Intermediate 2 Flatpicking
With a focus on rhythm and melody playing, as well as core guitar mechanics, this course explores the array of possibilities within flat picking music. Designed to take players with some experience to the next level, we will dissect classic bluegrass standards, learn exercises and technique builders, as well as discuss a mindfulness for developing productive playing habits—both by yourself and with others.
We’ll start by (re)examining the basics: posture, holding the guitar, tuning, holding the pick, producing a good sound—then quickly dive into tools that enhance your rhythmic and melodic sensibilities. For rhythm, we’ll look at developing ways to lay down a solid rhythmic foundation while playing with others. We’ll then look at creative ways to add color and excitement to your rhythm playing (i.e walking bass lines, different chord voicings, etc). For melodic playing, we'll examine both right and left hand techniques, how the two are different *and* the same. All of this within the context of classic tunes you can play with your friends. Join us!
Ben Garnett
Guitarist-composer, Ben Garnett, is an emerging voice in the American acoustic music scene and considered one of the highly regarded young instrumentalists of his generation. Having strong roots in the bluegrass and jazz communities, his music often melds these traditions and more, with craft and honesty, into one cathartic, singular sound. Having toured extensively with Grammy®-nominated bassist Missy Raines as well as progressive bluegrass band Circus No. 9, Garnett has performed all over North America, Europe, Australia, and New Zealand; from the Ryman Auditorium (Nashville, TN), to the Rochester International Jazz Festival (Rochester, NY), to the Dorrigo Folk and Bluegrass Festival (NSW, Australia).
In 2022, he produced and played on Circus No. 9’s sophomore full-length album (Circus No. 9, self-titled, 2022). In March 2023, Garnett released his debut solo album Imitation Fields produced by Chris Eldridge (guitarist of Punch Brothers), on Padiddle Records. Guitarist Bryan Sutton calls the work “…a beautiful record. Songs that are modern and musical, bringing out the best in every musician involved. I’ll be listening to this for a long time.” Garnett is now working on a second full-length album projected to release in 2024.
“A beautiful, curious, deep mind.”— Chris Eldridge (Punch Brothers)
“One of a new strain of acoustic guitarists emerging today.”— Mike Marshall
