Getting Started with Guitar or Ukulele

Overview

Learning to play a musical instrument is an exciting and rewarding experience, but it can also feel daunting at first. New players are often faced with unfamiliar terminology, different playing techniques, and a wide range of learning methods, making it difficult to know where to begin. This course is designed to provide a supportive and structured introduction, helping you build confidence from your very first lesson. This course offers a practical and welcoming introduction to both instruments. Whether you choose to learn the guitar or the ukulele, you will develop the essential skills needed to begin playing confidently while gaining an understanding of the instrument that best suits your musical interests and goals.

Suitable for complete beginners as well as those returning to the instrument after a break, this course provides a friendly and encouraging environment in which to discover the enjoyment of making music.

Programme

Utilising a variety of resources and sources, learners will explore the following during the course:

• The Anatomy of the Guitar (and the Ukulele)
• Fingers, Plectrums, and Hyrid Playing Styles
• Chords
• Plucking
• Your First Songs (and Reading Music)
• Progression Pathways

Learning Outcomes 

1. Demonstrate the ability to perform a simple piece of music on guitar and ukulele.
2. Demonstrate an understanding of a wide range of practical playing techniques - both historical and modern - and evidence their usage in the context of practical, modern musical environments.
3. Clearly and confidently communicate their musical intentions, following an analysis of a piece of music.
4. Evaluate, analyse, discuss, and justify the technical components of guitars and ukuleles (as instruments, but also when reflecting on performances given by others).

Assessments 

1. Reflection - A 250-word commentary and a 100-word reflective note. (40%)

2. Performance - A 1-3 minute performance on guitar or ukulele. (60%)

Reading Suggestions

Reading suggestions will be offered throughout the course. 

This course is for everyone. No previous experience is needed and there are no formal entry requirements.

What do I Need

You would need the following: 

• Internet access.
  
• Access to a laptop or computer with a web camera and microphone; the use of headphones might also be of benefit.
• Use of the Chrome web-browser where possible