Shoulder To Shoulder
By the end of the course, veterans will have developed a solid foundation in guitar playing, gained insight into the art of songwriting, and experienced the joy of playing music collaboratively. They will have a deeper appreciation for the role of music in personal expression, empowerment, and building connections within their community.



Course Overview
This is a beginner course for veterans who want to learn how to jam on the guitar and express themselves through songwriting. Through this program, participants will learn fundamental guitar and vocal techniques, explore the art of songwriting, and experience the power of collaborative music-making.
This course is designed to focus on the “art of the jam,” so each week veterans will play along with popular songs and learn mindfulness practices to help facilitate the flow of their creative expression through music.
The course is led by experienced musicians and instructors, and is part of Life By Music’s initiative to make music education and instruments more readily available for self-empowerment and well-being.
Course Objectives
- To teach an introduction to playing guitar, so participants can play-along with popular songs
- To provide a simple guide to creating songs with the guitar by combining simple musical elements in order to create, flow and collaborate with others in the “art of the jam.”
- Participants will gain an understanding of how to get into a flow-state on guitar, so they feel comfortable jamming with others.
- Participants will learn simple mindfulness techniques and be provided resources to help prepare the body and mind for creative expression
Course Outline
Week
Get to Know Your Instruments: Introduction to Guitar and Vocals
Week
Understand the systems: How to read chord/tab sheet
Week
Synchronize: Right and left hand coordination
Week
Fundamental Chords and Progressions
Week
Explore your options: Understand chord shapes & scales
Week
Enjoy the groove: Timing and playing along
Week
Find what feels good: Improvisation
Week
Exploring Songwriting
Week
Collaborative Music Making
Week
The Art of the Jam
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