Workshop
I hope everyone enjoyed the session, it was fantastic to see everyone learning "off the book" and engaging with the songs. It is lovely to hear that the group is really getting to grips with the chord progressions for both songs too.I am really looking forward to getting both songs to the 'performance' phase!
I've summarised the key takeaways, practice pointers, and next steps below.
1. Whistle for the Choir
While some found the strumming patterns challenging, these patterns will sound incredible once the whole group locks them in together. Take your time with it!
Practice Pointers:
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The Two Strumming Patterns: Keep practicing them individually.
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Pattern 1: Down, down-up, down-up, down-up.
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Pattern 2: C-string strum, G-string strum.
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The Strategy: Practice these patterns on one chord only first. Once that feels natural, slowly integrate them into the full chord progression.
Next Steps In Session 3 :
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Decide on the Arrangement: Determine exactly which parts of the song will use Pattern 1, and which parts will transition into Pattern 2.
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Explore Dynamics: Play around with the volume. Where will the stops and starts be to create contrast?
2. Sweet Child O' Mine
This one is definitely trickier with the rhythm, particularly during the chorus.
Practice Pointers:
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Section Breakdown: Keep practicing the chord progressions until everyone knows exactly what to play for each part of the song. Put extra focus on drilling the chorus and the bridge.
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Lock in the Rhythm: Make sure someone is playing the cajon to keep a steady beat. This will help everyone practice getting that tricky rhythm perfectly in time.
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The Vocal Guide: Be sure to follow the vocals as closely as possible, especially during the "Oh" part of the chorus. This is super helpful for staying together.
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The Big Finale: Remember that at the very end of the song, you slow down and do a down-up strumming pattern, finishing with a mega down-up strum on the very last chord (D minor).
Next Steps In Session 3:
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Arrangement & Performance: Get familiar with the structural arrangement, experiment with the dynamics, and start focusing on the performance and rehearsal element as a cohesive group.
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Riffs & Harmonies: If there are members who can practice the riff, encourage them! It will sound fantastic. For the singers in the group, look at adding in some vocal harmonies.
3. Top Tip for Both Songs
Encourage the group to learn the lyrics separately as their own individual task. Memorizing the lyrics independently will make a massive difference when it comes to tying the playing and singing together.
It was a real pleasure working with the group again. Have fun practicing over the summer break, and I look forward to seeing you all for part three on September 2nd!
Playlist
Upcoming Events
This is on a Sunday, and it is Fathers' Day, so that may limit the number of our members who can participate.
However, Randolph Hill Care Home have an awkward shaped lounge and wouldn’t be able to accommodate a very large group, probably around maximum of 5 performers.