Learn folk guitar in a relaxed and friendly environment. The classes explore all aspects of folk guitar; from flat picking tune playing to chordal accompaniment for folk songs.
The modern day acoustic guitar is a popular musical instrument classified as a string instrument typically with 6 to 12 strings. The sound is projected acoustically through the vibration of the instrument and is played by strumming or plucking the strings with the right hand while fretting the strings with the fingers of the left hand.
For this course you will need an acoustic six-stringed guitar, preferably with steel strings but any acoustic guitar will work. You will be learning both fingerpicking and using a guitar pick.
Guitar classes
Level 1–2 (Absolute Beginners / Beginners)
Throughout this course we will be looking at the basics of playing the guitar and developing the fundamental skills involved in folk guitar playing from basic fingerpicking patterns to chordal accompaniment for folk songs. We'll look at strumming patterns, different chord voicing and learning basic folk tune arrangements on the guitar. Learning mainly by ear, students will develop skills in a range of techniques and styles in an informal and relaxed environment at their own pace. This course is ideal for those who wish to gain an insight into folk guitar and pick up some fun and interesting techniques along the way.
Please note that we only accept complete beginners during the Autumn term – there is no Level 1 class in the Spring.
Level 3–4 (Improvers / Intermediate)
Throughout this course we will be closely looking at specific aspects of folk guitar; finger style techniques, flat picking and chordal accompaniment for folk songs. We'll be looking in depth at finger style techniques and arranging folk tunes on the guitar. We'll also take a look at harmony and how to escape from the 3 chord trick when accompanying folk tunes. Learning mainly by ear, students will develop skills in a range of techniques and styles in an informal and relaxed environment. This course is ideal for those who wish to build on their existing folk guitar knowledge and gather the tools to progress in this style.
Book Guitar 3 & 4 for Spring 2025
Pre-entry level requirements
Level 1 (Autumn term only)
Complete beginners are welcome!
Level 2
This course is for people who have a basic knowledge of playing the guitar and who are looking to learn more. Students should have a good knowledge of 1st position chords and scales and have a basic understanding of barre chords. Plectrum and finger-style guitarists will both be welcome.
Level 3-4
This course is for people who have a good knowledge of playing the guitar and want to learn in more detail the idiosyncrasies of the folk guitar style. A thorough knowledge of 1st position chords and scales, a good understanding of barre chords and right hand plectrum and finger-style technique is required.
Who leads the course?
The guitar classes are taught by David Delarre.
David is a musician, composer and teacher. Through his work with 3 times BBC Radio 2 Folk Award nominees Mawkin, David has toured the UK and Europe, performed for BBC Radio 2, 3 and 4 and also recorded a live session for Jools Holland for BBC 2. His work as an arts practitioner has led him to teach Folk Roots Enrichment at Hills Road College, Cambridge and as part of the Shooting Roots programme of workshops at folk festivals across the country. David also teaches guitar, mandolin and banjo and currently plays for Eliza Carthy.
How can I take part?
Fees
For termly fees please check the relevant booking page.
Advance booking is required.
Concessions are available to people who are in full-time education; in receipt of Job Seekers Allowance; in receipt of Income-Based Benefit (such as Income Support, Housing or Council Tax Benefit, Working Tax Credit, Pension Credit). For concessionary rates please call the box office on 020 7485 2206. The box office is open between 9.30 and 17.00 Monday to Friday. Evidence of concession will need to be provided before the start of term by emailing [email protected] with a copy of your supporting documentation.
Terms and Conditions
We cannot give you a refund for any missed classes, including absence due to self-isolation.
Refunds are given only if your course is cancelled or closed early.
If you enrol on a Sunday Folk Music Workshops course but decide after the first session but before the second class that it is not right for you, you can either:
- transfer your booking to another instrument. This depends on availability; if the course of your choice is full then we can reserve a place for you on the following term.
- or have the course fees refunded to you minus an administration charge of £15 (as long as you contact us before the second class of term).
Read more about Terms and Conditions
We run Sunday Folk Music Workshops in Banjo, Fiddle, Guitar, Melodeon Song and Ceilidh Band. Why not do several on the same day?
