Folk and pop guitar 1A

About this course

The course develops foundational acoustic guitar technique for accompanying folk and pop songs. Participants work with chord shapes and symbols, fretboard technique, strumming and finger-picking patterns, chord changes, rudimentary scales and song form. Teaching combines tutor demonstrations, selected songs, exercises and playing together while listening to the group. There is also some individual attention. Practice between classes is described as essential to maintaining progress through the course.

What you'll learn

• Read chord symbols and play essential folk chord shapes
• Use basic strumming and finger-picking patterns
• Change between chords while maintaining a steady pulse
• Play rudimentary scales on the guitar
• Apply essential accompaniment techniques to folk and pop songs

Is this course right for you?

This course is intended for complete beginners and does not require previous guitar experience. Participation involves playing and listening with the group, tutor-led demonstrations and some individual attention, with practice between classes expected.

• Suitable for learners starting guitar from scratch
• Participants need access to an acoustic guitar
• Some practice between classes is expected

Before you go

• Participants must bring their own acoustic guitar.
• Music materials and learning resources are provided by the tutor, both for class use and through Google Classroom.