Brandon Acker Courses

5 Things to Know Before Buying a Classical Guitar

Discover essential tips for buying a classical guitar with expert advice on budget, playability, sound quality, new vs. used options, and understanding what truly matters beyond aesthetics.

• YouTube
• 18 minutes
• Self-Paced
• Free Video

What Guitars Were Like 200 Years Ago - You'll Be Surprised

Discover the surprising features of 19th-century guitars used by classical composers like Sor and Giuliani, with demonstrations of their unique construction, sound differences, and historical significance.

• YouTube
• 10 minutes
• Self-Paced
• Free Video

Guitar Nail Shaping Techniques for Beautiful Classical Guitar Tone

Master the art of shaping guitar nails to achieve optimal tone and playing technique, from understanding different nail shapes to practical filing methods and professional finishing techniques.

• YouTube
• 12 minutes
• Self-Paced
• Free Video

What Jazz and Baroque Music Have in Common - Exploring Improvisation Techniques

Discover the fascinating parallels between Jazz and Baroque music through an exploration of their shared improvisational elements and musical techniques in 17th and 18th century compositions.

• YouTube
• 11 minutes
• Self-Paced
• Free Video

The 10 Questions Everyone Asks About My 6-Foot, 14-String Lute

Discover answers to common questions about the 6-foot, 14-string theorbo including tuning, transport, history, and playing techniques through expert insights and demonstration.

• YouTube
• 14 minutes
• Self-Paced
• Free Video

Theorbo vs Archlute - What's the Real Difference?

Discover the key distinctions between theorbo and archlute through detailed instrument comparisons, string configurations, and live musical demonstrations.

• YouTube
• 10 minutes
• Self-Paced
• Free Video

Is Microtonal Guitar a Cheap Gimmick? - Reacting to Your Comments

Explore microtonal guitar techniques and address common misconceptions about temperament, tuning systems, and performance limitations through expert analysis and demonstration.

• YouTube
• 16 minutes
• Self-Paced
• Free Video

Overcoming Stage Fright - Tips for Musicians to Perform Their Best

Master practical techniques for conquering performance anxiety, from breathing exercises and mindfulness meditation to preparation strategies that help musicians deliver their best under pressure.

• YouTube
• 18 minutes
• Self-Paced
• Free Video

Teaching Bach's Allemande BWV 996 on Classical Guitar

Master Bach's Allemande from BWV 996 through expert guidance on classical guitar technique, interpretation, and performance practices in this intimate one-on-one lesson demonstration.

• YouTube
• 28 minutes
• Self-Paced
• Free Video

Nigel North: A Lute Legend - Career Insights and Guitar Playing Advice

Renowned lutenist Nigel North shares insights on lute playing techniques, discusses differences between lute and guitar, and offers valuable advice for guitarists interested in exploring the lute's rich musical heritage.

• YouTube
• 1 hour 10 minutes
• Self-Paced
• Free Video

Can Videos of Bach on the Lute Go Viral? Interview with Evangelina Mascardi

Insightful interview with lutenist Evangelina Mascardi exploring viral lute videos, playing techniques, transitioning from guitar, and advice for early music enthusiasts. Includes demonstrations and discussions on style and musicianship.

• YouTube
• 1 hour 13 minutes
• Self-Paced
• Free Video

Secrets to Improvising on Guitar and Lute

Discover improvisation techniques for guitar and lute with expert insights. Enhance your musical creativity and expression through practical tips and demonstrations from seasoned performers.

• YouTube
• 48 minutes
• Self-Paced
• Free Video

Two-Hour Guitar Masterclass - Villa-Lobos and Bach

Immerse in a comprehensive guitar masterclass featuring Villa-Lobos and Bach performances, expert insights, and an interactive Q&A session to elevate your playing skills.

• YouTube
• 2 hours 11 minutes
• Self-Paced
• Free Video

How to Play Artificial Harmonics on Guitar

Learn to create beautiful bell-like sounds on guitar using artificial harmonics. Master this unique technique through step-by-step instruction, improvisation challenges, and practical applications.

• YouTube
• 20 minutes
• Self-Paced
• Free Video

Introducing - The Harpsichord

Explore the harpsichord's history, mechanics, and unique sound with expert Jason Moy. Learn about its design, temperaments, and musical significance in this informative interview.

• YouTube
• 26 minutes
• Self-Paced
• Free Video