Header Graphic
Prerequisites for Yosemite Jazz Workshop

We are often asked what do I need to be able to attend the Yosemite Jazz Workshop.  Hopefully these explanations will help.

WHAT YOU NEED

To learn the songs by memory for your group level 

To play in time

To comp chords the chords of the songs in your group level

To play melody of the songs in your group level in single notes 

To have an open mind to learning new ideas

A positive attitude about improving your playing

 

WHAT YOU DON’T NEED

To be able to play chord melody or octave of songs

To know variations of the chord changes of the songs

To be an accomplished improviser but if you are that’s great

An attitude that you're not good enough to be here 

 

WHAT CAN YOU DO NOW TO GET READY

Memorize the melody and chord changes

Work on your single note technique and chord comping

Listen to the songs that we will be working on by a variety of artists

Study Rich’s lessons for the songs (or Todd’s for bass players)

Practice with a metronome

Study improvising strategies

THE COMMON THREAD BETWEEN ATTENDEES AT ALL LEVELS IS THAT THEY COME TO WORKSHOP TO:
Improve their playing

Learn new ideas and concepts
Jam with others
Hear the teachers and other attendees play
Be encouraged and inspired
E
ncourage others
Make new guitar playing friends

 
WHERE DO YOU BELONG?
   At the workshop we divide the group into 3 teams 

Team C:  New to jazz or struggling to play through songs? Let’s get down to business and start playing like a jazz player.

Team B:  Can play through 12+ jazz/standard style songs but need to work on improv soloing, chord comping and substitutions.   

Team A:  Can play through 25+ jazz/standard style songs and improvise through chord changes. Looking for new ideas, techniques and strategies.

For more details about songs and levels go to http://www.guitarcollege.net/workshopsongs.html

 

If you have more questions feel free to call Rich at 805-460-6370 or email at guitar@sti.net.

Make your reservation today!