The cigar box guitar is a worldwide phenomenon. Many famous musicians have started on these simple homemade instruments. The 2-stringed, “Chugger”, version we’ll be playing is provided; you just show up. The Chugger is the easiest stringed instrument to play, even easier than a ukulele! This 90 minute class is for beginners; no music experience is needed. There is only 1 simple 1-finger chord to learn (You don’t even need to cut your fingernails!). Our emphasis will be on fun; mostly on playing and singing at least 10 familiar songs from 3 free, downloadable songbooks which contain 1,000+ songs. You’ll also learn to adapt your favorite songs for 1-finger playing, how to get your hands one, and resources available to continue your journey. Experience “Cigar Box Guitar Mojo” as you become a 1-finger Cigar Box Guitarslinger! 

You know some beginner ukulele chords and can sing a few songs. What now? Improve your strumming, add new chords to your gig bag, and use simple ukulele music theory to help understand music keys and chords. We will learn the C-scale and see how it is used to play a song melody and simple solos. We will use TAB to play melodies to mix with chords for instrumentals and see how common chord shapes can be moved up-the-neck. We will also do some group singing and discuss practical ways to practice, but our emphasis will always be on having fun. Instructor has a limited number of ukuleles available to loan, email scott.hallett@scc.spokane.edu for more information.

The ukulele has recently made a huge comeback in popularity and is the easiest of all string instruments to learn to play. It is also suitable for all types of music. These three 2-hour classes are designed for absolute beginners (or those that know only a few chords). Our emphasis will be on fun rather than theory and no prior music experience is needed. We will begin with simple, familiar tunes, and spend our time learning a few simple chords that will allow you to play literally hundreds of songs. We will spend time on the care and feeding of your ukulele as well. A 50-page handout will be provided, but you need to have your own ukulele and tuner. Instructor has a limited number of ukuleles available to loan, email scott.hallett@scc.spokane.edu for more information.