Quote:
Originally Posted by OliveCorduroy
This has been great feedback for me...thank you. Aside from a lot of the comments recommending that I look into getting an instructor to help me, a lot of the comments centered around me figuring out what direction I want to go and setting goals based on that. This has helped, so here goes:
At this point, I can play my open chords (maj, min, dom7, and sus2/sus4) and I am able to make the changes between them all fairly well. I can play my barre chords(E-shape and A-shape, maj and min) and I can make those changes fairly well also. Recently, I started looking at triads(maj and min) on the highest four strings and can make them but the changes are rather slow, clean but slow. Lastly, I understand how the major scale works with chord progressions (I-ii-iii-IV-V-vi-vii) and the possible variations.
My long term goal would be to play rhythm guitar or accompanying myself or something else singing. Not so much in a full out band setting but more like in a coffee shop or open mic. like setting.
To get there, I think my short term goals would be as such:
1. Continue to strengthen straight chord progressions using open chords and barre chords.
2. Improve my strumming with more accuracy and variation.
3. Learn dynamics and how to apply them to chord progressions.
4. Learn single note picking and chord embellishments to add character and flavor to straight chord progressions.
5. Learn passing chords
6. Continue to work on triads so I can add different voicings to chord progressions.
I can find a lot of lessons on chords, progressions, and strumming so I know how to get there. Where I find the biggest struggles is finding lessons on dynamics and chord embellishments. There just doesn't seem to be very many or I am just looking in the wrong places. This frustrates me and the harder I look the more overwhelmed I get with all the material out there. Quite simply, it paralyzed me.
Again, thank you for all of your comments. I have never put in writing what it is I am trying to do. It really has helped.
Thanks, George
|
Continue to practice what you are doing until it becomes second nature. (Do it sitting in front of the TV if you have to as most of this stuff is repetition). At the same time, get the know the makeup of your guitar fret board (where each note is which is not that difficult as you will begin to realise there are patterns across the board) and take in some music theory. (Understanding the makeup and relationships between chords, scales and notes will free you up to play and improvise).
That's probably enough to keep you busy for a while and good luck!