Blues Part I–tools for facilitating improv, drum circles (from GSL)

Blues Part I—tools for facilitating improv, drum circles (from GSL)

Description:  Blues Part I takes a large section out of the course GSL I: Guitar as a Second Language, focusing specifically on using blues for facilitating solo and group improvisation, leading drum circles on guitar, and understanding the psychology behind the blues format.  The course gives participants an in-depth understanding of how the guitar is designed so that they can use it intuitively to make the music they want.  It is based on the idea that most music therapists understand the piano’s visual and linear layout, and are therefore able to comfortably improvise and find the notes and chords they need on the piano.  In order to have the same freedom to improvise and express themselves on the guitar, they will come to understand the guitar’s spatial, shape-based layout and the way chords and notes are aligned.  They will not only learn chords and fingering techniques, but will learn the “why” behind them so they can adapt them for use in different clinical settings.

The course is designed in chapters, with a 1- or 2-question quiz following each chapter and a 7-question post-test at the end of the course.

The chapters are arranged on the following topics:

1. Intro to GSL I (1 minute)
2. Getting oriented (3 minutes)
3. Chord chart (2 minutes)
4. Notes on the fingerboard (7 minutes)
5. Blues review (12 minutes)
6. Blues with power chords (14 minutes)

Learning Objectives: 

1. Participants will identify organizational characteristics of the guitar and how they can be utilized in individualized musical experiences.
2. Participants will demonstrate how to play blues styles in open chords and power chords, how to easily change keys on the fly, when and why to change keys, and will articulate the psychology behind why and when the blues are effective in sessions.

Prerequisites:  No participant will be turned away; however, participants will be able to make the most of this course if they can already do the following on the guitar:

1. Comfortably play these open chords from memory: A, A7, Am, Am7, B7, C, C7, D, D7, Dm, Dm7, E, E7, Em, Em7, F, G, G7.
2. Accompany themselves singing various songs using basic chords (above) and one or more basic strum patterns.
3. Have a basic knowledge of music theory, including I-IV-V chord progressions and rhythm patterns in three-four and four-four time signatures.
4. Have some clinical experience (either observation, practicum, internship, or professional) to be able to relate to concepts and examples presented in the course.

Instructor Qualifications:  Jamie Bartschi holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees in music therapy, and has played the guitar in performance and clinical settings for 23 years.  She also has 28 years experience teaching guitar and violin.

Video Course Format:  The course is comprised of six chapters, each lasting 1-14 minutes (see Chapter headings above).  An access time of two months is provided to enable participants to complete one chapter or less per week for maximum absorption of information.  Each chapter is presented face-to-face with the instructor and includes examples, play-along segments, and a downloadable PDF handout with illustrations and explanations.  A one- or two-question quiz follows each chapter to help solidify key concepts.  Answering the quiz questions correctly enables the participant to move on to the next chapter.  Participants are encouraged to rewind and replay each chapter to facilitate effective practice and mastery of each concept.  At the end of the course, a post-test is given to assure understanding of concepts.  A 90% score is required to pass the post-test, which qualifies the participant to receive a certificate for 2 CMTE credits earned.  Certificates will be available to save or print immediately upon finishing the course.

Number of CMTE credits:  2

Price:  $50

Cancellation & Refund Policy:  Our full grievance policy is available on our website on the “FAQ” page.  MusicTherapyGuitar.com is passionate about providing videos that actually make a difference in your musical abilities.  If for any reason a video course is unsatisfactory, you may contact us within 14 days of purchase to request a refund.  Include a complete description of the problem.  Requests submitted later than 14 days after purchase are not eligible for a refund.  If severe illness, accident, loss of a loved one, or similarly urgent life situation prevents you from completing a video course in the allotted time period, please contact us to request a one-time extension.  Requests for extension must be submitted more than 24 hours before your course access expires.  See our website for full details.

CBMT Relationship:  Blues Part I (from GSL) is approved by the Certification Board for Music Therapists for 2 Continuing Music Therapy Education credits.

MusicTherapyGuitar.com (Approved Provider #P-129) maintains responsibility for program quality and adherence to CBMT policies and criteria.