What’s it all about?
The blues can be heard in almost every genre of music, from roots and jazz, to funk and rock ‘n’ roll music. But how did it all begin? And what kind of experiences were documented in this music?
Legend has it that Robert Johnson, a famous blues guitarist, made a pact with the Devil to trade his soul for the superhuman ability to play and sing blues music. This workshop is about exploring the passion within this genre of music, the stories embedded within the words of a blues song, and the opportunity to express one’s self through lyric-writing.
And no, you don’t have to “feel the blues” to join us!
What will we cover?
We will explore the chronology of blues music, from the humble days in a plantation down in the Deep South of America, to a smoky room in Chicago. We will listen and watch excerpts of blues performances from the 1920s to the modern age, and take note of the evolution of the blues sound, from the guitar to the vocals.
We will also briefly explore the themes that underpin the songs of classic songwriters like Muddy Waters and Robert Johnson. Through analysing song lyrics as a group, as well as creating our own stories through lyric-writing, we will come to know and feel the power of blues music as a fundamental voice in human history.
No instruments required – just bring an open mind!
Who will be teaching?
10 years ago, Justin was introduced to blues music by Jimi Hendrix and Jimmy Page, and has been hooked ever since. He even went so far as to study jazz improvisation in Cornish College of the Arts, Seattle. Now running his own music school – Leaders of Rock – as well as touring interstate with his band Rejuvenate, Justin is keen to share all he knows about blues music, and how it has shaped him to become who he is.