In Part 1 of this post, we discussed some of the difficulties in transitioning from the basics of guitar to learning to play solos and get creative. Here, I’ll explain why these challenges don’t mean you aren’t talented and what to do to move past them. The Different Facets of Talent Technical Talent Playing talent […]
The Art of Making Music, Part 1
I had an interesting situation arise in teaching. A friend came to me for guitar lessons. We had both started playing guitar around the same time as kids. But, somewhere along the line, he stopped playing for quite some time. When we were out of school, he started to regain interest in playing guitar again. […]
The Evolution of Rock Guitar Techniques Over Time
This 2023 marks my 30th year strumming the guitar. In these decades, I’ve observed the transformation of guitar techniques – much like watching an iconic building age, crumble, and then be replaced with a modern cafe. My vast experience allows me to trace the roots of rock guitar and share insights. Understanding Generational Guitar Influences […]
Who’s the Greatest Guitarist of All Time? Debunking the Debate
Guitar enthusiasts and novices alike frequently ask, “Who’s the greatest guitarist of all time?” While this timeless question generates heated debates, it’s essential to understand that the notion of “the best” in music is highly subjective. The Search for the “Best” Guitarist I’ve often pondered over this question and even discussed it with my esteemed […]
How to Learn a Song
Learning a song feels a little bit like taking the training wheels off your bike. Can I actually do this? Will I fall on my face? There is a lot of anxiety around taking something you have learned in theory and actually applying it to real life. It’s also exciting. As a student waits for […]
Can You Count?
Counting in Music A while ago I took on a new adult student. He was an experienced guitarist. He played a lot of solo acoustic guitar pieces. He was a good acoustic guitar player. Now he wanted to learn how to play electric. And specifically, lead guitar. He certainly had the talent. Now we just […]
Guitar buying for beginners
Understanding what guitar to buy Overview: First off, I’d like to welcome any new guitarists to the world! It’s truly a fun hobby for anyone. And at any age. I have had beginners as young as 4 years old to 65. Anyone that is willing to put the work in can learn. Younger students can […]
The Power Chord!
How to Harness the Incendiary Force of Rock’s Favorite Chord Sometime in the early stages of learning guitar, you find out an invaluable secret. Be it learned from a teacher, online, a friend, or a family member, you are shown the power chord! Whether it’s rock, metal, punk, or modern country, you will find these […]
Are You Practicing Guitar Correctly?
How to Practice to Make Perfect For as long as I can remember, I’ve heard the stereotypical sayings people make about practicing an instrument. “Practice makes perfect!” “Want to get to Carnegie Hall? Practice!,” etc. In movies, we see this concept appearing as well. Whiplash and Shine illustrate this narrative exactly. Amazingly gifted musicians who […]
The Six Guitar Languages
Understanding How to Communicate as a Musician The Guitar Language Debate Over the years, I have seen, heard, and read many opinions about guitar players and note reading vs. tablature. The lines were drawn. The rivalry is bitter at times. Red Sox vs. Yankees? Ohio vs. Michigan? Alabama vs…well, we all hate Alabama. No, in […]