Learning guitar chords, guitar scales, music theory, and guitar lessons all come with the territory of becoming a better guitar player. For some, this can become a tedious task. For others, the process of learning the guitar is an adventure. The issue for many, is how to make the journey of learning and practicing the guitar an enjoyable one.
Learning guitar scales is the only way for one to gain knowledge of melodic structure on the guitar fingerboard. Practicing scales develops left and right hand control, picking technique and awareness of factors such as strength and endurance. If one ever expects to engage in long melodic guitar solos, then practicing scales is the only vehicle to that end.
How often and how long should one practice playing guitar scales? It depends. Beginners should practice for at least one half hour to one hour daily. Experienced players should practice their scales at least one or two hours per day. How about the advanced professional players? Believe it or not, some guitarists practice five, six, and even seven hours per day (myself included, when performance is pending).
All of the information referenced above, also applies to learning and practicing guitar chords. New strength and endurance is realized as a result of dedicated practice of guitar chords. The left and right hands use muscles uniquely different from those utilized and developed by practicing and playing guitar scales. This is all part of necessary development as a guitarist. Guitar chords are essential in gaining awareness of harmonic structure on the guitar fingerboard. When melody meets harmony, beautiful music occurs. However, the real trick is the nexus between the two. Enter the dragon; music theory.
As a guitar instructor (35 years), I would approximate that at least 80% of all of my students (intermediates and professional players) become very nervous when they take the plunge into learning music theory. Especially music theory designed exclusively for the guitar. Perhaps they were confused in the past when confronted with the college blackboard. I'll bet many readers remember sitting in music class and wondering what the professor meant by all of those chalk marks and symbols that were drawn on the blackboard. This for many, was very intimidating. Further, many can not make the transition between the blackboard and the guitar fingerboard. I have great news. It's really not difficult at all. In fact, theory is simple when presented and taught in a logical, step-by-step manner. Therein lies the problem. There aren't many guitar lessons or guitar instructors available that have a professional and contemporary approach for someone who desires to advance their guitar skills and knowledge of music theory.
Are guitar lessons essential? Once again, it depends. We've all heard the stories of certain guitar players who rose to the top of the charts without ever taking a guitar lesson earlier in life. This is my favorite type of success story. Why? Because whenever an individual listens and follows his/her inner calling, it's always a good thing. Many would call it faith (myself included). Others would call it luck (myself included). Some would insist that it is a result of education (myself included). Further, there are those that would call it hard work (myself included). One thing is for sure; there is no magic wand involved here. Mastering any instrument requires a burning desire and an absolute commitment to achieve a desired result.
It really doesn't matter what your level of musicianship is. What matters is defining your goals as a guitarist. Is your desire, as a guitarist, to be able to play a few songs around the campfire(or wherever)? If so, any local music store will provide you with a guitar instructor who can help you attain that goal. Do you envision yourself playing for thousands of fans in a major concert arena? If so, then seek out the type of educational resources that will help you to achieve that particular level of musicianship and knowledge of music theory. Be very accurate with your goals and desires. Don't waste time. Life is short. Live it.
No matter what your goal as a guitarist, it all starts with the practice of guitar chords and guitar scales. Remember, a good foundation is essential. Become strong as a player. Educate yourself. Believe me, your audience will appreciate your hard work.
©2008 Michael E. Fletcher.
http://www.ultraguitarmethod.com/
Ultra Guitar Method is designed to place years of professional playing experience under your fingers in a very short amount of time thus, placing you light years ahead of the competition. All theoretical, technical, mechanical, and application principles contained in the method are designed exclusively for the guitar. Learning is made exciting and fun.
Make no mistake about it; if your goal is to understand the entire guitar fingerboard and experience an incredible new mechanical and theoretical freedom as a guitar player, then Ultra Guitar Method is an absolute must.
While others are losing valuable time on the standard old books of C, F and G, this is your opportunity to step directly into the future with a guitar method that is as flexible as your own personality and as vast as your imagination will allow.
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