Guitar Academy Book 2 continues the broad and varied approach to learning guitar established in Book 1. Thus, as well as learning the skills typically associated with the classical guitarist – technique, repertoire and reading music – the student develops the skills more common to popular styles of music, such as chord knowledge, accompaniment, and improvisation. There are also many opportunities for ensemble work and ear training.
The book is made up of three parts:
- A classical guitar tutor
- Ensemble supplement
- Song/chord tutor
Technique: Developing free-stroke technique , chords and arpeggios; all explanations are supported by high-quality illustrations
Music Theory: syncopation, accidentals, key signatures, the 6/8 time signature, Italian terms, swing rhythms, scales & modes, the 12-bar blues, chord theory – primary chords & transposition, completing the knowledge of first position by learning the notes on the bass strings
Song/Chord supplement: popular songs with suggested strumming rhythms & finger-picking styles
- Ensemble Supplement: trios and quartets
Improvisation: being creative with various scales/modes
- Ear training: exercises to encourage playing by ear; recognising intervals and chords, with associated tests included on the CD (now also online)
Extra Features: pupil/teacher duets, written tests, website links and resources, homework diary, full-colour illustrations
CD with backing tracks (audio tracks now also online)
