Many people start playing guitar so they can strum through a song and accompany themselves or others. If you only know a few open chords and a couple of different strumming patterns it's difficult to give a tune its own character. It can be all too easy for every song to sound the same. Experienced guitarists avoid this by using a range of tricks and techniques to add depth and colour to each song they play.

What happens if there's two or more of you? A room full of guitarists all strumming the same three open chords is pretty dull. Far better if you can add interest with some complimentary playing techniques.

The main aim of this one-day course is to provide you with the tools and the confidence needed to play songs well, in both solo and group situations. Although this is primarily an acoustic course, much of this knowledge could be applied to an electric band situation. Oh yeah, we'll be having fun too!

Course Outline

The course will be in two parts:

10am to 1pm: We'll be taking two songs and working up arrangements. They'll be decided upon ahead of time and hopefully reflect the tastes and abilities of those participating. We'll spend time getting into the details of the topics I've outlined and applying them to the songs.

1pm - 2pm: Lunch

2pm - 5pm: For the second part of the course a singer and possibly a percussionist will be joining us.

If you sing yourself you can either take the lead or provide backing vocals depending on what you feel comfortable doing. No pressure! Next we'll rehearse our arrangements and record them. At the end of the day you'll have a professional recording to remember the day by.

This course will take place in Studio B, a fully specified 24 track digital studio. There is secure parking, tea and coffee making facilities and comfy chairs!

Course date: TBC

Cost: £100 for the day.

If you're interested in participating there are still a couple of places left. These are limited though as the course is "bespoke" and intended for relatively small numbers. Get in touch either by email or on 07950 647783.

Graham Young - 28.06.10

 

• Strumming Patterns
• Alternate & Complimentary Chord Voicings
• Percussive parts
• Using the capo to layer textures
• Interlocking rhythms
• Alternate Tunings
• Playing for the singer
• "Colour" and effects
• Recording Acoustic Guitars