Blues Clinic #5 13 April 2024

RockSo Music and Muziekschool Plug & Play hosted In-Store Blues Clinic #5 13 April 2024

This was the first Blues Clinic of 2024 and our 5th In-Store Blues Clinic to date. This time, we had 10 people that joined, including some new members.

We started out with some basic blues music theory for the new members. In the first hour, Christian taught us 3 blues licks in E major. All three of the licks were in the E major pentaonic scale. One of the licks was a double stop lick. The members had a chance to come up and try the new licks out before the break. This was good practice and helped everyone understand how to use the new licks.

During the break, we had a chance to talk to the new participants and look around the shop.

After the break, Lucas led the group and introduced 3 more licks in E, including a minor pentatonic lick and a lick that used chromatic notes. After the last licks were gone over, all participants had a chance to come up and play the blues!

This time, we tried a “4 note challenge”. The challenge was to try to solo over a 24 bar E blues shuffle backing track using only the 4 notes in different combinations and patterns. It was tough, but everyone tried their best.

Everyone had a great time and learned alot about soloing in E blues. The next In-Store Blues Clinic will be in September. Until then, keep on playing and learning the blues and see you next time!

RockSo

You Need To Hear These: KAMINARI Cables

When it comes to guitar cables, quality matters. That’s why Kaminari high-quality instrument cables are making waves in the music industry. Made in Japan, these cables are designed to deliver exceptional tone and sound quality, whether you are playing guitar, bass, or ukulele.

But don’t just take our word for it. You need to hear it to believe it. We invite you to try a demo comparison and experience the difference for yourself. Compare Kaminari with your usual brand of cable and prepare to be amazed.

During the sound test, you’ll notice the clarity and depth that Kaminari cables bring to your music. The rich, vibrant tones will make your guitar sound like never before. Whether you’re playing a gentle acoustic melody or shredding on an electric guitar, Kaminari cables ensure every note is heard with precision and accuracy.

What sets Kaminari apart from other guitar cables is the attention to detail and craftsmanship. These professional guitar cables are built to last, with durable materials that can withstand the rigors of the road. Say goodbye to annoying crackling sounds and unreliable connections.

Once you experience the difference with Kaminari, you’ll never go back to using your normal guitar cable again. Kaminari cables will bring out the best of your guitar tone and inspire your creativity.

So why wait? Try a demo comparison today at RockSo Music and hear Kaminari cables for yourself. Your ears will thank you.

Explore our Wide Range of Beginner Electric Guitars and Amplifiers

Discover the Perfect Starter Guitars and Amplifiers

If you’re a beginner looking to embark on your musical journey, we have exciting news for you! We have recently expanded our collection of starter guitars and guitar amplifiers. Whether you’re interested in strumming chords or shredding solos, we have the perfect gear to get you started.

Electric Guitars

Our selection of electric guitars includes renowned brands such as Washburn, Sterling, and SX. Each brand offers unique features and designs, allowing you to find the guitar that resonates with your style and personality. From classic tones to good looks, these guitars will inspire you to unleash your creativity.

Amplifiers for Beginners

When it comes to amplifiers, we understand that beginners need options that are both affordable and reliable. That’s why we recommend NUX amplifiers for those starting their guitar journey or those on a budget. NUX amplifiers provide excellent sound quality and versatility, allowing you to experiment with different tones and effects.

Whether you’re practicing in your bedroom or jamming with friends, NUX amplifiers will give you the sound and features that you need.

Expert Advice and Support

At our store, we believe in supporting beginners every step of the way. We are always ready to assist you in choosing the right guitar and amplifier for your needs. Starting out can be overwhelming, but with our guidance, you’ll be well-equipped to make an informed decision.

So, what are you waiting for? Visit us today and explore our wide range of beginner electric guitars and amplifiers. Start your musical journey on the right note at RockSo Music.

Blues Clinic #4 07 Oct 2023

RockSo Music and Muziekschool Plug & Play hosted In-Store Blues Clinic #4 on 7 October 2023. 

This was our 4th In-Store Blues Clinic. This time, we had 10 people that joined in the informative and fun filled 3 hour Blues Clinic. We started out with some music theory. Lucas explained the Mixolydian mode for the first time to the group. In the first hour, Lucas taught us 3 blues licks. One of the licks uses the Mixolydian mode.

Before the break, we asked participants to come up and try out the new licks with Lucas one by one. This was a good practice and helped us understand the new licks.

During the break, participants had a chance to talk about guitars and get to know eachother.

After the break, Christian led the group and introduced 3 more licks that use the Major blues scale. After the last licks were gone over, all participants had a chance to come up and play the blues! Participants, in pairs jammed for the group with the backing track. Slow and up tempo tracks were used at the clinic. Everyone had multiple chances to jam in front of the others. This is the best way to improve your guitar skills and gain experience playing with other people.

Everyone is waiting for the next In-Store Blues Clinic. Will you join us next time???

Stay tuned for information on the next In-Store Blues Clinic at RockSo Music.

RockSo

Oopegg Guitars Are Here!

RockSo Music had the privilage to meet Oopegg Guitars at The Yokohama Music Style Event. RockSo Music is proud to introduce Oopegg Guitars to our shop in Sittard.

Philosophy
Established in May 2019. High-end and boutique guitar brand
handmade in Japan that creates products with unique designs
and specifications you have never been seen before, and carefully
creates each one without any compromise. We called our
products “Neo Bizarre” guitar. In order to provide guitar players
who demands unsurpassed quality and playability with our
ultimate boutique guitars, we are committed to the process of
selecting wood and parts, painting, assembling, and setting up as
much as possible, and we envision the joy of reaching our
customers.

Trailbreaker
Mark-Ⅰ in 3-Tone Sunburst

Check out the Oopegg Page for all of the details and specs!

RockSo

Blues Clinic #3 20 May 2023

On 20 May 2023 RockSo Music in collaboration with Muziekschool Plug&Play hosted another Blues Clinic.

This time we challenged the group with 10 licks from several style of blues including BB King and Eric Clapton influenced riffs.

Lucas started the clinic with a short introduction of the blues and the different styles. Then Christian explained the first set of 5 licks. The explanation included tips on the feel and characteristic of each lick.

After a well needed break, Christian and Lucas played an example of the first 5 licks being played, then we continued with teaching the remaining 5 licks. This time, Lucas explained how to play and use them in a solo.

During the last hour of the clinic there was a chance for the participants to try out the new riffs and improvise. We all enjoyed listing to the everyone.

The Clinic ended with a final jam from Lucas and Christian. There was a lot of material this time, but everyone enjoyed the challenge. We will have our next clinic after a summer break. See you all for the next one, and keep on jamming!!

Guitar Transformed

Guitar Transformed

One of my favorite jobs I have as a guitar shop owner is modifying guitars. It gives me such joy and satisfaction to transform a stock guitar into a custom dream guitar.

Recently I was asked to modify my students guitar. It was a normal Stratocaster type guitar. It had the normal 3 single coil pickups and standard pickguard with a 5-way blade switch and plastic knob. But he wanted something totally different! He picked out a tortoiseshell pickguard and chrome covered humbuckers. How cool is that?!

The first thing I needed to do was cut some of the wood of the body to accommodate the humbuckers. With a Dremel, I carefully removed the extra wood in the body cavity. Then I repainted it with shielding paint.

Once the body was ready, all I needed to do is wire-up the pickguard. We wanted something special for this mod, so we went with a 3-way toggle switch instead of the normal blade type switch. The last upgrade was from the plastic Strat knobs to sturdy chrome ones.

As you can see, the guitar went from good to amazing! It looks and sounds great! My student is very happy with the transformation. It’s his first guitar, but now it feels like a brand new guitar all over again. It was a really fun mod and I enjoyed making his dream come true!

If you have a guitar that you would like to transform, please give me a call or stop in to the shop. You’ll be so glad you did!

Keep on Rock’in –

In-Store Blues Clinic February 2023

RockSo Music and Muziekschool Plug&Play hosted the second In-Store Blues Clinic on Saturday 11 February 2023. Again, the nearly sold out event was a great success. Lucas and Christian got the mood going by demonstrating the concepts of the clinic with the use of a backing track. The 17 participants were then ( 2 could not attend) introduced to blues rhythm guitar parts used in the demo. Participants were called up front at random to perform what they learned in front of the group.

Participants enjoyed a drink and conversation during the break time. This gave the participants a chance to talk amongst themselves, to network, and make new friends. Some participants enjoyed playing many of the interesting vintage and new guitars available at RockSo Music.

During the second half, participants were introduced to the concept of “mixed blues” improvisation. The term mixed blues is in reference to building a guitar solo that uses notes from both the minor and major pentatonic scales. Again, participants were called upfront at random to try their hand at some of these new ideas in front of the group.

The clinic finished with a Q&A session and a final performance by Lucas and Christian.

We would like to thank Lucas @ Muziekschool Plug & Play and all the participants who joined us for In-Store Blues Clinic #2.

Stay tuned for information about our next In-Store Blues Clinic.

In-Store Blues Clinic

On Saturday 19 November RockSo Music and Muziekschool Plug & Play had their first in-store blues clinic.

Blues Clinic

The Clinic was developed for beginner-intermediate guitarist and was designed to help guitar players learn about blues music including the theory, scales, and chords that are used to play the blues.

Blues Clinic Participants

After learning about the blues structure, the participants had the chance to learn blues licks for each minor and major blues scales. Then, the participants had the opportunity to try soloing for the group.

Lucas and Christian explaining how to play the blues

Everyone had a good time learning and playing the blues at the clinic. The In-Store Blues Clinics will continue in 2023 with the next one in January or February. Stay tuned to RockSo Music or Muziekschool Plug & Play for information about the next clinic.

Christian

Popronde Sittard 2022

Popronde 2022

As part of Popronde Sittard in 2022, RockSo Music hosted All Dogs Go To Heaven and Penvriend.

On Saturday 29 October we gave a warm welcome to Popronde and two incredible acts.

The night started with All Dogs Go To Heaven. The audience was in heaven when Bjorn hit the stage with his amazing emo influenced acoustic set. His punk roots still intact, but with the perfect balance of vocals and guitar dynamics.

Bjorn photo before the performance

The 45 minute set went by too quick and left everyone hungry for more. Thank you Bjorn for an incredible performance.

Next up, Penvriend. These two were totally in sync and each member did their own part that blended into a whirlwind of rhythm and harmony complete with intricate guitar work and lead guitar solos. Very well done.

As you can see, RockSo Music transformed from a music store to a concert venue. Popronde 2022 was a great success and we thank the performers and everyone that made it a special night.

People enjoying Popronde at RockSo Music

We are looking forward to next time. It was a night to remember.