Guitars World

There are many, many, different reasons why individuals decide to learn to play the guitar. What's your purpose? Is it because you just want to play a few songs for your friends? If so, then I commend you for your honesty and wish you the very best in your song-playing adventure. Playing the guitar should always be fun.

If you're a beginner, it's important that you don't become overwhelmed or intimidated by those who seem to be able to shred the guitar fingerboard at will. This should be the least of your worries. Especially in the beginning stages of learning to play the guitar. The fundamentals are essential for every beginner. For example, learning to hold the guitar pick correctly is essential in the beginning. Learning right-hand and left-hand finger control is very important. Further, merely feeling comfortable holding the guitar will actually take some work and practice. Once again, the fundamentals of guitar playing are very, very important.

It seems that we're living in a society (musicians included) where instant gratification seems to be the way-of-life for many. We want what we want, and we want it now. When attempting to learn how to play the guitar, this type of approach will leave fatal flaws in one's over all understanding of the guitar. Without an authentic understanding of the guitar, limitations are inevitable.

A solid foundation on the guitar (theory and application) will allow one to progress beyond their own expectations. One should strive to become a well-rounded guitarist. In other words, learn guitar chords, rhythm, and guitar solo techniques. So many guitarists today are mainly concerned with soloing. They seem to overlook all of the other aspects of guitar playing. Many beginning guitarists get hung up on issues such as speed playing.

In today's musical environment, it's much more important to become an accurate player rather than a flash player. The days of the twenty minute guitar solos, are over (for the most part). Oh yes, in a concert environment it's good to let it all hang out and to blow out the carbon, as they say. However, nothing will top a well constructed melodic guitar solo. A well constructed guitar solo is a far cry from someone just mindlessly sweeping arpeggios.

Is speed important? Yes, in situations that call for speed. However, not all guitar solos consist of playing 128th notes at 160 BPM (beats per minute). Techniques, such as speed picking, sweeping, and tapping result from practicing good habits, not in lieu of them. Further, speed without soul equals nothingness. Why so much dissertation regarding speed? Let me explain.

For most beginners, there is generally an event which occurs, that inspires an individual to learn how to play the guitar. For example, desiring to learn the guitar could result from one hearing a song that has a special emotional impact on his/her life. However, it is more than likely that one of the great contemporary concert guitarist (a fire-breathing, neck-shredding Dragon) is the inspiration for most of today's beginners. This is great however, was the inspiration the guitar itself or the fire-breathing, blazing speed, that the notes on the guitar were played at? More than likely, the answer would be speed. Inspiration is inspiration, right? Understand that a speed player is very skilled and has taken the time to build a solid foundation; fundamentals.

Speed picking and sweeping techniques have their place. We all know that. The question is (even for experienced guitar player), when and where (let alone, why) to employ these techniques. In other words, speed playing for the sake of speed playing doesn't make much sense unless the music dictates a speed technique be employed. Of course, the obvious exception is practicing speed playing techniques in order to perfect them. Once again, if you're a beginner, speed shouldn't be your initial concern. Fundamentals will provide the foundation for future and difficult techniques. Take your time. Learn to play guitar the right way.

In the beginning stages of learning to play guitar, one should concentrate on learning simple guitar chords, learning simple songs, and learning to control the guitar itself. Become aware of sound and volume. Strive for accuracy and endurance. There are literally hundreds of elements that must be learned in order to truly master the guitar. Enjoy the beginning stages, you'll arrive at the advanced learning scenario soon enough.

It is advisable to seek out a talented guitar instructor who will help you in the beginning. Remember, you'll want to learn the fundamental elements first (picking, playing guitar chords, learning simple, but great songs). Plan your work and work your plan. Above all, have fun.

2008 Michael E. Fletcher. All Rights Reserved Worldwide.

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posted by Garfield74061  # 12:43 PM 0 comments

Getting Started

Like anything playing the guitar takes practice. You're diligence in studying and practicing will net you greatly. Repetition increases muscle memory, accuracy, and overall retention of things learned. This in whole will allow you to play without thinking about it.

One main aspect of learning anything that requires practice is setting goals. Some aspects of setting good goals are. Realistic goals, short and long term goals, and visualizing the set goals. Visualization is a common tool used by many successful people. It allows you to retrain your sub-conscious mind. And if you are not yet aware. The sub-conscious mind is a very powerful thing. Always set new goals and strive to better yourself. There is always something to be learned.

Practicing Correctly

When practicing, it is very important to practice correctly. This will save you from possibly learning the wrong way to do something. Thus not having to unlearn it. Posture (sitting) and finger position techniques are essential to your learning process and the ease with which you practice. Proper techniques should be learned from a professional.

Resources

Whether you plan to start a band or just play as a hobby, you will need instruction. Basic instruction will consist of tablature and chords. There are many options in the realm of learning and instruction. The internet is a giant resource for those who may be a little short on money. Also is the traditional instructor for those of you who prefer the one on one personal interaction.

Tablature

Tablature was created and designed with the novice completely in mind. It is essentially sheet music broken down in its easiest most user friendly form. This allows an otherwise pure beginner to effectively teach themselves with ease and confidence. Guitar tablature can be found in almost any music store in any variety of genre. From classical, to country, to rock and roll.

Plateau

It is inevitable that with anything new you are learning you will hit a plateau. It is very important to not get discouraged or become frustrated. The only thing that will pull you through this is perseverance. So put your head down and think of all the character you are building and how much stronger of a person you will be after all is said and done.

In Conclusion

Practice, practice, practice, and make sure you are practicing correctly. Set realistic long term and short term goals. Visualization is key, train your sub-conscious to give you the results you want. Resources are in abundance regardless of the path you take. And always remember, perseverance is key to everything we do in life.

My experience as a guitar player for over 7 years

posted by Garfield74061  # 1:19 AM 0 comments