Guitar Intensives was created in 2002 to provide an opportunity for students and professionals to share their passion for guitar. We pride ourselves in selecting instructors who are not only world-class players and/or performers, but who are also talented teachers dedicated to sharing their expertise. Our goal was to create an opportunity for personalized, in-depth instruction in a non-competitive, small-group setting, where each student is supported in reaching the "next level," encouraged but not forced to take risks and to share their skills with others.
Situated at College of the Atlantic overlooking Frenchman's Bay, our venue is as awe-inspiring as our instructors. We are thrilled to have Mike Dowling , Martin Grosswendt, Ernie Hawkins, Shawn Persinger and Del Rey will be returning in 2009! In past years, instructors have included Howard Morgen, Steve James, and Pat Martino.
To maintain an intimate environment, we limit registration to approximately 40 students. Early registration is recommended to secure enrollment and class preferences.
GUITAR INTENSIVES PROGRAM
Guitar Intensives offers strands in ACOUSTIC BLUES (guitar, slide guitar, mandolin, ukelele, harmonica), CONTEMPORARY ACOUSTIC GUITAR and SWING. However, students are free to enroll in any course of interest to them, provided their level of experience is commensurate. Enrolled students may register to audit a class if they are not yet at the appropriate level for that class but want to be exposed to the material, instrument and/or genre. 
While maximum class size is capped at 12,lasses are typically between 6 to 10 students. To facilitate appropriate class placement, we contact each student upon receipt of their registration form. As much as possible, we want instruction to be student driven. At times, breakouts will be used by instructors to allow for even more individualized attention. Also, we have several "coaches" who in addition to our instructors will be available to address individual needs during and/or after sessions. All students are encouraged to bring audio devices to classes. Videotaping will be at the discretion of the instructor.
OUR VENUE
College of the Atlantic: College of the Atlantic is located in a breathtaking spot overlooking Frenchman's Bay. Situated on Mount Desert Island, the College's 35-acre waterfront campus is away from the hustle and bustle of Bar Harbor but an easy, short walk to town. There is a rocky beach on campus, and for those who choose, a pier to swim off (or kayak!) – plus plenty of quiet, scenic spots to practice. A car is not needed to take advantage of all the area has to offer. There are free, and frequent, shuttle buses that leave from the campus to Bar Harbor, Acadia National Park’s hiking and biking paths, and throughout Mt. Desert Island, from early morning until approximately 10:00 p.m (www.exploreacadia.com). Temperature “highs" usually range between 70 and 80 degrees in July and August, often accompanied by a sea breeze
The Bar Harbor Area: The village of Bar Harbor, 5 minutes away from the College, offers a wide variety of shops, restaurants, galleries and nitespots, as well as numerous summer activities such as whale watching, sailing and fishing. Students can take advantage of Acadia National Park biking and hiking before, between and after classes. Those wanting to kayak, can do so right off the campus pier!
Acadia National Park: Acadia National Park is 5 minutes away from the College. The Park, and the surrounding Maine coast and communities offer a truly spectacular setting for biking, hiking, kayaking and sailing enthusiasts of all levels. Bicycles are available for rent in the Village.
Significant others of students are welcome to join us (see Fees and Registration). In the past we have arranged nature photography workshops and other trips for them upon request.
Click here to learn more about the Bar Harbor Area and Downeast Maine.
