Doug MacLeod Blues Workshop
Rare blues workshop with Doug MacLeod: small-group coaching on songcraft & guitar, stories from the road, and Q&A. Limited to 20.
Experience a rare, small-group session with multiple Blues Music Award–winning artist Doug MacLeod. This hands-on workshop centers on the essentials of acoustic blues: touch, tone, time, storytelling, and stagecraft. MacLeod demonstrates musical ideas, breaks them down into manageable steps, and then coaches participants individually so each player can apply the concepts in their own voice.
What You’ll Do
- Learn right-hand technique for drive and feel (thumb bass, shuffle/swing, accents, and muting).
- Explore left-hand tools for expression (bends, vibrato, slides, hammer-ons/pull-offs).
- Map classic 12-bar and 8-bar forms, turnarounds, intros, and endings.
- Shape lyrics like stories: point of view, detail, and economy of language.
- Practice dynamics and space—how to make one guitar sound bigger with contrast.
- Get practical guidance on performing: pacing a set, talking to the audience, and reading the room.
- Participate in a Q&A covering writing habits, practicing with purpose, and gear that serves the song.
Format
- Demonstration segments followed by guided exercises and short individual coaching.
- Supportive, small-group environment designed for interaction and immediate feedback.
- Open to songwriters and guitarists; singing is welcome but not required.
Who It’s For
- Acoustic blues players developing feel, groove, and tone.
- Songwriters refining structure, lyrics, and storytelling.
- Performers seeking confidence, connection, and polish on stage.
- Motivated beginners through experienced players who want direct, actionable feedback.
What to Bring
- Notebook or writing device for ideas, song starts, and takeaways.
- Optional: acoustic guitar, tuner, picks/slide, and one work-in-progress song.
- Curiosity, questions, and a willingness to try new approaches.
Why Learn from Doug MacLeod
Doug MacLeod is widely respected for original songwriting, expressive guitar work, warm vocals, and intimate, story-driven performances. He learned directly from elder blues masters and has carried that tradition into a long career as a recording and touring artist. His songs have been recorded by renowned musicians and featured in film and television. A celebrated educator and storyteller, MacLeod distills decades on the road into practical lessons you can use immediately.
Mentor wisdom Doug often shares: “Never play a note you don’t believe.” This workshop is built to help you find those believable notes—on the fretboard and on the page.
Class Size
Small and intentionally limited (maximum 20 participants) to ensure meaningful one-on-one time and thoughtful group interaction.
Rare blues workshop with Doug MacLeod: small-group coaching on songcraft & guitar, stories from the road, and Q&A. Limited to 20.
Experience a rare, small-group session with multiple Blues Music Award–winning artist Doug MacLeod. This hands-on workshop centers on the essentials of acoustic blues: touch, tone, time, storytelling, and stagecraft. MacLeod demonstrates musical ideas, breaks them down into manageable steps, and then coaches participants individually so each player can apply the concepts in their own voice.
What You’ll Do
- Learn right-hand technique for drive and feel (thumb bass, shuffle/swing, accents, and muting).
- Explore left-hand tools for expression (bends, vibrato, slides, hammer-ons/pull-offs).
- Map classic 12-bar and 8-bar forms, turnarounds, intros, and endings.
- Shape lyrics like stories: point of view, detail, and economy of language.
- Practice dynamics and space—how to make one guitar sound bigger with contrast.
- Get practical guidance on performing: pacing a set, talking to the audience, and reading the room.
- Participate in a Q&A covering writing habits, practicing with purpose, and gear that serves the song.
Format
- Demonstration segments followed by guided exercises and short individual coaching.
- Supportive, small-group environment designed for interaction and immediate feedback.
- Open to songwriters and guitarists; singing is welcome but not required.
Who It’s For
- Acoustic blues players developing feel, groove, and tone.
- Songwriters refining structure, lyrics, and storytelling.
- Performers seeking confidence, connection, and polish on stage.
- Motivated beginners through experienced players who want direct, actionable feedback.
What to Bring
- Notebook or writing device for ideas, song starts, and takeaways.
- Optional: acoustic guitar, tuner, picks/slide, and one work-in-progress song.
- Curiosity, questions, and a willingness to try new approaches.
Why Learn from Doug MacLeod
Doug MacLeod is widely respected for original songwriting, expressive guitar work, warm vocals, and intimate, story-driven performances. He learned directly from elder blues masters and has carried that tradition into a long career as a recording and touring artist. His songs have been recorded by renowned musicians and featured in film and television. A celebrated educator and storyteller, MacLeod distills decades on the road into practical lessons you can use immediately.
Mentor wisdom Doug often shares: “Never play a note you don’t believe.” This workshop is built to help you find those believable notes—on the fretboard and on the page.
Class Size
Small and intentionally limited (maximum 20 participants) to ensure meaningful one-on-one time and thoughtful group interaction.