MASTERCLASS: STRATEGIES FOR PERFORMANCE MASTERY

"Mastering the Art of Playing & Singing"

A performing artist often embodies the spirit of the traveling musician tradition evoking a sense of journey and sharing music with audiences everywhere, from intimate street gatherings to large theater crowds.

However, expressing your full artistic potential while playing and singing simultaneously is one of the most challenging tasks for a musician. It requires not just talent, but specific technical coordination.

Through years of extensive live performance and academic study, Bob Forte has developed a range of adaptable strategies to help musicians master this balance. These solutions have proven effective regardless of the student's technical ability, age, or background.

CORE TOPICS & STRATEGIES:

• The "Split-Brain" Challenge: What are the specific hurdles when singing and playing simultaneously, and how do we overcome them?

• Arranging for Independence: Strategies to achieve fluent guitar playing while accompanying yourself, without sacrificing the vocal performance.

• Breaking Free from the Music Stand: Practical memorization strategies for both instrumental and vocal parts, allowing the artist to connect with the audience.

• Performance Psychology: How to prepare physically and mentally, overcome stage fright, and channel anxiety into energy.

FORMAT & INTERACTION: This is not just a lecture; it is an active workshop.

• Live Playing: Students receive personalized feedback and guidance.

• Group Discussions: Learning from the shared challenges of peers.

• Q&A Sessions: Specific answers to your personal musical hurdles.

STUDENT OUTCOMES

• Increased confidence and self-esteem.

• Enhanced cognitive skills and memory.

• Stress relief and emotional well-being.

• The joy of playing and sharing music.

JOINT MASTERCLASS: BOB FORTE & ERIK WEISSGLAS

The Dialogue

“Technical Mastery & Artistic Identity"

This premium clinic offers a rare opportunity to witness and learn from the dynamic relationship between a mentor and a performing artist.

Featuring Bob Forte alongside the acclaimed Erik Weissglas (Senior Lecturer, Luleå University of Technology), this session explores the bridge between deep harmonic understanding and the raw emotion of performance. It is a study in musical communication, listening, and the art of interplay.

ABOUT THE INSTRUCTORS: While Bob Forte brings the perspective of the active performer and storyteller, Erik Weissglas brings over 35 years of high-level musical heritage.

• The Dedicated Mentor: Currently a Senior Lecturer at the Department of Music & Media at LTU, Erik has coached generations of young artists from budding talents to full-fledged professionals.

• The Musical Wizard: With roots in Jazz and Blues, Erik’s vocabulary transcends genres, from Jazz and Blues to Rock and Classical. He has arranged and produced for orchestras, big bands, and solo artists across three decades.

• The Versatile Musician: Erik’s career has taken him from intimate jazz clubs to television broadcasts and grand concert halls. He is a musician who understands that whether wearing a tuxedo or jeans, the goal is always the same: to harness and translate emotional energy.

WHAT STUDENTS WILL EXPERIENCE:

• The Art of Duo Playing: How to listen, react, and leave space for your collaborator.

• Genre Fluidity: How to draw from different styles to create a unique voice.

• The Art of Preparation: Practical insights into the professional process from choosing the right material to the mental focus required before stepping on stage.

• Wisdom from Experience: An open dialogue where students can ask questions and gain perspective from a lifetime devoted to music.

PRIVATE LESSONS

"Guitar, Vocals & Artistry: A Perspective from the Stage”

Bob Forte offers private one-on-one guidance for guitar and vocals (In-person or Online).

This is an opportunity to learn directly from an active performing artist. Drawing from years of extensive stage and studio experience, Bob focuses on the nuances that bring music to life: musicality, intention, and the connection between the player and the instrument.

AREAS OF FOCUS:

• Groove & Rhythm: Rhythm is the engine of music. Learn how to lock in, play with "time," and make simple chords feel expensive and deep.

• The "One-Man Band" Approach: Master the art of accompanying yourself. Learn how to fill the sonic space using bass lines, percussive techniques, and chord voicings essential for the solo performer.

• Songwriting & Arranging: Moving from a simple idea to a finished song. We work on structure, dynamics, and finding the honest core of the melody.

• The Independent Artist’s Path: Practical conversations about the reality of a music career, from booking your first concerts to the mindset required to sustain your creativity.

THE PHILOSOPHY

Technical proficiency is a tool, but your unique voice is the art. The goal of this mentorship is to unlock your full potential helping you discover your own sound and achieve the highest possible level of musical expression.