Western Swing blends the rich traditions of country, jazz, and blues into a vibrant, danceable style full of twang, swing, and soul. In Western Swing Genre Study, seasoned guitarist and educator Austin Filingo takes you deep into this uniquely American genre, unpacking the sounds and techniques that define its infectious groove.
Across 37 hands-on video lessons, you’ll explore classic rhythm patterns, signature chord voicings, harmonized melodies, and soloing strategies inspired by legends like Tiny Moore, Eldon Shamblin, and Jimmy Wyble. You'll apply these concepts directly to two full-length original songs, with detailed breakdowns of form, melody, harmony, and improvisation.
Whether you're learning how to incorporate jazzy passing chords, unleash double stops, or build licks rooted in triads and Western swing stylings, this course equips you with the vocabulary and feel to swing with authenticity and flair.
If you're ready to jump into the rich world of Western Swing guitar, this course delivers the tools, techniques, and musical insight to get you playing with style.
What you'll learn
Navigate the fretboard efficiently when playing melodies
Execute a Tiny Moore-style lick with proper articulation and timing
Master the technique of harmonizing melodies using intervals
Apply CAGED system knowledge to efficient melody playing
Create harmony parts by identifying roots, thirds, fifths, and sevenths
Welcome to Austin Filingo's Western Swing Genre Study! In this introduction, we go over the topics the course will cover, some prerequisite knowledge, and expectations for the lessons ahead.
2The History of Western Swing
Austin kicks things off with an overview of the history and key players that made Western Swing what it is today.
3Western Swing Rhythm
We get into playing some Western Swing by looking at some common approaches to rhythm guitar parts.
4Western Swing Rhythm
We get into playing some Western Swing by looking at some common approaches to rhythm guitar parts.
5Common Western Swing Chords
Now that we've got our rhythms worked out, we look at common chord shapes and chord voicings for both major and minor.
6Chords and Form for Our First Song
Let's break down the chords and arrangement for our first Western Swing song.
7Chords and Form for Our First Song
Let's break down the chords and arrangement for our first Western Swing song.
This one takes you deeper in to Western Swing and it's genre as a study, and really helps understand where all the concepts come from, you'll walk away with deeper knowledge that translates automatically into your playing.
M
morningfield
Verified buyer
09/10/25
Thanks
S
Smithpicking1
Verified buyer
05/11/25
Swinging goodness
What a great teacher, explains it with great clarity
J
johnnyjay64
Verified buyer
02/03/25
Great Course!
If you like western swing, this is a great course; excellent instructor.
O
Osokin
Verified buyer
11/03/24
Western Swing!
Austin Filingo exhibits a genuine enthusiasm for this genre of music, and does
a great job of sharing insights into how to perform it in the style of some of the greatest practitioners.