Wild Electric Guitarist
Playing the guitar is a joy and, as with the learning of any musical instrument, one can spend a lifetime perfecting a technique. However, with regular practice and enough commitment, most people are able to achieve pleasing results quite quickly.
The beginner guitarist should start by adhering to a few simple rules.
1. Don't start lesson 2 until you have mastered lesson 1. You’ll be excited and want to rush to play tunes you know but, take a little time at the beginning to learn the basics and your progress will be that much faster.
2. Don't let your left thumb sneak over the neck of the guitar. This changes your playing position- and not in a good way. Your thumb should always be positioned in the middle of the back of the neck, whether you are playing at the top or the bottom of the fret board.
3. When playing a simple melody, first read or tap the rhythm through. Next try to name the pitch of the notes. Then play the melody using first your index finger (i), then your middle finger (m), then a combination of the two.
4. Sit up straight. Your posture has an effect on the sound you produce and your stamina. Correct posture will allow you to play comfortably for much longer.
5. Record yourself so you can see how you are progressing. Is your rhythm steady? Is each note clear and free of buzzes or rattles? You may have to look at the pressure you are applying with your left hand. Are your fingers positioned accurately between the frets of your guitar?
6. Try to grow the fingernails of your right hand and keep the nails on your left hand short.
7. Practice every day. This will help to toughen your fingertips.
8. Regarding your left hand, your fingertips should make contact with the fret board at right angles. The tips of your fingers should be fretting the string, not the flat of the finger.
9. If reading notation for the first time, resist the temptation to write the letter names on the notes. Learn one position on the stave (the 5 lines music is written on) each day. For example, the note that straddles (half above and half below) the bottom line is E.
Playing the guitar will give you years of enjoyment and, by following these simple steps you will graduate from beginner to skilled guitarist before you know it.
Photograph by Lorri37