The 2010 Winter class series classes will have a slightly different format. Classes run 8 weeks on Monday evenings, from January 11th through March 8th (classes will NOT meet January 18th). Class length is 80 minutes. Cost for each class is $195. Take two classes and receive a $10 discount. Take all three and receive a $30 discount! Please note: Class fees are non-refundable, and class fees cannot be pro-rated. All classes are held at Gryphon Stringed Instruments, 211 Lambert Avenue (at Park Ave.), Palo Alto, CA 94306.
Questions? Call Ed at (650) 858-0264 or email him at edmundjohnson@sbcglobal.net .
Pop and Rock Hits for Acoustic Guitar - Learn a wide ranging repertoire of classic and contemporary gems from artists such as The Beatles, Stevie Wonder and other Motown artists, Norah Jones, Green Day, Sting/The Police, Sheryl Crow, Michael Buble, Elton John, Alanis Morrisette, Beach Boys, Van Morrison, Elvis Costello, and more! We'll use both fingerstyle and flatpicking techniques to lay down solid grooves. All material will have tab and standard notation. (Monday 5:45-6:55PM) Sign me up!
Jazz Guitar Basics: Chords, Comping, and Soloing Techniques - This class will cover "comping" (accompaniment) techniques and chordal choices in playing jazz standards, Latin jazz, blues, and "groove jazz" tunes as well as systematically teaching you the scale forms and melodic arpeggios that are essential to soling over the changes. You will increase your chord vocabulary and knowledge of the fretboard, all while learning a wonderful repertoire of songs. We’ll discuss chord theory as we go through each step of the process so that you gain a better understanding of the guitar and music in general. Prerequisites: Students should have a solid two years of playing experience. (MONDAY 6:55-8:05PM) Sign me up!
Brazilian Grooves, Repertoire, and Ensemble Playing - Acoustic stringed instruments such as guitar, mandolin, bass, cavaquinho (the precursor to the ukelele) as well as vocalists and light percussion will have a great time learning to blend with each other, playing complementary parts that create an infectious groove. We will cover traditional and modern samba, bossa nova, samba pagode, baião, forro, and choro. Written handouts will be given weekly. Level guideline: Guitarists should have some prior experience with playing moveable chord forms. Mandolin players should already be able to play some tunes and be familiar with basic chords. Cavaquinho and ukelele players should be well-versed in the basic chord forms for those instruments. Bassists should have some prior experience in any style. For singers who would like to participate, all you need is an ability to sing on pitch and a willingness to learn songs in Portuguese. Come experience the varied and unique musical styles from this vast country with a rich cultural heritage! (MONDAY 8:10-9:20PM) Sign me up!