Category: Tips/How To

The bottom line for memorization is doing a lot of repetitions, playing through the tune repeatedly. You will probably find that some sections of a tune are faster to memorize than others. In that case the most effective strategy is to isolate the tough spots and do the repetitions until it catches up with the “easy” sections. Don’t under estimate the power of listening. When you listen to the definitive recording of a song you want to learn you are soaking up the way it is supposed to sound and getting it in your head. When you know how it goes it is much easier to play.

This is a question of style. Be diverse. Don’t have the attitude that there is one person who is the best musician of all time and that anything other that what this person has done is garbage (the “this is where its’ at syndrome”). There is a ton of hip music out there that is worthy of repeated listening. Everyone who plays guitar should have a short list of their own “guitar heroes” who they would like to emulate.

As much as you can. The more the better. Remember that learning the guitar is a life long endeavor. You will see slow, steady progress over time if you are persistent.

If there is a secret it is to just do a lot of it. Every day. William Leavitt has penned a two book series that covers positions one through twelve. There are countless books out there of transcriptions of classic jazz players and their solos. These are very effective too.

Jam sessions are when a group of musicians get together and play tunes and improvise over them. Usually people just call tunes and find common tunes that all present know. The best way to prepare for a jam session is to memorize as many tunes as possible so you are ready.

Be careful not to think that if you buy effects pedals that they will improve your playing. Practicing and listening improve your playing. With that said, yes you should sometimes use effects pedals, they can really add a nice touch to a performance, but don’t overdo it.