Notes From Helen

Winter Guitar Classes: 5 Weeks, Mondays in Sun Prairie 1/6 - 2/3
To register email, call or text me, and I will provide payment instructions.
(845) 797-6461info@HelenAvakian.com
 

Introduction To Guitar, Ages 13 - Adult
Section 1, 6 - 7 PM  (REGISTRATION FULL, CLOSED until next time)
Section 2, 10:30 - 11:30 AM (REGISTRATION OPEN, a few spots are still available)
Learn the basics of playing guitar from the ground up; how to hold the guitar, tune, play single notes and chords, accompany songs using strumming and fingerpicking, and how to play solos. Fundamentals of music such as rhythm and song structure will be covered as well as exercises to develop finger strength and dexterity. Lots of “hands-on” experience playing together as a group in a variety of styles tailored to the interests of the group including pop, rock, folk, blues, country and perhaps even a touch of Spanish Flamenco. Students must bring their own acoustic guitar or electric guitar. Instructional materials will be provided.
5 Sessions $100
If these days and times do not work let me know, I may be able to put a group together at another mutually convenient time.

Guitar Performance Workshop 7:15 - 8:45 PM (REGISTRATION OPEN, a few spots are still available)
Transform Stage Fright Into Stage Excitement! : )
This will be an in-depth exploration of ways to work with the energy of stage fright and turn it into something positive so that one can perform more effectively and enjoy it along the way. The more a performer enjoys what they are doing the more confidence they have which helps for a stronger presentation all around. I will offer various techniques and tips from ways to prepare in practice sessions to ways to calm down before and during performance. Every class there will be an opportunity for participants to perform and share with the group if they wish to do so. We will also do some group guitar playing. This is a topic near and dear to my heart as I have contended with stage fright since I was a child. Years of study and performing have helped me to work with that energy, enjoy performing, compete in guitar contests, and even win the International Fingerstyle Guitar Championship! I have helped a great many students gain more comfort onstage. I have seen individuals go from being practically inaudible when singing, or being debilitated with shakiness and nerves when performing on guitar to happily appearing at open mics, playing for loved ones, at parties, and in concert.

"I took Helen's Guitar Performance Workshop, and I will say it really helped me a great deal. I got rid of a lot of fear. It built up an enormous amount of confidence; we (in the class) all made gigantic improvements. I highly recommend this program."
Steve Puntillo, Guitar Performance Workshop Participant, Sun Prairie WI

"When it came down to the competition I was very worried, very nervous. I did a lot about what you talked about in the workshop. I did physical activity beforehand to really clear my mind. I did some of the breathing exercises as well that you taught in your workshop, and overall I thought it was a great performance, one of the best performances I've had for both songs. I just really appreciated what you had to say, and I definitely took that to heart. I thank you very much."
Alberto Garcia, Guitar Performance Workshop Participant  at the Indiana Fingerstyle Guitar Festival, Fingerstyle Championship Competitor Nashville, IN

5 Sessions $125

Individual Lessons on guitar, songwriting, beginning ukulele, and vocal coaching are also available on an ongoing basis meaning you can sign up any time. You can also sign up for a semi-private lesson with another guitarist or two. Contact me for more information and pricing.

To register email, call or text me, and I will provide payment instructions.
(845) 797-6461info@HelenAvakian.com