As a guitar teacher, I get all sorts of questions from students. Some want to learn about the pentatonic scale, others want to learn common basic chords, and some want to learn the modes of melodic minor.
You see, there are so many different aspects that make up a good guitarist. For instance, we can mention theory, rhythm, phrasing, fretboard knowledge, vocabulary of chords voicings and lines, gear, music business, technique, timing, how to play in a band, etc. Each can further be broken down in details.
So, what'a guy supposed to work on in order to get better? That is a good question, and the simple answer is all of it. A better answer is that you need to, on your own, determine what it is you want to learn. Make it a goal that you can reach.
Let me give you an example. If you want to learn how to play BB King style licks over a minor and major blues, then you have a pretty good focus. That means you would start by listening to his albums, every day. You would learn some of his classic licks, and you would also learn some of his tunes, and all the little ingredients of his playing that makes it unique. Basically, you would copy him as much as you can.
Another example could be how to use the Dorian mode over classic rock tunes. That's also quite specific, because the mode has a certain sound, and the style of music is also specific, so it's easier for a teacher to help you learn this.
Hopefully you see what I'm getting at. You don't have to learn everything in order to enjoy playing guitar. Many of my students just want to learn easy songs they can strum along to, and if you don't want to venture further than that, that's perfectly fine.
So, I believe that the more specific you are, the easier it is to come up with a plan to help you get to where you want to be. If you are too vague, you'll get frustrated and likely end up jumping around between different teachers and lessons.
Give this some thought, and please submit them in the form below. My job is to teach guitar, so the better I understand my students, the better I can make my lessons. Thank you.
By Robert Renman - www.dolphinstreet.com
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