POTSDAM -- Mark Lyon will teach Beginning Guitar starting on Monday, Oct. 15 at SLC Arts. The class is open to all community members 13 and up; students should register by October 11.

In this two-part workshop, beginning guitar players will learn how to correctly hold and strum their guitar, play some basic chords, and grasp some basic music theory to increase understanding.

Depending on the comfort level of the students, finger-style guitar skills may also be introduced.

Mark Lyon is a songwriter and solo performer who has played guitar for 18 years.

Initially learning classical guitar, he expanded his interests to playing blues, folk, rock, bluegrass, country, and various other styles.

After five years of instruction from Crane and Potsdam area mentors, Mark began playing in bands and teaching himself.

In addition to performing and teaching others, Mark also repairs guitars.

Classes meet Mondays from 5-7 p.m. on Oct. 15 and 22. The cost for the two-week class is $48.

SLC Arts members and military families receive discounted class rates.

Classes will meet at Downtown Snell Hall, 41 Elm St.

Registration through SLC Arts is required: 315-265-6860, http://slcartscouncil.org/event/beginning-guitar/.