ArtistWorks Blog

Great news for fingerstyle jazz guitarists! ArtistWorks has just added seven brand-new lessons to Sean McGowan’s acclaimed Fingerstyle Jazz Guitar course, offering fresh material for students eager to refine their technique, expand their harmonic vocabulary, and groove through some soulful blues études.

We are absolutely ecstatic to announce that our newest course, “Blues Guitar with Seth Rosenbloom,” is officially here! As of 9 am PT, the course is officially live and open to all students.

When it comes to refining your fingerstyle jazz guitar technique, developing control over dynamics and tone is essential. One of the most effective ways to achieve this is by incorporating accenting exercises into your scale practice. By focusing on how you articulate individual notes, you can enhance your expressiveness and create a more polished, consistent sound. In this blog, we’ll explore key accenting techniques and how they can elevate your fingerstyle jazz guitar playing.

Flamenco guitar is a rich and expressive art form, deeply rooted in Spanish culture. Central to mastering this style are the foundational chord positions known as "Por Arriba" and "Por Medio." Understanding these positions is essential for any aspiring flamenco guitarist.

Clawhammer banjo, a staple in old-time and traditional American music, offers a rich tapestry of rhythm patterns that can be interwoven to create dynamic and engaging accompaniments. Mastering these patterns not only enhances your rhythmic foundation but also adds depth to your playing. In this blog, we'll explore four fundamental clawhammer banjo patterns: Bum-Ditty, Double Thumb, Cross Over, and Roll. Understanding and applying these patterns interchangeably will elevate your rhythm playing.

In bluegrass banjo playing, particularly within the melodic and single-string styles, mastering closed hand positions is essential for fluidity and precision across the fretboard. A pivotal aspect of these positions is the role of the fretting hand's middle finger, which determines the positional framework for scales and melodies.

Mandolin lovers, get ready for an unforgettable musical experience! Renowned mandolinists Mike Marshall and Caterina Lichtenberg are hosting their highly anticipated Mandolin World Retreat in the breathtaking setting of Sicily, Italy. Set against a backdrop of sun-drenched landscapes, rich history, and world-class cuisine, this retreat is the perfect opportunity for players of all levels to immerse themselves in mandolin mastery.

January and the New Year are always a great time for reflection, and as we step into 2025, we at ArtistWorks wanted to take a moment to recognize one of our proudest achievements and biggest highlights from 2024. This past September, we were deeply honored to receive one of the International Bluegrass Music Association’s (IBMA) “Distinguished Achievement Awards” at the 2024 IBMA Bluegrass Music Awards. This prestigious recognition is a testament to our commitment to providing high-quality, accessible bluegrass music education to students around the world.