Home › Forums › Showcase Your Playing › The Progress of a Beginner Bluesman
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April 3, 2017 at 3:20 pm #67435
I’ve decided to record my monthly progressions as a beginning guitarist and upload them to here via my YouTube Channel.
This will be my Ground Zero so to speak which is my first month of learning to play the guitar. I’m currently working my way through Module 4 of the Beginners Course and currently learning the Rhythm part of ‘When The Saints…’. I am also learning Pattern 1 of the Blues Scale at the end of my lesson.
My current schedule is 5mins Warmup, 20 mins of Beginners Course and 5-10mins of Position 1 although I am thinking of upping the Practice Session to 1 hour.Sorry for the quality of the 1st video but will try to improve for the 2nd one hopefully.
Feel free to add any tips and/or constructive criticism guys.
-Steve
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April 3, 2017 at 3:47 pm #67439
Steve, try using a metronome (even Google has one online for free) and strike the notes (G and C) one time only, then let X number of beats on the metronome go by, make X a larger number at first, say 10 beats, and arrange your fretting position in between. Set the tempo to a low number, like 50 beats per minute, and only increase it as you get faster when cleanly fretting the note(s). Fretting the D major chord is taking you more time because there are three fingers and three notes involved, so take it easy at first. Strumming the same note at a faster tempo and then taking more time to switch will create bad habits, take it from a beginner like me, although I’m on my second year with AM.
You’re doing great and continue to practice, it’s the only way to improve.
Cheers,
Richard
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April 3, 2017 at 4:12 pm #67441
Also, for fretting the A minor pentatonic scale, place your four fingers above frets 5, 6, 7, and 8. Keep them as close as you can to the fretboard without touching the strings and only press with one finger at a time as you play each note. I see that you are moving several of your fingers away from the frets and this is a bad habit. Practice keeping your fingers just above the frets without striking the strings with your right hand, just focus on your fretting hand for now and press each string and corresponding fret up and down the scale. Once you feel more comfortable with navigating with your fretting hand start striking the strings with your right hand. Do it slowly and to the beat of a metronome at a very low tempo (beats per minute). Increase the tempo as you improve.
Be patient, let your fingers get used to the movements.
Cheers,
Richard
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April 3, 2017 at 4:14 pm #67442
Great Start Steve. Learning from scratch is a bit gutty to start with but once you get some dexterity in the fingers you will soon pick up and I can hear that its already happening. The metronome advice I think would prove very sound not that I went quite that way. Accuracy is very important and speed comes along when your fingers know exactly what to do automatically. What you will find is that there is a slowly increasing speed at which you learn nudging you along and ahead all the time. I like to read the Tab and use the Soundslice to advance but you need to get the basics in place before you get there. So stick with Brian’s beginner course and I am sure you will find a path to the weekly lessons will open up and you will be on your way. All the Best and a great Start JohnStrat
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April 3, 2017 at 4:18 pm #67443
Thank you for those tips Richard, I’ll definately start to include them in my next practice session. I’ve got a metronome app on my iPhone so will start working with as well.
Also thank you for the words of encouragement, means alot
-Steve
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April 3, 2017 at 4:40 pm #67444
Thank you for taking the time to reply JohnStrat. Yeah I like the idea of using the metronome too so it will definitely become a regular part of my practice routine from now on.
Thank you too for the words of encouragement
-Steve
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April 3, 2017 at 4:41 pm #67445
Hey Steve, we all had to start somewhere, and the learning journey never ends. I’m 50 years into it and my mantra is still: pick up guitar, tune, play. And pour all your heart and soul into each note. So, well done, Steve, you’re already on the path.
And that’s a great idea to record (and post!) your starting point. Lots of luck, and I hope you enjoy every minute that beautiful guitar is in your hands. -
April 3, 2017 at 5:29 pm #67447
Great Start Steve and looking forward to more videos in the coming months..
Im not really in the position to give tips and can only relate to you how I now feel about my own learning experience.. lots to be taking in at once when starting out. Who would have though that as an adult counting to 4 would trip you up. It happens though, If it were me starting out all over again then I would have a section of my practise time set aside for chords, just the basic chord shapes of C, D, E, G, A and F is more than enough to be going on with, something else I recall when starting out was pressing the strings too tightly, this makes the strings sound sharp or out of tune… Sorry man, I am rabbiting on a tad here, but chord practise will pay off in the long term.. keep at it buddy, your doing great...Billy..
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April 3, 2017 at 6:02 pm #67449
@Canada Moose – Thanks for the words of encouragement. I really am enjoying learning the guitar this time around and as much as it is frustrating at times, I really do enjoy it as well.
@Billy – Thanks for the encouragement and tips as will mate. As I’m thinking about extending my practice regime from 1/2hr to 1hr then I may look into adding some practice time for the chords as you suggested. I do seem to be pressing the strings quite hard on occasions so will try the lighter press so to speak and see if it improves the situation.
Many thanks to all who have posted once again, much appreciated guys
-Steve
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April 3, 2017 at 7:47 pm #67455
The most important thing is sustain. (not the guitar’s, but yours)
Ups and downs, plateaus, hurt fingers, and fun, fun, fun.
This advise comes from a beginner.(3 years in)
I was just thinking today funny, you never hear anyone say “learning guitar was easier than I thought it would be”
Enjoy!
Ron -
April 4, 2017 at 3:17 am #67460
It’s a great idea to record yourself, good start there!
Metronome can be a really PIA because it highlights every inaccuracy. But you will improve much faster with it.
My Youtube Playlist
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April 4, 2017 at 3:28 am #67462
@Billy – Thanks for the encouragement and tips as will mate. As I’m thinking about extending my practice regime from 1/2hr to 1hr then I may look into adding some practice time for the chords as you suggested. I do seem to be pressing the strings quite hard on occasions so will try the lighter press so to speak and see if it improves the situation.
I was just having a nosy about in the beginners lesson, I didn’t realise that there was a backing track to play along with. This is ideal Steve, The backing track gives a lot of +’s. beat track to count you in( metronome) and it comes in 2 speeds 86bpm and 60bpm.…when the saints…
Win win situation here kiddo as slower is better, remember when you were learning how to drive( i’m taking it you are in the u.k.)and the co-ordination between gear, clutch, accelerator that was needed, well learning guitar is very similar hahaha… slower is better imho and don’t forget the next part of your learning challenge brings more life to not just the song you are learning but also to your playing…good luck man.
Oh btw, the Squier is looking good on camera ( an extra polish for its big screen debut?.)..Billy..
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April 4, 2017 at 4:42 am #67465
Hey ranja, I totally agree with what ya say. I’ve tried a few times before to learn the guitar but gave up in the end because I wanted to learn too quickly if that makes sense.
This time around I am more determined to succeed and realise that it’s a long term journey and I have to take the time to learn the fundamentals-Steve
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April 4, 2017 at 7:46 am #67467
Hey Steve, I picked the guitar for the very first time 5 years ago (my first ever instrument too). My tips are: never put your guitar in its case at home, keep it on a stand so you can grab it every time you have a minute, even for only five minutes, keep pluckin away!! noticeable progress is measured by months, not weeks, It can be frustrating at times, but keep at it and you will be rewarded of a life time of pleasure!! I remember a guitar playing friend saying, now you should try Barre Chords. I felt like throwing my guitar out the window!!! Its fascinating how your hand just adapts over time to somehow change shape and make it all work!! 5 years in and im in it for life!! Enjoy!! Oh I should add that after year 3 I suffered a set back when I chopped off my index finger!! Ouch!! but I was determined to overcome my injury and stick with it!! Cheers Phil
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April 4, 2017 at 10:30 am #67475
This is a fantastic idea Steve. Very cool of you to put videos like this out there for others that are struggling to learn the guitar. That’s very encouraging.
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April 4, 2017 at 11:46 am #67479
Very cool Steve! Keep up the good work. This is going to be great for your guitar playing! Keep your eyes on the prize. You could also ask questions in your videos to the forum if you are stuck or frustrated with anything.
-Bryce
Anchorage, Alaska -
April 4, 2017 at 2:38 pm #67488
Hi Steve, one thing is for sure. You’ll be able to track your progress. I find your idea great. Because everyone who learns autodidactically, it is really important to have control over one’s own success. The foundation stone has now laid for you. Great idea and start of you.
Wilfried
Play guitar just like you live; don't get bogged down in theory, it's just a tool without feeling.
Wilfried
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April 4, 2017 at 2:46 pm #67490
Hi Steve, congrats on starting your journey, it’s all about having fun, put in the hour a day and you’ll be surprised at your progress when you look back a year from now!
Scott
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April 4, 2017 at 3:00 pm #67492
Thanks for all the great tips and encouragement so far everyone as it really is appreciated and made it worth while doing the first video.
@Billy – great little analogy there with the driving lol but I understand where you’re coming from and will definitely be making good use of the supplied backing tracks. As for the Squier no extra polish mate, just naturally looking good lol
@Phil – Thank you for the tip about keeping the guitar on the stand and not in my case/gig bag as it is now. I’m definitely in this for the long haul this time Phil and understand this time around that I need to pay my dues with the foundation work which will allow the rest to be built on top of that
@Brian – Thank you for those awesome words of encouragement Brian, I really do appreciate it and it made doing the first video worthwhile. The idea was to initially document my progress and to use them as a way of keeping me motivated but if they can be used as a way of keeping a fellow beginner from giving them that would be awesome
@Bryce – Not too sure if I’m ready to actually speak in the videos just yet lol but could be an idea moving forward-Steve
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April 4, 2017 at 3:12 pm #67496
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May 7, 2017 at 4:33 am #69969
Hi all. Sorry I’ve not put up my monthly update as of yet but I’ve been busy with work this past month as well as decorating in the evenings so haven’t had much time to practice but will try and get an update video down in the next few days.
-Steve
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May 7, 2017 at 3:16 pm #69989
Ok, Steve but I am holding you to next month. 😉
-Bryce
Anchorage, Alaska -
May 7, 2017 at 3:20 pm #69990
Well done, Steve, just add blood sweat and tears.
Lights. -
May 7, 2017 at 5:01 pm #69994
Bryce you have my promise that I will have a video update for Month 3 😉
-Steve
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May 7, 2017 at 9:48 pm #70001
Hey Steve,
welcome to the highly addictive world of the guitar! I think what you’re doing with the monthly video progress reports is a great idea; I’ve been playing on and off for the last thirty years and I can only imagine how much further ahead I would be by now if I’d been as open to advice as you obviously are.
So, having said which, my advice to you is quite simple and, no doubt, has probably already been offered, but here goes: everyone goes through that awkward phase where they’re trying to coordinate picking accurately with fretting accurately, and where it feels impossible to do either activity without giving it one’s whole attention. The only way to get through this is to practice at every available opportunity. Someone will probably have suggested keeping your guitar close by and out in the open rather than tucked away in its case – well, it’s true. You’ll be amazed at how much progress you can make just picking away on an unplugged guitar while watching TV.
Eventually you’ll develop the muscle memory that will allow your fingers to find the cords and the notes you need without even thinking about it. And you’ll be able to pick the right string without looking at it. Sadly there are no shortcuts. Obviously though you have a great attitude and that goes a long, long way. So bottom line is: slog on through the awkward beginner phase until you get comfortable and then you’ll get to where the good stuff is and you’ll be so glad you did.
Best of luck, stick with it and I look forward to the month three update.
John -
May 8, 2017 at 1:52 am #70005
Thank you for those words of encouragement John, it’s really appreciated as is all the advice and encouragement that I’ve received so far.
Like you’ve mentioned there’s not much connection between my chord making/switching or my strumming/picking at the minute but with time and practice it will hopefully become much better. The idea of having the guitar on show is one which I’ve taken on board and I’m currently in the middle of making my own little guitar space in our kitchen/diner at home where I can have my guitar and speaker permanently set up.
Unfortunately this past month I’ve been busy with other stuff so didn’t get much practice in but the month onwards should be a lot better and I’m looking forward to getting back on the guitar-Steve
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May 8, 2017 at 3:11 am #70006
No video this month then Steve..tut, tut tut man…
..Billy..
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May 8, 2017 at 4:58 am #70007
Unfortunately not Billy, my apologies fella.
Working on creating my own little guitar practice area tonight so may take a video of that when it’s complete 😉
-Steve
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May 8, 2017 at 10:15 am #70013
That sounds interesting Steve, I was going to convert one of the sheds at the bottom of the garden in to a little rehersal/recording room. I’m kind of a fed up moving guitars, amps and computers about in the spare room..
I’m interested to see what you come up with kiddo.
..Billy..
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May 8, 2017 at 10:32 am #70014
It won’t be anything splendid Billy, just a corner in the room lol but it’ll allow me to have my guitar and amp permanently set up so that I can just sit in the chair and practice when I want without having to get the guitar out all the time if I wanna quick practice
-Steve
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May 8, 2017 at 10:53 am #70016
It won’t be anything splendid Billy, just a corner in the room lol but it’ll allow me to have my guitar and amp permanently set up so that I can just sit in the chair and practice when I want without having to get the guitar out all the time if I wanna quick practice
Yeah, you say that just now but once you get comfy in your own little area…well… hahahaha
..Billy..
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May 8, 2017 at 4:05 pm #70034
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May 8, 2017 at 4:08 pm #70036
Well managed to get my little guitar practice area sorted and managed to practice a little after not having much chance last month
And that is progress! Good job Steve! You are making it easy to practice and that is half the battle sometimes.
-Bryce
Anchorage, Alaska -
May 8, 2017 at 4:17 pm #70037
Thank you Bryce. I must admit it felt pretty good to be just able to go into the room and my little corner to practice for a bit while the dinner was cooking
-Steve
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May 8, 2017 at 4:39 pm #70038
Well managed to get my little guitar practice area sorted and managed to practice a little after not having much chance last month
That looks quite a comfy chair you got there Steve, is there plenty of guitar room on it once you are sat with your strat?.
..Billy..
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May 9, 2017 at 5:13 am #70055
Great idea to record your progress Steve. I think a lot of us tried to play guitar some years ago but gave up when it all seemed to difficult. But if it was easy to learn a musical instrument everybody would be doing it! I believe the trick is to enjoy the learning process. With time and practice everything becomes much better and even more interesting.
Tony -
May 11, 2017 at 1:45 pm #70155
@Billy – yeah it’s a comfy chair and I have to sit on the edge of the chair to be able to use the guitar but seems ok at the moment.
@Tony C – Thanks for those words of encouragement mate. I actually tried to start learning the guitar last year but tried to run before I could walk, so to speak, as I got frustrated that I wasnt progressing fast enough and gave up but this time around I am more realistic and realise that I need to work on the foundational stuff and that will lead on to the rest
-Steve
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November 25, 2017 at 12:56 pm #85474
Hi everyone.
I know I’ve not posted up any videos for quite a while but just wanted to check back in and let everyone know that I’ve not actually givin up learning the guitar.
Unfortunately these past 6 months have been hectic as anything what with getting married in June and then when I came back off my honeymoon I decided to try and get my decorating business back up and running again so what with holding down a full time job and trying to get my decorating business built up again it’s meant that I’m working hard 7 days a week and we’ll as some evenings doing quotes etc but have still managed to get the odd bit of practice in where I can.
Have decided to try and learn Brian’s version of Silent Night in the next month as a little project so can hopefully get some progress videos up now that things are slowing down a bit-Steve
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November 25, 2017 at 12:58 pm #85475
Geez, Steve. I was beginning to think you had fallen off the planet. Hope all is going well man.
..Billy..
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November 25, 2017 at 1:35 pm #85477
Lol Billy. Nah I’ve still been hanging around matey – a bit like a bad smell lol.
I’ve been all good thanks mate, hope all is well with you mate
-Steve
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November 25, 2017 at 5:22 pm #85482
Lol Billy. Nah I’ve still been hanging around matey – a bit like a bad smell lol.
I’ve been all good thanks mate, hope all is well with you mate
Aye man ta, One is doing tickety boo now the Doc has worked his magic…Anyway, time you were playing us something on that guitar of yours lad..
..Billy..
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November 27, 2017 at 3:52 pm #85628
I can only have respect for beginning guitar players who have the guts to post there first steps in learning the guitar.
I never used a metronome, but learned to play accurately on the beat while tapping my feet on the ground. Do this only when the boss isn’t at home 🙂 if you know what I mean 😉
I had a guitar teacher who used two small pieces of aluminium attached to each other. One end together and at the other end a little apart from each other. Hope you know what I mean. He used this under his feet and this gave a clear sound when he tapped his feet.
Somehow I found this easier to learn to play accurately on the beat then using a metronome.
Good luck, and keep practicing and don’t give up. Learning slowly helped me a lot!
I am going to post my attempts on Brain’s lessons soon on this forum!
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November 28, 2017 at 1:08 am #85652
Billy that’s great to hear fella and will definitely try and get back on the video making again fella.
Nick_66 Thanks for that mate. I thought it would be a way of tracking my progress over the next year or two and to keep me on track. Unfortunately things got a bit hectic in real life with my wedding and then starting up my decorating business again whilst still holding my full time job so practice or progress hasn’t been as much as I would of liked but still practicing where I can.
Also thanks for the tip about keeping time, will definitely give it a try compared to a metronome-Steve
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January 14, 2018 at 1:22 pm #90017
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Here is my first attempt at learning the opening Riff to Boom Boom by John Lee Hooker.
Need to add a Metronome in to my practice so I can work on the timing of the Riff.
As usual any constructive criticism is welcomed in order to help me improve.
-Steve
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January 14, 2018 at 3:06 pm #90032
Hey Steve, Load a Metronome app to your phone. lots to choose from and some tuners have built in metronomes too.
Plug your guitar in to a amp or daw mate that way you can hear what you are playing and so too can I without having to turn my speakers up full… hahahaha
Your doing well man. the “blues Zebra man”, its where its at....Billy..
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January 14, 2018 at 3:58 pm #90034
Hey Billy,
Yeah will definitely sort out a metronome for my next practice session and I realise that my recording is a bit caveman at the minute and is definitely on my To Do List so will need to sort that out soon so will check out Bryces’ Recording How To posts to improve on my setup Billy.
The Blues Zebra Man….I like it mate lol
-Steve
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January 14, 2018 at 5:20 pm #90038
Steve, It has been suggested already by some of the guys and learning three to five cords will open up a big world to you because there are thousands of songs with just three cords and learning to change them without thinking seemed to make my fingers work better and then learning an alternating bass line made picking more accurate. This is a marathon and not a sprint and things fall into place with hours of practice. I hope that you enjoy every bit of it. I started playing again last year after being away from it for almost ten years so it is taking time but I am loving every minute of it. Most of all Enjoy,
Gary.Boats'Blues.
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January 15, 2018 at 2:27 am #90052
Morning Gary and thank you for the comment mate.
I am too well aware of running before I can walk with regards to learning the guitar as my past failures at learning are a testament to.
I am still working my way through the Beginners Course and this was just a Sunday Side Project sort of thing as an addition to the Beginners Course and not instead off.
This time around I am definitely talking baby steps in learning the fundamentals before moving ahead too fast like I have done in the past.
All the best with your learning Gary,
-Steve
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