Barre chords, Pentatonic Scales, and Guitar theory - 5 weeks

Delivered by Thomas, lead tutor and founder of The Guitar Social 

Course Overview 

There are three big areas in a guitar players journey that once explored, understood and most crucially, applied, elevate that player from the ranks of ‘just about getting it’ to… arrived. These areas are barre chords and pentatonic scales. If you underpin these two areas with a solid knowledge of the fretboard and basic guitar theory, the instrument really opens up for you. That's what makes this one of the most exciting courses we do. 

We leave room for thought tangents based on your questions, and time is allotted to head down whatever alley-ways of curiosity our song choices take us. 

What level 

This is an improver level course. This means that you can play open chords and are comfortable changing between them. You will have played some songs, you can read tabs and are comfortable with chord boxes.

Learning outcomes 

• Understanding and application of E type barre chords in minor, major, seventh and minor seventh forms 
• Ability to play at least three pentatonic scales in Major and minor formations 
• All note names on all strings across the fretboard 
• Confident improvised work using scales 
• Able to respond to songs in all keys using barre chord theory

Song Choices

Currently being selected for 2025. Pop, Folk, Rock, Blues, some Jazz

Electric or acoustic? 

You should always bring whatever you have the most playing. Electric players are expected to bring their own amps and leads

Can't make every session?

This is very common. If you miss up to a third of your program, we can keep you up to speed with video and email support.  We are also flexible with our schedule. If you need to jump on another session on a different date, the answer is always yes.

Course includes 

• Five sessions lasting between 70 and 90 minutes
• A course book full of guidance and resources 
• Access to a YouTube playlist to assist you in your at home practice 
• An opportunity to play live with your group, backed by The Guitar Social house band, at the end of term party
• An invite to join our WhatsApp community made up of multiple groups assisting practice, building connections and talking all things music and the guitar 
• Entry to all of The Guitar Socials events including an event just for your group where you'll get to know your jam buddy's outside of the session room