About

Introduction to Guitar

Course Description: This class is intended to provide students with the fundamental skills and knowledge required for a student to perform professional repertoire on the guitar. Through this class, students will learn to read and comprehend standard music notation/music, learn about the construction and operation of guitars, as well as basic care of the instrument. Other topics include: correct body posture including proper left and right-hand positions, note reading and the application of musical elements, chord study, rhythmic strumming, use of the “pima” technique, ear training, music theory, identification and analysis of musical form, and performing as a soloist. Students will primarily focus on using those skills to perform written music. By the end of the year, students will have the necessary foundation to play their favorite songs, perform with other musicians, and the ability to continue their studies into Guitar 1.

Guitar 1

Prerequisite: Introduction to Guitar

Course Description: This course is intended for students who have completed Introduction to Guitar and would like to continue their study of the guitar. Students will be tasked to identify, and resolve problems associated with playing the instrument at the intermediate levels. Guitarists will deepen their understanding of performing repertoire as well as take on more challenging pieces of music. This includes playing scales, learning repertoire, performing in a guitar ensemble, performing in concerts, and much more. Students will also have the opportunity to dive into the world of electric guitar and learn the basics of technique, equipment use/care, and basic history. Besides being performers themselves, students will learn to listen, analyze, and describe live performances and give informed critical evaluations of the latter. Students will be made aware of various pathways and career opportunities associated with the guitar.

Guitar 2

Prerequisite: Guitar 1

Course Description: Guitar 2 is the Capstone course for Career Technical Education Guitar Pathway at San Jacinto Valley Academy. This course is intended for students who have completed Guitar 1 and would like to continue their previous experiences with playing the instrument at the intermediate levels. Guitarists will deepen their understanding of performing repertoire as well as take on more challenging pieces of music. This includes playing scales, learning repertoire, performing in a guitar ensemble, performing in concerts, and much more. Students will also have the opportunity to begin learning how to provide their own lessons using pedagogical strategies as well as maintaining a professional environment. At the end of the course, students will prepare a 15-20 minute solo guitar concert presenting repertoire that they have learned and mastered over their time in the guitar program. This will include proper program notes explaining the historical importance of the repertoire as well as musical ornamentation and musical choices that the student has made.