About this course

In this course, Mattias focuses on different tools for accompanying Nordic folk tunes with a guitar. He does it in two levels, first with a 6-string guitar in standard tuning. Starting with the most basic chords, showing how to voice them, how to use the capo, and how to expand your harmonic understanding.

He uses the same tune with his 12-string guitar (tuned ADADAE) and goes further into more advanced methods to color the music, diving into his thoughts on how to fit into a style of music that is so melody-driven. How to find your space and what to do with the guitar in this setting. Here we look into the use of second voices, drones, rhythm, and more.

Mattias Pérez is ranked as one of Sweden’s premier folk musicians and is a regular performer on stages all over the world. He is now a Senior Lecturer of traditional and world music at Ingesund & Karlstad University, with ensemble playing, guitar, and music theory as his main subjects.

We have the great Nina Pérez playing the fiddle in most of the lessons.

Filmed & Recorded by Petter Berndalen
Edited & Mixed by Jens Linell

About the Guitar

The guitar has been a popular instrument in folk music traditions for centuries. Its origins can be traced back to Spain in the 16th century, where it was known as the "guitarra." From there, it spread across Europe and eventually made its way to the Americas, where it became an essential part of various folk music styles such as blues, country, and bluegrass. The guitar's versatility and ability to accompany both vocals and other instruments made it a favorite among folk musicians. Today, the guitar remains an important part of many folk music traditions and continues to evolve with new players and styles emerging all the time.
Learn more about the Guitar
Guitar

About Mattias Pérez

Guitarist Mattias Pérez is ranked as one of Sweden’s premier folk musicians and is a regular performer on stages all over the world. He is now a Senior Lecturer of traditional and world music at Ingesund and Karlstad University, with ensemble playing, guitar, and music theory as his main subjects.
Learn more about Mattias
Mattias Pérez

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