Testimonials

Also see:  Appearances (Venues / TV / Radio)

The Riff Rangers is truly a professional group that I can highly recommend for a wedding or any occasion. I have seen them many times and am taken by their rendition of everything they play. The vocals are incredible and the guitar and rhythm section truly a treat for your senses. They have a catalogue of many great tunes and are sure to know any song you want them to perform. Aside from that they are just genuine and kind people!

- Daniel Wirig   

  Plymouth, MN   October 2023

The Riff Rangers create a fun ambiance that gets people energized and relaxed -- perfect for a party!

- Anna A.   

  Eagan, MN  August 2023

The Riff Rangers have played the Birchwood, Minnesota, Music in the Park summer concert series three years running. They put on a very entertaining show. Great guitar work, nice harmony, bass and percussion, and a wide repertoire of songs. They leave the audience asking that they return the following year.

- Alan Mitchell,  Director

  Birchwood Summer Concert Series   

  White Bear Lake MN   July 2023

I had the pleasure of seeing the Riff Rangers perform recently and they are absolutely delightful. They have a widely varied repertoire and handle all the music with expert sensitivity. You can tell they're all having a blast the whole time they're on stage, and the fun is infectious. I can't wait to catch them again soon!

- Meggie Moench   

  Richfield, MN   July 2023

I have been a top fan for several years. The Riff Rangers are really talented and really enjoy making music. They are super musicians, super vocalists, and their music is just beautiful!

- John King   

  New Brighton, MN   July 2023

This is a great group! They're all very talented and have a wonderfully wide repertoire!

- EriK A.   

  Eagan, MN   July 2023

The Riff Rangers definitely provided a fun night of entertainment! Their catalog has something for everyone, and their positive and uplifting stage presence is well suited for everything from casual social outings, to formal corporate events, to weddings. 5/5, would recommend!

- Ryan Mundt   

  Ham Lake, MN  July 2023

These guys are a very talented and fun group. Well worth seeking them out for a listen.

- Chris Anderson   

  Eagan, MN   July 2023

The Riff Rangers are an amazing ensemble of musicians, a central trio of fine singers who harmonize wonderfully, with guitar, bass, drums and sometimes other embellishing instruments.  They perform well-crafted versions of over a hundred recognizable songs by great pop, jazz, blues, rock, folk and country writers. Flawless, secure performances, and well-blended professional sound quality, with entertaining stage personalities. Terrific performers doing wonderfully dance-able music. Highly recommended.

- Warren Park   

  Minneapolis, MN   July 2023

Dale, I want to say thank you to you and The Riff Rangers for coming to Birchwood last night. You guys gave a very entertaining performance. It was a fun night. Thank you. Several of my neighbors who hadn't heard you before told me that they thoroughly enjoyed your performance.

- Alan Mitchell,  Director

  Birchwood Summer Concert Series   

  White Bear Lake MN   July 2022

My girlfriend and I thoroughly enjoyed The Riff Rangers show last night at the BLB Theater!  What talent!

- Daniel Wirig  

  Plymouth MN   May 2022

We enjoyed The Riff Rangers performance at Birchwood last night.  As usual, the singing is great, as well as the guitars and drums. The blending of your three voices is almost like you are "family".  (Some people say that family members have their own unique harmony.)  We certainly will come see you at Como Park Pavilion in September. Thanks again for sharing your talents.

- Jean McBride  

  White Bear Lake, MN    July 2022

A performance by Dale feels like an afternoon on the back porch with a good friend and his guitar. His relaxed style, delightfully quirky sense of humor and musical talent allows you to sit back, hum along and enjoy a good time. Add in the talented musicians of The Riff Rangers and you have fun, high‑quality entertainment that seniors or an audience of all ages will enjoy.

- Carol Torgerson, Resident Services Director

  Rosepointe Senior Living    

  Roseville, MN

Thank you. It was a highly entertaining evening. The band sounded very good and you, my friend, are an amazing guitar player.

- Tom Anderson   

  North Branch, MN

What wonderful songs and harmonies!  I got chills!!

- Peggy Naylor.

  Duluth, MN

What a fabulous show! Great arrangements of familiar tunes, featuring tight three-part harmony sung by wonderful voices. Your natural abilities really shine. First rate guitar work, too! You all sound authentic in your rendering of these great songs. 

- Warren & Patty Park   

   Minneapolis, MN

We were extremely impressed with the talent of the Argyle Street Trio! Their sets featured a great variety of fun, familiar songs and the singers’ voices blended beautifully together. These three are as enjoyable to watch as they are to listen to!  

- Emily Susa   

  Black River Falls, WI

Your sets at The Mezz Highland were wonderful! I had a great time. You provided fantastic vocal, guitar, and percussion arrangements that elegantly captured the essence of the originals, especially the CSN&Y tunes - really fine performances!   

- Dale Fierke    

   St. Paul, MN

The Argyle Street Trio delivered a captivating performance that showcased their remarkable talent, chemistry, and versatility. Their set was a perfect balance of soulful harmonies, dynamic arrangements, and engaging stage presence.

The trio’s vocal blend was the highlight of the evening, seamlessly transitioning from rich, layered harmonies to striking solo moments that allowed each member to shine. Their ability to connect with the audience was evident in the warm energy they brought to the stage, making the performance feel intimate and personal despite the size of the venue.

- Kwame G.    

   Woodbury, MN

I had a really great time at their show.  One of the songs they played is now on my favorite playlist on Spotify.  I wish I could listen to their version every day!  

- Kenoske H.    

   Negano, Japan

Great variety of songs, tremendous energy and beautiful singing.  

- Liam G.    

   St. Paul, MN

Was wonderful!!  Great way to spend my birthday!  

- Alex J. 

   Duluth, MN

Amazing range in music!  Great musicians and a treat to listen to.  

- Lindsay A.    

   Saint Paul, MN

The music was excellent!  Very good guitar playing, singing and song variety.  

- Denny Anderson    

   Duluth, MN

Dale

Dale Dahlquist has magic fingers. For decades, I have seen and heard his expertise grow. His guitar playing, and now mandolin, is exceptional. It was exceptional many years ago and it is even better now. If this was not enough music enjoyment, I love the combination of his voice and his instrument. When I have the privilege of hearing Dale perform, he takes me to another place, a place where rich vocals, heartfelt tunes, and extraordinary musicianship abound. It is a place that only music can take me.

- Barry Gunderson   

  Gambier, OH

We know Dale not only as a performer on stage, but also in everyday life. His thorough approach to everything amazes and inspires. Dale is diligent in his work and demanding of himself, as are the members of his band. The result is quality music that is always fun to hear. Dale is a versatile musician who skillfully plays several musical instruments. In particular, we love his playing the mandolin.

- Serge Redchuck & Nadiia Strelnikova     

  Sacramento, CA

Thank you for playing in our Mezz Tap Room on Saturday evening. I am very impressed with your performance.

- Laura Passey,  Operations Manager

  Lunds & Byerlys

  Highland Park, MN    March 2023

We loved having you here!  Looking forward to your 2024 dates at Wooden Ship.

- Nancy S.    Staff

  Wooden Ship Brewing Company    

  Minneapolis, MN   November 2023

Had a wonderful time listening and joining in on the variety of songs sung by Dale and Kathleen. Thank you, and merry Christmas!

- Jesseth,  Resident

  Maple Hill Senior Living   

  Maplewood, MN   December 2023

Enjoyed Dale and Kathleen at Lyngblomsten Care Center yesterday. What a fun and talented duo! Their audience was fully engaged with the eclectic repertoire, ranging from blues to Irish to 60's. Heads were nodding, mouths moving, plenty of laughing. Looking forward to hearing these two regularly!

- Ginny Green   

  Mathomedi, MN   September 2023

Dale and Kathleen bring a mature blend of vocal harmonies and exciting guitar arrangements! In fact, they sound like a whole band, not just the duo that they are. A fun selection of music ranging from 1930's - 70's. 

- Marcia Sanoden   

  Saint Paul, MN     September 2023

Dale and Kathleen were great. I loved the zesty vocal and instrumental work of this duo! I found myself either rapt with admiration or singing along. These two are pros.

- Nancy Jonas     

  North Branch, MN     September 2023

Dale and Kathleen were great with tight vocal harmonies. Their broad repertoire contains many familiar songs that allow for audience participation with clapping & singing. I hope to hear more concerts by these talented artists.

- Winnie Hoch     

  Anoka, MN   September 2023

A thoroughly enjoyable performance this afternoon at Copperfield Hill. A nice variety of rock, country, jazz, blues, and music from the American song book that kept the toes tapping, and people smiling and dancing. Dale & Kathleen are highly recommended!

- George Linkert, Staff

  Copperfield Hill Senior Living     

  Mound, MN    August 2023

I loved it!  Hope to see you again soon!!

- Lynn A.   Resident

  Copperfield Hill Senior Living    

  Robbinsdale, MN    August 2023

Dale & Kathleen: Thank you so much for performing for the residents of Copperfield Hill.  Your lively performance of a wide variety of memorable tunes made this April birthday party very special.  Your voices, guitar and bass blend so well and it was such a delight for all of us.  Come back again!

- Linda Eriksson,  resident's daughter

  Copperfield Hill Senior Living   

  Robbinsdale, MN   April 2023

Yes, thank you for such a wonderful performance! The residents couldn't help but share how great it was hearing songs they hadn't heard in years from "I am my own Grandpa" to many others.  I will certainly be reaching out for another show.  The residents also made sure to let me know you are welcome back anytime!

- Kya Downie,  Activities Director

  The Sanctuary of West St. Paul   

  March 2023

Dale & Kathleen - I really enjoyed your performance and sing-along at our residence. It was a great trip down memory lane to hear and sing-along with many familiar tunes, some of which I haven't heard in a long time and missed dearly. It was fun to listen to the harmony of your duets and the variety of instruments. I especially enjoyed the classics done in their popular original form that were easy to sing along with. I hope you come back soon!

- Joseph Bester,

  The Sanctuary at West Saint Paul   

  St. Paul, MN   March 2023

Dale and Kathleen have performed for the residents at Maple Hill Senior Living on several occasions. Their repertoire is very eclectic and wonderful - from classics like, “Secret Agent Man” to “Lime Jello, Marshmallow, Cottage Cheese Surprise” - and every style and genre in-between. Both Kathleen and Dale are excellent musicians and their vocal harmonies are wonderful to listen to.

They are constantly adding new material to their act, so you don’t get the same show twice. The last time they performed for us, Dale told us they added 15 new songs to their set - only two months after they performed for us previously!

They’re both very engaging performers and interact well with their audience. Give them a try. There’s something for everyone to enjoy.

- Fred Wagner,  LE Director

  Maple Hill Senior Living   

  Maplewood, MN   March 2023

Dale & Rhiannon

Dale & Rhiannon were ELECTRIC! Our residents had so much fun singing and grooving along to their set. They were timely, professional, talented, and all around entertaining. Thanks you two!!

- Sydney Summers, Life Enrichment Coordinator

  The Preserve of Roseville   

  Roseville, MN

Dale & Kristen

Marc and I want to say thank you again for playing at our wedding. You and Kristen sounded incredible and really added to our event. You were such a pleasure to work with and we loved hearing Let My Love Open the Door at the end of the ceremony!  Thank you again!

‑ Jenni Nordin   

  Wedding at W.A. Frost, Saint Paul, MN

Dale as a teacher

There are guitar teachers and there are master guitar teachers. The latter are few and far between. Dale Dahlquist is the quintessential master teacher with over 30 years of experience. During these 30 years, he has taught over 8,500 students in every genre of music from blue grass to the blues and beyond. His own knowledge of songs is encyclopedic with wide ranging styles and modes. 

Taking lessons from Dale has elements of music history, theory, and technique. He focuses on a solid foundation with proper technique and an understanding of the music systems and principals. Where ever you find yourself on the music student spectrum from beginner to intermediate to advanced, Dale can teach it all with a professionalism that results in your personal advancement and growth as a musician. I recommend him highly. He is a rare talent and teacher.

‑ Greg McElroy   

  Minneapolis, MN

I have been studying with Dale for three-plus years. His guitar technique is above comparison, and he is the rare performer and teacher with the expertise in music theory to help aspiring players and song writers understand the music instead of merely memorizing the motions.

Dale also has the rare ability to accurately transcribe my favorite recordings into charts and tablature so that I can play (or attempt to play!) the same arrangements in the same key as the original recordings.

Dale’s teaching style is patient and flexible to his students’ needs and objectives. He is the consummate professional, and I recommend Dale to anyone at any skill level who wishes to learn guitar, improve their current expertise or learn new styles. I cannot imagine you will find a better teacher anywhere.

- John King   

  New Brighton, MN   October 2021

Dale Dahlquist has been teaching music at West Bank School of Music since the late 1970s. He has consistently shown an amazing grasp of his subject matter based on several decades as a professional performer of jazz, blues and folk music. Dale knows more guitar chords than just about anyone. Furthermore, Dale is a stellar communicator, and applies those special skills all the time as a teacher of private lessons, group classes and performance ensembles at WBSM. His students are the lucky beneficiaries of his dedication to his craft. Dale's love of music always shines through. He has developed a set of teaching techniques, materials and methods that make learning the guitar a snap for students of all skill levels.

- Warren Park, founder of West Bank School of Music, pianist, composer

  Minneapolis MN  

When I took lessons from Dale Dahlquist the internet was still some sci‑fi concept that wouldn't become a reality for another 15 years or so. (OMG, how did you live?) Believe it or not we had conversations while making eye contact. Don't get me wrong, I use the internet as much as most people. It truly can be a wonderful learning tool. There are many online sources and YouTube videos that will teach you how to play the guitar... well, sort of. While an online video might get you off the ground there will never be a substitute for one on one (face to face) learning. Between my private lessons and theory classes with Dale, I cleared many hurdles and plateaus. If you choose to work with Dale, your lessons will always be tailored to how you learn best. You'll work on technique, theory (chord construction and why certain chords work together to form a progression), and eventually, improvisation, if you wish. No two students learn the same way or at the same pace. Dale knows this and will work with you to reach your personal goals. Great teachers are rare because it takes more than being a great player. It takes a passion to teach, a deep desire to pass on to others what he or she has learned, and a need to share the wonder of music. Dale has developed these qualities over several years and hundreds of students, which is why I can recommend him with confidence.

- George Stone   

  Minneapolis, MN

I began taking lessons from Dale a little over seven years ago.  When I started with Dale I had many bad habits I had developed due to being self‑taught.   I wasn't even aware how much they were slowing down my development as a guitarist.  Dale identified these problems and also provided very helpful instruction on correcting them.  I can honestly say that without Dale's instruction I would be nowhere near as proficient on the guitar as I am now.  His instruction technique is low key and patient and when combined with his knowledge of both guitar technique and theory provides a great opportunity to learn how to competently play the guitar.  Both my guitar knowledge and aptitude have increased dramatically as a result of Dale's instruction.  I continue to take lessons from Dale and look forward to my lessons each week.  The speed at which I am advancing has increased dramatically as a result of Dale's instruction.  

- Dave Peterson   

  Eden Prairie, MN

I am Terry Norblom, former United States Kickboxing Champion.  As a Martial Arts Instructor, Personal Trainer and Life Coach I led 30 sessions a week for 33 years.  As a teacher Dale Dahlquist has a unique ability to make complicated music theory easy to understand and remember.  The way Dale arranges popular songs on the guitar allows me to produce a full and rich sound with a minimal amount of effort!  At times it feels like my fingers are hardly moving.  I have had other guitar/music teachers, I am traveling out of my way to learn from Dale Dahlquist!

- Terry Norblom   

  Richfield, MN

I have known Dale for 8 years. I have attended many of his concerts and enjoyed his performances a lot. He certainly is a very accomplished guitar player. His selection of songs fits the age group of his attendees. I am sure that for someone wanting to learn guitar they would have a highly qualified teacher. He certainly has the knowledge to pass on to his students. He's also a talented vocalist. Dale is a complete entertainer.

- Harold Root   

  Roseville, MN