Guitarstand Blackhill is a small and friendly group, which is very welcoming of new participants. There is a range of abilities within the group, but no-one is excluded, and the pace of playing will always vary to ensure that everyone can effectively participate.
There is a nice balance between learning new techniques, and playing along to old guitar favourites, and all of the playing material is provided in advance, so that participants have the opportunity to practice in advance, assuming they have the time.
Can’t think of a better way to spend a Saturday afternoon!
PeterPonteland
By David from Lanchester
I walked into my first Guitar Stand session at Bullion Hall a complete beginner, keen to give it a go, but not knowing anything at all about the guitar. Two years later, I am playing songs, barre-chords, Scales and pentatonics. Tom offers a flexible learning approach, allowing you to work at your own pace. You can jump between the type of sessions and locations. I found this great in helping me fit in with work and lifestyle and also helped me stay motivated. Bullion Hall and Blackhill are helping me do just that…
DavidLanchester
I’ve been attending Tom’s guitarstand at Consett for a while now. I was going to the Sage in Gateshead learning finger picking and strumming. I was looking for something different and stumbled across Tom’s page. I was getting a bit frustrated doing only parts of songs and having to learn the rest at home. Why not give the guitarstand a go. So that’s how I started, and was instantly hooked. The people who attend are at different levels so there’s always someone to get advice from. The people …
John from Rowlands Gill
JohnRowlands Gill
The virtual one to one sessions have really helped me home in on the music theory and fretboard awareness and have been a nice distraction throughout the pandemic.…
By David from County Durham
David (Online)County Durham
“I have attended the GuitarStand at both Bullion Hall and Blackhill for several years now and you are met with a friendly and relaxed atmosphere where you can learn at your own pace with no pressure on anyone. Tom takes his time and explains everything in layman’s terms and is very patient ,so come along and enjoy yourself”…
By Malcolm from Stanley
MalcolmStanley
Tom has been running virtual jam sessions as we can’t meet up face to face due to Covid restrictions. These have kept us all playing together as well as learning new songs. If you have been thinking about picking up the guitar come and give this ago. It’s a welcoming environment and loads of fun.…
David (Play-Along)Durham
“I have just started lessons with Tom online on Zoom and I am now on to week 4. I am very much a beginner with the guitar and the pace of the lessons is great for me. A good mix of practical teaching mixed with the inevitable bit of theory. After having my guitar for about a year I can now feel that I am making some progress”…
Chris – Online
ChrisLanchester (Online)
I joined Blackhill guitar club about 2 years ago, as I was playing simple chords without really knowing what I was playing. Since then, I have learnt so much more, what chords are, how scales relate to them and my general playing has so much more improved. Mainly due to the feel good atmosphere of its members and the excellent guidance from Tom it’s instructor. Lockdown has shown me that’s it’s difficult to progress without the aid of the club, I’m pleased to be back.
AlanBlackhill
I joined the group over 3 years ago and have enjoyed my time learning basic skills with Tom Welch . This group is a mixture of young, older, male & female members learning how to play a Guitar. This has been an ambition of mine for many years and I wish I had started years ago. Tom let’s you learn at your own pace, there is no pressure put on you and you also get help from within the group also. It is a friendly group and we have a laugh, but we can serious serious when required.
At £12 for 2hrs it is very affordable and I would absolutely recommend the tuition. So why not come along and meet a good set of people, make new friends and also get the best tuition from a very good teacher who has time for everyone, from starters to good players who are still wanting to learn as they go along.
KeithBirtley
I joined in Tom’s play along session online, on Monday evenings when the Covid epidemic was rampant, and we carried it on afterwards, as we enjoyed it so much. I can recomend these sessions, as you are in the comfort of your own home in a relaxed atmosphere, but still learning. It is also a practice session for the Wednesday evening group.
JohnTyne & Wear
When we went to total lockdown and lost our meeting at Bullion Hall there was the Idea of having a weekly hour on a Monday evening
7.30 to 8.30 we started with Skype but soon moved to Google meet we play a few songs with Tom being our singer and we play along after a song we can discuss any problems we have with particular chords this is an open discussion where we help each other or get Toms expertise to help where he can this is a free hr where you can join in and get Toms assistance this gets you playing your guitar instead of watching soaps I recommend you come along for a free hour what better way is there to get your guitar out.
Keith County Durham
Sent from my iPhone
KeithTyne & Wear
I joined the Bullion Hall guitar stand a couple of years ago. I feel that my guitar playing has improved dramatically. Tom has a way of teaching without any pressure, but with patience that makes you want to push yourself to improve. All of us on a Wednesday evening are starting to play well together, although we are at different levels, due to Tom’s encouragement
JohnWashington Tyne & Wear
I have now taken part for over a month at the Guitarstand sessions at Blackhill Community Centre on Saturday afternoons . The experience I have had with Tom and all the other participants is absolutely terrific and I cannot wait for the next session. Everyone is so friendly, helpful and encouraging, led by Tom who is an excellent teacher, guitarist and brilliant at explaining all the theory as well as the practical side to everything. It’s a great time and place to dip your feet into guitar if you are feeling a bit unsure. I am glad I took the plunge.
PETER FROM CONSETT
PETERBRIDGEHILL
Really glad I found this great guitar group. It’s the perfect way to bring yourself on and have some fun as you go. Tom caters for all levels, making sure that no one gets left behind. I’ts a great way to spend a couple of hours, and Tom gets the blend of learning and enjoyment just right.
DANNY-COUNTY DURHAM
DANNYSTANLEY
Hi Tom,
Thanks for today – I really enjoyed the session, although the tempo of many of the songs were a bit quick for me.
I also found I was tempted to sing along, but when I did, I immediately lost the strum pattern. More practice needed.
Vaughan – Chester-Le Street
VaughanChester-le-Street
Lookng to fill my time after retiring, I bought a cheap acoustic guitar and a ‘Guitar Tutor Book’.
I learned a few chords from the book, after which I got bored and the guitar spent the next year on top of my wardrobe.
I only picked it up again after hearing about group guitar sessions at Bullion Hall. I have been attending these sessions now for a couple of years, (minus time out for covid restrictions).
Each session involves playing through a number of songs, working from simple chord sheets. This allows learners to progress at their own pace as well as being an enjoyable experience.
A small amount of necessary theory is also discussed, bur not enough to confuse or bore you.
I find myself looking forward to my regular Wednesday evening Sessions, which I now view as much a social occasion as a learning experience
DaveWashington
Another brilliant session Tom.
I’m getting better with my timing and it’s bringing me on greatly..
Recommend these sessions to any guitar players.
JohnStanley, County Durham
Wednesday was nice and relaxed.
I’ve missed playing with other musicians, so I enjoy just sitting and playing in the circle.
DaveOuston – Chester-Le Street
My daughter has been playing acoustic guitar with Tom now for nearly 4 years.
She even continued throughout lockdown with messages of encouragement from Tom along the way to keep her interested.
After lockdown, she slotted back into regular one to one weekly lessons which she enjoys.
We’ve seen a massive improvement in her music reading and playing skills thanks to Tom who is kind and patient with her enough for her to be able to try other musical instruments at school.
We would highly recommend Tom as a personal Guitar Teacher for children.
My daughter was 4 yrs old when she started.
KarinConsett, County Durham
Toms group gives you the opportunity to play with other guitarists of all abilities, in a relaxed and friendly setting.
He provides a wide variety of types of songs to play in an easily read format, and he changes them regularly so you never get bored playing the same tunes week after week.
Everyone is made welcome and it’s great to be part of a group of musicians, all enjoying the experience of learning from Tom, each other and as they play,
DaveStanley, County Durham
I have now taken part for over a month at the Guitar Sessions at Blackhill Community Centre on Saturday Afternoons.
The experience I have had with Tom and the other participants is absolutely terrific and I can not wait for the next session.
Everyone is so friendly, helpful and encouraging, led by Tom who is an excellent Teacher, guitarist and brilliant at explaining all the theory as well as the practical side to everything.
It’s a great time and place to dip your feet into guitar if you are feeling a bit unsure. I’m glad I took the plunge.
PeterConsett
Adam’s guitar playing has progressed really well in a very short period of time.
He only began learning with Tom in January of this year and even some of our musician friends have commented on how amazingly he has developed in such a short period of time.
I would recommend Tomas a Tutor to anyone who is considering taking up the guitar.
CatherineLanchester – County Durham
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GuitarStand@
GuitarStand@
THE GUITAR STAND is designed to help beginners, those of an intermediate level and even advanced players to develop.
To achieve this I promote member interaction with players of a similar or more advanced level. Here, we all help each other. Everyone has something they can bring to the table at THE GUITARSTAND.
More advanced players are particularly welcome, as I believe the more experienced members can help bring on the newer players as well as enhance their own standard.
What happens during these sessions?
How much do the Sessions cost?
When & Where are the Sessions Held?
FREE FIRST SESSION
What happens during these sessions?
The session is based around song play where everyone joins in.
A playlist is provided together with associated materials to help everyone to play in unison.
We do like to break things up a bit by heading off in different directions and creating contrasting features throughout the session.
The playlist has been developed by members themselves.
How much do the Sessions cost?
£14 for as much of the two hours as you want.
When & Where are the Sessions Held?
Bullion Hall
Wednesdays 6:15 – 8:15pm
Blackhill Community Centre
Saturdays 12.30pm to 2.30pm
FREE FIRST SESSION
Why not come along and find out for yourself.
Your First Session is FREE.
You can come along to try it out once we have arranged a date and time for you to attend.
If you like what you experience, then you can become a regular member if you want to and you can attend by invitation as often as it suits you.
If it’s not for you, then we will bid you farewell and we can part knowing the door is left open should you have a change of heart.
One thing is for certain, you will be made welcome and looked after throughout by both these open and friendly groups.
Bullion Hall (Community Centre)
South Approach, Chester le Street, Co. Durham, DH2 2DW
Wednesday 6:15pm – 8:15 pm
Blackhill Community Centre
Derwent Street, Blackhill, Consett, Co. Durham, DH8 8LS
Saturday 12.30pm – 2.30pm
How Do I Get Involved?
BY INVITATION ONLY
INVITATION WITHDRAWN/SUSPENDED
Payment
ATTEND, LEARN & HAVE FUN
FREE FIRST SESSION
How Do I Get Involved?
The first thing to do is to Register. This is FREE.
Simply email guitarstand01@gmail.com or go to the “Contact Us” section of this site.
BY INVITATION ONLY
Once Registered, you’re automatically placed on the Invitation List.
The invitation is by e-mail. So look out for an message from guitarstand01@gmail.com.
The important thing is we need to know in advance who we are expecting to arrive for any given session. This was a requirement for when more restrictive Covid regulations were in force. We have kept it going both for the safety of members and organisational purposes
The Invitations will operate week to week.
It is also important for all members to respond to their e-mail invitation within 48 hours of receiving it.
INVITATION WITHDRAWN/SUSPENDED
Non response to an email Invitations over three consecutive occasions will result in that members invitation being withdrawn and suspended until it becomes clear as to why, or even if that member wishes to continue as a member.
As each session is “BY INVITATION ONLY”, no one can be allowed to attend a session without having responded their the invitation.
Please Note:-
No further invitations will be sent to members who have failed to respond to over a three session period,
Invitation Suspension
Invitations will be SUSPENDED for any Member with an account arrears at the time the latest PLAY-LIST is sent out. That invitation suspension will last for ONE SESSION unless repeated defaulting takes place.
The SUSPENSION of the INVITATION will only become active during times the defaulting member is available to attend the GUITARSTAND CLUB.
Suspensions CANNOT take place during times of pre-arranged absence by any defaulting member. They will only apply when that member WOULD HAVE BEEN AVAILABLE TO ATTEND THE CLUB.
REPEATED DEFAULTING will result in an INCREMENTAL INCREASE in the SUSPENSION TIME for the defaulting member.
Payment
Invitees should pay in advance of the session day/night and by bank transfer/payment. This method is easy, quick and instantaneous. I can provide bank details at the time of invitation.
Payment should be made within 48 hours of invitation
The fee is now £12 for the session. This will remove the any need to handle cash on the day, (Although I will try to maintain a float for exceptions).
Member’s Responsibility For Payments
It is the responsibility of all Members to ensure their account is maintained and kept fully up to date.
Invitation Suspension
Invitations will be suspended for any Member with an arrears balance on their account at the time the latest playlist is sent out.
This suspension will only come into play during a week the defaulting member is available to be invited. This eliminates deliberate defaulting at times convenient to the defaulting member.
Examples are times such as Holidays or other weeks when a Member has arrangements whereby they know they will not be attending the club in advance.
Repeated defaults will result in incremental increases in suspension of the Invitation.
ATTEND, LEARN & HAVE FUN
Your next job is simply to be there.
Come along to the session at the venue on your invitation at the appointed and just enjoy learning.
Don’t forget your guitar.
FREE FIRST SESSION
Why not come along and find out for yourself.
Your First Session is FREE.
You can come along to try it out once we have arranged a date and time for you to attend.
If you like what you experience, then you can Register and become a member if you wish.
If it’s not for you, then we will bid you farewell and we can part knowing the door is left open should you have a change of heart.
One thing is for certain, you will be made welcome and looked after throughout by both these open and friendly groups.
What happens during these sessions?
How much do the Sessions cost?
When & Where are the Sessions Held?
FREE FIRST SESSION
What happens during these sessions?
The session is based around song play where everyone joins in.
A playlist is provided together with associated materials to help everyone to play in unison.
We do like to break things up a bit by heading off in different directions and creating contrasting features throughout the session.
The playlist has been developed by members themselves.
How much do the Sessions cost?
£14 for as much of the two hours as you want.
When & Where are the Sessions Held?
Bullion Hall
Wednesdays 6:15 – 8:15pm
Blackhill Community Centre
Saturdays 12.30pm to 2.30pm
FREE FIRST SESSION
Why not come along and find out for yourself.
Your First Session is FREE.
You can come along to try it out once we have arranged a date and time for you to attend.
If you like what you experience, then you can become a regular member if you want to and you can attend by invitation as often as it suits you.
If it’s not for you, then we will bid you farewell and we can part knowing the door is left open should you have a change of heart.
One thing is for certain, you will be made welcome and looked after throughout by both these open and friendly groups.
You can get in touch by E-mailing guitarstand01@gmail.com
