An Invitation From Steve
“Friends and fellow guitarists, welcome to the third year of Vai Academy… It feels great to say that! I’m so excited that this has been as successful as it’s been, and it seems to become more interesting every year. If you’re new to the program, we’re excited to meet you for the first time. If it’s your second or third year, thank you for coming back!
For 2017, we’ll be at the Asilomar Conference Grounds in beautiful Carmel, CA January 2-6. It’s a great week because everyone’s ready to start the year fresh after the holidays. It doesn’t hurt to ask for admission as a holiday present either—just a suggestion!
This year, we’re going to focus on guitar technique. Many young guitarists always want to know things like: How do I bend notes properly? What’s the best way to approach vibrato? How do you pick so that you get the most out of what you’re trying to achieve? What does it feel like to play effortlessly in 11/16 timing? How does my intonation work into all of this? We’re all in need of guidance regarding these things: I know I still am occasionally!
At the same time, I’ll actually get a chance to go deeper than the technique portion. As you’re getting that part down, we’ll talk about finding inspiration within yourself to write melodies and songs. The technique is the tool. It’s your most useful friend to express what’s inside. Let’s unlock that together. As always, I’ve invited some friends to join me. We have one of my idols, the legendary Al Di Meola, and the wonderful Carlos Alomar—in addition to a few special guests which we’ll be announcing soon.
We’re starting with the technique as the foundation. What’s great is that will grow in whatever direction you personally want it to. Ultimately, the main goal of Vai Academy is for everybody in attendance to feel incredibly enthusiastic when thinking about their goals, their future, and connection to the instrument. You’ll hopefully leave with a few new buddies and maybe band mates too. I look forward to seeing everybody at Vai Academy 2017.
LEARN MORE ABOUT VAI ACADEMY 3.0 SEE STEVE’S SIGNATURE GUITARS