The Art of Solo Guitar Composition Programme Overview
The Art of Solo Guitar Composition Programme Overview
The
Programme’s
Framework
At the core of The Art of Solo Guitar Composition is a framework I call the Natural Creative Process. Natural because nature shows us ways to grow organically, and like a tree, we can also grow seeds and turn them into complete guitar compositions.
It’s a solution to a struggle I hear often from guitarists who try to compose by first creating a guitar riff or a chord progression.
It’s useful to think of it in 7 stages. Every stage bears a challenge and the programme shows a few practical solutions to every stage, by applying knowledge from the great composers and guitarists as well as music theory concepts, and creative thinking.
Stage 1: Adopt a Creative Mindset The foundation of any composition is to first be open to new ideas and experiences without judgment and self-doubt.
Stage 2: Capture Meaningful Seeds Once you’re open to receiving musical ideas, identify them and their layers and learn what they need to grow.
Stage 3: Extend Your Seed To make it more substantial, it’s important to explore the seed’s potential to be repeated with different variations.
Stage 4: Complete The A Part Enclose the developed seed into an A part by nurturing it with the three main pillars of music: Melody-Harmony-Rhythm.
Stage 5: Finalise The Form Once you have the A part, understand what other parts the music needs by going back to the original idea behind the seed.
Stage 6: Add The Final Touches This is the time to work on the overall sound and arrangement and embellish and perfect the performance and recording of the guitar piece.
Stage 7: Share With The World The creative process ends when you share the music with others, so you can let go and feel free to continue to grow the next seed.
*** A more detailed curriculum is below, in the FAQ section.
*** It’s important to note that the process doesn’t have to be linear. It’s a good structure but also flexible, so you can adapt it and find your way through it that fits your music and style.
Udi is excellent! Started playing again at the start of the year and contacted Udi as I wanted to start composing my own pieces. I have progressed so much in just a short space of time! I can’t believe how much I’ve learnt.I really recommend Udi to anyone who wants to learn to play - he doesn’t just have practical playing knowledge but also goes through the underlying theory (when I wanted him to) which none of my previous teachers have done.I’ve really enjoyed my lessons and being able to do them online was a great option for me.
I had been meaning to get Guitar lessons for many years, and am so glad I finally did it and chose Udi. I have been getting lessons from Udi in person for about 7 months and recently online and can highly recommend both methods, the online lessons are great to allow me to keep progressing whilst the lockdown is in place.After quite a bit of searching online for a teacher in North London who would teach flamenco as well as other styles of guitar, I came across Udi’s site, the reviews speak for themselves. I have been learning a mixture of flamenco, and rock from bands which I enjoy listening to. Udi can teach a wide range of styles and has a deep understanding of music. He breaks down the lessons into a way which I can understand and progress as well as helping me to construct my practicing to fit into a busy lifestyle. He also encourages me to take a video of him summarising the lesson each week which really helps make the most of the lesson whilst I’m practicing. Udi is patient and takes the time to explain the theory behind the music if this is of interest, he has good humour and is passionate about what he teaches. I feel that I have just scratched the surface of what I can learn.
Can't recommend Udi highly enough. I'm a reasonable player but more copycat than original. Udi has (with unbelievable patience) started my transformation into someone who actually knows what he is doing and why. He is a fantastic guitarist and a great teacher. I am looking forward to the guitar-burning Hendrix lesson...
My daughter had already passed her grade 8 classical guitar before starting with Udi a few months ago. Even at her level, within this short space of time, her playing has developed to a new level. Improving her confidence, musicality and understanding in the pieces she is playing. Most importantly, she is really enjoying her lessons with him. Would definitely recommend.
It has been wonderful having Udi as a guitar teacher. Each lesson is a stimulating mix between learning classical and contemporary guitar pieces. Udi integrates music theory as part of the lesson in an easy and digestible way such that I not only enjoy what I am playing but also understand it. He has helped to open the world of music to me and given me a much greater appreciation and love for it! I can highly recommend Udi to any adult learner.
Udi has been teaching my 13-year old daughter for seven months now and we are absolutely delighted with his calm professional manner, elaborate knowledge, attention to detail and ability to bring the best in my daughter. Having changed several teachers over the years (my daughter started playing the guitar at the age of 6 and is now working towards grade 8), I will not hesitate to state that Udi is most definitely the best of them all. I would wholeheartedly recommend him.
“Patient, perceptive and versatile”
I have been seeing Udi for lessons for a few months and already feel a lot better in my playing and confidence. Udi is patient, perceptive and versatile – so I have learned some rock, blues and Elizabethan music from him. A great player and encouraging teacher…
– Martin Weegmann
“Very patient and encouraging”
One-to-one guitar lessons have been very beneficial for me. I’ve made better progress than having group lessons. Udi is very patient and encouraging and can teach you whatever you want to learn. I would recommend him to anyone who would like to learn the guitar or to improve their skills.
– Melanie
“After just one lesson with Udi, the confidence started to roll back”
re: guitar lessons with Udi I used to play guitar at school 1972-1974 and always hankered after relearning the instrument. After just one lesson with Udi, the confidence started to roll back and a few lessons later my family can recognise some fo the tunes I (try to) play! The lessons are well structures without being rigid and are easy to follow. A good teacher needs to be able to enthuse and encourage their pupils – Udi is that!
– Chi
“In just two lessons Udi has helped me to get back in touch with my inner bluesman!”
As someone who has fiddled about on my electric guitar for many years after a formal training in my teens, Udi has expertly assessed my ability and given me direction to quickly progress. In just two lessons Udi has helped me to get back in touch with my inner bluesman!
– Simon Deeley
“I have found myself listening to music in a whole new light now”
Hi Udi, I came to you with no rhythm and co-ordination and never thought I’d be able to play the guitar. But after just 5 lessons I have a good grasp on chords, arpeggio, notes, reading music and strumming patterns. Learning to play guitar is like learning a beautiful new language and I have found myself listening to music in a whole new light now… I liked the way you make things so understandable and gave a good mixture of things to learn and practice between lessons. I wish I could continue learning with you but am back in New York now. I’d definitely recommend you and hope to see you again in the future. Michele x
– Michele Manz
“I can understand easily”
Udi is really into it. so i can also motivate myself to go for my aim. everytime when i ask him a question, he is trying to explain which i can understand easily. but on the other hands he does giving me a tricky question to understand more about it!!
– YOSH
“a guitar master class which the children loved!”
Udi came to our nursery and gave two sessions- one for our babies, a relaxing half hour of beautiful guitar sounds which our babies enjoyed immensely, and then a 45 minute session with our oldest preschoolers – including a concert of his beautiful compositions, movement activities and a guitar master class which the children loved! They had their first guitar lesson on their own guitars from home. And Udi taught them some beginner guitar techniques using his original early years guitar tuition method – which is absolutely fantastic! It was a real treat for the kids!
– Music teacher at Active Learning nursery
“encouraging, patient and helpful teacher”
I found Udi to be a really encouraging, patient and helpful teacher. Even though I am a very inexperienced player, I felt I improved in leaps and bounds with the help of the lessons. And not only that but he’s a nice guy, and he genuinely cares about helping people to learn. I recommend him to everyone, seriously!
– Katie
“the only teacher I’ve had that keeps correcting my arm positioning”
I leave lessons in a bit of a sweat – much to take in, but it’s all good good stuff! Udi is challenging but not intimidating. I can be a bit of a joker when things feel tricky or if “I just dont get it”, but Udi manages to restore focus and is very disciplined – which I need! He has a beautiful mastery of the instrument and a very reassuring confidence and wonderful, calm temperament. Udi pushes me – again, I need this, and he tailors the lessons to what my ultimate goals are – i.e. to be able to write my own songs on guitar. He also has acute attention to detail. For instance, he is the only teacher I’ve had that keeps correcting my arm positioning and and my wrist cramping squeeze on the guitar neck! In just a few lessons, things (including some theory building blocks), seem to be coming together. I highly highly recommend him.
– Leo C
“Highly recommend him”
Udi is a very patient and flexible teacher, who gives a lot of encouragement, attention to detail, and helps his students to find the best approach for themselves, to learning even the most basic skills. I highly recommend him.
– Layla Kaylif
“his musical academic background and being a regular professional practitioner makes his lessons interesting”
I had few lessons with Udi, from what I can say, he’s very talented (I’ve attended many of his gigs), patient and passionate about what he’s doing. His musical academic background and being a regular professional practitioner make his lessons interesting. All the time with Udi was well spent. I highly recommend him. Abbas
– Abbas Msa
“patient, good humoured and encouraging”
Udi is patient, good humoured and encouraging. He is happy to work with you on any song you want to play and is very good at moulding lessons to the specific needs of his students. Highly recommended.
– Perrin Sledge
“I have also found him to be extremely patient”
I have been taught the guitar by Udi and found him to be flexible and encouraging in the way he has taught me, teaching me everything I want to know, at the pace I want to learn. I have also found him to be extremely patient. Udi and his wife Daphne have also worked really well with the kids at my children’s 5th and 11th birthday parties.
– Carmen
“highly recommend him to everyone”
I have studied guitar with Udi for a couple of months, excellent, very easy to understand and put in practice, as i musician myself i’m deeply grateful for all the knowledge i have received from him, thumbs up, i’m also thinking of studying further composition with him, highly recommend him to everyone. Eter
– Eter Guarderas
Frequent
Asked
Questions
(FAQ)
Q1: I’m a beginner. Is the ASGC Academy suitable for me?
A: If your Guitar Beginner’s Checklist score is below 70, I can offer you a place in a pre-study group to fill up all the necessary gaps. If it’s 70 and above, welcome aboard! The ASGC is designed to accommodate different skill levels, ensuring everyone can grow at their own pace, and we’ll make a personal plan to follow up on the missing gaps.
Q2: I’m a bit worried that some lessons would be too advanced for me. Should I be concerned about being “out of my league”?
A: Not at all! In terms of composition, newcomers to this programme are beginner composers. That’s what we’re here to learn! Reaching a good guitar-playing level doesn’t guarantee composing with ease. It’s better to come open-minded with a beginner’s mindset. In addition, surrounding yourself with more experienced players can accelerate your growth!
Q3: I’m already an advanced player. Is ASGC Academy for me?
A: Certainly! ASGC accommodates advanced players, allowing you to apply the compositional tools at a higher level of technical complexity and knowledge. The programme extends beyond the basics with adjustable difficulty levels for exercises and concepts.
Q4: Is there an age limit for joining the ASGC Academy?
A: Age is no barrier at the ASGC! Whether 17 or 77, passion is what matters. However, we recommend our programme for individuals above 14 years old.
Q5: Do I need prior music theory knowledge to join?
A: Not at all! While prior knowledge is excellent, ASGC explains everything from the beginning. The teachings are practical and relate to applying knowledge to composing music, minimizing the risk of a “theory brain freeze”.
Q6: What kind of results can I expect in the next 12 months?
A: Results vary individually, but regular practice and dedication lead to profound growth. If you consistently show up and put in the effort, you’ll experience accelerated progress with your guitar playing and your guitar creativity.
Q7: How long does it take to complete the ASGC Academy, and what happens after 12 months?
A: Completing the ASGC Academy typically takes between 6 months and 2 years. After the initial 12 months, you become part of our “ASGC Alumni group”. If you wish to continue with mentoring and lessons for a second year, that’s entirely possible. The materials are yours for a lifetime, allowing you to revisit and refine your skills.
Q8: How flexible is the time structure of the ASGC Academy?
A: You have maximum flexibility. You can attend lessons whenever you’re ready. For optimum results, I’d recommend at least 30 minutes of daily practice and 10 minutes for learning content. Weekly live lessons are optional – attend when you need help and inspiration.
Q9: What is the programme’s curriculum?
A: There are 7 core modules that are based on the 7 steps of the Natural Creative Process: ✔ 7 ways to become more creative and invite inspiration. ✔ 7 ways to compose a meaningful melody. ✔ 7 ways to extend and develop a melody. ✔ 7 ways to harmonise a melody and complete the A part. ✔ 7 ways to find the missing parts and complete the form. ✔ 7 ways to finalise your music with your sound and style. ✔ 7 steps to share your music.
In addition, the programme’s content includes: ➕ Composition Foundation – useful templates of classical and Spanish guitar masterpieces that can inspire you and directly apply to your own music. ➕ Deep dive of Musical Analysis – I explain the ideas and concepts behind your ideal songs/compositions, so you can get inspiration from the artists you love by getting “inside their minds”. ➕ In-depth Video Review – after sharing your attempts in our FB group, I will give my feedback, tips and suggestions on every aspect of your guitar playing and creativity. ➕ Your Own Personal Space – I’ll open your own separate space where we can plan your own specific goals and the right steps for you to get there. ➕ Bonus Resources – there’s a section that contains more useful content: diagrams, eBooks, PDFs, etc. ➕ Open For More – I want you to have all the tools you need to accomplish your composition goals so I’d be happy to add any content you feel is missing if it’s not there already in the programme.
Q10: Can I start the programme later when I have more time, and why join now?
A: Absolutely! Start when it suits your schedule, but consider ASGC’s limited seats due to personal mentoring. As demand rises, it might be harder to get in, and prices will likely increase. Joining now ensures you benefit from the current offerings.
Q11: I’m already paying for a teacher or invested in a guitar course. Will this be worth it for me?
A: It’s completely normal to have reservations about your current methods. If you were 100% convinced they were working, you might not be reading these lines. Our primary focus is on getting you results. The upcoming session will provide more insights into how we can work together. You’ll discover that the holistic methods of the ASCG Academy will likely offer you more value than anything else you’ve tried before. Looking forward to discussing this further during our session!
Q12: I’m very interested, but now doesn’t seem like the right time for me. Do you still recommend I should attend the session with you? Can I join later?
A: There’s rarely a perfect time to start something new, and that’s why 95% of people never take that first step. Regardless of how ready you feel, you ultimately have two choices: take action now or keep postponing. At ASGC Academy, we thrive on taking action. Joining us may lead to a significant shift in your motivation and mindset. It’s often easier to pursue goals when you’re part of a supportive group.
Listen to your heart. Are you passionate about the upcoming call? If not, it might be worth reconsidering. We believe in the power of genuine enthusiasm. No one is pressuring you to do anything, and without passion, success becomes more challenging.
If you have extraordinary life circumstances preventing an immediate start, we’re flexible and can discuss solutions tailored to your situation, such as a Pre-Study Group. Feel free to ask about it during our call, and we’ll explore how we can make it work for you.
