Age group: 6th grade & up
This guitar class is designed for guitar players who are looking to take their playing to the next level. The class is perfect for those who have already learned the basics of rhythm guitar playing and are now ready to delve into more advanced techniques and concepts. The guitar instructor will provide personalized attention and guidance to each student, ensuring that they progress at their own pace and receive individual feedback and support. Students will have the opportunity to practice their skills in a supportive and collaborative learning environment, working both individually and in small groups.
The music theory component of the class covers a range of important topics, including the Circle of Fifths, the Nashville Number System, key signatures, key changes, advanced chord progressions, transposition of chord charts, chord construction, and transposing with a capo. By learning and mastering these music theory concepts, students will have a solid understanding of how to apply these principles to their guitar playing. This will give them a deeper understanding of the music they are playing and provide a strong foundation in music theory.
Throughout the course, students will have the opportunity to explore various rhythm guitar techniques to enhance their skills and confidence as guitarists, including techniques for accompanying vocals with guitar, and adding vocals to guitar performance. They will learn how to play rhythm guitar in a variety of musical styles, with a focus on the Contemporary Christian Music genre. They will learn advanced strumming patterns, and fingerpicking techniques, while also delving into more intricate strumming and rhythm techniques, such as syncopation and palm muting. These techniques will help students develop a more nuanced and sophisticated approach to rhythm guitar playing. In addition, the class will cover barre chords, and power chords, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of the guitar's potential.
Through a combination of theory lessons, practical exercises, and performance opportunities, students will gain a deeper understanding of the fundamental principles of music theory as they apply to the guitar. They will also develop their skills in playing and singing simultaneously, creating a more cohesive and dynamic performance.
By the end of this course, students will have a strong foundation in playing advanced strumming patterns, fingerpicking techniques, and chord progressions. They will also possess the knowledge and skills necessary to transpose songs into different keys, accompany vocals with guitar, and add vocals to their own guitar performances if they choose. Additionally, students will have a deeper understanding of music theory concepts and how to apply them to their playing, as well as a stronger grasp of advanced rhythm techniques that will provide them with a broader range of options for their guitar playing. With a focus on practical skills and theoretical concepts, this class is designed to help students take their playing to the next level and unlock new musical horizons with newfound skills and confidence.
(2024-2025)