Before the show, Hopper will lead a guitar workshop at 2 p.m. Sunday on the Turner Amphitheater stage.
Both events are free and brought by the Springfield Arts Council.
Fingerstyle guitaring is using just your fingernails or tips to pluck the strings. It’s a style James Taylor has used for years.
“It lets you create an orchestra,” Hopper said.
This orchestra can produce funk, blues, Irish music, even the Super Mario Brothers videogame theme. Hopper loves to do quirky things like that.
“I turn into a big kid when I get out there and want the audience to have fun,” he said. “The music can be fun, serious, emotionally charged, just trying to get as much sound as possible with two hands.”
Seeing the audience reaction is part of his satisfaction, as people often aren’t sure what to expect.
One of the songs he’ll perfom is the Beatles’ classic, “Come Together” along with originals and covers.
Having Sgammato on sax adds another layer. Expect an interactive experience and humor done up in Southern style.
Hopper will also sell CDs after the show for a financial donation of whatever people are willing to pay.
WANT TO GO?
What: Shaun Hopper
Where: Turner Pavilion, Veteran's Park, Springfield
When: Sunday, July 1, 8 p.m.
Admission: Free
More info: call 937-324-2712 or go to www.SpringfieldArtsCouncil.org
Guitar Workshop
Hopper looks forward to the guitar workshop for the chance to expose others to the instrument.
“I love seeing that visceral, excited response,” he said.
He’ll assess the attendees to invoke a feeling and what the attendees like and get ready for a moment of spark.
Hopper requests those attending come in with their guitar and an open mind. He admits picking up the guitar can be intimidating, but knows with practice it can be a joyful experience.
As a boy from a Georgia farm town, Hopper had doubts as did others, but it made him more determined. Now when he can make a 10-year-old smile when they start to get it it takes him back to learning his first Nirvana song and to a career.
“It’s a beautiful thing,” he said. “The only thing I ask is that you enjoy it.”
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