In this repertoire class, we will listen to and learn the melodies and chords of one or two of my favorite Swing/Jazz compositions per day. We will all get a chance to solo over the changes and discuss to gain a better understanding of how the tunes work. You will leave this class familiar with some new tunes and will have a deeper understanding of tunes you already know. What I really want is to have some fun with them!
This is an intermediate to advanced class. Students should be able to read and play melodies from music, tablature (which I will have) or to learn quickly by ear. All students must be able to read a chord chart and be fairly familiar with basic swing rhythm and the use of closed chord shapes.
If you are looking to add to your repertoire or just looking to get a better handle on some of the tunes you already know, this will be a good class for you.
Instructor Bio
Tom Mitchell’s guitar playing is rooted in the styles of the 1920s and ’30s jazz, western swing, country blues, and old-time music. Ten years of playing with the legendary Dan Hicks & His Hot Licks took him around the world and led to the recording of two acclaimed CDs including Beatin’ the Heat, which featured guest appearances by Bette Midler, Ricki Lee Jones, Tom Waits, Elvis Costello, and Brian Setzer. His work with Ann Savoy and her Sleepless Knights led to a movie soundtrack spot and producer credits for the Sony picture All the King’s Men. He makes his home in Baltimore where he can be seen playing with some great players and bands including the Blue Rhythm Boys and The Redwine Jazz Trio.
As a teacher and performer, Tom has worked at many music and dance workshops and camps such as Ashokan Fiddle and Dance, Puget Sound Guitar Workshop, The Swannanoa Gathering, The Festival of American Fiddle Tunes, and Augusta Heritage Center.
Tom’s love of swing guitar shines brightly through his playing, and his extensive knowledge and appreciation of jazz history and tradition brings a “true to style” integrity to any venture he undertakes. “
Check out Mitchell at Augusta in 2021: