Dix Bruce “Swing Chords, Comping, and Repertoire for Mandolin.” Saturday, November 7, 11:00 AM to 1:30 PM, $40.00, Gryphon Stringed Instruments, 211 LAMBERT AVE, PALO ALTO, CA 94306

We'll explore basic "swing" mandolin chords, the "Gypsy Swing" chord comp or rhythm on mandolin, and some great “must-know” Swing & Gypsy Swing standards including a jazz blues, a tango, a composition by Django Reinhardt, and more! You'll learn a variety of moveable, closed position chords useful in many styles of swing and jazz. We'll also work on getting that swing feel into our rhythm or "comp." All levels welcome but you should be familiar with major, minor, and seventh chords and be able to read chord diagrams. We'll provide sheets with songs and chords, excerpts from Dix’s latest books and DVDs on the subject. The most important pre-requisite is an interest in playing Swing and Gypsy Swing! Depending upon the skill levels of attendees, we may also explore more advanced subjects like basic chord subsitutions, transposing chords and melodies to different keys, and playing in octaves. Dix has just published a new play-along book/CD set entitled "Gypsy Swing & Hot Club Rhythm for Mandolin, Vol. II," which is the followup to Vol. I, "Gypsy Swing & Hot Club Rhythm for Mandolin.” He also recently released his new DVD “Swing & Jazz Mandolin: Chords, Rhythm, and Songs” which “teaches everything you need to know to get up and swinging on the mandolin!” Both Gypsy Swing book/CD sets and the DVD are available from Gryphon. For additional info on the workshop, email: dix@www.musixnow.com. Limited enrollment. Advance reservations strongly recommended, especially if you’re coming from out of town. Reserve your space in the class by calling Gryphon 650.493.2131.