American Blues In 6 Weeks - Week 3

Welcome to Week 3 of Lick Library’s immersive ‘American Blues In 6 Weeks’ online guitar course. This week, we pay homage to the “Master of the Telecaster,” the one and only Albert Collins. This course is your gateway to understanding the unique and innovative techniques of the “Iceman,” from his signature “cool” tone to his masterful use of double stops and open tunings. If you’re ready to add a new layer of sophistication and creativity to your blues playing, this is an unmissable opportunity to learn from one of the most influential blues guitarists of all time. With Steve Trovato as your guide, you’ll explore the techniques that made Albert Collins a true original and a blues legend.
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Steve Trovato Tutor, Professional Guitarist
Image of tutor: Steve Trovato

Lessons Included in this Course

1 Introduction
2 C Major Pentatonic Scale In Closed Position
3 C Blues Scale In Closed Position
4 Combining Major Pentatonic & Blues Scale
5 Hammer Ons & Pull Offs
6 Phrasing & Slides
7 In The Style Of Albert Collins - Lick 1
8 In The Style Of Albert Collins - Lick 2
9 In The Style Of Albert Collins - Lick 3
10 Final Solo Combining All New Techniques

Course Content Overview

This week’s lessons are designed to give you a comprehensive understanding of Albert Collins’ groundbreaking style. You’ll learn how to create his iconic “icy” tone, master his unique approach to phrasing, and incorporate his signature techniques into your own playing. Each lesson is a deep dive into a specific aspect of his style, providing you with the tools to not only emulate his sound but also to expand your own creative horizons.

Here’s a breakdown of the lesson contents:

*   **Learning Blues Scale Patterns**: Solidify your understanding of the blues scale, the foundation of Albert Collins' melodic genius.

*   **Major Pentatonic Scale Patterns**: Learn how to use the major pentatonic scale to add a brighter, more melodic flavour to your blues solos.

*   **Utilising Double Stops**: Master the art of playing two notes at once to create the rich, harmonic textures that were a hallmark of Albert Collins’ style.

*   **Shifting Positions for Longer Licks**: Learn how to seamlessly shift between positions on the fretboard to create long, flowing blues lines.

*   **Combining Scales for Innovative Blues Licks**: Discover how to combine the blues scale and major pentatonic scale to create your own unique and exciting blues licks.

This Course is Ideal for Players Who...

This course is ideal for intermediate to advanced guitarists who are looking to expand their blues vocabulary and develop a more unique and expressive voice on the guitar. It’s particularly well-suited for those who want to:

*   Learn the signature techniques of the legendary Albert Collins.

*   Develop a more sophisticated and melodic approach to blues soloing.

*   Master the use of double stops and other advanced blues techniques.

*   Learn how to create their own original blues licks and phrases.

*   Explore the world of open tunings and their application in blues guitar.

What will I achieve from completing this course?

Our ‘American Blues In 6 Weeks’ course provides a structured and engaging learning experience that will transform your blues playing. Steve Trovato’s expert instruction and clear, step-by-step approach make even the most complex techniques accessible and easy to understand. The course features high-quality video lessons, detailed explanations, and practical exercises that will have you playing like a pro in no time. By focusing on a different blues master each week, you’ll gain a well-rounded education in the rich history and diverse styles of American blues. This course is more than just a series of lessons; it’s a journey of discovery that will inspire you to become the best blues guitarist you can be.

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American Blues In 6 Weeks - Week 3: Albert Collins

Embark on a transformative musical journey with our specialized course, "American Blues In 6 Weeks - Week 3: Albert Collins." This particular segment is meticulously designed to immerse you in the electrifying world of Albert Collins, a titan of blues guitar. Through a series of expertly crafted lessons, you'll explore foundational and advanced blues techniques that will elevate your playing, creativity, and understanding of blues music. This course promises not only to teach you note-for-note but also to imbue you with the spirit and emotional depth of the blues genre. This course is taught by Steve Trovato.

Guitar Lesson Overview

Learning Blues Scale Patterns

The blues scale is the cornerstone of blues music, offering a gateway to expressive solos and deep, emotional storytelling through your guitar. This course takes you step-by-step through blues scale patterns, ensuring you can navigate the fretboard with ease and confidence. Mastering this scale enriches your solos with that unmistakable bluesy sound, a must-have skill for any aspiring blues guitarist.

Major Pentatonic Scale Patterns

Contrasting the blues scale, the major pentatonic scale offers a brighter, more uplifting sound. This course teaches you patterns of the major pentatonic scale, providing you with the tools to add variety and contrast to your playing. Learning this scale allows you to craft solos and melodies that stand out for their melodic richness and emotional diversity.

Utilizing Double Stops

Double stops are a powerful technique in the blues guitarist's arsenal, allowing you to play two notes simultaneously for a fuller, more harmonic sound. This week's lessons focus on integrating double stops into your playing, adding texture and depth to your solos and riffs. This technique is key to replicating the dense, layered sound characteristic of blues legends like Albert Collins.

Shifting Positions for Longer Licks

To extend your solos and create more elaborate musical phrases, shifting positions along the fretboard is essential. This course provides practical exercises for smooth position changes, enabling you to traverse the neck of your guitar seamlessly. This skill not only enhances your fluidity but also expands your creative possibilities.

Combining Scales for Innovative Blues Licks

A hallmark of advanced blues playing is the ability to combine different scales, such as the blues and major pentatonic scales, to create unique and compelling licks. This course guides you through the process of mixing these scales, teaching you to improvise with both structure and spontaneity. This technique is crucial for developing your own voice on the guitar.

The Advantage of Backing Tracks

Practicing with a backing track is an invaluable part of your blues education. It simulates a real-band experience, challenging you to maintain timing, rhythm, and dynamics in a live setting. This course includes a backing track tailored to the week's lessons, ensuring you can practice in context and prepare for live performances. Playing along with a backing track not only solidifies your technical skills but also enhances your musicality and stage presence.


Guitar Techniques Summary

This course covers a broad spectrum of techniques essential for blues guitar mastery. Below is a summary of the primary techniques explored in Week 3, along with additional resources to further your learning:

"American Blues In 6 Weeks - Week 3: Albert Collins" offers an unparalleled opportunity to delve into the techniques that shaped the blues genre. Whether you're a beginner looking to lay a solid foundation or an experienced player aiming to deepen your blues knowledge, this course will guide you every step of the way, ensuring you not only learn the notes but also the soul behind the music.

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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