FAQ's

Question: Do I need to be able to read music?

Answer: There is a continuing debate as to whether certain genres of music are better learned by listening, mimicking and improvising, or through the use of written notation or tab. There is no single correct way to learn, and there are as many methods as there are tutors. At IGF, it is not essential that you are able to read music. Most tutors will introduce some written charts and guides but you will manage perfectly well with little or no reading experience. If you are worried, please contact phil@igf.org.uk who will try to make you feel comfortable.

Question: What level am I?

Answer: Without a formal educational background it can be difficult to assess your own level. Don't get too worried about which level you are as this can be easily assessed on arrival at IGF. Think of your development as a series of steps with a key to each step. Have you missed out some of the keys on your way up? If you have then you should go back and collect them!

• Level 1 - 0 - 18 months (or too long!) playing, Difficulty with chord changes/little knowledge of scales
• Level 2: 1 - 2 years playing, good knowledge of basic/bar chords scales in more than one position, Pentatonic etc; or
• Level 2: 2 - 3 years playing, little knowledge of theory but some good chops
• Level 3: 3 years or more playing, with good knowledge of theory and some top chops. Students should be of an advanced level
• Level 4: 3 years or more playing, seriously in control with excellent theory and technique.
• Level 5: Advanced players looking for a new challenge

Question: What is a typical day?

Answer:
8:00 - 9:00 Breakfast
10:00 - 12:30 Workshop session
1:30 - 2:30 Lunchtime concert
2:30 - 6:00 Workshop session or special interest workshop
6:00 Evening Meal
8:00 Evening concert
10:00 till late! Late night jam

Question: What should I bring?

Answer: Students should come equipped with the following: Pen, paper, blank tab sheets, guitar, amp (unless acoustic), leads, tuner, slide, capo.

Question: Who comes to learn at IGF?

Answer: School children, teenagers and adults. All professions and occupations. EVERYONE is welcome. At IGF we are all just guitarists!

Question: Why do most people come?

Answer: To get the chance to meet other like-minded people, to be taught by professionals, the concerts, the campus, the friendships...

Question: I have only been playing for six months, can I still enrol?

Answer: Of course. The teachers are very experienced and will make sure that you attend classes best suited to your level of ability.

Question: Should I bring an amplifier?

Answer: Please bring along a small practice amp if possible. It isn't the end of the world if you don't have one, but is certainly useful.

Question: Will I actually improve in such a short time?

Answer: Quite simply, yes! You may come away with a year's worth of work or even one piece of new information that can change the way you play for the better.

Question: Can I afford it?

Answer: If you really can't afford to come, it's possible that we will be able to offer some financial assistance. This will depend on your application and also on the level of support IGF receives for this purpose. Remember that IGF is a charitable organisation and makes no profit, however, we will try to help where we can.

Question: Is there a deadline to send in my application?

Answer: No, but the sooner the better! See the early booking discount on the booking form.