
GUITAR
GENERAL INFORMATION
1. LESSON COST AND DURATION
- Private Lessons:
- R150 per 30-minute lesson
- Group Lessons:
- R50 per student (3-5 students)
- Group Lessons:
- R150 per 30-minute lesson
- R150 per 30-minute lesson
Frequency:
Lessons are usually scheduled once a week, although this can be adjusted depending on the student’s needs or goals.
ABOUT THE LESSONS
2. LESSON SYLLABUS/CONTENT:
The syllabus for piano/keyboard lessons is tailored to the student’s level, and can be adjusted based on their specific interests, goals, and learning pace. The content typically includes:
Beginner Level:
- Introduction to the Guitar: Parts of the guitar, tuning, correct posture and finger positioning .
- Basic Chords: Learning open chords (C, G, D, E, A, etc.) and simple chord progressions.
- Strumming Patterns: Basic downstrokes and upstrokes.
- Basic Theory: Introduction to sight reading, rhythm notes, time signatures, and key signatures.
- Simple Songs: Playing basic songs using 3 strings, open chords and single simple strumming patterns.
- Hand Positioning: .
Intermediate Level:
- Bar Chords: Learning movable chord shapes.
- Scale Practice: Introduction to the major scale, pentatonic scales, and basic soloing.
- Rhythm and Timing: More complex strumming and fingerpicking patterns, and learning to play in time with a metronome.
- Music Theory: Understanding chord construction, intervals, and basic harmony.
- Popular Songs: Learning popular songs from different genres using open, bar chords, and simple solos.
- Improvisation: Basic improvisation using scales.
Early Advanced Level:
- Advanced Techniques: Hammer-ons, pull-offs, slides, bends, tapping, and advanced fingerpicking.
- Extended Chords and Voicings: Understanding seventh, ninth, and suspended chords.
- Music Theory: Deep dive into advanced music theory, including modes, chord substitution, and modulation.
- Complex Soloing: Soloing techniques such as sweep picking, alternate picking, and advanced phrasing.
- Advanced Repertoire: Learning full songs with intricate arrangements from rock, blues, jazz, classical, etc.
- Performance Skills: Preparation for live performances, developing stage presence, and handling performance anxiety.
Trinity College Exams:
Performance Skills: Prepare students for music grades in Rock & Pop (Grade initial – Grade 8)
SKILLS GAINED
3. Learning Outcomes:
By the end of the lessons, students can expect the following outcomes based on their level:
Beginner: Ability to play basic songs, understand simple music theory, and play basic chords and progressions.
Intermediate: Proficiency in bar chords, basic soloing, and improved timing and rhythm skills.
Advanced: Mastery of advanced guitar techniques, the ability to play complex pieces, and improvisation skills.
MORE
5. Other Details:
Recitals and Performances:
Opportunities for students to perform in recitals, either through their studio or at local events. Performance helps students build confidence, experience and musical maturity.
Materials Needed:
Instrument: Students should have access to a piano or keyboard for practice. Digital keyboards are a more affordable option but should have at least 61 keys and touch sensitivity for effective learning.
Music Books and Sheet Music: Teachers will often recommend or issue specific method books or pieces, such as Alfred’s Basic Piano Library.
Metronome: A metronome is highly recommended for practicing timing and rhythm. A metronome can be downloaded on mobile device/iPad.
Assessments and feedback: Teacher may conduct occasional assessments or give feedback in person or email. This is to track student performance and progress.