Playing Guitar: Tips and Tricks for Beginners and Beyond
Summary
In this article, we cover a range of topics related to playing the guitar. We discuss whether it’s more important to learn how to read music or to practice learning by ear, common beginner mistakes, and a good song to practice power chords. We also explain how to learn a song by ear, how to identify a well-built guitar, and how to achieve a specific sound called “djent” in metal music. Additionally, we share advice on how to be original in music by consuming a variety of genres and styles.
Table of Contents
- Learning to Play Guitar: Reading Music vs. Learning by Ear
- Common Beginner Mistakes
- A Good Song to Practice Power Chords
- Learning a Song by Ear
- Identifying a Well-Built Guitar
- Achieving the “Djent” Sound in Metal Music
- Being Original in Music
- Our Personal Style and Advice for Practicing Metal Scales
Learning to Play Guitar: Reading Music vs. Learning by Ear
One of the most common questions beginners have is whether it’s more important to learn how to read music or to practice learning by ear. While both skills are important, we believe that learning by ear is crucial for developing your musical ear and understanding how music works. Reading music can be helpful for learning complex pieces, but it can also be limiting if you rely on it too much.
Common Beginner Mistakes
As a beginner, it’s easy to fall into certain habits that can hinder your progress. One common mistake is not practicing consistently. It’s better to practice for a short amount of time every day than to practice for hours once a week. Another mistake is not using a metronome. A metronome can help you develop good timing and rhythm. Finally, many beginners neglect their left hand technique. It’s important to keep your fingers close to the fretboard and use the tips of your fingers to press down the strings.
A Good Song to Practice Power Chords
Power chords are a staple of rock and metal music, and they’re relatively easy to play. A good song to practice power chords is “Brain Stew” by Green Day. It uses only two power chords (G5 and A5) and has a simple rhythm.
Learning a Song by Ear
Learning a song by ear can be a daunting task, but it’s a valuable skill to have. One technique is to listen to the song multiple times and try to identify the key and chords. You can also slow down the song using software or an app to make it easier to hear the individual notes. Once you’ve identified the chords, you can practice playing along with the song.
Identifying a Well-Built Guitar
When looking for a guitar, it’s important to consider both its craftsmanship and intonation. A well-built guitar should have good fretwork, a solid neck joint, and a properly set-up bridge. Additionally, the intonation should be accurate across the entire fretboard. However, there’s also something to be said for a guitar’s “mojo,” or how much it inspires creativity and playing.
Achieving the “Djent” Sound in Metal Music
“Djent” is a style of heavy metal music characterized by palm-muted, low-pitched guitar riffs. To achieve this sound, it’s important to have a guitar with a low action and heavy strings. You should also use a high-gain amplifier and dial in a scooped midrange EQ. Finally, it’s important to practice playing with a tight, precise rhythm.
Being Original in Music
To be original in music, it’s important to consume a variety of genres and styles. This can help you develop a unique perspective and sound. Additionally, don’t be afraid to experiment with different techniques and sounds. You never know what might inspire your next great song.
Our Personal Style and Advice for Practicing Metal Scales
Our personal style is a mix of Top 40 music and virtuoso guitar playing. When practicing metal scales, we suggest noodling around with the harmonic minor scale and finding musical ways to apply it. Don’t just practice scales mindlessly; try to incorporate them into your playing in a creative way. Additionally, it’s important to practice with a metronome and gradually increase your speed over time.
Conclusion
Playing the guitar is a rewarding and challenging pursuit. By developing good technique, learning by ear, and experimenting with different styles, you can become a versatile and original musician. Remember to practice consistently and have fun along the way.
