What is it that draws people to the guitar? What is that feeling you had when you first picked up a guitar? Just a wooden case, with a hole in it, and six strings pulled across? Yet, that simple instrument construction has produced some of the greatest musical sounds the world has ever known. That… Read More The Enduring Popularity of the Guitar (and Why People Love to Play)
Paul McCartney just released a new album at age 71. Elton John did as well, at age 66, as did Cher at age 67. Mick Jagger still tours around the globe at age 70 and B.B. King packs in clubs at age 88. Unlike other careers where you become a “subject matter expert” in a… Read More Are you in it for the long haul?
One of the best methods for improving your playing ability is to study, and imitate, great guitarists who are already playing the types of music that you enjoy most. This works because 1) you’re already a fan of the work, and 2) you’re more often willing to take time and learn their songs, as well as try and perform it with some resemblance of their sound. This in the end makes you a better player.… Read More The difference between being able to play well vs. just being able to play a bunch of cool stuff
Did you know it’s also a good idea to document your practice? Alas, few of us carry notebooks around with us all time, nor watch the clock go round and round so we can track all of this. In this digital age, there’s got to be a better way… cue the App Store.
A need for speed? Grown-ups like to move fast. We walk fast. We drive fast. We act fast. And want to learn fast. However, the next time you feel the urge to go to practice your guitar fast, heed these words: Slow down!
A constant struggle…… Read More Get in the Zone to maintain focus and avoid distractions
A thought has been occurring to me lately and I want to share it with you now: There is nothing to be afraid of. Oh sure, there are a lot of things that we let ourselves be afraid of… but in the end, there really is nothing much to be afraid of. We’re born, we… Read More What the hell are you so afraid of?
Grown-Up Guitarist 