Sunday, January 31, 2010

Learning How to Play Guitar

How to Start Playing Guitar

If you’ve ever wanted to play the guitar but just don’t know where to begin, try starting here with these basic tips.

Basic Stuff You Probably Need to Know

· Understanding the guitar itself—parts and how they each function

· Strings and chords—tuning of each string and where to place your fingers to create chords

· Strumming—techniques and patterns

Chords to Start With

One method often used is CAGED. With the finger patterns from these five chords, many other guitar chords can be played. For visuals of the chords, click on the link below.

http://www.guitaralliance.com/guitar_lessons/guitar_chords/caged_guitar_chords.htm

Holding the Guitar

· If you’re sitting, rest the guitar on your leg. If you’re standing, use a strap so your arms can be free to finger and strum without unnecessary strain.

· Be aware of your posture and body tension. Sit up straight or stand, and be sure not to rest your left arm on your left leg.

· Proper thumb placement is typically hidden from anyone who sees you playing. Help website Howtotuneaguitar.com suggests to “keep your thumb in hitchhiking position, pointed away from you with the ball of the thumb in the center of the neck.”

How-To Videos:
Learning to Play Guitar: Folk Styles


Capo

Places to Look for Tips

http://guitaralliance.com/

Great resources for learning guitar at any level: http://www.gibson.com/en-us/Lifestyle/Lessons/Search/Default.aspx

For chord visuals, lessons, how to tune, and more: http://www.howtotuneaguitar.org/


No comments:

Post a Comment