Through Local Continuing Education Programs
Those who have ever wanted to learn to play the piano or guitar but have been held back by the time and money involved, or by their ability to read music, may want to consider upcoming courses taught by Craig Coffman and offered through the continuing education programs in Brockport, Churchville-Chili, and Hilton. Both classes were taught live and in person for years, but are now held exclusively online via Zoom. Students can learn at home on their own instrument, and because of the mute setting, they don’t have to play in front of others.
“There’s a reason why they call it ‘playing the piano’ or ‘playing the guitar’ – it’s supposed to be fun!”
Instant Piano for Hopeless Busy People
Churchville-Chili, February 16; Brockport, February 24 or May 5; Hilton, May 11
Thousands have learned the secret of how to play the piano without reading music through this course. Coffman’s approach reveals how the pros play. He has extensive experience as a professional pianist and music director. Having taught piano privately for many years, Coffman will share piano players’ tricks of the trade. “While the classical approach stresses discipline and precision in playing, this approach stresses enjoyment and getting great sounds early on,” Coffman said. “While precision is vital for classical music, this pain-free method is more suitable for pop music of all kinds, from Broadway to rhythm and blues.”
The class is designed for absolute beginners and is a mix of hands-on work and lecture demonstrations. In this 3-hour class, students will learn the three basic types of chords on the piano and how to play from a lead sheet, or “fake book.” Coffman says that those who attend this class will leave being able to play simple songs with both hands. View an introduction to the class at youtube.com/watch?v=oizPNoht1Xo.
Instant Guitar for Hopeless Busy People
Churchville-Chili, February 17; Brockport, February 25 or May 5; Hilton, May 11
Designed for absolute beginners, this 2.5-hour crash course helps attendees start strumming along to their favorite songs right away. Students will learn how to form five basic chords on the guitar and how to strum. The class also introduces basic information on how music is put together, which goes a long way toward helping students understand what is going on. See a clip of the class at youtube.com/watch?v=aJRFW97q_Fs.
Both the piano and guitar classes include a professionally recorded version of the lesson, an online book, and online follow-up lessons. An optional monthly Q&A session is also available at no additional charge.
Contact the continuing education programs for additional details or to register. If there is no answer, email chordsarekey@gmail.com.
Brockport Continuing Education: 585-637-1854 or https://www.bcs1.org/27059_3
Churchville-Chili Continuing Education: 585-293-4429 or https://www.cccsd.org/continuingeducation
Hilton Community Education: 585-392-1000 ext. 7044 or https://www.hilton.k12.ny.us/page/community-education
Provided information
