When playing guitar, do you say ..?

• “I have things I want to learn but don’t know where to start!”
• “I wish I could solo better!”
• “I feel my guitar abilities have hit a plateau.”
• “I want to be able to learn a song by ear.”
• “I wish I could understand music theory without it being boring!”
• “I’d like to improve, but I have run out of ideas to work on.”
• “I need a structured routine for my guitar practice.”
• “I wish I knew more chords!”

Then our guitar retreat may be just what you are looking for!

Level of guitar playing

The retreat is best suited to intermediate guitar players, who may not have had formal lessons or played in front of an audience. We would recommend that for you to get the best out of this guitar retreat, you have the following level of abilities:

• An understanding of open guitar chords and power chords.
• The pentatonic scale in at least one or two positions.
• Comfortable using a plectrum to strum and pick.
• Ability to play solos (may be learned or improvised solos).

We have instruments, amps and pedals but we would encourage you to bring your own guitar to get the most out of the week.

Great value inclusive deal

Our retreats are delivered over 5 days, with a combination of group coaching sessions, individual coaching and practice time. Don’t worry there will also be plenty of opportunities to relax, unwind and enjoy Rural Retreat France! We take care of everything so you can immerse yourself in your passion and focus on your learning. .

Our 5 night retreats are just €550, which includes breakfast, lunch and dinner, accommodation and tuition (travel not included). Accommodation in our purpose built, stylish Dortoir includes all bedding, towels, dressing gowns and toiletries.

For any enquiries or to book your place, please email sue@ruralretreatfrance.com

What we will do on the guitar retreat

Our retreats are a mix of tutorials, practical and theory with the evenings free for players to perform, practice and unwind. We cover the following tools and techniques:-

• Soloing & Improvisation
• Chordal Explorer
• Rhythmic Awareness
• Practice (makes Permanent)
• Fret board Freedom
• Theory (in Practice!)
• Playing as a group

Your Guitar Retreat Tutor Steve Bennett

Steve loves playing improv jazz, letting himself go wherever the music takes him. However, over the last 30 years, he has played everything from country to blues to jazz and rock. He’s been in many bands as a guitarist and on vocals. He is deeply involved with the music scene here in Western France, organising festivals, clubs, sessions and running the area social music page. Over the years he has done many studio sessions and has recorded and produced several albums for other musicians.

Steve’s preference is to be in a supporting role, rather than in spotlight and loves helping others. Luckily for us, Steve brings all this experience and passion to our retreats and we are really looking forward to this week of music, melody and mellowing.