a California Non-Profit 501(c)(3) Corporation – EIN 99-3474773
Instructor(s): Eli West
In this class, we’ll explore the guitar’s role as a melody instrument, working on techniques and practice habits to get out in front of the learning curve. Themes for the week will include melody playing, leads diverging from the melody, tools for creating leads, and right hand lead patterns for all tempos and time signatures. We’ll talk about “leading from the middle” as well as “leading down low” (bass lines and transition tools). We’ll also briefly cover chord theory and the Nashville Number system. We’ll make use of small group ensemble playing, some singing, worksheets, and tools to broaden our guitar playing.
Bring: Melodies are best derived from songs… therefore, feel free to bring songs you want to develop a lead break for.
You should be able to change between chords quickly, play a melody on the instrument, and be open to exploring improvisation.
Eli West is an American Roots musician from the Pacific Northwest. A multi-instrumental creator of sonic spaces, Eli’s former training as a designer informs a sound that is lush and organic – neither manicured nor overgrown. Evergreen timbres weave among pitches, rhythms and lyrics to become comfortable rooms into which listeners are invited.
Lauded by Tim O’brien as a musician “making music the World needs,” Eli’s reputation as a crafter of considered, toneful environments has fostered collaborations with Bill Frisell, Andrew Marlin, John Reishchman, Julie Fowlis, and many other pillars of the growing Americana movement.
Eli’s music teaching has taken him to many camps, including Walker Creek previously, Nimble Fingers, Targhee, Ossippee, Centrum Voice Works, CBA and Julian.
“Making music the world needs.” – Tim O’Brien
It’s been a few years since Eli taught at camp and we’re very happy that he is able to return this year.