|
|
GUITAR
The guitar is a wonderful and versatile instrument in that it can be played as an accompaniment or solo instrument. It is similar to a piano in this respect and therefore a super alternative. One can still learn the wide spectrum of music fundamentals in melody and harmony in this "easy to pack up and carry" instrument. Unlike the piano, guitars are terrific "social instruments." By learning the basics of chord style playing, you can be a member of a country/rock or jazz band, lead a church hymn sing or provide the campfire entertainment for your family's summer camping trip! With more practice in the finger and pick styles, you can be on your way as a solo player too.
Although beginning in a more classic technique, this style is not limited to classical music but rather a foundation for learning how to play melody lines. All guitarists will need to develop a technique for playing a melody line for when that "solo" comes along and its time to show your stuff! Whether it be a solo performance of a classical or folk melody, a screaming electric guitar solo or a fancy bass riff during your time to shine, the need for a fast and flashy left hand and quick clean picking in the right, is imperative to rounding out your ability.
We begin all of our students on acoustic guitars sized to fit their hands. Our curriculum is also adaptable to fit the various hand sizes and coordination levels of the younger students. After completing levels one and two of our chord style and finger style techniques, the students may expand their guitar experience to electric and/or bass guitar. With a solid foundation in accompaniment and solo techniques, the sky is the limit for our young guitarist!
Guitar Teachers
Robert "Bob" James holds a Bachelors in Jazz Guitar from Hampton University in Hampton, Virginia. He has taught guitar and bass in the Knoxville area for nearly three years. While his degree is in jazz, Bob enjoys many other styles of music including rock, R&B, funk, and pop. He takes pride in offering instruction on a variety of genres, from different perspectives. While he strongly believes guitarists should be able to read standard music notation, he also values ear
training, and uses "ear transcription" as well as tablature to teach new material.
Bob prides himself on being able to satisfy students with a wide range of musical interests through his 25+ years of playing experience. Bob is also a noted composer, having studied under Kenneth Jacobs at The University of Tennessee. He plays guitar, keyboards, and bass in several bands throughout the southeastern United States, including the 70s/80s funk outfit and The Fatback Band, with whom he travels overseas on a yearly basis. He is currently putting together his own quintet, which will focus on his personal brand of R&B, pop, jazz, and smooth jazz.
|
|
