Tony Watt: Teaching

TEACHING

          Lessons

          Classes

          Jam Sessions

          Workshops

          Kids' Academies

          Free Stuff!!! (updated!)

LESSONS

I currently have openings available for guitar and mandolin lessons, in both the Boston area and the Capital District of upstate New York. When at home in the Boston area, I primarily teach in Cambridge and Brookline. In Cambridge, I usually teach in North Cambridge, a half mile from where Rt. 2 hits Cambridge at the Alewife T station. I also sometimes teach at or near Sandy's Music on Mass. Ave. between Harvard and Central Square. In Brookline I teach between Washington Sq. and Cleveland Circle. If you are interested in lessons in the Boston Area, please e-mail me at tonywatt@gmail.com

I travel to the Capital District every two weeks; typically teaching on Thursdays and Fridays. Because I am often traveling and my students are busy people, I schedule students on a per lesson basis, and before each visit to the Capital District.

I usually send out an e-mail a week before coming to Albany, offering students lessons on a first come, first served basis. I do not ask students to schedule any more than one lesson at a time. Instead, I ask that students try not to cancel their lessons with me, as I am coming in from out of town and often have to schedule everything in advance. If you are interested in lessons in the Capital District, and would like to receive my e-mails regarding my availability, please e-mail me at tonywatt@gmail.com

The first lesson is a full hour for the price of a half hour so you can see if you like what I've got to teach. Generally speaking, I am most focused on teaching my students what they need to know so they can a) progress the fastest without developing bad habits, and b) teach themselves on their own as much as possible.

CLASSES

Group classes are among my most popular teaching tools, offering students a cost-effective and supportive social environment in which to learn. I currently offer a wide array of classes in bluegrass guitar, mandolin and jamming (open to all bluegrass instruments). Different classes are offered throughout the year through the Boston Bluegrass Union's Bluegrass Academy. Below are brief descriptions of my most popular courses. If you are interested in any of these classes, or have any questions, please e-mail me at tonywatt@gmail.com

Courses typically consist of 3 to 7 classes, varying in duration from one hour to ninety minutes. The cost varies depending on the course, but typically includes a complimentary book and CD which correspond to the course. Enrollment in any course includes a discounted membership in the Boston Bluegrass Union (BBU), and therefore you should not sign up for BBU membership prior to enrolling in classes.

Classes typically meet on weekday evenings in North Cambridge, a half mile from where Rt. 2 hits Cambridge at the Alewife T station. Some classes meet at Sandy's Music on Mass. Ave. in Cambridge between Harvard and Central Square, while others meet in Brookline, between Washington Sq. and Cleveland Circle. Both the North Cambridge and Brookline locations have plenty of meter-free, permit-less parking, and all three locations are a 10-minute walk from the nearest subway stop.

Quotes from students in Tony Watt's previous Bluegrass Academy classes:

"While I have studied bluegrass for a while, I have not taken a lesson or workshop yet where the concepts were so clearly laid out."

"The handouts are great and the mp3's are a nice asset."

"Tony's enthusiasm for the music and for the teaching process is infectious and will inspire any student to become a better picker."

"I now have a set of materials I can work from that are not too overwhelming."

"Tony really CARES about the quality of the course."

"I feel the amount of new material each week was great. It was beneficial to be grouped with appropriate skill levels and work on the tunes."

"Overall this has been the best group or workshop format class I've taken."

COURSE DESCRIPTIONS

Introduction to Bluegrass Rhythm Guitar

Intended for those who have played at least a little guitar before, and are able to switch between common open chords (such as G, C and D). In this course we'll learn bluegrass rhythm guitar: basic and complex, as well as traditional and modern. We'll cover bluegrass-specific chords, runs between chords, various G runs, and much more. The primary goal is to provide you with the skills needed to play solid bluegrass rhythm and participate in bluegrass jams. Furthermore, we will strive to help students improve their practice and self-directed learning. You don't need to have previous experience playing (or even listening to) bluegrass, or playing with a pick, and you don't need to be able to read music.

Introduction to Bluegrass Lead Flatpicking Guitar

Intended for those who can already play bluegrass rhythm guitar, but are new to playing lead, or who have been frustrated trying to learn to play lead before. In this course we'll learn how to read tablature (tab), how to play fiddle tunes and take breaks on vocal tunes (including carter style, crosspicking, and single-string soloing), and get an introduction to improvisation. The primary focus will be on developing fundamental lead guitar skills, as well as helping students improve their practice and self-directed learning. To take full advantage of this course, students should already have some ability to play basic bluegrass rhythm, however you don't need to have previous experience playing any style of lead guitar, or know how to read music.

Introduction to Bluegrass Mandolin (Rhythm & Lead)

Intended for those who have never played bluegrass mandolin before, or who have been frustrated trying to learn before. In this class we will learn the basics of bluegrass mandolin, both rhythm and lead. We'll begin with bluegrass chop chords and a discussion of right-hand technique. We will then quickly get into playing lead on the mandolin, as we learn to play both instrumental and vocal tunes common in the tradition. In this course we'll learn how to read tablature (tab), how to play fiddle tunes and take breaks on vocal tunes, and get an introduction to improvisation. The primary goal is to provide you with the skills needed to play solid bluegrass mandolin and participate in bluegrass jams. Students do not need to have previous experience playing (or even listening to) bluegrass, and you don't need to be able to read music.

Introduction to Bluegrass Jamming (Slow Jam Class)

Open to all bluegrass instruments, both rhythm (backup) and lead (soloing), and is geared towards beginner and intermediate musicians who are interested in learning how to play with other musicians. We will focus on the basics of bluegrass jamming such as keeping time, non-verbal communication and jam etiquette. The primary goal is to provide the students with the skills and experience needed to participate in bluegrass jams. There are no prerequisite songs, and you don't need to be able to play leads on your instrument, sing, or read music. Students should be able to play melodies and/or backup parts (i.e. guitarists should be able to switch between chords comfortably).

Intermediate/Advanced Rhythm Guitar

Intended for those who can already play bluegrass rhythm guitar, such as the boom-chick rhythm, bass runs, and G runs. In this course we will cover new runs, syncopation, swells, etc., and students should consider bringing a recording device of some sort. (No standard notation.)

Intermediate/Advanced Lead Guitar

Intended for those who already know how to solo on at least a few fiddle tunes and know how to construct breaks to vocal tunes. For instance, if you feel comfortable taking solos on most of the songs in my Intermediate Jam Session, then you should be well prepared for this course. In this course we will cover new songs, soloing ideas, licks, etc. and students should consider bringing a recording device of some sort. There are no prerequisite songs, and you don't need to be able to read music.

Intermediate/Advanced Mandolin

JAM SESSIONS

I offer a wide variety of "teacher-directed" jam sessions for bluegrass musicians in the Boston area, where students have the opportunity to learn from each other, from tabs and mp3s I distribute, and from our discussions about how to improve our playing. The jams vary according to the number of tunes the participants know, and both rhythm and lead players are invited. My teacher-directed jam sessions provide a level-appropriate, supportive environment to help students grow their skills and repertoire. Below are brief descriptions of my most popular jam sessions. If you are interested in any of these jams, or have any questions, please e-mail me at tonywatt@gmail.com

My teacher-directed jams are usually weekly or biweekly. Jams typically last 90 minutes, although some go as long as three hours, and the cost varies depending on the length. Students can also sign up for a jam session series, which guarantees them a spot in the jam of their choice and gives them a substantial discount. Otherwise, students are invited to RSVP to jams on a first come, first served basis at the regular per-session cost.

Jam sessions typically meet on weekday evenings in North Cambridge, a half mile from where Rt. 2 hits Cambridge at the Alewife T station. Some jams meet at Sandy's Music on Mass. Ave. in Cambridge between Harvard and Central Square, while others meet in Brookline, between Washington Sq. and Cleveland Circle. Both the North Cambridge and Brookline locations have plenty of meter-free, permit-less parking, and all three locations are a 10-minute walk from the nearest subway stop. Occasionally I offer weekend jam sessions, typically starting around 2 or 3 pm.

JAM DESCRIPTIONS

BEGINNER JAM (1-4 songs)

These jams are open to all instruments, both rhythm and lead players. Our current repertoire includes Man of Constant Sorrow, Old Joe Clark, I am a Pilgrim, Nine Pound Hammer, and Fireball Mail. You can attend even if you don't know all of the tunes, as I will have mp3s and copies of tab, chords and lyrics for most of these tunes, however I only have tabs for mandolin and guitar at this time. Students are encouraged to sign up for the full jam session series, which guarantees you a spot each week and provides a substantial discount. Otherwise, students are invited to RSVP to jams on a first come, first served basis at the regular per-session cost.

BEGINNER SLOW JAM (goes with the Slow Jam Class)

These jams correspond with the Introduction to Bluegrass Jamming (Slow Jam Class), however the class is not required to participate in the jam. We will play through songs from the BEGINNER Jam repertoire (above) as well as other songs brought to the group by the participants. Intended for all bluegrass instruments, both melody and backup, there are no prerequisite songs, and you don't need to be able to play leads on your instrument, sing, or read music.

BEGINNER/INTERMEDIATE JAM (4-6 songs)

These jams are primarily intended for mandolin and guitar players who can play both rhythm and lead, however all instruments are welcome. Our current repertoire includes Old Joe Clark, Red Haired Boy, I am a Pilgrim, Billy in the Lowground, and Nine Pound Hammer. Students are encouraged to sign up for the full jam session series, which guarantees you a spot each week and provides a substantial discount. Otherwise, students are invited to RSVP to jams on a first come, first served basis at the regular per-session cost.

INTERMEDIATE JAM (5-10 songs)

These jams are primarily intended for mandolin and guitar players who can play both rhythm and lead, however all instruments are welcome. Our current repertoire includes Old Joe Clark, Red Haired Boy, I am a Pilgrim, Gold Rush, Billy in the Lowground, Nine Pound Hammer, Blue Ridge Cabin Home, Whiskey Before Breakfast, and Blackberry Blossom. Students are encouraged to sign up for the full jam session series, which guarantees you a spot each week and provides a substantial discount. Otherwise, students are invited to RSVP to jams on a first come, first served basis at the regular per-session cost.

ADVANCED JAM (dozens of songs)

These jams are intended for mandolin and guitar players who know at least a few dozen fiddle tunes. In addition to fiddle tunes, we will also be working on breaks to vocal tunes, as well as general concepts of improvising, practicing, etc. This jam usually takes place on Tuesday evenings at Sandy's Music at 896 Mass. Ave. in Cambridge, between Harvard and Central Square. When we meet at Sandy's Music, we finish up in time for folks to head over to The Cantab Lounge (about 4 blocks from Sandy’s) in time to catch the featured act upstairs or jam in the downstairs.

WORKSHOPS

BLUEGRASS MANDOLIN FOR BEGINNERS - FAST TRACK!

The Education Directors of the Boston Bluegrass Union are proud to announce that once again, master classes will be offered the day that the Joe Val Bluegrass Festival begins, Friday, Feb. 12th. We are pleased to present a mandolin fast track class for beginners taught by Tony Watt. Class size is limited to 12- 15 participants and the class runs from 11 AM - 4 PM with a one hour break for lunch. Fees are as follows: $75, $70 for BBU members

This mandolin fast track workshop is geared towards total beginners, or those who would like a review of the fundamentals. You do not need to have previous experience playing (or even listening to) bluegrass, and you don't need to be able to read music. In this one-day workshop we'll learn the basics of bluegrass mandolin, both rhythm and lead. We'll begin with bluegrass chop chords and then quickly get into playing lead on the mandolin. The primary goal is to provide you with a strong foundation of the skills needed to play bluegrass mandolin and participate in bluegrass jams.

Students should bring a playable mandolin, a pick, and a three-ring binder and pen (handouts will be provided). If you don't have a mandolin, let us know when you preregister at least a week in advance, and we'll try to get you a loaner for the day. Sorry, we can't do the same if you register later than that. To register: contact Tony at tonywatt@gmail.com

WORKSHOP WITH LINCOLN MEYERS IN BROOKLINE, MA

I'm very excited that I'm going to be giving a bluegrass guitar workshop with one of my musical heroes (who is also my former teacher), Lincoln Meyers (bio below). The workshop will be on Saturday, June 13 from 1 until 4 pm in Brookline. The workshop is open to all levels, and will cover both rhythm and lead. The cost is $30 and if you know anybody who might be interested, please feel free to pass this message along to them. Pre-registration is strongly recommended, which you can do by e-mailing me at tonywatt@gmail.com
The guitar workshop will be held at 59 Windsor Rd. in Brookline, MA 02445, near the Mass Pike exit 17. There is plenty of free street parking on the opposite (even numbered) side of the street. Parking on the odd numbered side results in a parking ticket. It is also less than 5 blocks from stops on the B, C, and D Green Lines. If you have any questions about our bluegrass guitar workshop, please let me know.

Lincoln Meyers

Lincoln Meyers is native to the mid-west but has been established in New England since the early '90's. Over the years he has been a part of numerous bands and recording projects throughout the region. Lincoln has played and toured with The New England Bluegrass Band, banjo extraordinaire Tony Trischka, The April Verch Band and is currently playing with Frank Solivan and Dirty Kitchen. Lincoln has won several guitar competitions over the years including the New England Flatpicking Championship. He was selected to record for the well respected Seacoast Guitar Society compilation, and as a host band member for National Public Radio's nationally-syndicated program Says You. While one may hear influences of legendary flatpickers, Lincoln has an instantly recognizable style that is very much his own.

WORKSHOP WITH LEIGH GIBSON IN SARATOGA SPRINGS, NY

Leigh Gibson, guitarist of The Gibson Brothers, and Tony Watt, award-winning flatpicking guitarist, to teach Bluegrass Guitar Workshop in Saratoga Springs, NY. The workshop will be held at Saratoga Guitar on Saturday, March 14 at 10:30 am, and the cost is $20. The workshop will be limited to Bluegrass guitar styles, however both rhythm and lead will be covered, and all levels are welcome. Pre-registration is strongly suggested; to sign up call Saratoga Guitar at (518) 581-1604 or e-mail Matt McCabe at songman@saratogaguitar.com. Saratoga Guitar is located at 438 Broadway in Saratoga Springs, NY 12866.

Leigh Gibson

As one half of the vocal powerhouse bluegrass band, The Gibson Brothers, Leigh Gibson has made a name for himself as one of the finest purveyors of traditional bluegrass music today. The Gibson Brothers' last four albums have all gone to #1 on the Bluegrass Unlimited Chart, an overwhelming achievement due in large part to Leigh's song-writing and singing.

KIDS' ACADEMIES

I have been lucky enough to be involved in some of the best Kids' Academies in the country. I have taught literally hundreds of kids, including some incredibly talented folks who have gone on to become established players.

My primary role in most Kids' Academies is as the Senior/Advanced Band instructor - working with some of the most talented kids in bluegrass. I have led the Senior/Advanced Band for years at the Grey Fox Bluegrass Festival and the Joe Val Bluegrass Festival.

I have also been tapped as Kids' Academy guitar instructor at both the Joe Val Bluegrass Festival and the Strawberry Park Bluegrass Festival. More recently, I was honored in 2008 to be hired as the Kids' Academy Program Director at Jenny Brook Family Bluegrass Festival. I look forward to continuing my work in Kids' Academies throughout the northeast.

Below are a couple videos from recent Kids' Academy performances; I couldn't possibly be more proud of these very talented young musicians!

free stuff

Download my Microsoft Excel templates for guitar and mandolin tablature:

Guitar Tablature Template (updated!!!)

Mandolin Tablature Template (updated!!!)