“Have You Seen The Ghost of John” is a creepy song for Halloween.
After learning the words and tune, teach Guitar 1. Students will plant p on string 4 and play the chords on strings 1, 2 and 3 using i-m-a “rasgueados.” Rasgueados are accomplished by curling the fingers into the hand and lightly “flicking” all three fingers outward to activate strings 1, 2 and 3 at the same time.
For Guitar 2 we recommend planting i, and m on strings 4, and 3 so that the hand will be stable and p will have access to both strings 6 and 5. We recommend reviewing "Right Hand Technique" Tutorial Video 2b. (2), with attention to wrist position and thumb stroke before teaching Guitar 2. Students will also place finger 2 on fret 2 of string 5. Teach the bass pattern with the directive “0-2 then 2-0.”
When adding the voice part, make sure to use dynamics that follow the contour of the melody. The guitar parts should follow that contour as well.
Improvised Sound Effects: This is where The Ghost of John gets really fun! Once all parts are added, perform the piece singing and playing together one time loud or soft, then add a creepy sound effect. Repeat the tune again, this time adding a different effect. Ask the students what the different sounds represent.
-scrape a finger nail on the bass strings
-make a knocking sound on the side of the guitar
-wrest the left hand gently on the strings and play muted rasgueados -brush the pads of the right hand fingers on the wound strings
-strum the strings on the headstock behind the nut
-ask them create their own sound! End the song with everyone scraping a fingernail on the a bass string and making their best scary ghost moan.
Additional recommendations: The Ghost of John is can be sung as a round. It can be fun to break the group into two sections. Ask for volunteer leaders and guide them in starting two measures apart.
You can also play the chords of Guitar 1 yourself to fill out the sound before introducing it to your class so everyone can enjoy the full expressive experience of The Ghost of John even before everyone knows all the parts.