The Core courses are designed for players of all levels who have a wide variety of interests. Students receive hands-on instruction in their Major, developing skills while learning songs, working with a rhythm section, and preparing to play on stage in a concert. The Core courses also focus on musicianship skills including theory, ear training, and fretboard knowledge. In addition, students also attend daily clinics in a variety of special interests.
Core courses are offered in the following subjects:
Rock
Jazz
Acoustic
Blues
Songwriting
Classical
Bass
Drums
Special Interest Clinics
In addition to the Core course, students take special interest clinics. Multiple 90-minute clinics are offered daily. Students choose a different one each day. Clinics will vary by campus.
Examples of Past Clinics:
- Alternate Tunings: Explore open and alternate tunings.
- Building Technique: Chops building for the beginner.
- Chord/Melody: Arrange music for solo jazz guitar.
- Composition: Compose instrumental music.
- Improvisation: Develop techniques for jamming in any style.
- Drum skills: Learn to play and transcribe rhythms by listening.
- Play by Ear: Learn solos from recordings.
- Power Practicing: Learn strategies to maximize the effectiveness of your practicing.
- Scales and Modes: Learn to use scales and modes for improvisation.
- Slide: Slide guitar techniques for rock and blues.
- Technology: Discover computer-based applications that today’s musicians use.
- Voice: The basics of vocal technique including pitch accuracy and singing harmony.