as I did. Currently, I’m working to establish a Northeast Iowa chapter to expand this meaningful work.

This journey has been a whirlwind of discovery—a chance to reclaim lost time, express emotions beyond words through music, and connect with audiences in vibrant, live performances. My involvement with Guitars for Vets has deepened my appreciation for music’s power to heal and unite.

To learn more about how I’ve embraced a growth mindset and found rewards through this journey, continue reading below.

Challenge vs Growth Mentality +

I’ve played in hootenannies, for farmers markets, nursing homes, wedding receptions, family reunions. However, my passion lies in the intimacy of “busking” or street performing – the more spontaneous, the better. I love the idea of being able to go at any time to a location with a minimal amount of gear. Set up in a public place and entertain and interact with people. I like connecting with people over music. It is common for me to ask people their musical interests and I do my best attempt to deliver on them to my audience. I am not hesitant to stray to see if I can rise to performing a request or suggestion from a listener. This allows me rise to the challenge of trying to cater to people’s musical interests.

My Rewards +

Street Performing/Busking results in the option of being rewards for my effort. When I perform, I am “guaranteed” nothing but my effort. If my listeners feel so inclined to reward me for my effort, so be it. If they don’t feel so inclined, so be it. I made a commitment to donate 10% of all proceeds to a non-profit organization near and dear to my heart – Guitars4Vets.

I try not to compare my skills with others. My musical growth continues. I recognize I am not the perfect guitarist, nor the perfect vocalist. But, I have a passion for engaging people through music and I appreciate the opportunities that afford me that encounter.