by Bob Mcgee

Created on: November 02, 2009   Last Updated: November 03, 2009

Learning guitar can be a breeze for some people, but a hassle to others. I might sound like a broken record when saying this but, like anything else in life all it takes to get good is hard work, determination, and PRACTICING. And when I say practicing I mean practicing. When I got my first guitar I used to practice for hours upon hours, learning basic chords and scales. I still practice for maybe two hours at a time, not because I have to, or because I make myself, but because I find it fun. There is a big difference between MAKING yourself practice, and having a fun experience. Whenever you get stuck on a certain scale or song, just try another one and switch between them.

It also helps if you use websites with tabletures. I also found it helpfull to search how to play a song on sites with video such as YouTube. If you're really stuggling learning on your own, try taking lessons from an instructor. Most small music shops have them and can help out alot. For some people, like myself, I never took lessons because it was easy for me to learn on my own. Find a way that will help you to learn. Everybody learns differently, so experiment with different methods like tabletures, lessons, and YouTube.

Once you find which way works best for you, keep at it and practice. Remember, hard work and determination is the key to success. Whenever you think you're getting bored of guitar or don't feel like playing, listen to one of your favorite bands. You might get inspired to pick up your guitar and start playing again. Try setting a schedule for practicing. It might help if you set a time for your self to practice. The key to success in any instrument or really anything in life, is to practice, especially with guitar. Professional players spend ten, fifteen, or more than twenty years perfecting the skill.

Another way to get good, is to try to set a goal for yourself. Try and master a song, or learn to play a difficult scale. Many guitarists (including myself) have trouble learning solos. It is very hard to learn a solo the first time so take it slow. It helps to dissect the solo, and learn what scale the solo might be. Often times guitar solos are just short scales played fast. Sometimes a note or two is taken away or added in. It always helps to learn it gradually. Learn it note by note, then start increasing speed. Then, once you feel you have learned it at the correct pace, play it while the song is playing. Try and "cover" the solo so to speak. If it is an original solo that you made yourself, try and make a song for it. Add in drums, bass, vocals, and maybe a keyboard. When playing guitar, it is especially important to learn knew things and to challenge yourself. Experiment with new styles and genres of music. Make sure to practice, and to never give up.

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