Back in 1974, a rock guitar instruction package featuring Pat Thrall was launched by the Guitar Institute of Technology (GIT). Entitled "Learn to Play Guitar Volume 2", the package aimed to teach aspiring guitarists the essential skills and techniques used by professional rock musicians.
Contents of the Package
The "Learn to Play Guitar Volume 2" package included a comprehensive instructional book written by Pat Thrall and a set of audio cassettes featuring demonstrations of the techniques taught in the book.
The book covered various aspects of rock guitar playing, including fretboard navigation, chord formations, strumming patterns, soloing techniques, and tips on developing a personal style. Thrall's approach emphasized practical application and encouraged students to experiment with different techniques to find their unique voice on the guitar.
The accompanying audio cassettes provided real-time examples and demonstrations of the concepts explained in the book. Thrall walked listeners through each technique, breaking down complex concepts into manageable steps. The cassettes also featured play-along tracks, allowing students to practice and apply what they learned directly.
Impact on the Guitar Learning Scene
Pat Thrall's "Learn to Play Guitar Volume 2" instruction package was well-received and became quite influential in the guitar learning scene of the 1970s. Its easy-to-follow format and practical approach made it accessible to guitarists of all skill levels, whether they were complete beginners or those looking to enhance their existing abilities.
Thrall's package joined the growing wave of guitar instructional materials available during that era, which included influential titles such as Jimi Hendrix's "Electric Ladyland" and Ace Frehley's "Ace Frehley Frehley's Comet." These learning resources contributed significantly to the democratization of guitar education, empowering individuals to teach themselves the instrument and explore the world of rock music.
Pat Thrall's Musical Journey
Pat Thrall, known for his distinctive guitar style and melodic approach, went on to have a successful career in the music industry. He collaborated with notable musicians, including Eric Clapton, Mick Jagger, and Ian Gillan, and achieved recognition as a solo artist and member of bands such as Pat Thrall's Band and the Pat Travers Band.
Today's Relevance
Today, while resources and learning methods have evolved, Pat Thrall's contribution to guitar education remains significant. The "Learn to Play Guitar Volume 2" package can still be found among collections of vintage guitar instructional materials, serving as a testament to Thrall's influence and his commitment to sharing his musical knowledge.
Additionally, there are now countless ways for aspiring guitarists to learn the instrument, whether through online tutorials, specialized courses, or in-person lessons. Pat Thrall's legacy as an educator continues to inspire and inform modern guitarists, helping them embark on their own musical journeys.
Overall, Pat Thrall's "Learn to Play Guitar Volume 2" instruction package stands as a valuable piece of rock music history, offering a glimpse into the teaching methods and musical insights that shaped the guitar playing landscape of the 1970s and beyond.