Folk and pop guitar: advanced

About this course

Songs are used to focus on different aspects of contemporary guitar technique while extending learners’ repertoire. Sessions combine playing together, solo work and individual attention where appropriate. Alongside guitar playing, the course covers relevant musicianship, including transposition, song structure, composition and improvisation. Work includes chord relationships, playing in different keys, accompaniment and bassline figures, with opportunities to apply these ideas to varied folk and pop material.

What you'll learn

• Play folk and pop songs in different keys
• Work out chord sequences for songs
• Explain how chords interrelate within a song
• Improvise over simple chord progressions
• Provide accompaniment using bassline figures
• Apply fingerpicking, strumming, melody and rhythm techniques to varied repertoire

Is this course right for you?

This Advanced course is intended for guitarists developing beyond fundamental techniques. It suits players who can use a substantial range of major and minor chords, including barre chords, and who have working music theory knowledge. Participation includes playing both with others and solo, with practice between classes described as essential.

• Previous study or equivalent guitar experience is required.
• Learners should have completed Folk and Pop Guitar 3 or have equivalent skills.
• The course includes playing together as well as individual playing.

Before you go

• Music materials and resources are provided through Google Classroom.
• Learners should bring their own acoustic or electric guitar.
• Practice between classes is required.