Great Guitarists’ Stories and Styles

Course Overview

Discover the stories and techniques behind iconic guitarists and their unforgettable songs. Join Professor Colin McAllister as he delves into the fascinating histories and styles of legendary musicians.

Video Lectures

01: Pink Floyd’s Second Guitarist: David Gilmour

Explore David Gilmour’s journey from a fan of Pink Floyd to their renowned guitarist, focusing on his signature techniques.

02: Eric Clapton’s Acoustic Blues

Learn about Eric Clapton’s unique blend of blues and rock that brought him fame as a musician and soloist.

03: The Watercolors of Pat Metheny

Follow Pat Metheny’s innovative approach to jazz and his blend of traditional and new musical styles.

04: Two-Handed Tapping with Eddie Van Halen

Discover Eddie Van Halen’s revolutionary two-handed tapping method that redefined rock guitar.

05: Andy McKee: 100 Million YouTube Views Later

Trace Andy McKee’s rise to fame through social media and his impact on modern guitar music.

06: Surf’s Up: Dick Dale Channels the Ocean

Explore how Dick Dale’s surf music evolved from local ice cream parlors to mainstream fame.

07: The American Folk Ballad

Understand the history and impact of folk ballads in storytelling and music.

08: Alex Lifeson and the Art of No Compromise

Learn how Rush’s Alex Lifeson combined heavy metal and progressive music to create unique sounds.

09: Django Reinhardt and Gypsy Jazz

Discover Django Reinhardt’s influence on 1930s Europe with his unique “Gypsy Jazz” style.

10: Andy Summers of The Police

Examine Andy Summers’ journey with The Police and his contribution to their iconic sound.

11: Muleskinners: Where Bluegrass Began

Explore the roots of Bluegrass music and its iconic stars like Bill Monroe and Jimmy Martin.

12: All Thumbs: The Wes Montgomery Revolution

Learn about Wes Montgomery’s groundbreaking jazz techniques and his use of thumb strumming.

13: John McLaughlin: The Way Beyond

Discover John McLaughlin’s musical hybrids and his collaborations with notable musicians.

14: Adventures in Bossa Nova: Jobim and Gilberto

Dive into the history of Brazilian bossa nova and its early innovators like Antonio Carlos Jobim.

15: Blue Note’s House Guitarist Grant Green

Uncover the contributions of Grant Green to the 1960s jazz scene with his lyrical style.

16: Where Did Tal Farlow Go?

Explore Tal Farlow’s unique bebop jazz style and his influence on future generations.

17: Joni Mitchell in DADGAD

Understand Joni Mitchell’s innovative guitar techniques and her journey from ukulele to stardom.