When & Where

Quick Facts

  • Availability Late starts accepted
  • Tutor Geoffrey Raggett
  • Course Code W23MPPF04C
  • Suitable For 19 year olds and up are permitted on this course

What you will learn

This term explores the fingerstyle characteristics of guitar pieces recorded during the 1920’s based on the playing of pioneers like Blind Blake, Big Bill Broonzy, and Blind Willie Mctell.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this course, you will be able to:

  • Study a solo acoustic guitar arrangement that draws from the Ragtime style
  • Read, count and clap rhythm off the sheet music observing syncopated rhythms
  • Acknowledge key signatures and explore the common chords sequences typical of the style
  • Using the thumb to articulate droning and alternating bass notes
  • Combine melody (finger) and harmony (thumb) in complete finger picking arrangements
  • Play with confidence in a group and on your own

Cost

  • Full fee
    £200
  • Concession fee
    £150
  • Class format and activities

    Listening to tutor explanation and demonstration Group tuition and group performance Playing to and with others in the class In order to ensure that you make the best possible progress on your course, you will have regular feedback from your tutor, in a constructive and supportive environment.

    Entry requirements

    To have ideally completed Acoustic Guitar 4B or have equivalent playing experience at that level. Students will have previous experience of fingerstyle technique and should be adept at playing barre chords. Students should also be familiar with advanced articulations: - hammer, pull off, slide and string bending. Students should be competent at reading guitar tab, rhythm representation (or willing to engage in additional study to achieve required level) and have a secure ability to navigate the fretboard.

    What you need to know before you enrol

    You will need to be willing and able to do short, regular practice sessions between classes: at least 10–15 minutes, at least 4 times a week.

    What you need

    A 6-string acoustic guitar. A4 folder, Notebook/Progression Diary, pencil and eraser. Tutor will supply all sheet music.

    What you can do next

    Acoustic Guitar 4A