Musician with a good heart

Dave Stretch shares his music and his time with others.

By CAROLINA RUIZ-MEJIA

Staff Writer

Dave Stretch, 42, tapped into his desire to help others when asked by longtime friend and founder, of Faith’s Hope Foundation Marcus Greene, to join the Board of Directors as treasurer.

The nonprofit organization based in Fullerton helps families pay for bills and mortgages while loved ones are hospitalized, no matter the medical condition.

Stretch volunteers as the foundation's treasurer and a member of the advisory board.

"It feels nice to know you're helping other people alleviate their troubles," Stretch said. "My world has been in business and here I am asking for money - it's been difficult."

Besides volunteering with the foundation, Stretch performs at Java Joe's and Main Street Restaurant in Yorba Linda .

For many years, he said he was shy about playing his guitar in front of people – even friends and family – but now he enjoys the stage.

Question: Since when have you played the guitar?

Answer: I've play guitar since I was in junior high. I would (play) in my room because I was too shy to play in front of friends. I've played at Java Joe's a couple of times and at Main Street Restaurant. Since then, I decided I wanted to do more of it.

Q: What does your guitar mean to you?

A: Up until a couple of years ago, I played with the guitars my dad bought me when I was a boy. I went to Los Angeles and San Diego to look for one when I was buying (my own). I finally got it in Irvine . I can open the case and smell the wood. It's got a good feel. It's like falling in love.

Q: What's your favorite type of music?

A: Rock and pop. And whatever works for acoustic guitar and voice. I can play what I want. It's really fun, now I can't stop.

Q: Why do you think people enjoy live music in Yorba Linda ?

A: There are not many places that have live music here in Yorba Linda . There's something about going and having dinner or a drink while you listen to live music. I think people like to listen to good music and there's a good vibe here.

Q: What do you find in music?

A: Playing music is something that has always been within me, and it needs to get out. Due to a combination of time and confidence I didn't really play a lot before. I thought 'Well, if I am not the best guitar player, I can't be playing in front of people.'

Q: Do you write songs?

A: Yes, I write about standard things. About losing and loving a girl. And I have a couple of deeper songs. I wrote a song, "Falling from Grace," when I lost my job. It helped in the healing process. I was able to move on.

Q: How does writing help you get through a particular experience?

A: It's something about getting it out that helps to move on. But that is not always the case.

Q: What do you enjoy most, writing songs or playing guitar?

A: I do a lot more playing guitar than writing. I might not get another decent song idea, but I couldn't step down from playing guitar.

Q: Do you have a favorite song of yours?

A: "Let Me Down Easily," which can fit in the breaking down category. I recently recorded it. It's not based on a personal experience.

Contact the writer: 714-704-3790 or cmejia@ocregister.com