Description
Lluís Gómez teaches all types of techniques, from the basics to the most advanced and modern, and caters to students of all levels. He teaches not only how to play in Scruggs, melodic, and single-string styles, but also how to play backup and in a band.
His lessons include music theory, repertoire learning, and an introduction to banjo tuning.
Lluís teaches you how to use the banjo in various musical styles: pop, Irish, jazz, swing, gypsy jazz, flamenco, and blues. You'll learn fiddle tunes, basic composition, jazz chords, how to play in different keys, how to use substitutions, how to learn by ear, and scales played in both melodic and single-string styles.
But one of the main things Lluís teaches you is to have fun playing the banjo. That's the most important thing. Don't worry about your skill level; it's all about playing and enjoying yourself with friends at jam sessions or in a band.
The Daily Routine
For me, the first day, the initial contact, is essential. I introduce myself and ask each student about their level and, most importantly, what they want to learn. Then, based on their expectations, I prepare the week's schedule.
I enjoy talking and the pedagogical approach, but even more, I love playing. Ultimately, there's a time for everything.
- A little theory
- Teaching a musical phrase (lick)
- A song or a theme, on a daily basis (don't worry!). I teach the chords, we learn the melody note by note, it all depends on each person's level. Some will learn the chords, others the melody, and the most advanced, who have mastered both the chords and the melody, will work on the solos.
- A daily jam session is very important. It can be quite difficult for beginners to integrate into a jam session. The first time, some don't listen to each other, others play too loudly, or too fast… Don't worry, each day will be an opportunity to feel more comfortable.
- Each day, each student will play a theme for the rest of the class, either alone or with others. Don't worry, nothing is mandatory!
- 30-minute private lessons: other students can attend individual lessons.
Irish tunes, reels, jigs and hornpipes - Flamenco - Manouche Gypsy tunes in single string - Blues and groovy ideas - Twin banjos - Stretching - Ear Training/transcribe tunes - Metronome - Solo Banjo tune - Complex right hand fingerings - Chords - Arpeggios - Play and study (day routine) - Composition (write a tune) - 3/4 tunes and Waltz - Sally Goodin’ Position -Classical music on banjo - Music notation - Learning method, ear or tab? - Keith Pegs - Playing with people - Jams - Guitar licks - Alternate Tunings - Learn from other instruments - Three different languages (Scruggs, Melodic/ Single String) - A tune played in Scruggs, & Melodic & Single String - Every key is a language - Playing the syllables - Tunes you must play (FMB, Dueling Banjos & Oh Susanna! & Happy Birthday) - Banjo amplification-Microphone or Pick up? - Amplifier (monitor on stage) - Double stops & Tony Trischka "Bombs" - Dynamics - Banjo set up - How to jam - How to play on stage, microphones situation, monitors, stage fright... - Study stand up and with no light (simulation of the concert situation)
Niveau
Finally, I like to mix skill levels, from beginners to more advanced students; it's very interesting to see what happens, how the more experienced help each other, and how the beginners benefit from the experience.
The classes will be conducted mainly in English, with a little French, but don't worry, some of you will help me make myself understood! And don't worry, we'll be playing games all the time!
Equipement
A 5-string banjo !
Any questions ?
If you have any questions, please refer to the informations pratiques !
