In this lesson we explore the right hand set up for strumming.
Lesson
Left Hand Technique Introduction
This lesson looks at setting up the left hand to play single notes
Right Hand Position
In this lesson, the right hand position is introduced for playing fingerstyle guitar.
G Wahine Tuning Basic Chords
G Wahine Tuning is a wonderful variation on the Taro Patch Tuning. The third string is lowered from G to F#. This tuning was a favorite of Sonny Chillingworth, Ray Kane, and Alice Namakelua. We will explore many songs in this tuning in later lessons. Start to get to know the tuning and memorize the G, C, and D7 chord shapes in first position.
Tuning: DGDF#BD
C Wahine Tuning Basic Chords
The C Wahine Tuning is used extensively by Keola Beamer and is often called Keola’s C. As we learn more tunings you will be introduced to many variations in the key of C. The low C and G notes on the bass strings create an beautiful richness and depth. This lesson introduces the common fingering of C, F, and G7 chords in first position and a variation of the F chord shape in fifth position.
Tuning: CGDGBE
G, C, and D7 Chord Introduction
G, C, and D7 chords are used often in the Taro Patch Tuning. These chords are introduced in first position in this lesson.
Tuning: DGDGBD
1st Taro Patch Vamp
Auntie Alice Namakelua’s Ka Manu
Alice N?makelua was a gifted Hawaiian composer, kumu hula, Hawaiian language teacher, lei-maker, and slack key guitarist. She composed well over 100 songs and was a mentor to many young students of Hawaiian slack key and Hawaiian language from the 1940s through the cultural Rennaisance in Hawai’i in the 1970s.
This song was used by Auntie Alice as accompaniment for many songs included Noho Paipai and Ka Manu. She released a few recordings that are essential listening. This song progression was used often in early slack key songs and continues to be played today with hundreds of variations including the songs Punahele by Ray Kane and the Whee Ha Swing by Sonny Chillingworth.
The song introduces the G Wahine tuning: DGDF#BD
The thirds string is lowered a half step from G to F# from the Taro Patch Tuning
Sheet Music: