A Guitar Mass Appeal brings guitarists together for a community strum-along on Make Music Day. This guide helps you organize one for June 21st in Vermont.
What is a Guitar Mass Appeal?
A mass gathering of guitarists who play together — typically simple songs everyone can strum along to. Events vary by location, and the sky's the limit for creativity!
Preparing Your Event
1. Choose a Format
Strum-Along (Most Common)
- Print lead sheets for simple, widely-known songs
- Everyone plays and sings together
- Hold up chord signs at appropriate moments
- Great for beginners and casual players
Workshop Component
- Tackle more advanced topics to attract experienced guitarists:
- Speed metal techniques
- Proper guitar maintenance
- Advanced fingerpicking
- Songwriting basics
Additional Elements to Consider
- Gear demo — partner with a local Vermont music store
- Guitar solo competition
- Air guitar competition — more inclusive and fun!
2. Find an Event Leader
Your leader needs:
- An engaging personality
- Experience working with large groups
- Comfort strumming basic chords
- Knowledge of simple songs by heart
Where to find leaders in Vermont:
- Local music stores (Advance Music, Burlington Guitar & Amp)
- Music schools and teachers
- Local bands and musicians
- Vermont community music programs
Tip: You can have multiple leaders, each taking a song they love. You can even invite participants to lead songs on the spot if you have clear materials prepared.
3. Logistics to Consider
Question | Considerations |
Acoustic or electric? | Electric needs amps and outlets |
Location? | Parks, town greens, storefronts |
Amplification? | Will the leader need a mic? |
Shade? | Vermont June sun can be strong |
Noise? | Will you disturb or be disturbed? |
Duration? | 1-2 hours is typical |
Vermont Location Ideas:
- Town greens (Randolph, Montpelier, Woodstock)
- Brewery patios
- Library lawns
- Farmers market areas
- Parks and recreation areas
4. Get the Word Out
- Create a Facebook event
- Post flyers at:
- Local music shops
- Coffee shops
- Libraries
- Community boards
- Vermont venues
- Send e-newsletters through local arts organizations
- Promote at open mic nights and local shows
- Ask participating musicians to spread the word
- Partner with Big Heavy World for statewide reach
Running Your First Guitar Mass Appeal
During the Event
- Greet everyone personally — get a sense of experience levels
- Bring email sign-up sheets — build your list for future events
- Adjust on the fly:
- Pros? Try more challenging music or take requests
- Beginners? Slow down, encourage, keep it simple
- Take mental notes on which songs work and why
- Watch how people learn:
- Eyes on the chord charts?
- Watching their hands?
- Playing from memory?
- Singing along or concentrating?
Song Selection Tips
Great beginner songs use these chords:
- G, C, D, Em, Am, E
- Songs with 3-4 chords max
- Steady, predictable chord changes
Vermont-Friendly Song Ideas:
- Folk songs and Americana
- Classic rock singalongs
- Popular campfire songs
- Songs by Vermont artists
Basic Chord Charts for Leaders
Print these large for holding up during the strum-along:
Open Chords
- C Major
- D Major
- G Major
- E Minor
- A Minor
- E Major
- A Major
Tip: Create large poster-board versions of chord diagrams to hold up during the event.
Need Help?
Make Music Alliance Contact:
Email dave@makemusicday.org for advice on planning your Guitar Mass Appeal.
Vermont-Specific Support:
Reach out to your Make Music Vermont chapter coordinator or Big Heavy World for local connections and resources.
Adapted from Make Music Alliance Guitar Mass Appeal How-To Guide