NC Graduation Project Summary

Topic
Research Topic

Mentor
Project Overview

Mentor Contacts

Time/Hours
Product, Visual, or
Demonstration

What You Learned

For my project I have learned how to play the classical guitar.

I researched the history of the guitar and how it transformed from its earliest
incarnations to the instrument people know today. My research showed the stringed
instruments that led to the creation of the guitar. Once the guitar was established as an
instrument it went through many changes before it obtained its current shape and sound.
I also studied the works of Jimi Hendrix and learned how his works changed the electric
guitar.
My mentor is Mike Barnes, who works at Musicians Workshop. He holds 2 music
degrees and has studied at University of Miami, Musicians Institute and UNCA
For my project I learned how to play the classical guitar. I have also learned 2 songs for
the instrument, Andante and Minuet.
- Learned the finger picking method used to play the instrument
- began to learn my first classical song Andante
- worked on improving my finger picking technique and hand positioning
- began learning my second song Minuet, while also improving upon Andante
- recorded both Minuet and Andante
I met with my mentor a total of 6 hours and 30 minutes.
- June 17-practiced Andante, learned rest stroke, free stroke and tremolo
- June 24-practiced Andante and Minuet, began learning 120 Right
Hand Studies
- July 8-learned final segments of Minuet and practiced tremolo
- July 15-practiced right hand studies and identification of melodies
- July 22-recorded Andante and practiced 120 Right Hand Studies
- July 29-practiced studies 15-20, practiced rhythm and timing, recorded
Minuet
I spent approximately 18 hours on my project.
- I spent this time learning how to play the classical guitar.
- I discovered a new finger picking technique and learned 2 songs.
For my visual I will be playing the two songs I learned and expressing some of the
difficulties they yielded.
- Discuss the challenges of learning an entire while also learning a new playing
style.
- Play Andante live.
- Present how minuet presented different challenges than andante.
- Play minuet live.
I have learned how to play classical music. My musical skills in general have been
improved by these experiences. I have also been educated on the instruments and people
who led to the modern guitars image. Overall I have learned about
- The instruments that influenced the guitar.
- How the guitars image and style changed over time.
- How to play the classical guitar.
- A new finger picking style.
- How Jimi Hendrix shaped the image of the electric guitar.

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