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Open New Expressive Doors with DADGAD
Open New Expressive Doors with DADGAD
Ready to step off the beaten path and open new expressive doors in your guitar playing? Discover the colors, textures, and creative inspiration that DADGAD unlocks, whether you love Celtic (Irish/Scottish/Celtic), folk, fingerstyle, or just want to bring something fresh to your music.
Why Learn DADGAD?
Why Learn DADGAD?
DADGAD is an alternative guitar tuning (D–A–D–G–A–D, lowest to highest) that instantly transforms your guitar’s sound. Strumming all the open strings creates a beautiful, resonant Dsus4 chord, giving you a lush harmonic foundation that’s perfect for both melodic playing and rhythmic accompaniment.
First popularized by British and Irish musicians, DADGAD has become a go-to tuning for guitarists seeking fresh inspiration across genres since it is:
Beginner-friendly - Many essential chords require just one or two fingers
Effortless lushness - Natural drone strings create sustained, bell-like tones and a sense of depth
Rich Harmonic Possibilities - Simple and complex voicings sound full and captivating
Versatility - Adapts beautifully to Celtic, folk, fingerstyle, rock, pop, and more
Easy Access to Drones & Modal Scales - Perfect for crafting that distinctive modal or Celtic sound
Instant Creative spark - New chord voicings, modal melodies, and songwriting ideas flow naturally from the tuning
Tradition and Innovation - DADGAD shines in Irish & Scottish music, but is equally at home in fingerstyle, rock, pop, and beyond
Whether you’re looking for a new sound, an easier way to play beautiful chords, or a springboard for creativity, DADGAD is your gateway to a whole new musical world.
DADGAD Classics
DADGAD Classics
Curious what DADGAD sounds like in action? DADGAD's versatility shines across diverse musical genres. Here are a few notable examples to inspire you:
Angie / (Anji) - Davy Graham / (Paul Simon)
Barton Hollow - The Civil Wars
Black Mountain Side & Kashmir - Led Zeppelin
Drifting - Andy McKee
Photograph - Ed Sheeran (Live)
Ragamuffin - Michael Hedges
She Moved Through the Fair - Traditional Irish
Sligo Creek - Al Petteway
Treetop Flyer - Stephen Stills
The Water is Wide - Traditional
Anything by Pierre Bensusan and many from Laurence Juber
What We Can Explore Together
What We Can Explore Together
DADGAD lessons are flexible and tailored to your interests, goals, and level. Topics can include:
DADGAD Chords - Play beautiful, resonant chords (often with just one or two fingers!) and discover how simple shapes can sound fresh and full
Movable Chords & Capo Magic - Learn how to move chord shapes up the neck and use a capo for new keys and sounds
Scales & Melody - Learn modal and pentatonic patterns that unlock the unique voice of DADGAD
Repertoire Building - Dive into traditional Irish/Scottish songs, modern fingerstyle pieces, or your favorite covers in or adapted for DADGAD
Irish/Scottish Backing - Master rhythmic strumming/picking techniques and progressions to accompany jigs, reels, and slow airs
Fingerstyle Techniques - Develop finger independence, Travis picking, and creative textures
History & Inspiration - Discover DADGAD’s roots (from Davey Graham to Pierre Bensusan to Ed Sheeran) and see how the history can inspire your own musical journey
Advanced Techniques - Learn ornamentation for traditional tunes and improvisation
What to Expect
What to Expect
Hands-on, step-by-step instruction to get you playing right away
Personalized lessons based on your musical goals
Practical resources such as Chord charts, scale diagrams, practice materials, and song music/tabs
Friendly, supportive guidance for all ages and levels
Ready to Get Started?
Ready to Get Started?
Whether you want to back up a session, create your own arrangements, or just try something new, these lessons are your invitation to a vibrant, inspiring guitar world.
Contact me to discuss your goals and schedule your first lesson.
Let’s make your next favorite sound together!
About Your Instructor
About Your Instructor
Alberto Whitmer holds a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee (specializing in fingerstyle guitar) and a Master’s degree from the University of Limerick (focused on Irish Traditional Music). He also holds a teaching certificate from the Royal Irish Academy of Music. With a passion for both performance and teaching, Alberto brings professional training, experience, and a supportive approach to every lesson.
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