Andrew Leonard's Sonora Classical Guitar Resource Page​

Week 1

Classical Guitar Right Hand Technique: Two Videos Below

The first video, Andrew Leonard playing classical guitar with finger style acoustic guitarist Doug Smith: two different styles.

Notice Andrew’s Right Hand classical technique is based on positioning the knuckles of the Right Hand over the string he is playing. This allows RH finger movement to occur from the knuckle and creates a louder unamplified sound.

Notice Doug Smith’s finger style RH technique is mid-joint based: he places his RH pinky on the the guitar to anchor his hand. Doug Smith’s RH knuckles are not over the strings he is playing. Normally Doug Smith uses amplification.

Note: I am not suggesting one approach is better than the other: Doug Smith is a Grammy Winner & Fingerpicking Champion

 The second video of Andrew Leonard is a demonstration of Classical Guitar Right Hand technique.  Also notice the Left Hand ability to shift easily. Andrew’s left hand technique is based on the left hand thumb using minimal pressure on the guitar neck at all times. Remember the D to C chord discussion during week one’s masterclass?

Week 1: Learn to play Allegro by Mauro Giuliani: Full Performance

Allegro by Mauro Giuliani: Week One Assignment

Thumb & Index Finger / Thumb & Middle (PI-PM)

Allegro by Mauro Giuliani: Week Two Assignment

RH Arpeggio: Thumb, Index, Middle, Ring / PIMA

Posture

During week 2, Andrew Leonard discussed classical guitar seating position and posture. Two videos were shown as demonstrations.

Ana Vidovic uses classical seating position with a modified head and neck position.

Electric guitarist Rusty Cooley uses classical seating position while demonstrating his technique.

The final video is  John Williams performing Asturias. He was mentioned in class but videos were not shown. 
Notice his seating position, especially his head and neck. His posture and alignment are preferable.

 

Week 3

Malagueña - PI / PM - Right Hand Technique

Allegro by Mauro Giuliani: Week Three Assignment

PIMIAIMI Arpeggio & Chord Shapes

Practicing Quotes & Mantras


Your Brain Must Be

Ahead of Your Fingers 

At All Times

Andrew Leonard