Guitar enthusiasts who want to play like Eric Clapton or Paco de Lucia can get the basics with two summer camps being offered by local guitarist Lance Carr.
No experience is necessary for the learn-to-play guitar camps that run July 12 and 13 and Aug. 16 and 17, while those who have the basics down and are interested in learning to play flamenco guitar can sign up for a camp that takes place July 26 and 27.
All sessions take place at the Wentworth Music Education Centre in Vernon.
“The beginner guitar camp RGT (Registered Guitar Technique) program is endorsed by the likes of Paul McCartney and David Gilmour,” said Carr. “The flamenco camp will be a fun way for guitarists to learn the basic techniques of flamenco and perform in a group.”
Beginner guitarists will learn how to play songs in a variety of styles, including jazz, blues, folk, rock and pop. All types of guitars –– from acoustic to electric –– are welcome.
Students will learn from the RGT Grade 1 book.
In addition to learning songs, Carr will cover the basics of guitar playing: scales, rhythm playing, lead playing, understanding of the fingerboard, anatomy, mechanism, basic techniques as well as an introduction to ear training.
“By the end of this summer camp, you will have a greater understanding and awareness of the guitar as well as the tools for playing songs, in both rhythm and lead styles,” he said.
The flamenco guitar camp will see participants learning to jam with other guitarists.
Musicians will need the left and right hand techniques to be able to perform the style of guitar originating from Spain’s Andalucía area and made popular by such guitarists as Carlos Montoya, Agustín Castellón Campos Sabicas, as well as modern-style players such as de Lucia, the Gypsy Kings and Canada’s Jesse Cook.
“Techniques include various rasgueados, four-finger tremolos, picado, alzapua, golpes and more,” said Carr. “You will get the chance to learn and play various palos, or playing styles of flamenco.”
Students will learn enough songs to put on a small concert and perform at Vernon’s Los Huesos Mexican restaurant, he added.
All camps will run from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Those interested in registering for either or who want more information can contact Wentworth Music at 250-558-7995 or e-mail wmecvernon@shaw.ca.
