Michael

New scores and video links on “Links” page

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I’ve just added 3 new pieces and a couple of videos on the “Links: scores, media, etc.” page which is listed on the left side of the screen.  There are 2 trios which are for intermediate players and another 12 bar blues piece.  I hope you find them interesting and useful.

Here is a link to the my Scarlatti Sonata on YouTube in case you want to go there directly from this page. https://youtu.be/iL-OahZgLbk

Michael

Pieces for first lessons: Trot Old Joe, and Bells

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Here are two little pieces that I use in first lessons (both are Noteflight scores):

Trot Old Joe

Bells

Trot Old Joe uses only the B, G and D strings and Bells adds the A on the third string.  Students are pleased to be able to play a little song and these few notes are easy to remember.  I’ve used these with students as young as 3 and as old as 9 or 10.  Some never forget them and play them as fun pieces for years!

Michael

“Blue Blues” Easy 12 bar blues for solo or duo

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Here is an easy blues arrangement I often use.

“Blue Blues” arranged by MCS.

One guitarist can play the single notes puntcuated by chords, or two can play–one the notes, the other the chords.  I’ve had a lot of fun with this.  Remember it’s the blues and improvising is encouraged.

The 12 bar blues form is used in many songs including Elvis’ “Hound Dog,” Muddy Waters’ “Train Fare Blues,” many songs by Eric Clapton and even Henry Mancini’s “Baby Elephant Walk.”

The link will take you to a Noteflight page and you can hear the song by clicking the red arrow in the lower left corner of the screen.

Welcome guitarists!

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Welcome to the Guitar Blog.  I’ll be posting articles, music and links that I hope you’ll like.  Please leave comments telling me your thoughts and interests.  I expect to be posting weekly or so, as I’m new to this I can’t make any promises.  If you wish to email me directly please at:

mcs(at)michaelcsmith(dot)com  [please replace the “(at)” and “(dot)” with the appropriate symbols]

Thanks,

Michael