Self-taught guitar playing often begins with the recognition of simple patterns, evolving into complexity. These patterns, while helping us gain familiarity, can eventually become a constrictive box, requiring new material to refresh the old. How do we make a song more effective through focusing on guitar, how can we make a song find its destination? This course develops each student’s guitar practice in tandem with songwriting, while challenging players to hear all notes, chords, rhythms, and breaks as viable. Each student will write one “long song“ that pushes their playing outside their comfort zone and into a more dynamic relationship with their instrument. An emphasis will be put on listening skills, with a soft focus on music theory as well.
Learning Outcomes:
• students will practice and learn guitar, alongside a weekly songwriting practice
• learn to form small ensembles
• develop listening and improvising skills
Delivery Method: Fully in-person
Prerequisites:
Some previous experience with guitar, and an instrument are required. Audition required - contact ogoodarzi@bennington.edu to set up an audition.
Course Level: 4000-level
Credits: 2
F 4:10PM - 6:00PM (Full-term)
Maximum Enrollment: 6
Course Frequency: One time only
Categories: 4000 , All courses , Fully In-Person , Instrumental Study , New Courses , Two Credit , Updates
Tags: composition , Guitar , music , performance , songs