Note: The curriculum is designed to provide a general outline of topics covered during the 16-week program. The actual curriculum may vary based on the specific needs and progress of the group.

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​ Introduction to the Guitar

• Explore the different parts of the guitar and how to hold it correctly

• Learn how to pluck the string (rest- and free stroke)

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​ Basic Rhythm and Timing

• Focus on developing a sense of rhythm through clapping and simple drumming exercises

• Practice strumming simple patterns along with a metronome

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​ Playing Open Strings

• Learn to play and identify the names of the open strings (E, A, D, G, B, E)

• Experiment with plucking individual strings.

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​Basic music reading

• Learn to read notes from standard music notation

• Practice transitioning between chords and strumming patterns

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​Finger Exercises and Dexterity

• Engage in finger exercises to improve coordination and dexterity

• Explore simple picking patterns using individual fingers

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​Song Study

• Learn to play a familiar children's song using the chords and techniques covered

• Practice playing along with the song's rhythm and melody

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​ Introduction to Tablature

• Introduce basic guitar tablature notation and how to read it

• Learn to play simple melodies using tablature

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​ Power of Patterns

• Discover the concept of patterns on the guitar fretboard

• Learn basic scale patterns and play simple melodies using those patterns

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​Plucking Techniques

• Explore various plucking techniques with thumb, index- middle- and ring finger, including free- and rest stroke, and alternating patterns

• Practice applying these techniques to different chords and songs

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​Music Theory Basics

• Introduce basic music theory concepts such as notes, rests, time signatures, and rhythm values 

• Learn to count and play simple rhythms

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​Chord Progressions

• Focus on playing common chord progressions, such as I-IV-V, in various keys

• Apply arpeggio techniques and patterns within chord progressions

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​Introduction to Fingerpicking and Classical Guitar techniques

• Learn the basics of fingerpicking and play simple fingerstyle patterns

• Practice combining fingerpicking with chords and melodies

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​Performance Preparation

• Polish previously learned songs and techniques in preparation for a mini-performance

• Focus on stage presence and playing with confidence
   

​ Celebration and Recap

• Celebrate progress and accomplishments in a final group performance

• Recap the lessons learned throughout the 16-week program and discuss future musical goals

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​Other information:

 

• Guitar is required

• Homework will be assigned weekly. 

• Students may enroll up to the 4th week of the session.

 

No class on the following days:

 

• Nov 23, 2023 (Thanksgiving)

• Dec 28, 2023 (Christmas break)

• Jan 1, 2024 (New Year)​