Renowned guitarists Alex Skolnick of TESTAMENT and Chris Broderick of MEGADETH have joined forces to create the first annual Skolnick & Broderick’s Winter Guitar Retreat. This unique experience offers a select group of guitarists of all talent levels the opportunity to expand their horizons while spending four days and five nights studying and jamming with Broderick and Skolnick in a relaxed setting at Full Moon Resort in New York’s Catskill Mountains from December 26th - 30th, 2011.

While best known for their work with Testament and Megadeth, Skolnick and Broderick are diverse, well rounded musicians with backgrounds and training in rock, jazz, classical and blues.

Skolnick & Broderick’s Winter Guitar Retreat will include master classes with Skolnick and Broderick, jam sessions, open mic nights and optional private lessons. Attendees are invited to expand their knowledge of lead guitar, rhythm guitar, music history, jazz theory, chord theory, harmony, improvisation, counterpoint, composition, chord voicings, improv (taught by Skolnick), classical fingerstyle technique (taught by Broderick), and of course heavy metal guitar. Guitarists will learn techniques to increase speed and improve tone, while hearing stories about life on the road, getting gear tips and much more. Nathan Peck (bass) and Matt “Zebar” Zebroski (drums/percussion) of the ALEX SKOLNICK TRIO will provide rhythm accompaniment for jam sessions throughout the week.

Check out a video clip of Skolnick and Broderick talking about the Winter Guitar Retreat below:

"I'm really looking forward to partnering with my friend Chris Broderick for our Winter Guitar Retreat,” says Skolnick. “Each of us has a unique, individual approach to guitar and it's always fun to share one's experience with deserving students. Therefore, we've decided to join forces and create the ultimate post-Christmas, pre-New Year’s getaway for amateur and pro guitarists alike."

Broderick concurs: "Come join Alex and myself this winter for a comprehensive look at how we view the guitar. It will not only be insightful, but relaxed and fun as well. We will cover things such as stage performance, live jam sessions, and all kinds of helpful guitar playing tips that you can utilize. I look forward to seeing you at this incredible event.”

Skolnick & Broderick’s Winter Guitar Retreat will provide a full vacation experience, including gourmet meals from the in-house chef. In addition, Full Moon Resort is conveniently located close to a full array of winter activities including skiing and snowboarding.

A special 10% discount for Skolnick & Broderick’s Winter Guitar Retreat is available for those who register and pay in full before October 31st, 2011.

For full details go to this location.

The Skolnick & Broderick’s Winter Guitar Retreat is the first winter installment of the successful Music Masters Camp Series held at Full Moon Resort, which has been hosted by musicians including Dweezil Zappa, Todd Rundgren, Adrian Belew, Tony Levin and Pat Mastelotto.

(Photo: Stephanie Cabral)