What is the course about?

This is our second year of guitar study. You will learn a variety of new songs and scales, and develop your ability to construct and move between chords. Rehearse smooth changes and work on your rhythmic skills.

This is a live online course. You will need:
– Internet connection. The classes work best with Chrome.
– A computer with microphone and camera is best (e.g. a PC/laptop/iMac/MacBook), or a tablet/iPad/smart phone/iPhone if you don’t have a computer.
– Earphones/headphones/speakers.
We will contact you with joining instructions before your course starts.

What will we cover?

– We will develop a repertoire of songs in styles such as blues, pop, folk and Latin
– Students can also expect to receive guidance on song structure and arrangement
– Musicianship relevant to pop songs and the acoustic guitar
– practise strumming rhythm and finger-picking
– listening skills.

What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to…

– Play in a wide range of keys
– Play chords up to the 7th with some extensions
– Play scales in transposable form
– Demonstrate the ability to play through songs
– Tackle new music with confidence
– Play and be able to learn in an independent way.

What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?

For players who have completed 2a or have equivalent experience, after at least another previous year of guitar study. You have established hand shapes for the most used chords e.g. E, Em, E7, G, C, F, A7, Am7, D7 etc., simple bar chords, strumming and picking in time. You understand chord progression such as I, IV & V, especially how chord V relates to the tonic I. We will build on this to play effective alternating bass and construct chord progressions.

You will need to follow written and verbal instructions in English and engage in class discussions.

How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?

You will play together in class and be taught through tutor demonstration and instruction, practising songs, warm-ups and ensemble playing. Music will comprise song chord charts and guitar tablature. Practice between classes will be essential if you are to keep up with the coursework and derive full benefit.

Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?

Music materials and learning resources will be supplied in the google classroom. Use your own acoustic instrument.

When I’ve finished, what course can I do next?

Next term you can progress to Folk and pop guitar 2c.