American Blues In 6 Weeks - Week 2

Continue your journey into the heart of American blues with Week 2 of our exclusive 6-week online guitar course from Lick Library. This week, we delve into the electrifying style of the legendary Johnny Winter. This course is meticulously designed to help you master the signature techniques that defined his sound, from his rapid-fire pentatonic phrasing to his soulful vibrato. If you're ready to move beyond basic blues and inject your playing with the raw energy and passion of a true Texas blues icon, this is the perfect next step in your guitar education. Under the expert guidance of Steve Trovato, you'll unlock the secrets to playing with the fire and intensity that made Johnny Winter a guitar hero to millions.
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Steve Trovato Tutor, Professional Guitarist
Image of tutor: Steve Trovato

Lessons Included in this Course

1 Introduction
2 Building A Blues Scale From Minor Pentatonic
3 Phrasing
4 Grace Note
5 Hammer Ons & Pull Offs
6 Phrase Repetition
7 Sequencing
8 In The Style Of Johnny Winter - Lick 1
9 In The Style Of Johnny Winter - Lick 2
10 In The Style Of Johnny Winter - Lick 3
11 Final Solo Combining All New Techniques

Course Content Overview

*   **Exploring Blues Scale Patterns**: Master the essential blues scale patterns that form the foundation of Johnny Winter's lead playing.

*   **Mastering Repetitious Phrasing**: Learn how to use repetitive licks to build tension and create memorable melodic statements.

*   **Enhancing Licks with Hammer-Ons and Pull-Offs**: Develop the fluidity and speed needed to execute Johnny's signature legato phrases.

*   **Grooving with Triplets 'In the Pocket'**: Discover the rhythmic secrets to playing with a deep and infectious blues shuffle feel.

*   **Crafting Licks with Pentatonic Scale Sequencing**: Learn how to create your own original blues licks by sequencing the pentatonic scale.

This Course is Ideal for Players Who...

*   Learn the signature techniques of Texas blues legend Johnny Winter.

*   Improve their blues soloing and improvisation skills.

*   Develop a more aggressive and expressive playing style.

*   Master the art of blues rhythm and groove.

*   Expand their vocabulary of blues licks and phrases.

What will I achieve from completing this course?

Our 'American Blues In 6 Weeks' course offers a structured and effective learning path that is far more than just a collection of licks. With Steve Trovato's clear and concise instruction, you'll gain a deep understanding of the concepts and techniques that made Johnny Winter a blues-rock powerhouse. The course includes high-quality video lessons with close-up shots, detailed explanations, and practical exercises that you can apply immediately. By focusing on a new artist and set of skills each week, you'll stay motivated and see tangible progress in your playing. This course will empower you to not only play like your heroes but to become a more confident and creative blues guitarist in your own right.

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American Blues In 6 Weeks - Week 2 - Johnny Winter

Dive deep into the heart of American blues with our specialized course, "American Blues In 6 Weeks." Week 2 shines the spotlight on Johnny Winter, delving into his unique style and contributions to the blues genre. This course is carefully crafted to showcase Johnny Winter’s signature techniques, providing guitarists with the essential skills needed to excel in blues music. This course is taught by Steve Trovato.

Guitar Lesson Overview

Exploring Blues Scale Patterns

Our course kicks off with an in-depth look at blues scale patterns, the cornerstone of blues guitar. Learning these patterns is vital for guitarists to express a wide array of emotions and to navigate the fretboard with ease. Mastering these scales opens the door to improvisation and personal expression, allowing for a more dynamic and engaging playing style.

Mastering Repetitious Phrasing

We then move on to mastering repetitious phrasing, a hallmark of Johnny Winter’s playing style. This technique emphasizes the power of repeating musical phrases to build a compelling story within a solo. It teaches students how to use repetition creatively, adding depth and intensity to their playing.

Enhancing Licks with Hammer-Ons and Pull-Offs

The course also focuses on enhancing licks with hammer-ons and pull-offs, pivotal for achieving fluidity and expression in guitar playing. These techniques give your playing a more legato feel, making your solos sing with a smooth, vocal quality. Through these lessons, guitarists will learn to integrate these techniques seamlessly into their playing, adding sophistication and finesse.

Grooving with Triplets 'In the Pocket'

An essential aspect of the course is learning to groove ‘in the pocket’ using triplets, essential for achieving a tight, cohesive sound. Mastery of triplets brings a rhythmic swing to playing, essential for capturing the true essence of blues music. This section is key for those looking to improve their rhythmic accuracy and inject their performances with irresistible groove.

Crafting Licks with Pentatonic Scale Sequencing

Our exploration extends to using pentatonic scale sequencing for crafting captivating blues licks. The pentatonic scale is fundamental to blues soloing and, when sequenced creatively, provides endless opportunities for improvisation. This technique encourages guitarists to explore new patterns, expanding their creative horizons.

The Value of Practicing with a Backing Track

Including a backing track for practice is a critical component of this course, offering invaluable benefits for timing, groove, and musicianship. Practicing with a backing track simulates the experience of playing in a live band setting, crucial for preparing students for real-world performance situations. This practice tool is essential for enhancing musicality and fostering a deeper connection with the blues genre.

By the end of Week 2, students will have a profound understanding of Johnny Winter’s legendary techniques and a solid foundation in blues guitar. This course not only honors a blues icon but also equips guitarists with the skills to create their own blues masterpieces with authenticity and passion.

Guitar Techniques Featured in This Lesson


Steve Trovato playing the guitar.

About The Tutor

Tutor Profile

Steve Trovato

To fans of country music, Steve needs no introduction and as an educator Steve holds a fulltime position in the Studio Jazz Department of Southern California. Steve has had a huge impact on the guitar learning scene with his old country guitar video and his Voodoo Blues series of books...

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