Guitar - Soloing

Instructor:   Corry Ulan

Course Description:

Level: 2 – 3  (see Playing Experience Level descriptions at the bottom of the page)

‘Soloing On Guitar’ is aimed at  guitarists  who are comfortable playing country, folk and blues songs in a rhythm role but not as a soloist.

In this class we’ll explore and make use of rhythm techniques that students are already familiar with and how those rhythm patterns can lead to a solid, musical and achievable solo. 
 
We’ll also look at often used intros and endings in folk, bluegrass and blues tunes which students may have heard but not played.
 
As well we’ll  focus on the melody of a tune or song as a source of solo ideas. Examples of these approaches will be handed out and worked on during the class with as much individual attention as the class size allows. 
 
There will also be discussion and demonstration of how to play with the right and left hands and the art of getting the best sound with the least amount of effort.
Corry Ulan
Corry Ulan

Corry Ulan has been a musician since the age of seven. A multi-instrumentalist, she plays piano, guitar, clarinet, drums and banjo.

Since moving to Calgary after completing her Bachelor of music from Laurier University in Ontario, Corry has been a part of bands, Nothing But Trouble, The Backyard Betties, New Street and Magnolia Buckskin.

She has been teaching music lessons for the last 18 years and is always accepting new, enthusiastic students!

Website: Magnolia Buckskin

May Classes

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Playing Experience Levels

These guidelines aim to ensure that all camp participants have an enjoyable experience. They represent what your playing capability should be before you take the class (prerequisites).

Classes are generally designed to pace themselves to match the participants' abilities. Level 1 classes aim to proceed at the pace of the slower students in the class. Level 2 and 3 classes aim to move at the pace of the majority of students in the class. Level 4 classes are designed to push the capabilities of all students and will target the pace of the more capable students  Class descriptions that show a range (Levels 2-3) means the material presented is broadly applicable across that range.

LEVEL 1: You are new or relatively new to your instrument. You may be able to play basic chords or scales slowly. You want to learn the basics of the instrument. You have very little experience playing with others.

LEVEL 2: You are competent with basic chords and/or basic scales. You can keep rhythm and/or play basic melodies and/or sing and play at the same time if the song is familiar. You generally need the chords or melody to be written out in order to play along. You have some experience playing with others.

LEVEL 3: You are reasonably comfortable with most chords, basic major and minor scales, and can play at an appropriate tempo for songs. You are aware of time signatures, song keys, and know that there are chords called 6th, 7th, 11th, etc even if you can’t play them all. You are comfortable maintaining good rhythm and are willing to taking breaks while jamming with others, even if the breaks don't always turn out the way you planned. You may be hoping to take your playing up to the next level of performing with a group or band (beyond jamming) and you want to further improve your technique and speed.

LEVEL 4: You are skilled on your instrument and have a good understanding of musical concepts including scales, arrangements, harmonies and some improvisation. You play lead and back-up with a steady rhythm and can play skillfully with others. You know there is life further up the neck on your instrument and have some capability in that world. You have performing experience, can hold a tune, and can harmonize.