Paul Reed Smith and Maryland Hall will present the 3rd Annual Paul Reed Smith Music School at Maryland Hall. The school’s teachers are top professional musicians to include renowned guitar maker Paul Reed Smith, legendary drummer Dennis Chambers, world renowned guitarist John McLaughlin, celebrated saxophonist Bill Evans, acclaimed Celtic guitarist Tony McManus, YouTube guitar teaching experts Tim Pierce and Tyler Larson, and Session Directors Gary Grainger (groove & bass) and Greg Grainger (groove & drums), known worldwide as the “Grainger Brothers.” Included as well are some of Maryland’s best musicians, Michael Ault (guitar), Bryan Ewald (guitar), Benjie Porecki (keys), Mia Samone (vocals), and Bill Nelson (guitar). When faced with the challenge of continuing the successful summer Music School under COVID-19 restrictions in 2020, the entire teaching staff and Maryland Hall decided to make the school/summer camp accessible worldwide by offering a live virtual 4-day event. This year’s event will take place August 9-12. The school’s Masterclasses are open to musicians and enthusiasts of all ages around the world. Be ready for a fun, interactive experience of learning music with some of the world’s most gifted musicians, all from the comfort of your home. In addition, each day participants will be eligible to win one of four PRS guitars being given away during the event. As in years past, the school will make a donation to the Johns Hopkins Kimmel Cancer Center.
The school’s theme will continue as “Understanding Rhythm, Harmony, and Melody Makes You a Better Musician.” Even previous participants will find value in attending again and are encouraged to sign up for 2021, as there promises to be exciting learning opportunities with the addition of new segments, classes and world-class instructors. Upgrades to last year’s format will be introduced along with the ability for participants to view and/or re-watch segments at any time of day that is most convenient to them. All sessions will be taught via live video stream and will include extensive interactive portions for students of all skillsets, ages and instruments to engage with the teachers. Through a Masterclass online environment, all attendees will be given real ways to view music, experience music and improve their abilities to play music through this experience. Masterclasses will include how to groove, harmony and music theory, beginner and advanced guitar, melody, keyboard, sax, vocals, drums and bass. “This is a tremendous opportunity for students to learn directly from these amazing touring musicians and teachers. Imagine learning how to groove from Dennis Chambers, learning harmony from John McLaughlin or improving your technique with Tyler Larson and Tim Pierce. That kind of input can help skyrocket your playing,” said Paul Reed Smith.