The class offers bi-lingual (English-Spanish) guitar instruction to elementary school students, grades 3 and up. Classes meet for one hour each week, twice a week. Enrollment exceptions are made for 2nd grade participants who have siblings in the program. Parents are also invited to attend and learn with their children.
Fundamental instruction includes: introduction to the guitar, its parts, care and treatment of the instrument, tuning, ergonomics and finally, playing the guitar. The class includes: attendance, tuning, in-class review/learning new material and performance.
Songs are taught in a simplified format using "Tablature", a simple method that directs the guitar enthusiast in determining finger/fret position and string selection. Chords are taught, initially, using one finger and strumming only the top three strings. New songs are introduced in class and students learn to read Tablature and practice playing notes as an ensemble.
Homework consists of practicing 10-15 minutes each day. Advised practice includes: finger exercises, reading Tablature and reviewing new and past songs. Students are encouraged to play the instrument for their families once a week.
Evaluation of each student's progress is accomplished by means of weekly individual and group performances in class and two public, in-school concerts per semester for the general student population and parents.
My experience as guitar instructor at Elementary Schools has been truly rewarding and inspiring. Each year the invitation to participate yields an overwhelming response. Of the great number of students who enroll, only the dedicated and serious students complete the course.