American Blues In 6 Weeks - Week 2 - Johnny Winter

Immerse yourself in the electrifying world of American blues with our dedicated course, "American Blues In 6 Weeks." In Week 2, we spotlight Johnny Winter's iconic techniques, offering guitarists a deep dive into the essence of blues music. This segment is meticulously designed to honor Johnny Winter's extraordinary guitar prowess while equipping students with a broad range of skills fundamental to mastering the blues genre. This course is taught by Steve Trovato.

Guitar Lesson Overview

Blues Scale Patterns

Our journey begins with an exploration of blues scale patterns, the foundational element of blues music. These patterns are essential for cultivating the ability to convey a broad spectrum of emotions through the guitar. Mastery of these scales empowers guitarists to confidently navigate the fretboard, setting the stage for improvisation and personal expression.

Repetitious Phrasing

Next, we delve into repetitious phrasing, a signature of Johnny Winter's style, underscoring the importance of theme development in solos. This technique demonstrates the impact of repetition, allowing a simple musical phrase to evolve into a compelling narrative. It encourages players to creatively explore variations and build intensity in their licks, enhancing their solo performances.

Hammer-Ons and Pull-Offs

The course progresses to constructing licks with hammer-ons and pull-offs, essential for achieving a smooth and expressive sound. These legato techniques lend a vocal-like quality to guitar lines, imbuing them with a sense of fluidity and grace. Participants will learn to seamlessly incorporate these techniques into their playing, enriching their musical phrases with elegance and ease.

Playing 'In the Pocket' Using Triplets

Focusing on playing 'in the pocket,' this section emphasizes the use of triplets to achieve a groovy, synchronized feel. Properly executed triplets can inject a dynamic swing into rhythm playing, making performances irresistibly captivating. This lesson is pivotal for mastering timing and feel, crucial components of authentic blues playing.

Pentatonic Scale Sequencing

Exploring pentatonic scale sequencing to forge enticing blues licks is another key aspect of this week's lessons. The pentatonic scale, central to blues soloing, offers vast opportunities for improvisational creativity when sequenced effectively. This approach encourages guitarists to experiment with novel patterns and combinations, pushing the limits of their artistic expression.

The Importance of Practicing with a Backing Track

The inclusion of a backing track for practice is an invaluable aspect of this course. Engaging with a backing track enhances timing, groove, and the ability to collaborate with other musicians. It simulates the experience of playing within a band, preparing students for live performances and jam sessions. This tool is essential for deepening musical understanding and fostering a more intimate connection with the blues.

Upon completing Week 2, learners will possess a comprehensive grasp of Johnny Winter's legendary blues techniques, along with a robust foundation in blues guitar playing. This course not only pays tribute to a blues legend but also arms guitarists with the necessary tools to craft their own blues narratives with authenticity and flair.

Guitar Techniques Used in This Lesson

• Hammer-Ons
• Pull-Offs
• Vibrato
• String Bending