Let’s explore the secrets of steady acoustic guitar rhythm together! As a musician, I’ve always enjoyed and appreciated playing backup and I am constantly reminded of the old adage, “If it is so simple, how come so few musicians do it well?” We’ll learn how to use a flat pick, tune, change chords more quickly, use a capo, and combine bass notes and strum to establish and hold a firm musical rhythm so that the vocals of a country song can work their magic. We’ll cover songs with different chord progressions, tempos and timing, all with the goal of giving you the tools to more deeply hear, appreciate and access what makes the rhythm part of this art form so unique and beautiful. As long as you have a 6-string flattop acoustic and you have some comfort playing G, C and D open chords with a pick, you’ll be ready for this class. This class will be limited to 15 students to allow me to give individual attention to each student, ensuring every band you play in, every singer you back up, will know that you’ve got the rhythm down.
Instructor Bio
Peter Schwarz grew up immersed in early country, Carter Family, bluegrass and Cajun music, and not just hearing it but by age 10 singing close harmonies, recording and touring professionally on a variety of instruments as a part of Tracy’s Family Band. While still in his teens, Peter received a National Endowment for the Arts apprenticeship with Dewey Balfa, followed by a Grammy-nominated recording, teaching and touring with Mr. Balfa as a second fiddler and bassist. He was a long-time member, composer and performer with Steve Riley and the Mamou Playboys through the 1990s. Peter continues to perform in the Austin area and has provided rhythm guitar, vocals and fiddle for his father, Tracy Schwarz, and Ginny Hawker on stage and in recordings.