28.9.13

Numerous Ways To Acquire A Blues Education

By Dale Peck


A Blues education can be acquired in diverse ways. In the beginning, there were no schools offering to educate. The music developed and evolved within its surroundings and culture. Artisans learned in practice. This still remains a way to learn today. But, as its influence has broadened and spawned new genres of music, educational offerings are worth the time.

Practical experience remains a route to learning. But, educational opportunities bring a wider perspective to enhance artistic development. As Shun Kikuta, demonstrates by example, a combination of both can expedite the path to a professional career. The Japanese musician was trained at the Berklee School of Music, before he was introduced to the genre through a classic BB King record. Thereafter, he learned on the job by joining musicians plying their craft in Chicago. Slowly his skills were sharpened with experience. His formal education provided a base that supplied the skills he utilized in his new career path. An introduction to this art form in school also gives a deeper understanding to pupils who have not been immersed in the culture and its roots.

The guitar tradition exemplified by B. B. King is a direct descendant of the style inspired by Blind Lemon Jefferson. This manner of playing was prominent in Oklahoma and Texas during the 1920s. Jefferson has been recorded doing the single string solos. He inspired other guitarists and the influence is reflected in King. Understanding historical roots is part of building expertise. This type of learning is imparted at music schools. Successful musicians who learn and use the concepts and musical elements expand their musical foundation. They enhance their ability to add more depth and feeling to whatever style they play after this experience.

The sheer richness of the subject means students can spend years studying it in depth. The many subgenres and different instruments offer layers of accumulated depth. At the university level courses cater to specialist needs. For younger students, lessons are less sophisticated. They instead have their value in providing exposure. This is especially true if children do not live in an environment where they are exposed to this music. The classroom opens a new vista for them. Since the blues is the foundation of modern music, knowledge about it will only expand their musical horizons.

Classes offered by institutions of different stripes, web based learning tools and work experience offer diverse ways to learn. To encourage teaching in schools, accessible material has been made available online. Video study tools have also enabled school teachers lacking this background to share knowledge.

Lesson plans are also available. Exposing children early on provides them with information they can use to decide what direction to choose later in life. The more material at their disposal the better chance they have of making an informed decision about a specialization.

Video teaching is no longer limited to imitating the styles of others. Students can also get educated in the form and theory behind the art. Learning the form is vital to enable students to create their own music. It is the advantage of this era that this quality of instruction is now accessible online.

Blues education resources continue to improve. Time is a friend in this regard. Whatever the level of interest, the variety on offer is able to fulfill the need.




About the Author: