Michael W. Hull, Guitarist

8/19/08--Summary: Introduction, information, expectations.  Components of grading, attendance and practicing.  Detailed syllabus, clear communication and responsibilties--mine and the students'. 

Textbook: Focus on ex. 1--36 for several weeks, learning note names, frets and various techniques.  Reading music is essential.  Systematic and organized learning are the best ways to learn the logic of the fingerboard and all the notes in various positions.  Right hand technique and left hand placement and positioning will be a main focus of this course.

Students may be at various levels.  This course may "evolve" somewhat as discussions are fostered as a result of questions posed by the teacher and students.  Participation is essential.

Demonstartions by the instructor--playing, showing techniques, etc.

Projects and ensemble playing--just around the corner.

8/26/08--Specific details regarding playing single notes.  Rest stroke is emphasized.  It is very important to maintain a relaxed right hand.  Develop a consistent technique in order to have a good sound.  We played through specific exercises in various time signatures.  Take care to learn note names and locations. Structures such as scales and chords are essential to playing the guitar.  Next week, we will discuss how to approach and learn chords--diagrams and music. 

While the right hand position, along with the proper use of the fingers is important, so is the left hand position.  Be prepared to concentrate on this next week, along with much more such as the defintions of musical terms.  Practice journals need to be submitted.

9/2/08--Went over some movable chord forms.  Handouts to follow in the near future.  Discussed some theory concepts as well.  Musical terms and handouts.  Prepared for skills testing.  Importance of hand positions and following directions. 

9/908--Barre chords.  Handouts TBA.  Ensemble music--Song Tune on p. 202.  Went over some choices for Mid--term Projects.  Read through various exercises.  Review of notes on strings and how to find them using our twelve--tone system, including sharps and flats.

9/16/08--Since we have a relatively small class, projects will be easy to do.  In addition, I do not use blackboard, so consult this website or e-mail me.  Lots of time spent on technical exercises and reading music.  Skills Test--focused on hand positions and i and m alternation.

9/23/08--12--Bar Blues--standard and minor keys.  Chords.  Use of pick.  Exercises from the book, fingerstyle, hand positions.  Reading music, timing, counting.  Next week--Skills Test on sightreading.  Importance of reading and timing and technique.  Handouts--chords.  Next week--strumming chords and learning scales.  Mid-term projects due on October 21. 

9/30/08--