Theory and More

Class Schedule :: How to Sign Up

Guitar Clarity I with Tal Morris
Wednesdays 6:30-8pm
A fresh approach to harmony, melody and technique for guitarists, and the art of being an "Expert Beginner." Subjects covered: learning note locations, intervals, scale constructions, modes, triads, chord construction, the ability to "name" chords that you invent, and much more. Tal's approach focuses on simplicity, retention, and execution of all concepts on the instrument that anyone can follow using the spirit of "play" as a learning tool. Students who have had a difficult time in the past trying to learn the rules of music, or who have had a tough time using those rules as a creative tool, will especially benefit from this approach. Guitar Clarity uses a foundation system in which each piece of mastered information is used for the next step and all participants will find the joy of connectivity in learning. Every concept explored will have a physical and sonic application that all can achieve. People learn in different ways: some need to see it, some need to hear it, some need to do it. The Guitar Clarity approach does all three from the start. All levels and all style focuses can benefit from this class.
Cost: $325

Guitar Clarity II with Tal Morris
Tuesdays 6:30-8pm
This class will strengthen the concepts and skills developed in Guitar Clarity I. Rather than adding more to the mix, you'll become more fluent with information already taught by applying it in a variety of different musical contexts. You've learned the grammar and vocabulary, now you'll begin to converse.
Cost: $325

Ear Training with Raz Kennedy
Thursdays 7-8pm
Through in-class drills and directed assignments, this class will develop your ability to identify and sing intervals and to hear harmonies. Whether you're a singer or instrumentalist, your ear is your key tool for knowing what you are hearing and how to interact with it. Get in shape!
Cost: $275

Improv Boot Camp
Tuesdays 7-9pm
Five weeks, every other week beginning October 5
Jeff Massanari
This class will teach how to solo effectively in music styles including rock, blues and simple jazz. Learning skills and concepts and with plenty of in-class playing, here is the perfect place to improve your soloing skills and become more confident as an improviser. Open to all instruments except drums.
Cost: $230

Recording Basics on Computer
Saturdays 10:30am-12pm
Cole Berggren
For musicians and budding songwriters who would like to get their ideas into shape, yet not try to become a certified pro-engineer, this class will teach the basics of recording and song construction using GarageBand and Ableton Live. The information presented will be relevant even if you use other platforms like Logic, ProTools, etc.
Cost: $325

Songwriting

Class Schedule :: How to Sign Up

After School Songwriting with Bonnie Hayes
Tuesdays 4:30-6pm
Five weeks, every other week beginning September 28
For high-school and middle school students who are already writing songs, this class will give you a chance to explore writing in new styles and to polish your work.
Cost: $275 ($75 non-refundable deposit)

Beginning Songwriting with Bonnie Hayes
Tuesdays 6-7:30pm
Five weeks, every other week beginning September 28
A combined lecture/workshop class for those new to songwriting. Lecture topics include: "hooks" and how to write them; common forms in pop music; how to generate and develop lyric ideas; tricks for writing catchy melodies; basic arranging; making demos; and music publishing and business information. The workshop portion will involve progressive assignments with students bringing their work for review, resulting in at least one finished song by the end of the class.
Class limit of 10
Cost: $260 ($75 non-refundable deposit)

Intermediate/Advanced Songwriting with Bonnie Hayes
Tuesdays 7:30-9pm
Five weeks, every other week beginning September 28
This class uses a workshop format, instructor and peer feedback, and directed writing assignments to help writers generate a portfolio of finished songs. Students are expected to bring a song for review each week, setting a pace that enables the student to get and stay in the creative flow. To get the most out of this class, you should have written at least ten songs and be able to play and sing well enough to perform in class, or have the facility to make tapes of your songs.
Class limit of eight
Cost: $275 ($75 non-refundable deposit)

Hyde Street Studios now offering classes in
Basic Recording Techniques for Musicians
Are you a musician with a home studio who would like to improve your recording skills? Or are you considering creating a home studio but not sure how to maximize your benefit on a limited budget? If the answer is yes, please visit our friends and partners at legendary Hyde Street Studios. If you've ever tried to record yourself at home, you know how hard it is to get that "professional" sound. Learn the fundamentals of recording in a professional setting from a professional recording engineer. 15% discount for Blue Bear students. More info: hydestreet.com or 415-441-8934.

Mandolin and Ukulele Classes

Class Schedule :: How to Sign Up

Acoustic Jam Basics
Tuesdays 7-8pm
Brian Gire
For those who are comfortable with basic playing skills on their instrument, this class will teach a repertoire of simple songs that will serve as vehicles for improvising. You'll learn melody lines, basic information needed to take solos, and listening skills.
Cost: $230

Acoustic Jam Basics II
Mondays 8-9pm
Brian Gire
For graduates of Acoustic Jam Basics, you'll continue learning songs and improving skills.
Cost: $230

Advanced Acoustic Jam
Thursdays 7-8:30pm
Brian Gire
Have fun playing with others! In a relaxed setting, you'll learn and play through tunes from folk, bluegrass, Celtic and rock traditions. You can take solos and sing if you'd like, or just play rhythm with the group. Open to guitar, mandolin, fiddle, Dobro, banjo and bass.
Cost: $325

Beginning Ukulele
Tuesdays 7-8pm
Matt Driscoll
Class members will learn to play basic chords and to play songs in folk, rock and Hawaiian styles. Also covered: tuning, ukulele care, and basic strums. No prerequisites, but a ukulele is required.
Cost: $230

Saxophone

Class Schedule :: How to Sign Up

Improv Boot Camp
Tuesdays 7-9pm
Five weeks, every other week beginning October 5
Jeff Massanari
This class will teach how to solo effectively in music styles including rock, blues and simple jazz. Learning skills and concepts and with plenty of in-class playing, here is the perfect place to improve your soloing skills and become more confident as an improviser. Open to all instruments except drums.
Cost: $230

Band Workshops
Student bands organized by the school. Groups arrange and play songs by a variety of artists and groups, and at the end of the session perform live in a San Francisco club.
Workshop Schedule