Classical Technique & Style
Course Description
In this course, you’ll learn to play classical music in a way that faithfully recreates the original works. Classical pieces are often arranged and taught using a ukulele style of playing. While there’s nothing wrong with this approach, it lacks the authenticity that comes from performing with classical guitar techniques.
This course teaches the fundamentals every classical guitarist uses. You’ll start by learning proper right-hand form before embarking on picking techniques.
Next, we’ll move beyond playing techniques by studying stylistic approaches. Part of what makes classical music so appealing is the way it’s performed. It’s a highly expressive style of music and we’ll show you three ways to amplify emotion in your performances.
At the end of this course, you’ll combine everything you’ve learned to perform a challenging piece by Francisco Tárrega (a.k.a. “the father of classical guitar”).
* Note: 5 of the lessons are completely FREE with Basic Membership! Sign up for Basic Membership to sample this course and all of our other FREE Lessons!
| Module 1 | The Fundamentals of Classical Ukulele |
|---|---|
| In this module, you'll gain an understanding of the fundamentals required for playing classical ukulele. | |
| Unit 1 | Course Overview (FREE LESSON) |
| Unit 2 | Sitting Position and Posture (FREE LESSON) |
| Unit 3 | How to Hold the Ukulele Plus Right Hand Position (FREE LESSON) |
| Unit 4 | PIMA Picking Style (FREE LESSON) |
| Module 2 | Two Picking Techniques |
| In this module, you'll learn the two main picking techniques used by classical ukulelists. | |
| Unit 1 | Apoyando vs. Tirando Picking |
| Unit 2 | Mechanics Breakdown: Apoyando (Rest Stroke) |
| Unit 3 | Apoyando Performance Piece: Theme from "Swan Lake" by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky |
| Unit 4 | Mechanics Breakdown: Tirando (Free Stroke) |
| Unit 5 | Tirando Performance Piece: "Study in B Minor" by Fernando Sor |
| Module 3 | Stylistic Approaches |
In this module, you'll learn three ways to add expression and emotion to your performances. | |
| Unit 1 | Shaping Your Sound |
| Unit 2 | Rubato |
| Unit 3 | Dynamics (FREE LESSON) |
| Unit 4 | Performance Piece: "Danse Paysanne" by Ferdinando Carulli |
| Module 4 | Putting It All Together |
| In this module, you'll combine the techniques you've learned to perform a challenging classical piece. | |
| Unit 1 | Capstone Performance Piece: "Adelita" by Francisco Tárrega |
| Unit 2 | Course Wrap Up |