Specialty & Technique Guitar Classes

Approach music theory from a guitarist’s perspective. Examine intervals, chord and scale construction, inversions, and progressions in the context of traditional and pop genres. It is highly recommended that all students of the guitar make it a point to enroll at some point in their musical journey. Leave this class with enough material to keep you busy for years. Whether you want to write your own songs, become a hot lead guitarist or just increase your musical vocabulary and ability to jam and make music with others - this is the class for you!

Approach music theory from a guitarist’s perspective. Examine intervals, chord and scale construction, inversions, and progressions in the context of traditional and pop genres. It is highly recommended that all students of the guitar make it a point to enroll at some point in their musical journey. Leave this class with enough material to keep you busy for years. Whether you want to write your own songs, become a hot lead guitarist or just increase your musical vocabulary and ability to jam and make music with others - this is the class for you!

We play and sing Rock Pop Acoustic, with a lot of laughter thrown in. Being one of 15+ guitars and a rhythm section will help you Relinquish Performance Anxiety. You may love it so much, you'll be Reluctant to Plan Activities that would keep you away. If you're Ready to Play Along, join us on Thursday nights. You'll have a great time while improving your technique and building your repertoire. "mysteriously named ... totally charming...a serious musicianship class masquerading as a social club.” - No Depression Magazine

It was folk-blues legend, Big Bill Broonzy who helped get urban electric blues heard around the world. Learn leads, chords, comping techniques, double-stops, intros, turn-a-rounds and endings used by many of the historically important players of the Chicago blues style. (Muddy Waters, Magic Sam, Jimmy Reed, Jimmy Rogers, J.B. Lenoir and many others).

Learn regional fingerpicking styles from East Coast Piedmont, the Mississippi Delta, and Texas. You’ll get a taste of Blind Boy Fuller, Tommy Johnson, Mississippi John Hurt, and others. Straight blues, ragtime, and “Dead Thumb” skills will be covered. This class will prepare you for the second level in this series offered next session – Blues Fingerstyle 2, which focuses on slide guitar.

Fingerstyle Blues 3 classes will take a different decade each session. The classes can be taken individually, or as a series. Session 2 will start with the 1920's when the first Country Blues recordings were made. We will look at both men and women recording artists. Session 3 will be the 1930's Country Blues in the Depression. Session 4 will be the 1940's looking at some Library of Congress recordings. Session 5 will be the 1950's when many of the Country Blues players tried plugging in, yet played the same way. Ending in session 6 will be the 1960's when many of the early Blues artists were re-discovered.

Ever dreamed of playing classical guitar but seemed daunted by the word "classical". Fear not, this class will introduce you to the basics of classical guitar through simple exercises and short pieces. Nylon string guitars and ability to read music ARE NOT REQUIRED. All songs will be presented in tab. This class is a hybrid offering - students may attend either in person or by Zoom.

Electric Guitar Styles Overdrive is an ongoing class for those intermediate guitarists who have the desire to play electric. Our focus will be on advancing technique, rhythm, speed, and tonal control of the instrument. Songs will be presented and taught with consideration to enhancing and harnessing the techniques needed to make each song sound as much like the original as possible.

We will use the genre of jazz to explore general fretboard theory. This class is for any guitarist that is interested in understanding their instrument and fundamental music theory in a deeper manner. No matter what genre of music you play this class will help you become a stronger musician, not just a guitarist. Class topics will include: chord theory, scale/mode application, basic rhythmic concepts, and chord progression. THIS CLASS IS A PREREQUISITE to Jazz Guitar 1. Contact Tony Do Rosario with any questions at tdorosario@oldtownschool.org

This class is a continuation of Introduction to Jazz Guitar. At this level, we will work on a bebop blues, bebop rhythm changes, and select standards from the American song book. We will use bebop melodies to develop our rhythmic vocabulary. Come explore the basic frameworks of improvisation and accompaniment over classic jazz progressions. REGISTRATION IS LIMITED TO THOSE WHO HAVE COMPLETED INTRO to JAZZ GUITAR. Contact Tony Do Rosario with any questions at tdorosario@oldtownschool.org

A class designed to bring your jazz guitar skills to a higher level. We welcome those who have taken Jazz Guitar 1 and are ready to increase their musical vocabulary in terms of harmony and melody. We’ll concentrate on great American Standards as well as variations of Blues. REGISTRATION IS LIMITED TO THOSE WHO HAVE COMPLETED INTRO, JAZZ GUITAR 1. Contact Tony Do Rosario at tdorosario@oldtownschool.org It’s a lifelong journey and we invite you to repeat level as much as necessary before moving on to Jazz Guitar 2.

Jazz is an American folk music. Play it yourself on the guitar. In this repertoire driven class, hone your skills by learning both traditional standards and modern compositions. We are learning a musical language that is spoken throughout the world. Students are invited to repeat this class as much as they desire. REGISTRATION IS LIMITED TO THOSE WHO HAVE COMPLETED INTRO, JAZZ GUITAR 1 & JAZZ GUITAR 1.5. Contact Tony Do Rosario at tdorosario@oldtownschool.org

Jazz is an American folk music. Play it yourself on the guitar. In this repertoire driven class, hone your skills by learning both traditional standards and modern compositions. We are learning a musical language that is spoken throughout the world. Students are invited to repeat this class as much as they desire. REGISTRATION IS LIMITED TO THOSE WHO HAVE COMPLETED INTRO, JAZZ GUITAR 1 & JAZZ GUITAR 1.5. Contact Tony Do Rosario at tdorosario@oldtownschool.org

An ongoing class in the advanced study of Jazz for the guitarist. We will build repertoire, further develop improvisation skills and advance rhythmic variations. Participants should have gone thru Jazz Guitar 2 several times or should audition with the instructor tdorosario@oldtownschool.org

Melodies. Focus the rhythm techniques learned in Flatpicking 1 into a solid foundation for single note playing. The pick hand mechanics are the same, but instead of playing all six strings you play one at a time. Emphasis will be on down-up pick strokes, tone, and timing. Worksheets and fiddle tunes will be the materials used to build your skills. Tunes tabbed out will be provided.

This intermediate level class introduces the music of traditional blues’ great artists. From the ragtime/blues style of Rev. Gary Davis and Blind Blake to the Delta/Chicago grind of Robert Johnson and Muddy Waters. Learn such techniques as: fingerpicking (ragtime, shuffle rhythm), open tuning, bottleneck slide, basic improvising, and more. This is some of the most satisfying music steel string pickers can get their fingers on!

This class covers how to play the minor and major scales across the entire fingerboard, various modes and exotic scales, technique building exercises, how to decipher musical notation on the guitar, explanation of how to play “jazz chords”, writing songs in minor keys, and of course, the theory of the universe.

This class covers how to play the minor and major scales across the entire fingerboard, various modes and exotic scales, technique building exercises, how to decipher musical notation on the guitar, explanation of how to play “jazz chords”, writing songs in minor keys, and of course, the theory of the universe.

Explore the quieter side of the band’s catalog. We’ll cover a handful of approachable acoustic songs with some nice tricks mixed in.

In Part 2 of this class, we’ll dive deeper into a selection of songs that will help you apply what you've learned. We’ll focus on moving beyond basic Cowboy Chords and large barre shapes, transforming them into rich, expressive guitar parts. Even if you missed Part 1, you can still join us! You’ll learn how to blend chords with lead patterns and scales, unlocking the fretboard in exciting new ways.

It’s the lament of the guitarist after the first couple of sessions: ARGH! Barre Chords! Have no fear, there is hope! Learn how to play barre chords across the neck, how to develop the muscles you’ll need, and how to move fluidly from open chords and other chord forms. You’ll also learn the partial barre forms so you can play your favorite songs while you're developing your technique. Phew! Barre chords without frustration!

No other blues guitarist in the past 20 years has been more celebrated and emulated than Stevie Ray Vaughan. Powerful guitar technique, gut wrenching vocals and strong adherence to his Texas roots gave his sound an urgency that had wide cross-over appeal. His brother, Jimmie Vaughan, is no slouch either! Some blues fans really prefer Jimmie’s musical taste, economy and feel.

Learn how to accompany Guitar 1 & 2 level repertoire with fingerpicking technique! We'll be playing easier chords so we can concentrate on the new skill. More advanced players who are looking for a structured approach to learning how to fingerpick are welcome. We'll start with your (picking hand) thumb which is keeping the beat; playing the most common strings based on the lowest note of the chord. Next, we'll add in the index and middle fingers; again plucking the most strings depending on the chord we are playing. Students leave Fingerpicking 1 - Song Accompaniment with the following skills: Keep the beat of the song with your picking thumb Add at least 2 fingers in order to play patterns like those heard in classic fingerpicking tunes (for example Landslide, Dust In the Wind) Learn at least 5 patterns that can be used to accompany songs in 4/4 time Learn at least 2 patterns that can be used to accompany songs in 3/4 time Develop good practice techniques Incorporate "simple" bass runs to connect chords

This class will learn a few pop tunes for Fingerstyle Guitar drawn from the repertoire of Elton John, Carole King, Stevie Wonder, Carlos Santana, Beatles. These are presented in detailed form with guitar tablature and music notation. Students will be able to video tape the tunes, as Michael assists with practical left and right hand suggestions for improving your guitar skills. For intermediate players with fingerpicking experience and the ability to read tablature.

Learn to strum and sing some of this femininominon's most iconic songs, from “Pink Pony Club” to “Red Wine Supernova” and more. Designed for intermediate guitar players, this 90 minute session will guide you through strumming and singing both ballads and danceable pop tunes. Don’t forget to bring a capo! While some songs feature barre chords, we’ll also provide simplified 3-string versions to ensure everyone can participate. Good luck, Babe!

Join us for an immersive workshop designed to elevate your slide guitar skills and enhance your emotional expression through music. You'll explore the iconic songs and licks of blues slide guitar legends Robert Johnson and Mississippi Fred McDowell. In this workshop, we will cover: Different types of slides Guitar setup for optimal slide performance Techniques for playing clean notes Mastering vibrato Exploring rhythmic patterns Right and left hand damping techniques Open G guitar tunings Whether you're a beginner or looking to refine your technique, this workshop will provide you with the essential tools to advance your slide guitar playing.

Learn power chords, riff and rhythm patterns specific to classic rock n' roll, and modern rock styles! Explore repertoire from iconic acts including Jimi Hendrix, Led Zeppelin and Cream. Students can plan to leave with the following skills: - Open E, A and D "power chords" and rhythm patterns - All "power chords" beginning on the 6th and 5th strings - Basic knowledge of the pentatonic scale - Ability to play basic riffs notated as TAB

Learn the styles and technique of blues artists like Mississippi John Hurt, Big Bill Broonzy, Robert Johnson and more. In this class we will focus on finger picking, ragtime/shuffle rhythms, bluesy chords/riffs,12 bar-chord progressions, as well as open tunings and slide/bottleneck style. Written materials will be provided, including standard notation/TAB. Prerequisite: Basic finger picking experience or completion of Guitar 3 rep

Join Old Town School of Folk Music’s legendary pair, Peggy Browning & Mark Mitchell for a one-hour jam on the eerie and captivating world of folk murder ballads. We’ll explore haunting songs like “Long Black Veil,” “Hang Me, Oh Hang Me,” “Louis Collins,” “Tom Dooley,” and the outlaw anthem “Mama Tried.” Bring your instrument, your voice, and a passion for storytelling as we dive into these dark, timeless tunes. Whether you’re here to play or listen, you’ll be immersed in the rich tales and melodies of this evocative musical tradition. Printed Materials will be provided. Capo Required.

Neil Young & Jeff Tweedy are top-shelf songwriters with expansive catalogs. The class alternates freely between the two artists, exploring popular songs and some deep cuts. The class features breakdowns of accompaniment techniques, tips on alternate chord voicings, some lead/melody playing, singing and much more. This is an intermediate level class for acoustic guitar.

“Neil Young & Jeff Tweedy are top-shelf songwriters with expansive catalogs. In this ONLINE class we alternate freely between the two artists. We’ll explore popular songs as well as deeper album cuts. The class features close-up breakdowns of accompaniment techniques, tips on alternate chord voicings, some lead/melody playing and much more. This is an intermediate class taught on acoustic guitar, but open to electric players as well."

Neil Young’s career includes a treasure trove of amazing, yet accessible guitar techniques, from syncopated folky strumming, open tunings, and howling leads. We’ll look at various classic songs including “Cinnamon Girl,” “Harvest Moon, “Old Man,” “Cowgirl In The Sand” among others.

Work on your strumming/comping techniques in a variety of styles including bluegrass, jazz, reggae, rhythm & blues, and rock. Incorporate syncopation and develop the ability to play comfortably in odd time signatures. This is a great class to get your groove on and improve your ability to play with others!

This Guitar 2 level class is for those of you who’d love to add some rock and blues songs to your repertoire in a fun and supportive setting. We’ll stick to easier 3-4 chord songs by male and female artists. We’ll learn classic, and contemporary rock and blues riffs, introduce I-IV-V progressions, and learn how chords and song structure tell stories. This class will also emphasize building your chord vocabulary and counting in order to keep a steady groove. We’ll also learn a classic blues turnaround lick and how to bend and slide notes, perform hammer-ons, and pull-offs — and this guitar jargon will be demystified too! Prerequisites: Guitar 1-2, or commensurate experience, comfort with playing chords; A, C, D, E, G, Am, and Em.

Nothing fancy here, we’ll just learn some very simple fills that embellish a song you’re singing — how to go from one sung phrase to the next with tasteful and easily executed walks, fingerpicks or a fancy strum or two. Ballads, swing tunes, country hits—we can do them all!”

How do you do a simple strum? How do you make it a little fancier? How do you know which kind of strum goes with which song? We will answer all these questions as we learn basic rhythm patterns good for the beginner and good for those who already play a little guitar.

This class delves into Taylor Swift's mighty song catalogue, using songs we love to expand our skills on the guitar. Each session features a new collection of songs pulled from across all the different “Eras”. Song requests are also welcome and influence what is brought in each session. This class is perfect for Guitar 2 level + above: guitar players with a basic knowledge of open chords (including F, Bm, and Dm) and simple strum patterns.

This class delves into Taylor Swift's mighty song catalogue, using songs we love to expand our skills on the guitar. Each session features a new collection of songs pulled from across all the different “Eras”. Song requests are also welcome and influence what is brought in each session. This class is perfect for Guitar 2 level + above: guitar players with a basic knowledge of open chords (including F, Bm, and Dm) and simple strum patterns.