In this lesson, we are going to learn the top 5 practice tips to ensure your guitar playing success. If done correctly, these will set you off on the right foot and make your journey of learning to play the guitar a lot more enjoyable.
The top 5 tips to ensure your guitar playing success
#1: Expensive gear is not necessary to start
This is not necessary at the beginning of your guitar playing journey. If you can get it, fine, but not necessary. It's fun, I'll give you that, but not a necessity. Many people think it's going to motivate them to practice, well, unfortunately, it doesn't. I've seen this happen time and time again. It might in the beginning, as there is always novelty in something new, but after that wears off, it's time to get to work.
I will admit, a better guitar will have a better sound, and make you proud to play it, but it's not as necessary as having the desire to learn! Once you get the basics down, then upgrade to something better. But for starters, a good guitar that's pre-owned will work just fine. Or a guitar from a starter pack.
Only 3 things needed to start:
A good guitar
A good amp
Quality training material
#2: You must have the desire to learn
I cannot stress this enough! If you don't have this, all the great guitar equipment won't do you a bit of good. I have a poster with a Gibson Les Paul on it (an advertising poster), and it says something on it that I find very realistic and true to this point that I am making here. It reads, "If this can't get it out of you, you probably don't have it in you to begin with." How true of a statement is that?
This is exactly what I'm talking about. You must have the desire to learn and want to be successful at playing the guitar. If you have that, any guitar will do. Well, not some piece of junk, but you know what I'm talking about. Make sure you have the desire to learn a new language, because that, my friend, is what music is.
Watch the video lesson below
#3: Use a metronome
Use a metronome or drum loop to develop your timing. I can't tell you how many guitar players skip this step. Don't do it. Make sure you work at this daily. Don't be afraid to count as you play guitar chords. Watch the video lesson to emphasize this concept. Also works with playing melody lines.
#4: Measure and track your progress
Map out what you want to work on and figure out what you're doing well with and what you need to still work on. This will help you to progress quickly.
#5: Be consistent with your practice
Start with short practice sessions daily. The progress from there. Don't work for two hours, and then don't touch the guitar for two days. The reason this doesn't work is that your progress begins to fade over time. Once you get the basics developed, then you can take a little break, but in the beginning, you want to practice daily.
Final thoughts
Learning to play the guitar is not always easy, and like Jimi Hendrix said, "It will sometimes make you want to quit, but if you stick with it, you'll eventually be rewarded." Another very true statement. So, make sure that you acquire these 5 things on your guitar playing journey. Especially number 2. This is a must! Do this, and I guarantee you it will ensure your guitar playing success.
Additional help available
If you feel you could use more help in any of these 5 areas, be sure to reach out, as I offer private guitar instruction. These are customized lessons that cater to your interests and skill level. They provide quick results, a better understanding, and can make learning to play the guitar a lot more enjoyable. So, if you feel this option might work for you, contact me at my website, and we'll set up a time to talk.
Thanks for your time, and remember, always have fun learning.
Until our next guitar lesson, take care.
Sincerely, Dwayne Jenkins
