Is Module 1 separate from Self-Contained Guitar or is it the same thing?

 

Module 1 is simply the first chapter of Self-Contained Guitar. Consider it your doorway to playing Self-Contained Guitar!

 

I visited your website several months ago and I remember Module 1 was listed as one single class.  Now I see 3 different ones listed under Module 1.  Did something change?

 

Yes, initially Module 1 was taught as a single class over a 6 week session.  However, it has now been split into 3 specifically focused classes:  The Crux (a 90 minute introduction to music theory), Picking Hand Basics (a 90 minute introduction to specific fingerstyle techniques) and Create Your Own Arrangements (a 4 week class for creating initial solo guitar arrangements).  

 

I’m a beginner guitar player.  Can I learn how to play Self-Contained Guitar?

 

I typically recommend a ONE YEAR minimum of playing experience before beginning Self-Contained Guitar. 

 

Though it serves as an introduction to music theory, fingerpicking and arranging, Module 1 is largely designed for folks who have already spent time with various rudimentary guitar playing elements, such as learning basic chord shapes, switching chords, strumming or picking, string accuracy, rhythm, etc.  The finger flexibility and durability required for studying Self-Contained Guitar are things that most beginning students do not have.  Some of the stretches can get tricky for even a novice player, let alone a brand new player whose fingers may not be flexible at all.  

 

If you are unsure if Self-Contained Guitar is right for you or your skill level, please schedule a FREE 15 minute video consultation with me today and together we can assess your ability.

 

I only see Module 1 classes listed on the website. Is there a Module 2 or 3?

 

Module 2 classes and materials are currently in production and will be released in the summer/autumn of 2024.

 

 

Do I need to be able to read sheet music to study Self-Contained Guitar?

 

It is not absolutely imperative to read music to get started, but being able to read standard notation (especially reading and interpreting rhythms) is a vital component of the Self-Contained Guitar experience as you progress through the modules.  If you can’t read music and would like to, I am happy to suggest a variety of method books you can seek out to get you started.

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If one is insistent on not learning to read standard notation, then I would say that it is possible (though markedly more challenging) to navigate a path forward with a combination of ear training and basic music theory.       

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Why do you call it Baritonic Guitar?  Isn’t it just a baritone guitar?

 

Yes, Baritonic Guitar (as I define it) is all about playing a baritone guitar, but in a very particular style. Throughout the history of music, baritone guitars are very rarely used in a Self- Contained Guitar setting. Baritone guitar traditionally appears in surf, heavy metal or country & western music (to name a few styles).  Since a baritone guitar is longer in scale (anywhere from 27" to 30" in scale length) than a traditional guitar, the baritone naturally embodies a handsome low end register as well as a deeper overall sound which, in my opinion, lends itself wonderfully to the Self-Contained Guitar approach.  So when I say “Baritonic Guitar”, I’m referring specifically to a baritone guitar being played in the Self-Contained Guitar style.