This course is designed to give intermediate to advanced level guitarists a better understanding of the workings and musical responsibilities of the swing guitarist. You are at the appropriate skill level for this class if you have a good working knowledge of the guitar neck (names of strings, where the notes are on the neck and on each string, etc.), have knowledge and proficiency with basic chords and have an understanding of time signatures (3/4, 4/4, etc.).  Knowledge of basic rhythm notation (whole notes, half notes, etc.) and music reading is helpful.

This class will be tailored to the needs and learning level of the students and will include learning various 2, 3, 4, and 5 note chord voicings, "shell" chords, Dominant and Major 7th, 9th, and 13th chords and Minor 7th, 9th chords. We will cover how to better “center” your time when playing rhythm with a group or by yourself. We will look at the differences between rhythm playing and comping.  Other areas of study will include:

• How to better listen to the rhythm section
• How to musically "react" to a soloist
• Acoustic vs. Electric - how to make each work best in a swing setting
• Big band vs. small group guitar playing - their differences and similarities.