SWGTC Continuing Education Classes, "Workplace Spanish" and "Instant Piano", offered this Summer

 According to the 2000 Census, the Hispanic population in South Georgia has increased by 150% in the last decade, making it necessary for many people to learn to communicate with Spanish speaking customers.

Southwest Georgia Technical College (SWGTC) will be offering a continuing education course entitled “Workplace Spanish”, with two progressive levels, Spanish I and Spanish II, beginning July 14, in order to help bridge the communication gap that can exist in the workplace.  

“The course will cover basic terms and phrases which allow for easier communications between employees, colleagues, and customers,” said Gary Pitts, SWGTC Vice President for Economic Development.  “Common phrases, numbers, vocabulary, and correct pronunciation will be stressed and in the Spanish II course, Hispanic culture and customs will be discussed.”

“Learning the language will be enhanced by fun and creative activities that will increase your understanding of the Spanish language,” Pitts added. “We think this course is very important to our community and hope that many people will take advantage of it.”

“We will offer these courses to local businesses who would like to take advantage of this training for their employees,” said Pitts. “We can tailor it to fit their scheduling needs.”

Spanish I is offered July 14 through August 6. Spanish II begins August 16 and ends September 10.  Both classes will meet on Tuesday and Thursday evenings from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Cost of the course is $100. More information on Workplace Spanish may be obtained by calling 227-2579.

“Instant Piano” Course Offered by Southwest Georgia Technical College

Southwest Georgia Technical College is once again offering the very popular “Instant Piano for Hopelessly Busy People”. This course is great for anyone who has ever longed to tickle the ivories, but has never had the time to commit to hours of lessons. It is a three and one half hour crash course which will offer enough “trade secrets” in piano playing to lead to a lifetime of piano playing pleasure.

“This course is ideal for people who have always wanted to learn how to play the piano, but did not get the chance while they were kids or just do not have the time for regular lessons,” said Ruby Barron, administrative assistant for continuing education. “In just one evening you can learn enough ‘secrets’ of the trade to make piano playing a part of your life.”

“You will learn all of the chords necessary to play any song, any style, and any key,” Barron said. “The course will even show you how to embellish songs and stylize them.”

According to Barron, the course is designed for absolute beginners and will cover chord techniques. “If you can find middle C and know the meaning of ‘Every Good Boy Does Fine’ you already know enough to enroll,” she said.  “If not, send a self addressed stamped envelope to Music Masters, 90 Molly Lane, Ringgold, Georgia 30736 to request a free helpful pamphlet.”

Registration for the course is $55 in addition to $25 for the book and a 68-minute practice CD. The course will be held Tuesday, July 28 from 6 to 9:30 p.m. More information may be obtained by calling Ruby Barron at 227-2579.