Quick Licks - Brian May: Mastering the Majesty of Rock Guitar

Learning Brian May's licks not only equips guitarists with a library of classic rock phrases but also provides a deeper understanding of how to construct solos that resonate with listeners. The versatility and musicality of his licks serve as a solid foundation for developing one’s own style, ensuring these lessons are an investment in your musical future. These lessons are brought to you by Michael Casswell.

What You Will Learn In This Course

35 killer rock licks in the style of Brian May. This course also includes a backing track to play over. The techniques you will learn include:

• Rock Guitar Soloing
• Guitar Harmonies
• String Bending
• Alternate Picking

Technique Breakdown

Rock Guitar Soloing

Embark on a journey through the quintessential realm of rock guitar soloing with "Quick Licks - Brian May". Every note and nuance of May's iconic style is captured in this comprehensive lesson series. Guitar soloing is more than just playing fast and loud—it's about expression, dynamics, and crafting musical statements that stand the test of time. As you dive into these meticulously crafted licks, you'll absorb the essence of what makes a solo memorable and how to make each note count.

Guitar Harmonies

Brian May is renowned for his lush, multi-layered guitar harmonies that have become a staple in rock music. In this lesson, you’ll unravel the complexities of creating harmonies that complement and enhance a lead line. Learning these harmonies teaches the viewer to think musically, considering how different melodic lines interact to form a cohesive and powerful sound. This skill is pivotal for guitarists looking to enrich their compositional prowess and add depth to their playing.

String Bending

String bending is a technique that infuses emotion and expressiveness into your playing. The "Quick Licks - Brian May" series introduces bends of various degrees, teaching you to articulate your musical voice with the same vocal-like quality that May achieves. Mastering this technique benefits the viewer by allowing for more nuanced phrasing and personal expression, hallmarks of Brian May’s guitar work.

Alternate Picking

Alternate picking is a foundational skill for any aspiring rock guitarist, and Brian May's work offers a prime example of this technique executed with precision and flair. The lessons focus on building speed without sacrificing clarity, enabling viewers to tackle fast-paced solos and intricate passages with ease.

Practicing with a Backing Track

Utilizing a backing track is an invaluable tool for practice. It allows guitarists to apply the licks they've learned in a musical context, enhancing their timing, rhythm, and improvisational skills. Moreover, it simulates the experience of playing with a band, ensuring that when the moment comes to step on stage, you are ready to play in sync with other musicians.

Brian May's Guitar Style

Brian May, the legendary lead guitarist of Queen, is celebrated for his distinctive tone, his homemade "Red Special" guitar, and his pioneering approach to guitar playing. May’s style is characterized by his rich, choral guitar tones, intricate solos, and innovative techniques. By studying his approach, guitarists gain insights into the creative and technical elements that make a style both unique and timeless.

Guitar Techniques Used in the Lessons

Below is a comprehensive list of guitar techniques featured throughout the "Quick Licks - Brian May" lessons. Mastering these will significantly enhance your playing and give you a deeper understanding of guitar craftsmanship:

• String Bending
• Alternate Picking
• Guitar Harmonies

Each technique is a crucial element of Brian May's playing and serves a specific purpose in contributing to the expressiveness and technical prowess of his guitar work. By incorporating these techniques into your practice, you will not only be paying homage to one of rock's greatest guitarists but also building a foundation that will serve you in any musical endeavor you undertake.