Going the classical route is the best way to achieve an overall understanding of music. Along with folk and blues, classical styles are the biggest influence on modern-day guitar, and each musical period and related style (such as Spanish, flamenco and bossa nova), offers a vast and exhilarating repertoire.Although it is recommended to learn to read notation for classical guitar, tablature works equally well (and combining the two even better).Classical can sometimes be associated with more academic learning (grades can be a good way to focus and track your progress, but are by no means necessary). Learning classical with this formal approach doesn't look at things from the 'guitar' perspective - putting more emphasis on how the fretboard works, how notes relate and how chord shapes can unlock pieces/ musical structures is a far more inspiringl and much faster way to make progress.Here's an overview of areas covered for classical guitar:
• Proper positioning & holding of the guitar• Basic chords & scales• Barre chords, moving scales & chord shapes along the fretboard• Finger style techniques• Tablature & music notation (and reading both together)• Grades followed from Trinity Guildhall• Introduction to similar genres (Flamenco/ Bossa Nova)• Advanced scale theory• Advanced music notation & sight reading• Learn pieces from different periods (Baroque, Classical, Romantic and 20th Century)• Maintaining & caring for your instrument
