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Specialty & Technique Guitar Classes

Go beyond the basics and learn the nuts and bolts of music.

If you can already play guitar, now it's time to get into the groove. With the guidance of our expert teaching artists, expand your skills and repertoire to open the wide world of guitar beyond the basics.

For intermediate players and beyond, open to students who have completed the Guitar 2 level and above. (If you're not sure where your skills fit in, visit our placement quiz.)

We suggest all guitar students consider starting with Guitar Fingerboard Theory, if you want to work on lead guitar or eventually write your own songs. It's a great primer into a wider world of musicianship.

Class Schedules and Availability

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Guitar Fingerboard Theory with Julia Mendiolea

$256 ($236 members)

06/23/2025 – 08/11/2025 (8 meetings)

Mondays · 8:00 PM – 9:20 PM · In-Person @909 W Armitage Ave

Approach music theory from a guitarist’s perspective. Examine intervals, chord and scale construction, inversions, and progressions in the context of traditional and pop genres. It is highly recommended that all students of the guitar make it a point to enroll at some point in their musical journey. Leave this class with enough material to keep you busy for years. Whether you want to write your own songs, become a hot lead guitarist or just increase your musical vocabulary and ability to jam and make music with others - this is the class for you!

Guitar Fingerboard Theory with Ruben Portillo

$256 ($236 members)

06/25/2025 – 08/13/2025 (8 meetings)

Wednesdays · 8:00 PM – 9:20 PM · In-Person @909 W Armitage Ave

Approach music theory from a guitarist’s perspective. Examine intervals, chord and scale construction, inversions, and progressions in the context of traditional and pop genres. It is highly recommended that all students of the guitar make it a point to enroll at some point in their musical journey. Leave this class with enough material to keep you busy for years. Whether you want to write your own songs, become a hot lead guitarist or just increase your musical vocabulary and ability to jam and make music with others - this is the class for you!

RPA Ensemble with Steve Dawson

$256 ($236 members)

06/26/2025 – 08/14/2025 (8 meetings)

Thursdays · 8:30 PM – 9:50 PM · In-Person @4544 N Lincoln Ave

We play and sing Rock Pop Acoustic, with a lot of laughter thrown in. Being one of 15+ guitars and a rhythm section will help you Relinquish Performance Anxiety. You may love it so much, you'll be Reluctant to Plan Activities that would keep you away. If you're Ready to Play Along, join us on Thursday nights. You'll have a great time while improving your technique and building your repertoire. "mysteriously named ... totally charming...a serious musicianship class masquerading as a social club.” - No Depression Magazine

Blues Fingerstyle 2: The Slide with Chris Walz

$256 ($236 members)

06/23/2025 – 08/11/2025 (8 meetings)

Mondays · 8:00 PM – 9:20 PM · In-Person @4544 N Lincoln Ave

Take the fingerpicking, deep boogie rhythms, and regional styles of the country blues you’ve learned in level 1, and concentrate on open tunings and bottleneck slide. Spend four weeks in open D tuning and four weeks in open G tuning, which will be taught in class. Tunes by Blind Willie McTell, Charlie Patton, Robert Johnson and others will be covered. Students will become comfortable in both Open G and Open D tunings and advance their slide lead playing and improvisational skills. Bring a slide to class

Class is full — Call 773.728.6000 for waiting list info

Classical Guitar Basic Repertoire with Jacob Sweet

$256 ($236 members)

06/23/2025 – 08/11/2025 (8 meetings)

Mondays · 6:30 PM – 7:50 PM · In-Person @4545 N Lincoln Ave

Ever dreamed of playing classical guitar but seemed daunted by the word "classical". Fear not, this class will introduce you to the basics of classical guitar through simple exercises and short pieces. Nylon string guitars and ability to read music ARE NOT REQUIRED. All songs will be presented in tab. This class is a hybrid offering - students may attend either in person or by Zoom.

Introduction to Jazz Guitar with Tony do Rosario

$256 ($236 members)

06/29/2025 – 08/17/2025 (8 meetings)

Sundays · 12:00 PM – 1:20 PM · In-Person @4545 N Lincoln Ave

We will use the genre of jazz to explore general fretboard theory. This class is for any guitarist that is interested in understanding their instrument and fundamental music theory in a deeper manner. No matter what genre of music you play this class will help you become a stronger musician, not just a guitarist. Class topics will include: chord theory, scale/mode application, basic rhythmic concepts, and chord progression. THIS CLASS IS A PREREQUISITE to Jazz Guitar 1. Contact Tony Do Rosario with any questions at tdorosario@oldtownschool.org

Jazz Guitar 1 with Tony do Rosario

$256 ($236 members)

06/28/2025 – 08/16/2025 (8 meetings)

Saturdays · 12:30 PM – 1:50 PM · In-Person @4544 N Lincoln Ave

This class is a continuation of Introduction to Jazz Guitar. At this level, we will work on a bebop blues, bebop rhythm changes, and select standards from the American song book. We will use bebop melodies to develop our rhythmic vocabulary. Come explore the basic frameworks of improvisation and accompaniment over classic jazz progressions. REGISTRATION IS LIMITED TO THOSE WHO HAVE COMPLETED INTRO to JAZZ GUITAR. Contact Tony Do Rosario with any questions at tdorosario@oldtownschool.org

Jazz Guitar 1.5 with Tony do Rosario

$256 ($236 members)

06/23/2025 – 08/11/2025 (8 meetings)

Mondays · 7:30 PM – 8:50 PM · Online

A class designed to bring your jazz guitar skills to a higher level. We welcome those who have taken Jazz Guitar 1 and are ready to increase their musical vocabulary in terms of harmony and melody. We’ll concentrate on great American Standards as well as variations of Blues. REGISTRATION IS LIMITED TO THOSE WHO HAVE COMPLETED INTRO, JAZZ GUITAR 1. Contact Tony Do Rosario at tdorosario@oldtownschool.org It’s a lifelong journey and we invite you to repeat level as much as necessary before moving on to Jazz Guitar 2.

Jazz Guitar 1.5 with Tony do Rosario

$256 ($236 members)

06/29/2025 – 08/17/2025 (8 meetings)

Sundays · 10:30 AM – 11:50 AM · In-Person @4545 N Lincoln Ave

A class designed to bring your jazz guitar skills to a higher level. We welcome those who have taken Jazz Guitar 1 and are ready to increase their musical vocabulary in terms of harmony and melody. We’ll concentrate on great American Standards as well as variations of Blues. REGISTRATION IS LIMITED TO THOSE WHO HAVE COMPLETED INTRO, JAZZ GUITAR 1. Contact Tony Do Rosario at tdorosario@oldtownschool.org It’s a lifelong journey and we invite you to repeat level as much as necessary before moving on to Jazz Guitar 2.

Jazz Guitar 4Ever with Tony do Rosario

$256 ($236 members)

06/25/2025 – 08/13/2025 (8 meetings)

Wednesdays · 8:00 PM – 9:20 PM · In-Person @4545 N Lincoln Ave

An ongoing class in the advanced study of Jazz for the guitarist. We will build repertoire, further develop improvisation skills and advance rhythmic variations. Participants should have gone thru Jazz Guitar 2 several times or should audition with the instructor tdorosario@oldtownschool.org

Flatpicking 2 - Technique with Chris Walz

$256 ($236 members)

06/24/2025 – 08/12/2025 (8 meetings)

Tuesdays · 6:30 PM – 7:50 PM · In-Person @4544 N Lincoln Ave

Melodies. Focus the rhythm techniques learned in Flatpicking 1 into a solid foundation for single note playing. The pick hand mechanics are the same, but instead of playing all six strings you play one at a time. Emphasis will be on down-up pick strokes, tone, and timing. Worksheets and fiddle tunes will be the materials used to build your skills. Tunes tabbed out will be provided.

Acoustic Blues Guitar Repertoire with Paul Kaye

$256 ($236 members)

06/28/2025 – 08/16/2025 (8 meetings)

Saturdays · 1:00 PM – 2:20 PM · Online

This intermediate level class introduces the music of traditional blues’ great artists. From the ragtime/blues style of Rev. Gary Davis and Blind Blake to the Delta/Chicago grind of Robert Johnson and Muddy Waters. Learn such techniques as: fingerpicking (ragtime, shuffle rhythm), open tuning, bottleneck slide, basic improvising, and more. This is some of the most satisfying music steel string pickers can get their fingers on!

Aimee Mann Songbag with Tommi Zender · Carey Farrell

$30 ($28 members)

07/15/2025 (1 meetings)

Tuesday · 6:30 PM – 7:50 PM · In-Person @909 W Armitage Ave

Join us for an evening of rich melodies, sharp lyricism, and emotionally resonant songwriting as we explore the music of Aimee Mann. From her 'Til Tuesday days (“Voices Carry”) to her acclaimed solo work (“Save Me,” “Wise Up,” “Calling It Quits”), Aimee’s catalog offers plenty of depth for musicians and music lovers alike. Co-hosted by Old Town School teaching artist Tommi Zender and special guest Carey Anne Farrell, this workshop welcomes all instruments and voices. Chord charts and lyrics will be provided. Come ready to play, sing, and appreciate one of the most distinctive songwriters of our time! Don’t forget to bring a capo!

Argh! Barre Chords! with Charles Kim

$30 ($25 members)

08/02/2025 (1 meetings)

Saturday · 1:00 PM – 2:20 PM · In-Person @4544 N Lincoln Ave

It’s the lament of the guitarist after the first couple of sessions: ARGH! Barre Chords! Have no fear, there is hope! Learn how to play barre chords across the neck, how to develop the muscles you’ll need, and how to move fluidly from open chords and other chord forms. You’ll also learn the partial barre forms so you can play your favorite songs while you're developing your technique. Phew! Barre chords without frustration!

Barre Chords Demystified: Play Across the Neck with Confidence with Charles Kim

$256 ($236 members)

06/26/2025 – 08/14/2025 (8 meetings)

Thursdays · 6:30 PM – 7:50 PM · In-Person @4544 N Lincoln Ave

Do barre chords leave you feeling frustrated? You’re not alone—but they don’t have to! In this 8-week class, we’ll take the mystery (and misery) out of barre chords with a step-by-step approach that builds both technique and confidence. Through an exciting mix of songs spanning different genres, you’ll learn to transition smoothly between open chords, barre chords, and other chord shapes. From rock to folk, pop to blues, you’ll discover how barre chords can unlock a whole new level of flexibility in your playing. We’ll also explore partial barre shapes and variations, helping you ease into the technique without the struggle. Whether you’re new to barre chords or looking to refine your skills, this class will empower you to play your favorite songs with ease while strengthening your overall guitar technique. Let’s make barre chords fun and approachable—come join us!

Crushing Chord Transitions for Ukulele and Guitar with Charles Kim

$30 ($28 members)

07/19/2025 (1 meetings)

Saturday · 1:00 PM – 2:20 PM · In-Person @4544 N Lincoln Ave

What’s the chord transition in that song that always trips you up? Whether it involves open chords, barre chords, unusual fingerings or fast changes, make those transitions easier! In this workshop, you’ll learn lots of easy strategies about muscle memory, chord shapes, minimizing finger motion, and practicing. Minimize the frustration with chords and sail smoothly through your songs! Open to any level of guitarist or ukulele player, from beginning to advanced. All fretted string instruments are welcome.

Guitar Riffs: Beginner-Intermediate with Dan Fulkerson

$256 ($236 members)

06/25/2025 – 08/13/2025 (8 meetings)

Wednesdays · 8:00 PM – 9:20 PM · In-Person @909 W Armitage Ave

Ready to take your guitar playing to the next level? Whether you’re jamming along to your favorite songs or looking to add some edge to your playing, this 8-week class will teach you iconic guitar riffs and licks from rock, blues, pop, and beyond. Designed for guitarists who already know their way around the fretboard, this class focuses on building technique, developing muscle memory, and learning to play riffs that are instantly recognizable. In this class, you’ll: Master riffs from classic and modern songs Learn techniques like bending, sliding, and palm muting Practice building speed and precision Improve your rhythm and timing while playing with others Gain confidence in your ability to improvise and play along with recordings By the end of the session, you’ll have a collection of riffs under your belt and the skills to start playing them effortlessly. This class is ideal for anyone who already plays some guitar and is looking to have fun while building their skills in a supportive and relaxed setting.

Introduction to Acoustic Blues Guitar with Paul Kaye

$256 ($236 members)

06/28/2025 – 08/16/2025 (8 meetings)

Saturdays · 11:30 AM – 12:50 PM · Online

"Blues is a Feeling!" In this class, you'll gain the skills needed to play the music and learn the styles and techniques of blues greats like Mississippi John Hurt, Big Bill Broonzy, Robert Johnson, and more. We’ll cover fingerpicking, ragtime and shuffle rhythms, blues chords, riffs, and chord progressions, as well as open tunings and slide/bottleneck styles. Prerequisite: Minimal fingerpicking experience. You should have successfully completed Core Guitar Level 3 or 4. Some written materials will be provided, including standard notation and TAB. Join us to dive into the rich world of blues!

Simple Guitar Fills with Barbara Silverman

$194 ($174 members)

06/26/2025 – 08/14/2025 (8 meetings)

Thursdays · 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM · Online

In this class, we’ll focus on simple and effective guitar fills that are easy to execute but make a big impact. Our approach will teach you how to connect phrases smoothly, enhancing both your sound and your singing. Whether it’s a walk, a fingerpick, or a catchy strum, you’ll learn how to add the perfect touch to your playing without feeling overwhelmed. From ballads to swing tunes to country hits, you'll discover how to bring your songs to life with these essential guitar fills!

Strumming Rhythms with Barbara Silverman

$256 ($236 members)

06/24/2025 – 08/12/2025 (8 meetings)

Tuesdays · 10:00 AM – 11:20 AM · Online

Let’s dive into the art of strumming! We’ll start by mastering basic rhythm patterns, from straight beats to swing. You’ll learn a simple strum and how to add rhythmic flair, along with tips on choosing the right pattern for your song. Whether you're a beginner or already playing, this class will help you build a solid foundation in essential strumming techniques. From simple folk songs to more intricate rhythms, you'll gain the skills to bring groove and style to your playing across multiple genres!

Taylor Swift for Guitar with Alicia Lees

This class delves into Taylor Swift's mighty song catalogue, using songs we love to expand our skills on the guitar. Each session features a new collection of songs pulled from across all the different “Eras”. Song requests are also welcome and influence what is brought in each session. This class is perfect for Guitar 2 level + above: guitar players with a basic knowledge of open chords (including F, Bm, and Dm) and simple strum patterns.

$256 ($236 members)

06/24/2025 – 08/12/2025 (8 meetings)

Tuesdays · 6:30 PM – 7:50 PM · In-Person @909 W Armitage Ave

This class delves into Taylor Swift's mighty song catalogue, using songs we love to expand our skills on the guitar. Each session features a new collection of songs pulled from across all the different “Eras”. Song requests are also welcome and influence what is brought in each session. This class is perfect for Guitar 2 level + above: guitar players with a basic knowledge of open chords (including F, Bm, and Dm) and simple strum patterns.

The Songs of Bob Dylan with John Mead

$256 ($236 members)

06/24/2025 – 08/12/2025 (8 meetings)

Tuesdays · 6:30 PM – 7:50 PM · In-Person @4544 N Lincoln Ave

Journey through six decades of one of America’s greatest songwriters. Acoustic or electric—Dylan’s catalog is massive and full of gems. We’ll explore his evolving sound, sharp lyricism, and the music that inspired generations.

Wilco Songbag with Tommi Zender

$30 ($28 members)

07/22/2025 (1 meetings)

Tuesday · 6:30 PM – 7:50 PM · In-Person @909 W Armitage Ave

Join OTSFM guitar and ensemble instructor Tommi Zender for a special Songbag celebrating the music of Jeff Tweedy. We'll play fan favorites from Wilco’s A.M. through Cruel Country, with a few songs from Uncle Tupelo and Golden Smog in the mix as well. This Songbag is best for intermediate-level players and up. Don’t forget to bring a capo!