The Songwriter's Workshop: Harmony

Brazil has produced some of the most vibrant and exciting guitar music in the instrument's history. In this lesson Rick Udler discusses and demonstrates styles techniques and rhythms of Brazil's great players. This is a uniqueopportunity for guitarists to delve into the beautiful sounds of this musical land. Rick begins by going over chords that are commonly used by Brazilian guitarists. He then teaches the accompaniment to singer/songwriterGilberto Gil's beautiful composition 'A Paz' to illustrate the use of chords with open strings. A step-by-step analysis of Bossa Nova accompaniment in the João Gilberto style follows along with suggestions on how to develop abetter feel for this sophisticated syncopated groove. The solo guitar rendition of the Antonio Carlos Jobim/Newton Mendonça classic 'One Note Samba' will be a welcome addition to many players repertoires with it'srhythmic drive and rich harmony. Samba rhythms are then explored with examples that are sure to enhance one's groove and arsenal of techniques. Rick also gives examples of inner string movement which will prove invaluable to thoselooking for ways to generate more excitement and authenticity in their comping. A sambified version of 'Happy Birthday' demonstrates how to apply these techniques to a familiar tune and make it sound fresh.And to provide an evengreater challenge for all players Rick gives a detailed analysis of his tour de force solo guitar piece 'Amigo Paulo' composed as an homage to his friend guitar legend Paulinho Nogueira (1927-2003). This tune with it's choroinfluences incorporates many of the techniques Rick learned directly from the master and is sure to provide much musical food for thought for players who are looking for innovative new colours and textures to add to their playing.