Phoenix Guitar League Meeting June 11, 2024

Phoenix Guitar League – June 11, 2024

Part 1 – Intro with Bart

We got started with Bart tending to some business while I improvised a little in A Minor. Then I asked for requests and Bossa Nova came up. I went into Black Orpheus, including demonstrating a percussive rhythm accompaniment that the members could start with to get a feel for the style.

That was followed with a run through of Last Train Home by Pat Metheny.

Part 2 – Natural Harmonics

We started the discussion on harmonics with the ones we naturally have on the 12th, 7th and 5th frets, eventually getting to even higher ones below the 5th fret.

A question came up about how a capo affects them, then another on how they can be used to tune the guitar. This method leaves something to be desired as far as accuracy, and that issue was addressed.

Part 3 – Artificial Harmonics

The next step in the harmonics world is artificial harmonics. This is a way to get any and every note as a harmonic, not just those available at the 5th, 7th and 12th frets. Songs demonstrated include Bethena and While My Guitar Gently Weeps.

Part 4 – Learn Some Notes

This segment is designed to help the student with note recognition, particularly on the 6th and 5th strings. Part of the strategy is to lock in a few natural notes as reference points.

Part 5 – 3-String Triads

This segment addresses one way to add a second guitar part when somebody else is playing the main chords and rhythm. We also end with some last thoughts on harmonics before signing off.