The course at Slide School has been designed to run on three levels, beginners, intermediate and advanced.
Level 1
This is for players who have little experience of slide playing or open tunings. The course is
designed in simple stages to equip the learner with the basic skills needed to become a
proficient slide player. Helps prepare students for level 2.
Level 2
This is for players already familiar with open D and G tunings who have some experience in
slide playing. It follows on from level 1 providing the student with further building blocks with
which to both create new pieces and help understand the playing styles of past masters from
the Delta and Chicago regions.
Level 2
This new level has been introduced to cater for players who are stuck in a rut and need new
inspiration. Behind the bar slanting, Hawaiian turnarounds, Indian scales are just some of the
ideas explored at this level. Onsite guitar technician, Andy Manners, courtesy of Vintage and
Rare Guitars will be on hand to help set up any instruments on the day. Ian Mcwee of Diamond
Bottlenecks will also have his range of handblown slides available for purchase on the day.
Whether you are on the beginners, intermediate or advanced course you will receive tuition from both Kevin and his guest. The day begins with registration, this is the perfect opportunity to meet other sliders and exchange thoughts on all things Slide. Tea and coffee is available upon your arrival.
The teaching opens with Kevin’s highly entertaining introduction to the World of Slide guitar, his inspirations and thoughts provide an insight into why he set up the school and how he sees it as a vital part in helping to pin down the fundamental skills required to explore the fascination new world of slide guitar.
The first tuition session then takes place with either Kevin or the guest musician.The tuition is aided by full course notes which can be followed on the day and then taken home for further study bringing the student up to the next level at the following Slideschool. Or the student may wish to stay at one level for a while over a few courses. The content is never repeated so there is no danger of going over the same old ground.
Lunch is then provided within the Institution in the form of a buffet. We provide an hour and a half for lunch in order to do a little shopping or even visit our Sponsors ‘Vintage and Rare Guitars’ who are situated just around the corner.
The afternoon begins with a workshop with the guest slider followed by the second tuition session, this time ‘reversing’ the tutor.
The plenary session brings us all together for a final opportunity to quiz the tutors or each other on any slide, performing or recording related queries.
The classes then retire until the evening concert when Kevin performs what is usually a sell out concert with his guest for the day.