Guitar 1 (MUS401)
Fine Art Credit, Semester/0.5 Credit, Grade 9 - 12
Learning Recommendations: This course is designed as an introduction to the guitar; no prior guitar experience necessary.
General Description: Students will be instructed in the musical concepts of melody, harmony, rhythm, and tempo as applied to the guitar. At the end of the semester, students will be able to play chords and read melodies in first position using a pick as well as execute finger picking patterns. This course will allow for individualized student needs and learning goals. Students will have the opportunity to participate in guitar ensembles.
Content: Musical concepts such as melody, harmony, bass lines, and chords will be explored. Technical work on the guitar will include scales, finger exercises, note reading in first position, and rhythm/finger picking chord exercises. Theory concepts such as interval recognition, major and minor tonalities, improvisation, and chord analysis will be covered. The styles of folk, rock, jazz, funk, blues, and classical will be explored.
Strategies:
Direct instruction
Hands-on work with own guitar
Rehearsals and performances
Playing exams
Equipment to be provided by student: Acoustic guitar, case, picks, tuner (clip on tuner preferable), metronome. Assistance is available upon review.
Fees: $16.00 class fee to cover purchase of guitar book; ASB card verification; Students are responsible for providing their own guitars and supplies; assistance is available upon review.