Because one of the first hurdles for a beginner is learning how to play chords, this particular lesson is one of my most frequently taught. Some of the most common problems that can arise when learning how to play guitar include dead notes (that toneless plunk! sound), poor memorization, and lack of adequate speed. To tackle some of these issues, the following exercises can speed up the process of learning chords.
Read MoreThe Uninterrupted Performance
Several years ago, one of my students struggled with a song that was by no means beyond her technical level. And so, as she played through the piece, I repeatedly stopped her at each error to point out illogical interpretations of the music. Her long sigh, not out of frustration or anger, but what seemed to be sadness, occupied a space in my mind throughout the next week, reflecting similar frustrations with other students. It was clear that they wanted a chance to perform what they had been working on, even if it wasn’t perfect.
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