Mark Teaches Two Workshops at Gryphon in Palo Alto, California

Mark brings his wealth of fingerstyle guitar and music information to his old stomping grounds in Palo Alto: Gryphon Stringed Instruments; 211 Lambert St.

Reserve your space by calling Gryphon at (650) 493-2131. Directions.

Workshop #1:  Jam, Man! (And Woman!) – 11:00 a.m.

Intimidated by jam sessions? There is no need! In this workshop, Grammy winner and prolific author Mark Hanson teaches the strategies for successfully participating in jam sessions, whether as a leader or a joiner. Through the use of well-known tunes, you will jam right along with the rest of the class, no matter what your skill level. Strum or fingerpick the chords, play a single-note solo or a fingerstyle improv — this class provides tons of information on how to succeed in a jam! Also, Mark will teach you to play his sparkling fingerstyle arrangement of Chet Atkins’ “Jam Man.” (E-surance’s advertising theme music – Listen to Mark.) All levels welcome!

Workshop #2: Fingerstyle Jazz for “Folkies” – 1:30 p.m.

Ever wanted to play “In the Mood” for solo guitar, or “Georgia On My Mind” with jazzy chords? Come join Mark’s workshop and learn how! Mark starts with the picking-hand techniques required, continues with an overview of how four-note jazz chords differ from their folky cousins, and what the picking hand needs to do to accommodate them. Gain a new understanding of how this style is built, and how to make it swing! Mark’s jazz standards CD and book will be available.