BIMM Artist Development Diploma in Modern Music - Guitar

Course Overview
This course is equivalent to 2 ‘A’ levels.This course is all about ‘getting out there’, being seen and heard and gaining the confidence of a professional musician.

Course Contents

• Technical Development

A good technique is essential if a more efficient and accurate execution of musical ideas is the aim. Musicians will be taken through a logical technical study path, in order to facilitate better technique. Areas such as scale knowledge, right and left hand technique, rhythm playing, picking styles, the CAGED chord system, and Modes will all be addressed.

• Session Styles

A study of the sounds and styles of some of the worlds’ most influentialguitarists. Artists such as Muddy Waters, Jimi Hendrix, Stevie Ray Vaughan, George Harrison, Keith Richards, Eddie Van Halen, The Edge, John Frusciante and Nile Rogers are all included for study, in order to broaden the range of the student’s stylistic knowledge.

• Pre – Production

This lecture encourages the preparation of songs to the standard of a professional band/artist. Parts, arrangement, tone and performance will all be analysed, with the emphasis on simplicity being taken to a very high standard. Attention to detail is paramount.

• Live Performance Workshop

This unit is about making the songs studied in Pre - Production work in a live setting. Learning to communicate ideas with other musicians, with the focus on a tight, well arranged and professional performance.

• Sight Reading & Ear Training

Sharpening your ear. Learning sight reading skills that will give musicians the edge over the competition. The ability to sight-read music notation is essential for securing show gigs, teaching work and many other engagements in the music industry.

• Music Theory

A comprehensive look at music theory and the practical application of theoretical concepts, essential for writing, arranging and understanding the science behind the song.

• The Music Industry

Practical music industry knowledge that will help you plan your career. Musicians will be taken through all aspects of the music industry, including record and publishing deals, management, music synchronisation, legal issues, copyright, music teaching, live music, business plans, etc.

• Music in Context

A history of classic artists placed in their social, historical and political context. Artists studied include Elvis Presley, Nina Simone, Rolling Stones, The Beatles, Bob Dylan, Aretha Franklin, Bob Marley, Marvin Gaye, Curtis Mayfield, David Bowie, Sex Pistols, Led Zeppelin, Public Enemy, Nirvana and Radiohead. Essential stylistic knowledge which will develop authenticity in
performance.

• Performance Preparation

Planning for key performances at local and national level. Rehearsal technique, promotion, marketing, leadership, venues and promoters, tour management, stage management and budgeting are all studied.

• Extended Studies

A chance to recap and review key areas of the curriculum, as well as receiving information relating to assessments, auditions and guests.