Lightkeepers Strings Academy

Guitar & Ukulele Strings Academy

WEDNESDAYS 

• Younger Group (Grades K–2)

  • Time: 3:45–4:45 PM

• Older Group (Grades 3–5)

  • Time: 5–6 PM (or adjust as needed)

•  Dates: 9/16, 9/23, 9/30, 10/7, 10/14, 10/21, 10/28, 11/4, 11/18, 11/25, 12/2, 12/9

PLEASE SPECIFY AGE DURING REGISTRATION 

274 Garfield Pl, Brooklyn, NY 11215

Program Overview

Students will learn the fundamentals of guitar and ukulele through engaging activities that blend rhythm games, call-and-response songs, creative movement, and guided practice. They will practice proper playing posture, basic strumming and plucking techniques, and keep a steady beat while playing simple songs. The class emphasizes collaboration and kindness, giving students many opportunities to perform for their peers and to celebrate each other’s growth.

What Students Will Learn

By the end of the first trimester, students will:

• Know how to safely hold and care for a guitar or ukulele, including basic tuning awareness and handling.

• Understand and demonstrate correct hand position, strumming direction, and finger placement for a handful of beginner chords.

• Be able to play simple patterns and songs using open strings and a small set of chords (for example, C, G, and Am) appropriate to their age group.

• Recognize and keep a steady beat, clap and count basic rhythms, and play in time with a group.

• Follow a lead sheet or simple chord chart and understand how chord symbols relate to what they play on the instrument.

• Build confidence performing short pieces as a class, in small groups, and occasionally as soloists, depending on comfort level.

Differentiation by Age Group

• Younger Group (K–2):

  • Focuses on musical play, ear training, and simple strum patterns.

  • Uses songs with repetitive lyrics and motions to help younger learners internalize rhythm and chord changes.

  • Introduces reading of basic symbols (arrows, colors, simple charts) rather than formal notation, supporting early literacy levels.

• Older Group (Grades 3–5):

  • Adds more chords, slightly faster chord changes, and simple picking patterns.

  • Introduces basic music literacy concepts like measure, tempo, and note values through games and exercises.

  • Encourages students to begin creating their own short patterns or riffs and to reflect on what they’re learning.

Final Outcomes

By December 11, each group will be able to share at least one class song or medley that showcases their new skills. Students will leave the trimester with a strong foundation in guitar and/or ukulele, increased confidence in their musical abilities, and the excitement to continue their journey in the next session.