Blues for Beginners

$507.00

Blues For Beginners Intensive is a relaxed, immersive 5-day music experience designed for absolute beginners through to developing players who want to build confidence and reconnect with the joy of making music.

Across the week, students will explore the foundations of blues guitar, harmonica, singing, rhythm, improvisation and songwriting in a supportive, down-to-earth environment. Together we’ll learn classic blues grooves, simple chord progressions, harmonica techniques, vocal expression, ensemble playing and the art of telling stories through song.

The course focuses on practical, hands-on learning with plenty of group jams, creative exercises and guided workshops designed to help students quickly build confidence without feeling overwhelmed by complicated theory or pressure to “perform perfectly.”

Participants will also learn how to play and sing together, create original blues lyrics, improvise in a group setting and develop the musical listening skills that make blues music feel alive and authentic.

Whether you’re completely new to music, returning after years away, or simply looking for a welcoming creative environment, this course offers a fun and inspiring introduction to the world of blues music and songwriting.

Blues For Beginners Intensive is a relaxed, immersive 5-day music experience designed for absolute beginners through to developing players who want to build confidence and reconnect with the joy of making music.

Across the week, students will explore the foundations of blues guitar, harmonica, singing, rhythm, improvisation and songwriting in a supportive, down-to-earth environment. Together we’ll learn classic blues grooves, simple chord progressions, harmonica techniques, vocal expression, ensemble playing and the art of telling stories through song.

The course focuses on practical, hands-on learning with plenty of group jams, creative exercises and guided workshops designed to help students quickly build confidence without feeling overwhelmed by complicated theory or pressure to “perform perfectly.”

Participants will also learn how to play and sing together, create original blues lyrics, improvise in a group setting and develop the musical listening skills that make blues music feel alive and authentic.

Whether you’re completely new to music, returning after years away, or simply looking for a welcoming creative environment, this course offers a fun and inspiring introduction to the world of blues music and songwriting.

ESSENTIAL INFO

If you purchase a ticket for this course, all the information on this page will be emailed to you with your ticket.

👥 Ages: Adults only 18+

📍 Venue: Bellingen High School (Wheelchair Accessible)

📈 Level: BEGINNER to INTERMEDIATE skill level

Schedule: Mon–Fri, 9am – 4pm (5 Full-Days)

Required skills & experience

  • No previous experience is required

  • Beginners are very welcome

  • Some basic guitar skills will be an advantage

Supplies that will be provided by your tutor

Optional for $50 each:

  • Harmonicas in the keys of A and A Minor

NOTE: Supply costs will be collected by the tutor before Camp Creative.

Supplies that you need to bring to class

  • An acoustic or electric guitar

  • Two 10-hole diatonic harmonicas in the key of A and A Minor (tutor will have harmonicas for sale if required)

  • Guitar picks (if used)

  • Notebook and pen for songwriting and notes

  • Water bottle and comfortable clothing

  • Optional - Capo (tutor will have extras available)

  • Optional - If students have a small practice amplifier for electric guitar they are welcome to bring it, though acoustic instruments are perfectly suitable for the course.

Learning outcomes

  • Basic blues guitar rhythms and chord progressions

  • Foundational harmonica techniques and blues phrasing

  • Singing with greater confidence and expression

  • Writing original blues lyrics and songs

  • Playing music with others in a group setting

  • Basic improvisation and jam skills

  • Listening, timing and groove development

  • Students will also develop practical tools for continuing their musical journey at home, including simple practice approaches, creative exercises and increased confidence in performing and participating in music-making.

  • Most importantly, participants will leave with inspiration, encouragement and the experience of being part of a supportive creative blues community.

WEEK PLAN

DAY ONE - Finding the Groove

  • Welcome & introductions

  • Understanding blues rhythm and feel

  • Guitar and harmonica foundations

  • Vocal confidence and expression

  • Group jam session

DAY TWO - Building Your Sound

  • Blues rhythm techniques

  • Harmonica skills and blues scales

  • Songwriting fundamentals

  • Ensemble playing and musical communication

  • Guided jam workshop

DAY THREE - Finding Your Voice

  • Playing and singing together

  • Beginner improvisation

  • Writing original blues lyrics and choruses

  • Creative jam circles and collaboration

DAY FOUR - Performance & Arrangement

  • Song arrangement techniques

  • Stage confidence and performance skills

  • Small group rehearsals

  • Open blues jam session

DAY FIVE - The Blues Experience

  • Final rehearsals and ensemble work

  • Recording and practice tips

  • Student showcase performance

  • Closing group jam and celebration

COURSE TUTOR

Stephen Duff

Stephen is an experienced musician, songwriter and educator who has taught hundreds of students across both private and educational settings. Specialising in guitar, harmonica, vocals and songwriting, he is passionate about helping beginners build confidence and reconnect with the joy of making music.

Drawing from years of live performance and a deep love of Delta, Chicago and roots blues traditions, Stephen creates relaxed, supportive learning environments focused on creativity, expression and real-world musical skills.

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