A frustrating point of playing guitar is reaching the point of stagnation, where you no longer seem to be improving. Seasoned and even novice musicians, all face a similar question, “How do I get to the next higher level of guitar playing?”
It does not help to see our guitar idols in magazines and on TV seeming as if they are constantly inventing insanely new tricks and easily improving their skills. Then we read about them in guitar magazines and to attempt to emulate their skills and tricks only to become even more frustrated and confused. As you may be able to attest by now, developing into the ultimate guitarist is far harder than it looks.
So what are your keys to more success at playing the guitar?
As with most issues there is not a single solution, although there are a number of concepts and theories that can assist you in consistently breaking through the barriers that keep you from reaching your desired potential. Realize that being a genius is not required to become a great guitarist.
Most things in life can be conquered with just few simple keys, which are having a sincere interest in learning more, determination and persistence. Playing the guitar is no different.
You will most likely never come across a great guitarist who isn’t passionate about music. They reached the level that they are at by being enthusiastic and determined. They took the initiative to go out and learn something new.
There is always the risk of failing when any guitarist dares to challenge themselves with something new. If failure is an issue for you, simply think of it as feedback. When you fail you have simply figured out one approach which may not work for you, and there are always many more. So don’t lose the battle with low self-esteem and quit. Quitting is not allowed.
Realizing that feedback is a part of the growth process and it often takes many jam sessions to get new tricks down. When taking this approach soon you will have acquired the first skill you will need to become the ultimate guitarist.
Here is list of ideas that that every guitarist should attempt to implement. You will need to no only read, these short and simple steps, but also implement them in some way. Thoughts and attitude are important but nothing really gets done without action. Yes it’s what you do that counts to your audience.
Seven simple tips to obtain maximum results when playing guitar
1. Learn Something New To You – Education is simply the first step to becoming improved at playing guitar. Believe it or not, there’s always something new to learn and master when you have the commitment. If you are currently studying music in a more former setting like school, or in college, then you may find that learning the guitar may be easier. If you are not studying in a similar environment, then consider getting in a program. It is excellent to utilize your time with guitar lessons and teaching yourself, but there is also a lot to be said for the motivation and encouragement that comes from a teacher. Once you have conquered the new area that you are learning, remember to push yourself to learn something that you are less comfortable with. Learning within your comfort zone often results in stagnation.
2. Listen To More Music – This is an easy one as the more music that you expose yourself to, the better at playing the guitar you will become. Listen to the bands that you enjoy most and draw inspiration and motivation from them. Take special note of what the musicians are doing in their songs, and then make a list of the techniques you desire to learn. This can be one of the motivating forces that gets you to playing the guitar more often.
3. Surround Yourself With Excellence – When you play the guitar with other people who are better guitarists, you will learn from them and often feel even more motivated to push yourself. At first this idea may seem a bit scary. Why expose yourself to that kind of stress? Simply because if there’s one thing that will motivate you very quickly it’s the fact that people are depending on you. No need to jam with musicians who are arrogant or rude. Being embarrassed by someone doesn’t foster a high level self-esteem. On the other had the people you will want to find and learn from are those who are patient and understanding. No worries, eventually you will find yourself at their level, in a shorter time than you might think.
4. Make Your Time Count – Practicing does not make perfect, it makes permanent, although perfect practice makes perfect and permanent. So the time utilized while playing the guitar is very important. Make the commitment to get into it and learn something that will aid you on your journey for musical success. So set some goals and work toward achieving them. Whether it is a specific technique, tricks, or a new song, you can become better just by using your time more efficiently. Always have a plan in mind for your practice.
5. Begin With The End In Mind- What do you intend to do with what you learn? Are you going to make a CD, join a band or play at a few local venues? Plan for it in the beginning so you have a clear picture of what it is that you desire for your guitar playing. Setting goals is not to be undervalued. Having ideas of how you will use your guitar playing skills is important. Create a clear vision and use each to reach steps to act on it. Playing for others, or in the living room for visitors, the choice is yours.
6. Teach Someone Else How To Play the Guitar - Teaching is also involves learning and review. Even if the only chord you know how to play is a G chord, simply show someone how to play it. This allows you to reaffirms what you know, and solidifies your knowledge. Many guitar instructors reveal that they have learned more through teaching than through just being taught. Why? Because it forces you out of your comfort zone and requires to develop or find answers to questions when they are asked. Anyone can teach someone something if they want to. Give it a try and notice the results for yourself.
7. Believe In Yourself – Yep, I know it sounds kind of corny. But the simple fact is that you can do anything you put your mind to and if you choose to play guitar well, you can! Thoughts are things. No need to listen to the negativity of others and just be true to yourself. Keep at it and surround yourself with talented and supportive people. This is sounding like more of a life lesson than a guitar lesson, but it holds true for any endeavor you attempt.
Ok as promised you now have seven simple and easy tips to improve your guitar playing. But because I like to over deliver, here are three more!
8. Learn What Has Worked For Others – Whether you research your favorite guitarist or speak to your guitar instructor, ask others what has worked for them in reaching the level they are at. When people put their heads together, some really interesting ideas start to evolve. Networking allows you to both give and receive at the same time.
9. You Are Quite Unique – Yes, you are the ultimate guitar player. You are an individual with unique experiences and talents, and there is no one like you and there will never be anyone who even comes remotely close to being like you. Unless cloning really becomes main stream. Interlace “You” into your music and you will have a ship load of material. Your music will soon ooze form your fingers into your own style.
10. Accentuate The Positives – You most likely know where you lack the most in guitar playing. For some it is certain techniques like finger picking, and for others it may be something different. Whatever it may be emphasize and enjoy your recent victories and then work diligently on the weak areas. Keep attacking those weak points and soon you will soon notice improvement. The truth is that most of us are harder on ourselves than others ever will be on us. You’ll most likely continue to notice problems and weaknesses. You will most likely continually have something to work toward. Think about some of the resources available to you that will assist you in minimizing those weaknesses. It’s not unlike battle, but in the end you will win.
Ok there you have it, several tips on further maximizing your guitar playing. Incorporate them and you’ll be amazed at the results you get.
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