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Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
You're waiting patiently for a parking spot. You see someone backing out. You then turn on your car's blinker to claim the spot. But just as you're about to pull in, an old lady driving a corvette speeds her way into your spo...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Most of the notes in this riff are played without palm muting, however at the end of bars 1 and 3 make sure to mind those palm-muted Low B notes. Make them solid and chunky so you hear a clear differentiation between the norm...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
This section illustrates a cool contrast between a riff being played with tight palm-muted chunk and then the same riff being played with a more open feel. Bars 5 through 8 being the former. Bars 9 through 12 being the latter...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Rock
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Rock
Welcome! In this lesson we're going to work on an exercise that utilizes a significant amount of percussive rhythm with our fret-hand. What is percussive rhythm on guitar? It basically involves the use of mutes, slaps and dea...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Hey guys!
For this tutorial, I decided to break down a bunch of Megadeth-esque riffs in an attempt to unlock a few of the many techniques associated with this style of playing. From finger-twisting "spider chords", to thrash...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
And we're off! With a blazing thrash beat and tons of intricate pick strokes - reminiscent of something from Megadeth's "Rust In Peace".
The first six bars are very much the same sort of "fast picking call" with a "two-chord...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Like riff 1, this riff is again, very much centered around the low E string. Serving as a segue between the intro and the first verse, it offers more of an eerie-type "Youthansia" groove - with all the phrygian, harmonic mino...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Continuing with a similar vibe as the segway riff, the rhythm is broken up and we add "space" for Dave's snarls.
Note: The last eighth note in bar 18 and the first in 19 are tied, and then followed by a series of low E pick ...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Let's clue up with a "Crypric Writing"-esque chorus. Again, with tons of room for a more melodic chorus as uniformly demonstrated on most Megadeth albums - we see groupings of four eighth notes in the second half off each bar...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Hey everyone!
In this tutorial we'll be learning a portion of one of my songs called "The Lens of Clarity". It's a heavy yet very melodic piece with a bunch of atmosphere/synth stuff. I hope you enjoy it!
This song was orig...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Alright, let's get going!
In this first riff we're going to be playing around with the concept of polymeter. Polymeter represents multiple time signatures going on at the same time. In this first section, the drums are outli...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Here we have the chorus. In this part we'll basically just be strumming power chords using straight eighth notes.
In the video you'll see me down-strumming every chord, however if you'd prefer alternating between downward an...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Here we have another instance where the palm mutes need to be clearly defined. Makes sure your technique is clean!
At the end of bars 26 and 28 it gets a little tougher as you connect the riff sections. Take those parts slow...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
This is definitely the most challenging part of the song. When I hear it I think it has a big Symphony X vibe.
You'll be using a lot of legato here, including both hammer-ons and pull-offs. It might be tempting to cheat a li...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
The notes in this riff are all sixteenth notes and palm-muted.
When you listen to the riff, you can hear that the notes are in groupings of 3. If you count "One, two, three, One, two, three" where each count represents each ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Meeeerrry Christmas from IG-Santa once again!
Last year we had some knuckle busters in your IG stockings, this year I'll treat you to a bit of Christmas Thunder from Down Under! But, all kidding aside, this is a song tu...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Ok, so first out is the rhythm guitars!
In AC/DC we have one of rock history's hardest working and most stable rhythm sections, I'm talking of course of Malcolm Young - Guitar, Phil Rudd - Drums and Cliff Williams - Bas...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Time for some classic Angus lead guitar!
Now, if this was an all out AC/DC tune, we would of course have some killer vocals by the late great Bon Scott on top, but in this case, I've just provided you with the bare guit...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Holiday
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Holiday
Around this time of year, we begin hearing tons and tons of the traditional songs which serve as landmarks for the season. If you're like myself, things tend to get old after about the 487th time hearing the same tune. In any...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Holiday
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Holiday
We start with "Carol Of The Bells". Heavily based on the Trans-Siberian Orchestra metal arrangement of the song, here we feel the uplifting effects of some good ol' fashion classical composition. And again, the melodies ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Holiday
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Holiday
Up next, the only "fully original" section of the medley; an arpeggio sequence used as a compositional segway.
Ay 180BPM, 8th notes should be well within our grasp. Some will find "slower" arpeggios more difficult than "fast...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Holiday
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Holiday
...The basic melody-line from Walter Rollins' "Frosty The Snowman"!
Be sure to, yet again, focus on phrasing nuances and vibrato; it's important when faced with situations where the melody is slower-paced and heavily carried...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Holiday
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Holiday
Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer. This is the segment where we totally sell-out and play one of the all-time most famous Christmas songs.
Forced into a new meter, 4/4, this is yet another section which heavily revolves around ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Hi guys!
In this lesson we'll take a peek at two tapping sequences in the Emin pentatonic scale, incorporating open strings into the lines.
This first example starts out just moving up the high E-string covering all five po...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
In this example, we take a pretty common kind of pentatonic tapping sequence that you can find in solos of everyone from Nuno to Howe.
I use this type of moving pentatonic shapes in my own soloing quite a lot. Here however, ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Metal
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Metal
Alright, so let's get down to business with part II of last month's instalment; "Djent Series"!
An important element of djent metal is how the guitars and drums converse to create multiple meters, hence, "polymeter". There a...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Metal
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Metal
Let's take this whole rhythmic concept into awkward territory by playing a riff which holds a pulse of 17/16.
So let's analyze what is happening...
We'll be playing a meter of 17/16 over four measures of 4/4.
Due to the ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Metal
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Metal
So, let's get back to some of the fundamentals of djent.
"Layering" is a very key aspect in this new wave of metal. With the heavy syncopation happening between bass, guitar and drums, layers offer the melodic sensibilities ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Fusion
Topic: Technique
Style: Fusion
Hey guys,
This tutorial is a 3-lick lesson, based on one of my main influences: Greg Howe.
All of the licks work over an A minor type groove, but also use passing tones, and some outside playing. I've also noted that the li...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Fusion
Topic: Technique
Style: Fusion
For the second example, I start with a Gmaj7 arpeggio, and move to Am with chromatic passing tones. Towards the end, I add in the raised 7th to give a different feel.
With the exception of a slide in the first arpeggio, I us...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Fusion
Topic: Technique
Style: Fusion
For the final example, I incorporate a typical slide lick that Greg often does. Simply put, you play your 'targeted note', pull off to a step below, and quickly slide back up to the original note. This is also used frequently...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
Welcome!
In this tutorial we will take a look at two exercises to help build your left hand finger independence and coordination.
When we think of coordination exercises, we most often think of scale-based or chromati...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
In part 2, we take the same position and idea, but up the ante considerably.
Now we are dealing with 2 fingers, moving in pairs, while the others remain anchored on the G-string.
Now it is important to note that even though...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Hey guys,
This is part one in an upcoming series of lessons I'll be doing on the rhythmic concept of "djent". Derrived from a word "invented" by members of Meshuggah, and popularized by Periphery song-writer Misha Mansoor, t...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Recording
Style: Metal
Topic: Recording
Style: Metal
For the demonstrations, I'll be using a Fractal Audio Systems "Axe-Fx Ultra". The Axe-Fx is one of the most common units in modern metal, not only for effects, but for literally building an entire guitar sound from scratch. L...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
Let's examine some beneficial techniques involved in this distinct style of rhythm playing.
Right Hand
The right hand is enormously important in acquiring the percussiveness and cleanliness we'll need to execute the followi...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
So let's start out with the basic concept of polymeters. I've addressed this concept in a previous tutorial regarding creating pulses in your lead playing, so let's apply that to riffing, and learn how we can use these odd rh...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Here's another common technique, alike the "Even-Odd" rhythm approach, we'll be playing meters within meters, except this time, meters within meters within meters. Confused yet? Don't be.
Here's what's happening:
The patter...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Effects
Style: Any Style
Topic: Effects
Style: Any Style
Hello IG!
I hope you enjoy this video series. If you're a beginner, and want some basic pointers for a live pedal setup, this video should be great. If you're an intermediate or advanced player, and you're just curious as to...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Effects
Style: Any Style
Topic: Effects
Style: Any Style
Items discussed:
In front of the amp vs. in the loop
Placement of common effects
Phaser
Analog Delay
Level: Beginner
Topic: Effects
Style: Any Style
Topic: Effects
Style: Any Style
To wrap things up, we spend a bit more time talking about the analog delay, as well as my digital tape echo.
If you have any questions, requests, or feedback, please contact me on the IG forum!
Level: Beginner
Topic: Technique
Style: Funk
Topic: Technique
Style: Funk
Welcome to my lesson on slap guitar!
A brief overview of the video:
- Combine both left and right hand technique.- Use thumb for slapping, first finger for plucking, third finger on left hand for percussion over the fretboa...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Funk
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Funk
Okay let's now try out the slap technique with a longer example. Start slow, then gradually increase speed while making sure the notes stay clean.
*Notes on low E are to be slapped, notes on D are to be plucked.
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Theory
Style: Any Style
Topic: Theory
Style: Any Style
Hi guys,
For this lesson, I'd like to back-track and offer a different way of visualizing how we learn chords. So often, I see players who cannot identify chords within a diatonic progression, yet know scales and modes like ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Theory
Style: Any Style
Topic: Theory
Style: Any Style
Assuming we're still in A minor, let's try a different set of strings.
This time, rooted on the A string, let's try out each set of chords, layering first with simple 5ths, an added octave, thirds, and so on.
Just because t...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Theory
Style: Any Style
Topic: Theory
Style: Any Style
1) Let's try a different chord structure. Rather than layering the chord in the "root - fifth" format, let's try harmonizing the root directly and solely with it's 3rd.
2) From here, it's very simple to add other harmony oth...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Theory
Style: Any Style
Topic: Theory
Style: Any Style
Let's try starting from open-position, and this time, let's try something a little more "out-side" with regards to harmony; Sus4 chords.
The root note is in tact, as is the chords 5th (highlighted on the high E string) and w...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Hello stringslingers!
In this "lick & line" lesson we'll look at a hybrid legato pattern, that is usually played in triplets. However, we will do it in 32nd notes AND do it in the style of the late, great Shawn Lane and ...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
OK! In the second "Lane Line", we'll use a whole-tone scale, descending diagonally in the opposite direction.
Whilst the first line descended in the opposite direction, we only moved approximately 1 octave in range, while we...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Fusion
Topic: Technique
Style: Fusion
In light of the new Dream Theater album, I thought I would teach another lick in the style of John Petrucci.
This time, the idea is quite simple. The toughest challenge will be playing the lick accurate, and up to speed. If ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Fusion
Topic: Technique
Style: Fusion
This example is a bit less challenging. If you are struggling with the first lick, I would recommend that you place your focus here.
Once again, this lick is very simple, and relies mostly on chops. If you are new 4 note per...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Exercises
Style: Rock
Topic: Exercises
Style: Rock
Welcome to this tutorial on Lateral Pentatonic Tapping – Connecting The Boxes.
These examples will help you to start thinking in several boxes at the same time when playing two-handed pentatonic stuff. And that does no...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Exercises
Style: Rock
Topic: Exercises
Style: Rock
In this part we will up the level a bit. Previously we were just doing a uniform descending pattern, which in itself is quite tricky. But now we will start to use a segment that is more broken up and does not follow the scale...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Exercises
Style: Rock
Topic: Exercises
Style: Rock
Finally, in part three, we go through the last remaining boxes on our left hand.
Once you’ve have these down, then your real work begins. Now you need to try this in more keys, with different segments, and parts of the...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
For this tutorial I wanted to focus on some 7-string goodness! For those of you who may be just getting used to the extra low B string, or for those who've never really examined it for what it is, theoretically, hopefully you...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Let's learn our B string by examining how it corelates with the rest of the strings by playing through the 7 modes (in G major).
A few notes...
By ignoring the low B string, you'll quickly see how "normal" everyth...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Because our low B string is tuned a perfect 5th below the adjacent E string, (much like our E to A, A to D and D to G strings are) arpeggios and scales will seem to fall together relatively quickly due to the familiar symmetr...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Chords
Style: Any Style
Topic: Chords
Style: Any Style
So let's start out this lesson by analyzing how chord shapes work with a low B string.
You'll notice that the basic bar-chord shapes remain the same, but we must avoid the G string (and all strings lower) due to the guitar's...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Jazz
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Jazz
Hey IG,
Welcome to the final chapter of my little Blues series. Be ready to dig into some Charlie Parker style jazz blues playing. Once again form, rhythm, melody and harmony are quite a bit more sophisticated than the previ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Improvising
Style: Jazz
Topic: Improvising
Style: Jazz
On to the soloing! This solo consists of several phrases. Some blues-y, some jazz-y. Note how the more jazz-influenced lines are mainly played around the II-Vs and the turnaround bars at the end of the form, while especially ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Fusion
Topic: Technique
Style: Fusion
Greetings!
In this lesson, we will combine both hybrid and sweep picking to play an arpeggio sequence that for the most part follows the degrees of a C Major scale!
This combination of hybrid and sweep picking can easily be...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Fusion
Topic: Technique
Style: Fusion
If you haven't read up on scale and chord theory, check out Tom's Visualizing the Fretboard tutorial, and Jody's lesson on Nashville Numbers. This sequence will work over the basic corresponding chords of C Major, but would b...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Exercises
Style: Fusion
Topic: Exercises
Style: Fusion
Welcome guitar slingers!
The goal of the "Note Targeting in Pentatonics" tutorial is for you to be able to improvise freely across any key changes, anywhere on the neck, and learn how to conceptually visualize scales and key...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Exercises
Style: Fusion
Topic: Exercises
Style: Fusion
Now, just as we did in the Pentatonic Finder tutorial, we need to set a "range" of the fret board to work with.
As in that tutorial I've chosen to have you start with the first position (Box 1) of the blues scale, as "home b...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Exercises
Style: Fusion
Topic: Exercises
Style: Fusion
The second interval we will target is the b3 in each respective key. The b3 of Dm is of course the F, and the b3 of Fm is Ab. Once again, you can see how much the keys have in common. The b3 of Dm is the root of F, and the b3...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Exercises
Style: Fusion
Topic: Exercises
Style: Fusion
So, by now you should have the concept in firm grasp and be ready to venture out on your own, picking and choosing intervals to practise in the change. Below I have provided you with a more advanced "hybrid" Blues scale, comb...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Exercises
Style: Country
Topic: Exercises
Style: Country
Hey guys,
I've been on a hiatus from metal over the past while and decided to throw something a little different at y'all for this time - country lead playin'!
Country lead playing is something that has always boggled...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Scales
Style: Country
Topic: Scales
Style: Country
So to start, a really important and often overlooked approach is to play in "diads". Diads are any grouping of two notes within a key. We'll be sticking to the key of G major for the time being so we can understand how things...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Country
Topic: Technique
Style: Country
This technique mimics the sound of a pedal steel guitar and is super frequent in country guitar soloing. Again, within the confines of G major, let's break down each position within the key, starting from the first, which hig...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Country
Topic: Technique
Style: Country
Double-Stop: The act of playing two notes simultaneously - two separate strings are "stopped" by the fingers.
A technique drawn from many types of bluegrass music, double-stopping features the most intense dynamic of al...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Blues
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Blues
Hey IG,
We’re here with the second installment of my little blues series. This time we’re dealing with a more sophisticated Robben Ford/Larry Carlton type blues. The phrases in this will be more advanced from b...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Improvising
Style: Blues
Topic: Improvising
Style: Blues
So let’s get started with the lead playing! I’ve come up with a blues chorus that features some typical licks for this type of playing. Most of these lines are based on both the major and minor blues scales. I swi...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
In this lesson, I provide a sample lead lick over a backing for a track off of my band's old album. The song titled "Believe" and has a pop/funk vibe to it. Very tempting to solo over!
This lick uses a combination of the min...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Fusion
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Fusion
Hey folks! Here's a fun little lick I came up with. Hope you enjoy!
This lead lick falls into the key of B minor / B Dorian, with most of the notes coming from the minor pentatonic box.
I tried to play the lick with a 'swin...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
This tutorial comes after receiving quite a few requests to tackle the subject: tapped arpeggios. We'll be analyzing the note sequences which will best highlight chord voicings, primarily focusing on major, minor, diminished ...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
In the transcription below, we see tons and tons of notes. Be aware, however, there's really only three exercises here. We'll just be demonstrating the actual patterns in four different arpeggio shapes (minor, major, diminish...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
So let's throw together some of these arpeggios into a musical context.
We'll be highlighting a 6 1 5 4 progression in F. So, the chords are as follows: Dm, F, C, BbThe progression then concludes with a D diminished ru...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
Alright, to conclude, here's some food for thought.
I've taken a simple A minor arpeggio and arranged it in a descending fashion with alternating inversions. We'll be playing nothing more than A, C and E, but in a way that'l...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Improvising
Style: Blues
Topic: Improvising
Style: Blues
Hey IG!
This is the first installment of a three-part series on the good ol’ Blues. We’re going to take three steps, so each of the three tutorials will deal with a different type of blues, increasing in difficul...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Blues
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Blues
This is a 12-bar shuffle blues rock in E. The rhythm is based around a riff that repeats over and over and is put of every chord of the form. Be sure to internalize the 12-bar form perfectly until you can play through it in y...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Improvising
Style: Blues
Topic: Improvising
Style: Blues
Now on to the lead playing! The lines in this solo etude are based around both the E major (nicer sound) and minor (dirtier, bluesier sound) blues scales. They lead you through several positions over the neck, use different t...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
The main obective for this lesson is to teach a workout plan, similar to that which a bodybuilder would use for a weight lifting day at the gym. Basically, we will be working on 5 exercises, 3 of which are essential for right...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Now it's time to dig in!
Before you begin, please take the time to perform a proper warm-up and stretch! You can view my tutorial on this by clicking here.
Sample Workout Plan
Exercise 1: Downstrokes
Set 1 - 60 s...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Here are the five main examples, played at 84bpm. The purpose for this is solely to give you an example of 16th notes, played over a metronome.
Practice hard!
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Fusion
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Fusion
Welcome to this short ”lick-based” tutorial. This time we’re going to have a look at a Hybrid Picking lick or ”line”. This line was something I came up with in improvisation over an A Dorian groo...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Fusion
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Fusion
In this part we’ll first look at the lick slowed down, and then some isolation exercises derived from the lick. I want to note here that I have not notated the isolation exercises to conform to any kind of bar-lengths, ...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Hey guys,
For this tutorial, I wanted to focus on something that I frequently practice and incorporate into my lead playing - stretching the pentatonic scale out over three notes per-string. What we get in doing so, is a pat...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
So let's start in A minor. The A minor pentatonic consists of 5 notes, obviously, but we'll be playing in groupings of 6 which will cover all 5 pentatonic notes. This isn't overly "conventional" in the sense that we aren't st...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
So let's dive right into some "practical" context stuff and examine how we can use this technique to inspire some awesome licks based on notes we already know.
Exercise 1 is completely full of position shifts and literally c...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
This next exercise is based in C minor. We'll be covering the first two minor pentatonic positions while descending in groups of 5. Sticking to notes strictly related to the pentatonic scale, you'll begin to hear some very fl...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
To finish, let's try a descending lick that warrants a more linear voicing, with less position-shifting. I very often hear from students, and have experienced myself, the greater difficulty in descending vs. ascending scale p...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Funk
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Funk
Hello IG!
This tutorial is a short and sweet funk track, primarily based around a lead idea that I came up with while improvising. The track is based around a pop/funk drum beat, with a couple guitar parts on top of it.
You...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Funk
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Funk
This idea almost immediately came to my head after hearing the drum beat. Very simple, but it "says" what it needs to say. I'm very often inspired to write after hearing a groovy drum beat. I almost prefer to write with a dru...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Funk
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Funk
The second riff adds a percussive feel to the song, especially when using palm muting. Once again, this follows the G minor Penatonic scale. I would consider this an extremely common type of riff when dealing with pop/funk/R&...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Funk
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Funk
Now we're on to the main focus of this lesson. As said in the intro, be sure to focus on phrasing, feel, vibrato, bending, and accenting.
I've tried to include a lot of detail in the notation below, but there is still a lot ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Improvising
Style: Rock
Topic: Improvising
Style: Rock
Welcome to this "Lick-tutorial". Now, even though this was meant to be a lick-tutorial, you know me, I always press the need for real world applications and conceptual understanding of every little thing you learn! So, I felt...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Improvising
Style: Rock
Topic: Improvising
Style: Rock
Ok, time to break things down a bit. In the intro, I just groove along with the backing track organ line to get things grooving along.
Then comes the first lick, labelled (duh) Lick 1 in the tab. This lick is very much in th...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Funk
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Funk
Hey once again, shredders!
For this tutorial, I chose to break down a track that was (structurally) written by myself and a drummer friend of mine, Brandon Hopkins, with some super funky bass lines and keyboard tracks done b...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Funk
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Funk
As I mentioned in the introduction, here's where the "groove" aspect of your playing should be in full-force. Learn the notes, analyze the demonstration video to ensure your 8th shuffle feel is in line with the original, and ...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Funk
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Funk
Here's where we're introduced to our first "Guthrie" influenced lead. It highlights an F#m9, Dmaj7 and Bm7 progression and floats in and out of notes diatonic to the key to offer a very "accidental" sound.
Focus on all the t...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Funk
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Funk
This riff predominantly consists of three notes, F#, E and A. Still keeping with our shuffle-feel, the note groupings offer a polymetric sound that extends four bars. In bar 36, the meter resets resulting in a "speeding ...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Funk
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Funk
At last, the guitar solo!
Again, within the F#m blues scale, the scale slips in and out of different modes hinting at all kinds of different flavours.
Bar 60 through 61 consists of, yet again, another tapping lick - and lik...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Funk
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Funk
Hello IGers,
Today we’re getting into some funk rhythm guitar. These riffs will be useful for getting your timing and groove in shape as well as expanding your vocabulary of rhythm styles. Before we do the actual playi...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Funk
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Funk
All the examples in this tutorial are over the same II-V-I chord progression (Dm7-G7-Cmaj7). Here are the first 3 examples...
Example ASingle notes can often be enough. Here I use a note (C) that is common to all the chords ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Funk
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Funk
Next up is a riff that utilizes only the 3rd and 7th degrees of each chord. With a busy rhythm section underneath this can be enough to deliver the harmonies while maintaining a dry, percussive feel.
Note that this example u...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Funk
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Funk
For the last two riffs I decided to add some colour tones to the 3rd and 7th (such as the 9th and 13th) to get a more interesting sound.
Note that none of these examples utilize a root note. Root notes are not always necessa...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Recording
Style: Any Style
Topic: Recording
Style: Any Style
Hi guys,
This tutorial focuses on some basic principles for miking a guitar amp, in both a live, and a studio situation. In each of the following videos, I'll include sound samples, to give you a proper understanding of the ...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Recording
Style: Any Style
Topic: Recording
Style: Any Style
Basic position variables:
Location: Center, Off-Center, Edge
Axis: On or off. Measurement of angle.
Distance: Distance between speaker and micrphone.
Samples, in order:
Center, on axis
Off-center, on axis
Ed...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Recording
Style: Any Style
Topic: Recording
Style: Any Style
Common types of microphones, for recording guitar amps:
Dynamic: (Usually close miked, durable, standard for guitar amps/cabs. Ex: SM57)
Ribbon: (Delicate, dark in tone, expensive, sensitive to room noise. Ex: CAD Trion 7...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Recording
Style: Any Style
Topic: Recording
Style: Any Style
In this final clip, I spend a few minutes playing, and moving the microphone around. Hopefully by now, you have a clear understanding of the importance of mic position!
Please provide feedback and requests for perhaps, an ad...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Recording
Style: Rock
Topic: Recording
Style: Rock
Welcome to this tutorial on Getting Killer Guitar Tone for FREE!
The idea for this tutorial sprung from me looking for good software-based tone that would allow me to only bring my guitar and a small laptop to certain clinic...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Recording
Style: Rock
Topic: Recording
Style: Rock
In this part, we continue exploring the different tones of the impulse responses. You will see how radically a different impulse response can change your overall tone!
As you can see, with most of the free responses, what yo...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Recording
Style: Rock
Topic: Recording
Style: Rock
Now for Part 3. A very common trick in the studio is to use a good overdrive pedal in front of an amp. This is primarily used in non-master volume amps such as old Marshalls to fry the front of the amp a bit and up the gain a...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Introduction
Hey guys, this month, I wanted to explore some tricks inspired by numerous players in the category of "outside phrasing". Meaning, small things that can be executed which could spice things up in the area of phr...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Bending
So let's start by diving into some extended bends covering a range of intervals. A technique common to the likes of Jeff Beck, bending in this context can create for some powerful melody lines warranting a sound refl...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Sliding
Exercise A
This exercise is Petrucci-esque, it's a technique he frequently uses when playing the harmonic minor scale as, yet again, it's dirrivative of something very middle-Eastern. The note sequence is a very sim...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Harmonizing
This one's an extra I decided to throw in, it's a trick commonly executed by the likes of Per Nilsson (Scar Symmetry) or some of the more bombastic, sometimes over-the-top players like Bumblefoot.
The concept: C...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Hi folks!
The main goal behind this tutorial, is to give you a number of sweep related licks that may be a bit less typical, to what you would normally play. If you have been using this technique for years, and years, you pr...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Fusion
Topic: Technique
Style: Fusion
The first lick is very simple. A setup lick, to connect to a run in minor pentatonic, harmonic minor, etc.
If you look at the pick strokes, you'll notice that I use all down strokes. The first four notes are swept, with the ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Blues
Topic: Technique
Style: Blues
This next lick falls into the key of C major, and is also very simple. I have chosen to sweep the first two notes, and 'hybrid pick' the third note. This is purely for tonal reasons, and can just as easily be played with thre...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Fusion
Topic: Technique
Style: Fusion
This example uses legato, with sweep picking at the end. The lick uses a E7 arpeggio, and is heavily inspired by Greg Howe.
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Fusion
Topic: Technique
Style: Fusion
Now we're into the realm of licks that require a bit more technical skill. Try your best to keep this clean, and accurate!
Keep in mind that you can use the same pattern, with a number of different arpeggios and shapes. For ...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Fusion
Topic: Technique
Style: Fusion
This example is inspired by a commonly played Zakk Wylde lick. For years, I had been playing this lick using alternate picking, and one day discovered that it is much easier for me to play, if swept! As in some of the other e...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Fusion
Topic: Technique
Style: Fusion
This example is more of a textural lick, at least, when played in repetition.
I like to use hybrid picking for the G# note on the 9th fret of the B string, but feel free to use sweeping / legato, or whatever feels best.
Wor...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
For the final example, we have a textural diminished arpeggio run! Now, you may be thinking.. Doesn't this go against the whole focus of this tutorial? Well, somewhat.. but like I said, there is nothing wrong with 'sweep runs...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Improvising
Style: Fusion
Topic: Improvising
Style: Fusion
Hello IG,
In this tutorial we’ll be dealing with a substitution idea that should breathe new life into your playing over a certain chord vamp. I ran across this device upon transcribing Tim Miller’s solo on Janek...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Improvising
Style: Fusion
Topic: Improvising
Style: Fusion
Okay, time to get playing! This first example is really dry and not overly creative, but it is just the right thing to get the sound of this substitution into your ears. It also shows you a simple but effective way to resolve...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Improvising
Style: Fusion
Topic: Improvising
Style: Fusion
Example 2 is a little bit more interestingly sequenced. Look at how the lick steps out of Cm into F#maj in bar 2, and is back “inside” on beat 1 of bar 3.
Level: Advanced
Topic: Improvising
Style: Fusion
Topic: Improvising
Style: Fusion
Here’s a little twist I added myself. My initial idea was to add more notes to the F# triad without compromising too much of its distinct sound (like a scale would do), so I expanded the triad with the notes D#/Eb and G...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Improvising
Style: Fusion
Topic: Improvising
Style: Fusion
And to round things off, here’s a nice little example combining the concepts discussed in this tutorial and my last tutorial, Eric Johnson Style Triads.
As always, be sure to ask anything that’s on your mind rega...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Any Style
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Any Style
Welcome everyone! In this tutorial, we'll be looking at a song riff in the style of John Mayer.
This riff is something I came up with after watching his performance on "Storytellers". It's actually meant to be played on an a...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Any Style
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Any Style
Now for the verse. Of course, if this song was to be true to the style of John Mayer, it would have to have some pretty killer vocals and lyrics on top, but since I'm not that proficient in either of those two fields, I...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Any Style
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Any Style
Now, the chorus has something of a half-time feel compared to the verse, which I feel is a nice reprieve from the up-tempo groove of the verse riff.
The same holds true here as well with the right hand. The right hand ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Any Style
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Any Style
In this part you can see how the "slap" and thumb techniques work in unison. I begin slowly, and as I build speed I gradually move from the "slow version" of the verse bass line to the line played in the performance section, ...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Hey guys! This month, due to being heavily involved in the writing process of the new Threat Signal record, I decided to break down the mechanics of this interesting rhythm-style, in hopes that you can incorporate it into you...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Intro:
Make the distinction between rests and longer note durations, for instance; the Bb note on the third fret in bar 1 is a held 8th beat, wheras the two 16ths that follow are short 16ths followed by a rest.
Palm muting ...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Pre-Chorus
The pre-chorus riff is very Vigilance-esque. Pay close attention to how the riff "resets" near the end of bar 7. The note sequence will be much easier to grasp by not biting off more than you can chew, or in other...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Post-Chorus
This riff serves as the common "heavy riff after the chorus" segment which usually ties the chorus back to a verse.
Rhythmically, it's a bit of a finger-twister. Each bar starts the same, and ends a little diffe...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Funk
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Funk
Hey folks!
This tutorial features a latin-funk piece that I came up with. You'll be learning four different parts, and improvising at the end. If you haven't already guessed, this is heavily influenced by Maroon 5.
Hope you...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Funk
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Funk
The first part of this piece, is perhaps the layer that gives this song the majority of its 'groove'. This is perhaps my favourite style of rhythm guitar! Simple chords, with specific right hand accents.
Try dialing in a mod...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Funk
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Funk
Part 2 is a catchy melody, played as a rhythm guitar part. Even though this is a fairly 'busy' line for rhythm, it still works well with vocals, or lead guitar.
It's important to play staccato, especially where noted in the ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Funk
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Funk
Next, we'll be moving the melody up a minor third to play the harmony part. It's quite easy to play once you've learned the main melody in the previous lesson.
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Funk
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Funk
The lead part naturally came to me as soon as I started improvising over the backing track. It's a repetitive melody that I feel stacks well with the previous ideas, as well as other melodies! I can see this as being looped o...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Chords
Style: Any Style
Topic: Chords
Style: Any Style
Hey friends,
Today we’ll be dealing with a concept that has been fascinating me ever since I came across it: wide interval triads á la Eric Johnson, Steve Morse, etc.
Firstly, let’s look at how these tria...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Reference
Style: Any Style
Topic: Reference
Style: Any Style
In this part of the tutorial I’ll show you a few fingerings for the D Major and D minor wide-interval-triads. Of course, there are tons more but these are the most useable in my opinion. Be sure to always be aware of th...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Chords
Style: Jazz
Topic: Chords
Style: Jazz
Here’s one of the most exciting applications for these shapes: chord melody!
This is just a quick improvisation I came up with. You’ll soon discover how much fun it is to mess around with these shapes. Their soun...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Fusion
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Fusion
Okay, now it’s time to increase our soloing vocabulary with a few licks. Any of these 3 licks can be used against a static Dmin7 chord.
The first one is a melodic sequence that uses a few substitutions against the old ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
In order to spice things up a little, let’s add a few color tones to these triads. This example uses the 9th (the note E against Dmin7) and the 11th (the note G against Dmin7) in conjunction with the regular Dmin triad ...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
This last example shows how to incorporate these shapes into a more straight-forward shredding context. Like the first lick, it utilizes a few substitutions and some very tricky string skips, so it is bound to get your altern...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Improvising
Style: Latin
Topic: Improvising
Style: Latin
This lesson is a latin feeling improvisation that utilizes notes from two easy sources: the G Major scale, and the D minor pentatonic scale. You will notice that it is in the key of G Major. The entire tab is included b...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Improvising
Style: Latin
Topic: Improvising
Style: Latin
The chords contained in the backing are:
G7M, C#sus4, C, C7M
Notice that the G note in the bass is held for most of the progression. Movement is minimal despite the tonal changes. Economy of movement is importa...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Improvising
Style: Latin
Topic: Improvising
Style: Latin
In this example, be careful of bar 2 where there is a short burst of three notes. They are intentionally fast, passing notes to set up the G note on the first beat of bar 3. Remember also that ties carry note values across th...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Improvising
Style: Latin
Topic: Improvising
Style: Latin
If you have a tremolo bar on your guitar, now is the time to put it to work! This example uses it quite sparingly, but you can experiment with greater degrees of bending for a more 'outside' effect. If you aren't able to use ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Improvising
Style: Latin
Topic: Improvising
Style: Latin
Important note: the last 7 bars use the fingers of the right hand in place of the pick. Bar 2 can be a tricky transition, so practice transferring your pick to a comfortable place in your hand while you use your fi...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Reference
Style: Any Style
Topic: Reference
Style: Any Style
Welcome to this tutorial on how to turn your Channel-Challenged Work Horse into a Multi-Channel Monster!
What you need is an amp with a serial effects loop and a distortion channel you like. You'll also need a multi-eff...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Reference
Style: Any Style
Topic: Reference
Style: Any Style
So, the idea with the 4-cable method is to expand your amp. If you have ever used a single channel clean amp, or a dual-channel where you don’t like the gain channel, and only use the clean with pedals, you are of cours...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Reference
Style: Any Style
Topic: Reference
Style: Any Style
On to creating our first channel. I want this first channel to be my Distorted rhythm channel, using the gain channel of the amp. Basically what I need here is to have only the FX-unit Loop activated with nothing else, ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Reference
Style: Any Style
Topic: Reference
Style: Any Style
Now on to creating our Lead Channel. There are several traditional ways of pushing an amp's gain channel into lead-level heaven. The old-school method would be to stick a classic OD in front of the amp (think “Tubescrea...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Reference
Style: Any Style
Topic: Reference
Style: Any Style
Creating the clean channel using the 4-cable method has its unique set of circumstances.
Remember, as we are bypassing the preamp-section completely and going straight to the Power amp section of the amp, we do not have the ...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Hi guys, for this tutorial I wanted to break down an original of mine entitled "The Eccentric Hillbilly". After writing this track in late 2007, I decided to enter it into Guitar Idol 2008, it got me through to the finals in ...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
To get started, we'll see some quick licks, most incorporating "chicken pickin'" , which is commonly referred to as "hybrid picking" (a technique incorporating both the pick and fingers of the right hand). The number 2 will b...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Here's where things get really interesting: incorporating common bass technique. Slapping and popping in this context is rarely seen, but when demonstrated effectively, can produce a very interesting and innovative sound.
Ha...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
To conclude, we play the chorus, and a 3-bar tapping lick which brings us to verse 2 (another time!). The main thing to keep in mind, with regards to the chorus, is the nuances in phrasing. The bends, vibrato and legato demon...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Hi guys, and welcome to this tutorial called "4 Step Groove".
I decided to put together a backing, combining both my love for Joe Satriani along with my funky taste in music.
Though I've labeled this as a "song tutorial", I...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
In the first section, I chose to play the rhythm guitar part simply for the sake of showing it to you. Pay close attention to the timing, and also the pick strokes marked in the notation below.
This song is in the key of Eb ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Now let's start doing some leads!
You may notice that I'm outlining the chords through my melody. A very simple, effective, and melodic approach, commonly heard by Eric Johnson.
I should point out that if you play these lic...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
We continue arpeggiating in this lick, and get a bit more into the shred-realm.
If you've watched my Descending Legato Lick lesson, you may recognize some common techniques displayed here.
Try experimenting by placing vibra...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
The final section features a series of 16th note triplets using chromatic passing tones. This is a common type of lick for me. I chose to use it in this tutorial to offer a more challenging and "technical" lick.
The final 4 ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Theory
Style: Any Style
Topic: Theory
Style: Any Style
Welcome to another tutorial!
This time we’ll be dealing with an interval called the sixth. Just to give you a brief theoretic explanation: an interval is the distance of the pitches of two notes. The sixth (unlike the ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
The next thing we’re gonna do is to utilize this interval over a static chord, in this case A7 (consisting of root-3rd, 5th, b7). The scale for the chord would be A mixolydian (notes of the D major scale against an A7 c...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Scales
Style: Blues
Topic: Scales
Style: Blues
Alright, let me show you a pattern now that is really useful for your blues repertoire. Since your average blues is made up of only dominant 7th chords you can apply the pattern over each chord equally. I also added a few chr...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Blues
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Blues
To conclude our lesson, here are sixth intervals is an actual “real life” soloing situation. It’s really important to apply these things but mix them up with your other concepts and licks, in order to not so...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Blues
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Blues
Lick 1
The first example uses a chromatic run and legato. Use it to break out of the traditional blues box. The chromatic notes add interest and stretch the listener. The tempo is quite fast, so practice it cleanly. Make sur...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Blues
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Blues
Lick 2
This is a unique way to turn ordinary lines into head turning slide emulation. Heavily influenced by Jimmy Herring and Derek Trucks, it uses only a few notes, but wrings every possible sound from them. By staying on o...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Blues
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Blues
Lick 3
This is a lick in the style of Stevie Ray Vaughan. Nothing says blues like an occasional nod to one of the greats. Many players try to emulate Stevie to the point of unoriginality. Be careful to become your own player...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Blues
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Blues
Lick 4
This lick is built around an Am arpeggio played over G minor. It sounds fairly outside when played in context due to the first notes in the pattern. Don't overdo it though. An occasional departure from the diato...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Blues
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Blues
Lick 5
This lick requires you to master the art of raking the strings. It's a good transition lick to set up your favourite blues runs. It is derived from the F# Blues scale. Don't let the fact that it's short fool you - it ...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Hey everyone, and welcome to this song tutorial!
This is a piece taken from a pretty heavy tune I wrote a while back. You can hear the full version on my profile page if you'd like. Make sure you turn your amp up to 11 for t...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
This first riff is going to be somewhat floating over the 4/4 time signature. I like incorporating riffs over 4/4 drum grooves that don't always perfectly line up within the 4/4 structure. For example, bar 4 is in 4/4 time, h...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
This part is an extension of Part 1, except it's a lot more aggressive with the palm muting and we're also now perfectly aligned with the drums in 4/4 time.
Make sure your palm muting spans across all three bottom strings to...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
This part will definitely test your picking hand's stamina. There is a massive amount of "galloping triplets" on the sixth string. You'll need to concentrate on making sure everything stays in perfect sync with both hands. Pr...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
This part has a cool call and answer section. In bars 29-30, we have a heavy rhythm creating the "call", then in bars 31-32 we have the guitar's melody "answering the call". Then the same thing happens in bars 33-36.
"Call a...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
The last part is the easiest section of the piece, involving some solid strumming of power chords. Again, make sure the rests are dead silent. For this riff in particular, it's very important that the riff breathes between th...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Exercises
Style: Holiday
Topic: Exercises
Style: Holiday
Ho-Ho-Ho Holiday Guitar Slingers!
Welcome to the Infinite Guitar Santa's Christmas Knuckle Busters!
In this tutorial we will look at some exercises to help you with both right/left hand coordination, but also with mind/hand...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Exercises
Style: Holiday
Topic: Exercises
Style: Holiday
This part is for those of you Elves that have graduated primary school and are ready to move on to Elf college!
Here it gets a little more tricky. The example below is a very simple 3-note per string pattern that follows the...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Exercises
Style: Holiday
Topic: Exercises
Style: Holiday
Okay! For those of you Elves that have passed the previous example, it's time to advance to the level of Gnome!
You should all be familiar with the standard A minor (Aeolian) scale by now, so what we will do here is play tha...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Exercises
Style: Holiday
Topic: Exercises
Style: Holiday
Ahh, the Grinch, the furry little green devil of Christmas that just won't leave us alone! But, in the spirit of his genial personality and insanity, I've devised a special treat for all you Grinches out there.
If you've stu...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Hey guys, I've been on a classic John Petrucci kick lately so I decided to piece together a solo which captures the essence of Mr. Petrucci as best as possible.
The solo is comprised of two sections, the first covering his b...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
This first 16 bars of the solo move in and out of the blues scale; from a natural Bm scale to F# dorian. Based mostly around simple pentatonic positions and "box" scales, it portrays Petrucci's ability to take elements of blu...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
The second half of the solo, as mentioned in the introductory video, contains more linear and minor sounding licks. It opens with some tricky scale fragments that should be treated "loosely" as opposed to being locked in comp...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Effects
Style: Any Style
Topic: Effects
Style: Any Style
Welcome!
This lesson will cover some of the basic aspects that you will need to know, to efficiently use delay in your arsenal of tones! I will mainly be talking about the different types of delay, and some examples of their...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Effects
Style: Any Style
Topic: Effects
Style: Any Style
Types of Delay/Echo:
Digital: exact or close replica of the original note (or sound).
Analog: warm, dark, decaying with each repeat.
Tape: warm, usually modulated, sometimes chaotic from flaws in the tape.
Level: Beginner
Topic: Effects
Style: Any Style
Topic: Effects
Style: Any Style
Application:
Timeless (non-rhythmic): used to fill space, off-sync with the song / tempo.
Rhythmic: matched to fit a particular beat / note duration.
Technical Terms:
Delay: distance between original attack and repeat(s)....
Level: Beginner
Topic: Effects
Style: Any Style
Topic: Effects
Style: Any Style
For this example, we will set the delay time to a dotted 8th note. This is relavent to the tempo you choose to play at - if your delay pedal has a tap tempo, you would tap quarter notes, and set your delay time to dotted 8th ...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Effects
Style: Any Style
Topic: Effects
Style: Any Style
For this example, we will set the delay time to a quarter note. Again, I play regular 8th notes, along with the delayed signal.
I often use this technique, paired with a clean guitar part.
This time, try arpeggiating the ch...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Effects
Style: Any Style
Topic: Effects
Style: Any Style
Volume swells work great when using delay. Particularly if you have a heavy mix, and a high level of feedback.
If you're interested in hearing more examples of this, check out some 'ambient guitar' music.
Level: Beginner
Topic: Effects
Style: Any Style
Topic: Effects
Style: Any Style
Now it's time to get a little crazy!
If you raise the feedback level, you can often cause an infinite loop that gets more intense with each repeat. Have some fun with this, and don't forget to play around with the delay knob...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
Hey friends,
Holidays are drawing nearer and it’s time to get our alternate picking chops in shape! My goal with this tutorial is to show you a systematic way of approaching this technique in combination with creating ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
Alright, in the tab below you have our first set of exercises. Let’s break them down individually.
Exercise #1: I’m sure you recognize this as the classic Paul Gilbert-pattern. Truth is that it’s one of THE...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
Exercise #3: Here’s a two-note-per-string pattern, very helpful for playing pentatonic lines.
Exercise #4: Another pattern you’ve heard a thousand times, I’m sure. This one tackles licks on one string...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
Exercise #5: Each note is picked twice here.
Exercise #6: Here’s a common scale sequence that mixes up the amount of notes per string.
Level: Advanced
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
Exercise #7: It’s getting tougher. Here’s a minor arpeggio sequence utilizing a 1-note-per-string pattern, which is a huge challenge to play even at slow to mid-paced tempos.
Exercise #8: Now we’re talking....
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Chords
Style: Any Style
Topic: Chords
Style: Any Style
Introduction
The Nashville number system allows you to quickly jump into unfamiliar music even without knowing standard notation! As the name suggests, it originated with Nashville studio musicians who needed a quick...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Theory
Style: Any Style
Topic: Theory
Style: Any Style
Theory
Now that we know the chords of the diatonic key (naturally occurring chords within the major scale), we can apply the follow roman numerals to each of the chords:
I, ii, iii, IV, V, vi, vii.&nbs...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Chords
Style: Holiday
Topic: Chords
Style: Holiday
Rhythm
This system of interpreting music has a very handy visual method of showing rhythms. All the chords are broken down into measures. When you look at a chart, you can see exactly where the chord occurs. Each cho...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Chords
Style: Any Style
Topic: Chords
Style: Any Style
Welcome to this tutorial on Alternate Tunings!
The aim of this tutorial is not to provide you with tons of different tunings, nor to show you how to tune your guitars to these tunings. Let's assume that you already know how ...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Chords
Style: Any Style
Topic: Chords
Style: Any Style
So, in this second example we take a common "country roll" arpeggio (like the one used in my Bridging the gap to Country tutorial), and see how we can use that in this open E tuning. The challenge when trying to apply more sc...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Chords
Style: Any Style
Topic: Chords
Style: Any Style
Now, the DADGAD-tuning, or open sus4 tuning as it is also called, is a very common tuning in both modern rock, and alternative pop. I guess for the mainstream audience it was brought to light during the grunge-era m...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Chords
Style: Any Style
Topic: Chords
Style: Any Style
The final tuning is derived from the DADGAD-tuning, and is the same apart from the G being tuned up to A, thus having A on both the second and third string. The use of two identically tuned strings are also a great ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
So to get started, this is a lesson for the people who've found themselves to be stuck playing through the same pentatonic boxes day-in, day-out, and are looking for a change. This is the most effective way I've found my stud...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
The following examples are given in the key of E minor/G major, but I will explain how to transpose to other keys afterward, so be patient. I want to begin by demonstrating the key of E minor in groupings of 6, starting from ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
After memorizing the 7 symmetrical positions, practice each scale segment in it's three octaves one-after-another. Keep in mind that these scales work great for picking/legato exercises as well, so have fun and be creative in...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Now, as promised, let's try this method out in other keys. The beauty about learning guitar-theory, is once you learn one scale, to alter it's key, it usually just requires shifting everything up or down the fret-board, and t...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Improvising
Style: Jazz
Topic: Improvising
Style: Jazz
Hello and welcome to my first IG tutorial! I’m really excited to share some of my knowledge and experience with you guys. So let’s dig right in, shall we?
So this tutorial is about Rhythm Changes. No, that has no...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Chords
Style: Jazz
Topic: Chords
Style: Jazz
Now it’s time to get into some actual playing! The repeating form for head and solos is AABA and here’s the original progression (the triangle stands for Major7):
Here is the progression in roman numerals...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Improvising
Style: Jazz
Topic: Improvising
Style: Jazz
Alright, now the fun begins. It’s time to solo! Just like in the previous lesson the amount of chord changes might be a bit overwhelming at first. So what we’re going to do is increase our licks vocabulary by play...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Improvising
Style: Jazz
Topic: Improvising
Style: Jazz
Here’s the same thing played slow. Note how different the time feel in this type of soloing is. This tempo will help you understand the fundamentals of swing in jazz soloing.
Now it’s your time to incorporate the...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Hi there!
I'd like to start by saying that this tutorial is going to be broken up into several parts. The first part (ex 1-3) is very, very basic. Today, we'll try a few simple licks, that work well when repeated. At a later...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
This lick would typically be used by a "shredder", most likely in the climax of a solo. It would most likely sound best at a moderately fast speed.
Try playing this with, and without a metronome. This type of lick does not n...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
This example is easy to use in a number of different genres. It falls into the commonly used Pentatonic box, which makes it really easy to add in, and connect to other ideas.
After you get a grasp on the lick, try improvisin...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Here's another simple lick that I commonly use. You can think of this lick as a connector lick, that you can use to fill space between ideas, when improvising. It's always nice to have some quick and easy 'go-to' licks in you...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Theory
Style: Any Style
Topic: Theory
Style: Any Style
Hey Guys!
This tutorial is an introduction to sight reading. It assumes that you are already familiar with standard notation on the treble clef. If you aren't ready to dive into it yet, be sure to check out the audio l...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Theory
Style: Any Style
Topic: Theory
Style: Any Style
This example is a rather tedious, but highly beneficial exercise to work into your practice routine. It uses a repeated note (open b string) and cycles through four single meters - 2/4, 3/4, 4/4 and 5/4. We will leave out com...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Theory
Style: Any Style
Topic: Theory
Style: Any Style
The last example is a Jazz phrase over a II/V/I chord progression in the key of Db Major. It begins to tie together the concepts of rhythm and notation reading. I've intentionally put it in a key with five flats to add an ext...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Exercises
Style: Rock
Topic: Exercises
Style: Rock
Welcome to Keeping the Groove in Improvisation!
Keeping the groove and keeping it "in the pocket" so to say, are essential skills when improvising, especially in funk-rock, funk or fusion, where rhythm is of prime importance...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Exercises
Style: Rock
Topic: Exercises
Style: Rock
In this part we'll get better acquainted with the riff we are going to improvise over, and the part of said riff which we will need to pay extra close attention to.
As you can see in the tab (and hear in the backing section)...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Exercises
Style: Rock
Topic: Exercises
Style: Rock
The idea here is to be that much more aware of what is actually going on "behind" us as we play live, or over a backing. I'm sure you've been playing live some time and during your improv the drummer might start playing so...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Exercises
Style: Rock
Topic: Exercises
Style: Rock
And here is the improvisation. You should be able to see how I go in and out of the figure we're trying to nail. Also pay close attention to the video, because there are specific fingerings I do that might help certain transi...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
One of the most important, and often overlooked elements of the guitar is the tone created by your fingers. It is the first point of contact that you have with the guitar, and possibly one of the most crucial in creating an i...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Blues
Topic: Technique
Style: Blues
The following is a simple lick at first glance, but contains a number of elements which require attention to detail. The lick, which is derived from a Gm Pentatonic scale uses only the right hand fingers. By not using a pick,...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Chords
Style: Blues
Topic: Chords
Style: Blues
This lesson builds on what we learned in the previous video. It vamps on a Dm7 chord to achieve a funky rhythmic sound. Although we are only using one chord, the percussive stops and staccato feel give it an interesting flavo...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Jazz
Topic: Technique
Style: Jazz
This example is a short jazz comp which connects chords of the diatonic key using a walking bass line. Passing tones are used as a way to get from one chord idea to the root of the next. In standard jazz progressions, a piani...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Any Style
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Any Style
Next-Level StrummingIntroduction
This months lesson will focus solely on strumming. For those of you who have surpassed the beginning stages of basic quarter and 8th beat strumming phrases, this lesson is focusing on breakin...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Latin
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Latin
Next-Level StrummingLatin Grooves
Exercise 1:
To get things started, let's break down a fairly basic latin groove. Commonly referred to as a "Clave", this feel is very often abducted into popular rock. Let's examine how it ...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Any Style
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Any Style
Next-Level StrummingReggae Feel
Exercise 1:This reggae pattern is perhaps one of the most common within the genre. It begins with the accented root note, the chop of the higher end of the major chord, 2 muted 8th beat accent...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Any Style
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Any Style
Next-Level StrummingCeltic
A fairly common pattern made "difficult". Not really, but it sure seems that way! The reason for the altered picking direction one beat prior to the final set of triplets in bar 1 is for beat-empha...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Country
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Country
Next-Level StrummingCountry Feel
Exercise 1:Let's change gears a bit and try out some cool country rhythms. This one in particular can be played at various tempos and can work in many different (country) contexts. This rhyth...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
Hey guys!
As mentioned, this tutorial is a bit different than what you may expect to see from me! Please, please, please! Take the time to go through this series of videos, and strongly consider some of the cautions that I r...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
Physical Temperature is often over-looked, when developing a proper warm-up routine.
A few stretching techniques mentioned in this video:
Wrist-Back Stretch
Wrist-Forward Stretch
Basic Thumb Stretch
Also be sure to massa...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
Now let's move on to preparation for either a practice session, or a performance scenario.
For the most part, my goal here is to your muscles working! Get the blood flowing, get your muscles ready, etc.
Have some fun and pl...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
Now, it's time to actually practice a specific exercise. Check out the tab below, and remember to repeat this sequence as desired, moving up one fret each time.
As mentioned, it would also be a good idea to do a couple right...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
Thanks for watching, and I hope these ideas help your performance, and keep you injury free!
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Reference
Style: Any Style
Topic: Reference
Style: Any Style
Welcome!
In this tutorial we're going to take a gander at thirdless voicings and how to use these both to further our own improvisation, but also as practicing tools for ear training, as well as excellent song writing tools!...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Reference
Style: Any Style
Topic: Reference
Style: Any Style
So, the first thing we want to get in our heads are how the different chord tones sounds in relation to the thirdless voicings. So, I want you to sing as you play the chords the roots (A,F,G), then the fifths (E,C,D) and fina...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Reference
Style: Fusion
Topic: Reference
Style: Fusion
OK, so the concept of thirdless voicings can of course be expanded to cover pretty much any musical style. If you're into fusion, fine. If you're into singing/songwriting, equally fine! This is something that, once you have i...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Reference
Style: Any Style
Topic: Reference
Style: Any Style
So, "fusion" then... Fusion is of course a very broad genre, so we will just focus on the kind of modern fusion that leans heavily towards quartal harmony and such. In the first part, with the progression borrowed from the Vi...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Reference
Style: Any Style
Topic: Reference
Style: Any Style
And here is the impro. Even though I make a conscious effort to work around the thirds we discussed,
it's still an improvisation, and as such I don't limit myself to simply that, but go were the moment takes me.
After looki...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Blues
Topic: Technique
Style: Blues
Hey there! In this video we'll be looking a blues lick inspired by Joe Bonamassa, a modern blues player. Remember to learn it slowly in parts. The lick is played over an Am7 chord. Be sure to execute the 1/2 bend precisely, a...
Level: Crazy!
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Hey guys! This lesson is going to be devoted to one of my favorite lead players in metal today - Per Nilsson of Scar Symmetry. After getting quite a few requests to break down some of Per's licks, I decided to piece ...
Level: Crazy!
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Part 1: Sweep Arpeggio Sequences
The solo begins with a sequence of major arpeggios with the exception of the opening (minor). The key modulations are rather random, but warrant a very classical sounding movement that is ver...
Level: Crazy!
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
PART 2: Harmonic Minor Madness
Bars 5-12This section contains some signature Per-licks, from the pedal-tone lick in bar 6 to the descending harmonic minor lick starting in bar 7. The only key to mastering these, specifically...
Level: Crazy!
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
PART 3: A Play on Rhythm
Bars 13-16
At 150BPM, some of the rhythms found within bars 13-14 may cause some frustration. Be sure to play these slow and REALLY examine where the beats are, the durations (especially dotted 8ths...
Level: Crazy!
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
PART 4: Legato Arpeggio SequencesBars 17-22This section begins melodically, then climbs a 2 note per string pattern beginning on an up-stroke. This IS subjective as I know a lot of players who would attack this lick starting ...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Fusion
Topic: Technique
Style: Fusion
Hello and welcome! In this tutorial we'll be going over a lick inspired by John Petrucci, especially from his more "bluesy" days.
Check out the lick then move on to the next video for an explanation, an extra exerc...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Fusion
Topic: Technique
Style: Fusion
So as you can hear, this is definitely "Petrucci style" especially with how we're alternate picking a chromatic sequence.
Some key points and tips:
- Works over the key of A minor.
- Mainly uses alternate picking.
- Pract...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Hello!
Here's a neat little idea I came up with a while ago.
This idea contains a handful of different techniques, so be sure to pay close attention to the tablature. I have included the pick strokes, to further assist your...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
In this video, I touch on a couple variations of the lick. Try playing the lick with a 'triplet feel', or 'swing'. Hybrid picking also works well with this idea.
If you struggle with alternate picking across multiple strings...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Fusion
Topic: Technique
Style: Fusion
Welcome to this tutorial on Hybrid Picking!
Hybrid picking is a very useful technique, applicable in many musical styles, ranging from Country to Fusion. In the world of country this technique is called "Chicken Picking", pr...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Fusion
Topic: Technique
Style: Fusion
OK, so before we go into the actual sequences we will look at some preliminary exercises that nails the essence of what we will be doing. First off we will do 3-string, 4-note arpeggios going up the scale.
As you can see in ...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Fusion
Topic: Technique
Style: Fusion
I this first example, we use the 4-note arpeggio derived from the preliminary exercises. As discussed there, we can then take this up any scale. In this particular example I have used the A Dorian mode, but do try this over a...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Fusion
Topic: Technique
Style: Fusion
In example 2, we use the same A Dorian mode, but this time we will also encounter a position shift, moving up the fretboard ascending, and then descending further up the neck. In this example you should note that when descend...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Fusion
Topic: Technique
Style: Fusion
In example 3 it's time for some diminished runs, which we of course all love don't we now!
The Am13 provides an excellent backdrop for the Half-Whole step diminished scale, since it shares may common tones with the A Dorian ...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Fusion
Topic: Technique
Style: Fusion
Example 4 is a kicker! In this one we move into the promised land of pentatonics so get ready to stretch those fingers!
Here we're using the 3-note per string approach to pentatonics, connecting two adjacent positions. We al...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Fusion
Topic: Technique
Style: Fusion
So, we've run through 4 examples of arpeggios now, so it's high time we get down to some linear stuff right?
In example 5 we play the A Dorian scale ascending and descending in a very linear fashion, just to get used to pick...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Fusion
Topic: Technique
Style: Fusion
In the final example we have a sequence that combines with arpeggiated and linear ideas. Here, we will also be using hybrid picking both ascending and descending. By now, you should have the two main approaches firmly under y...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Any Style
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Any Style
Hey guys!
This is a performance video showcasing clips from songs I've written and also used in previous tutorials. I hope you enjoy the music, and be sure to check out these tutorials if you haven't already!
NeoBlues Song ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Metal
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Metal
In my last tutorial, I spent a fair bit of time explaining and breaking down the factors that make up polymeters. In essence, we scratched the surface of the concept. This month, I chose to turn up the heavy knob just a littl...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Metal
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Metal
This first riff is a Meshuggah-esque riff in the sense that we're playing a measure of 13/16 under a basic drum groove of 4/4. After three whole bars, the meter still has not reset, so you'll have to pay close attention to th...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Metal
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Metal
This riff consists of almost solely dotted eighth beats, with the exception of one short phrase. The purpose for this riff is to demonstrate what dotted eighth beats sound like being carried from one bar to the next. A very c...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Metal
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Metal
This riff, although not polymetric in nature, is a very common pattern in metal. Lamb of God and Meshuggah should very well come to mind when playing some of these 32nd beat gallops.We learn early on that alternate pick...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Fusion
Topic: Technique
Style: Fusion
Hello!
Here's a tasty lick that I came up with after being inspired by the amazing Carl Verheyen!
As mentioned in the video, this lick uses alternate picking, legato, as well as a bit of sweep picking. It's in the key of A ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Welcome Guitar Athletes!
In this month’s tutorial we’ll be looking a song transcript from my 2004 FretDance album, called The March. We won’t be going into detail with every single overlay and harmonized le...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Get set, ready, GO!
In this first event, we’ll look at the main 6-string riffs in the tune, the main riff, the bridge, the chorus and the bridge leading in to the solo sections.
In the first riff, the key element is m...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
First off in event 2, please note that the 7th B string is down tuned one whole step to A. Furthermore, you might note that the part is noted with bass clef instead of G clef, which is something that GP seems to do by default...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
For the final event, we have the melody line and some other fun stuff.
First of all, I have noted the melody line with the same kind of alternate picked approach as the riffs. However, this can be played using legato, hybrid...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Any Style
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Any Style
Part 1: Creating Your Own Pulse - An Introduction to 8th Beat PolymetersWhat this lesson will introduce, or engrain in your brains is just another method for making your improvisational skills set you apart. Drummers love gui...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Any Style
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Any Style
Improv Techniques - Creating Your Own Pulse - Groups of 2/4
So let's take number one and apply our rhythmic grouping. We'll find that this one basically consists of two groups of four - or in other words - simply two sequenc...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Any Style
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Any Style
Improv Techniques - Creating Your Own Pulse - Groups of 3
Here we see groupings of three eigth notes (not to be confused with triplets) being played to a straight four feel.
Due to the meter being cut off each time (when on...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Any Style
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Any Style
Improv Techniques - Creating Your Own Pulse - Groups of 5
Here, we're introduced to a grouping of five and then a grouping of three, just to get our brains working in five-mode. Longer sequences can get very tricky, but conf...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Any Style
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Any Style
A very common issue when practicing odd groupings like these is that players will actually miss the soul purpose behind them by not being completely locked in with the underlying rhythm (whatever it might be - backing track, ...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Reference
Style: Any Style
Topic: Reference
Style: Any Style
Hi there! Welcome to my tutorial on 'Right Hand Dynamics.' The point of this tutorial is to touch on various concepts, and techniques, that will help you develop a myriad of tones, sounds, and dynamic levels.
In this video, ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Some additional concepts/topics in this video:
Location of Pick (near the bridge vs. towards the neck)
Pick Attack (soft or hard, using upstrokes for tonal reasons)
Something that I again forgot to mention: The pick that y...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Fusion
Topic: Technique
Style: Fusion
In this improv, I try to incorporate some of the different concepts I discussed in the previous videos, and try to make some obvious change in dynamics.
Enjoy!
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Fusion
Topic: Technique
Style: Fusion
In the first example, we have a lick that uses pull-offs, and falls into the E minor blues pentatonic box.
This personally reminds me of a Joe Satriani lick that I have heard on one or more of his albums. The point of giving...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Fusion
Topic: Technique
Style: Fusion
Here's a funky example of how to get a different sound on your guitar! I like to call this 'alternate picking with your fingers,' because you repeatedly attack the strings up and down with your thumb and finger. It provides a...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Fusion
Topic: Technique
Style: Fusion
In our final example, we have a fun & fancy hybrid picking lick! This run features a major 7 arpeggio, as well as some chromatic notes, and is of course in the key of E minor.
Some players may prefer to use sweep picking...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Fusion
Topic: Technique
Style: Fusion
I decided to do another demonstration - this time, playing each of the three examples from this tutorial. I added in some improv, in between some of the licks, and at the end of the video.
This should be quite helpful, espec...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Hello!
Here's a lick that I wrote/recorded on my band's latest album. My producer asked for 'ear candy,' and I did my best to please him! You can hear the lick in a clip from the actual song at 1:19 in the video. Hopefully, ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Welcome to this follow-up to the Vibrato 101 tutorial. As I mentioned in that tutorial, I thought that timing and vibrato merits its very own tutorial, so here we go.
First of all, remember how we discussed the "smooth and e...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Okay, so what do I mean by "floating time"? What this means is that you, whilst keeping your vibrato even, play faster or slower in relation to the beat. For example, one thing you could try is to set your metronome at 120bpm...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
What I've done here is improvise over a 120bmp backing in Am. You can view this as either being pure Amin (A Aeolian), as I'm mostly doing in this improvisation. However, since the backing is largely situated around the G...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Hey guys! I decided to break down some cool economy-picked licks. Economy picking is a great technique to aquire in your repetoire of shred-tastic abilities, so take your time and make sure to pay close attention to the picki...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Adim Descending Arpeggio (Groupings of 5)Here's our second example - it features the diminished triad descending through four different positions.Identify the first note of each grouping. For instance, the first group of five...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
G7/C7/F7 Asceding Arpeggios (Groupings of 7)Our third example in includes three ascending patterns, each highlighting dominant 7 chords, the first being a G7, the second, C7, and finally F7. This is a great lick and can be ex...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Mixed Descending Arpeggios (Odd Groupings)On to number four. This one features, once again, four positions being played in a descending fashion. It begins by higlighting an Am7 arpeggio by playing a grouping of five notes, de...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Complete Madness!Here's the fifth and final excercise for Advanced Economy Picking. This one, entitled "Complete Madness" contains a pile of different position-shifts and technique derivatives.It begins with a 5-string Am swe...
Level: Crazy!
Topic: Technique
Style: Fusion
Topic: Technique
Style: Fusion
Greetings!
Here, we have a lick in the key of E minor, that's very typical for me to use when playing in the genre of shred/fusion. This lick focuses mainly on your left hand, but also uses a touch of sweep picking!
Though ...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
Welcome to this tutorial on Vibrato!
In this video I've put emphasis on the "show & tell" principle rather than tons of text for you to read, and enforced my video examples with the graphs below. So I won't be ranting to...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
So, the first vibrato technique we will look into is what I call the "door knob" vibrato. The term refers to the rotation of the hand, rather than the fingers creating movement and exacting force.
In this case there are...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
So, probably he most common type of vibrato is what I have labelled the "push/pull" vibrato. This is the vibrato that most of us learn from the get go. Grouping several fingers together (often) and pushing the strings by mann...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
This vibrato that I call the "open hand" vibrato, IS what it's called. You're using a open hand around the neck, to facilitate greater, quicker, and more aggressive movement of the fingers and hand, and thus increasing the im...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
The violin or classical vibrato is not something you'll find many players using these days, Holdsworth being one noteable exception. As mentioned in the vid, and exemplified below, it entails pulling and pushing the stri...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
The circular vibrato is one of these things that looks cooler than it actually is. What it is, is a combination of the violin vibrato and the regular doorknob vibrato. You should try to move your finger in an elliptical movem...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
CAREFUL here! You do NOT want to take these examples too far. Pushing the neck of the guitar back and forth in relation to the body has been a way to do chord vibrato without a tremolo for ages. Doesn't mean you should do it ...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
Bending and vibrato are pretty much like Love and Marriage, you don't see one without the other (to quote Sinatra). And having a good, stable, controlled and IN PITCH vibrato when bending is of course essential! In this first...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
So, what are these so called "professional secrets"?? Well, what unites most players that have a reputation for excellence in vibrato (such as Gilmour) it is the "vocal" quality of their vibrato that is most prominent. Just a...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
Hey guys! In this lesson I really wanted to focus on the mechanics of alternate picking; how I've personally come to develop my own technique, and what you guys can do to further yours.To start; right hand technique. I see so...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
Here is a chromatic exercise. Chromatic scales in this context, are basically nonsense-scales that are to be used for practice and warm-up purposes.
This exercise is one of the most commonly used by many guitarists in the "s...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
Here we have a triplet exercise. Don't get your knickers in a knot, we'll be playing in groups of six. Six is an even number, so we'll avoid making awkward string transitions and keep it nice and basic! This lick contains six...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
We're heading back over to the straight 16th feel with this one, except this time, we'll be playing something a little more interesting!
The patterns are simply groups of 6 notes, played ascending from the lowest note to hig...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Country
Topic: Technique
Style: Country
Hi folks! Thanks for checking out this tutorial.
In this lesson, I’m providing a number of example licks, in the style of ‘country-rock’. Though these runs may have a distinct ‘twang’ to them, t...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Country
Topic: Technique
Style: Country
This example is based around the E Minor Blues Pentatonic box, which works over both G Major, and its relative minor, E minor! In this case, we will of course be thinking of G as the pitch of reference in our head. For me, th...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Country
Topic: Technique
Style: Country
This example should sound fairly familiar to any of you that have ever heard 'chicken pickin'. We start with a bend and then a very common chromatic walk down, and then end the lick with a very common jazz run. This lic...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Country
Topic: Technique
Style: Country
This example is the most challenging of the three in this tutorial, in terms of technical ability. I'd describe this as a mix between a cliche country lick (the first half), and a Greg Howe style of lick (the second half.) Th...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Country
Topic: Technique
Style: Country
Thanks for tunin' in to this tutorial!
Practice hard, be creative, and we'll see you next time.
Level: Beginner
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Attention recruit! Welcome to the Bending Boot Camp, where I will break you down, and build you up with the necessary skills to make a bending SEAL out of you!
Jokes aside, this tutorial is aimed not throwing bending licks l...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
So, the first thing we will be looking at is the actual ergonomics of bending, how we use our fingers when bending. The fingertip itself is the focal point when bending, upon which the strings will rest when bending. If you s...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
In this part we discuss other things that affect bending on the guitar, namely Scale Length , and fret board Radius. Scale length means the length of the neck from the top nut to the bridge saddle. On a Fender type guita...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
String gauge, or the thickness of your strings, is yet another thing that affects bending. If tuned to the same pitch, a thicker string will have higher tension. That is, bending a 0.09 string will be much easier than bending...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Hey guys! I'm very proud to say that I am now an official member of the Infinite Guitar team! I hope to be able to provide guitar tutorials to subscribers of all experience and ability levels.
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
The solo opens with a 7-position 5-string arpeggio pattern, which begins at the root of the key (Am), and ascends through every diatonic major, minor as well as diminished pattern up the fret-board. Beginning with Am, it asce...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
This section is basically the “core” of the solo. It incorporates mostly melodic lines in the key of A minor, and one short, but tricky alternate picked section. Be sure to apply a firm palm mute to these sections...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
This is the conclusion of the solo. A fiesta of string-skipped legato tapping lines which highlight the underlying chord progression (Am, Dm, G, C, F, Bb and E). Much like the sweeping technique, it is imperative that you iso...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Fusion
Topic: Technique
Style: Fusion
Hi folks!
Today's lesson is on a very popular technique, used in modern fusion! I am of course referring to the famous 'slide vibrato' used by the great Greg Howe, that has become extremely popular over the last 10 years or ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Fusion
Topic: Technique
Style: Fusion
This first example follows the E minor blues pentatonic box, and is a typical lick that you may hear Greg play. This is intended to have 'swing', but can be played with a 4's feel as well! There is a lot of room for variation...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Fusion
Topic: Technique
Style: Fusion
Here is an 'out there' type of lick that is commonly heard from Howe. The idea is based around a diminished arpeggio, and resolves to a note that is a bit more common over an E minor chord.
If you're not used to string skipp...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Fusion
Topic: Technique
Style: Fusion
This example gives us two opportunities to use the slide vibrato. If you pay close attention in the video, I contradict one of my opening statements, in that I am mainly sliding between the 9th and 10th frets, in the first no...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Fusion
Topic: Technique
Style: Fusion
Here is a nice and short lick that uses a minor arpeggio, ending with a chromatic run that falls slightly out of key. I am very much fond of 'straight 16th' runs, and this particular lick works very well with the slide vibrat...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Fusion
Topic: Technique
Style: Fusion
I hope this has been helpful to you all, whether you already had experience with this technique, or had never heard of it before! If you have any questions, or think that I may have missed an important point, please send me a...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Blues
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Blues
Hey guys!
This tutorial will focus on a beginner 'Funky Blues' riff, and will also include a modified example, as well as a short lead run!
As mentioned in the above video, some techniques that may stand out are:
Staccato:...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Blues
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Blues
Here we have a riff that follows the notes of a minor pentatonic scale. If you are unsure of what that is, there are several tutorials available that will help you get the grasp of it. For this lesson, its not entirely necess...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Blues
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Blues
For the second example, we will play the riff over dominant 7th chords, and will slightly change the idea, adding a major 3rd.
If you get this down fairly easy, try switching your techniques, from alternate picking, to legat...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Blues
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Blues
This lick works well with both example one and two, and follows the E minor blues pentatonic scale.
Try picking every note in the run, using mostly legato, or combining both techniques to achieve what may be the most comfort...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Blues
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Blues
Remember, be creative, and use your own 'voice' in music! As always, send questions my way if you have any.
Thanks for checking out this tutorial!
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Improvising
Style: Fusion
Topic: Improvising
Style: Fusion
Welcome guys, to a perhaps somewhat "out there" tutorial =)
What we will set out to do here is to open our ears and improvising up to the harmonic context of any chord of choice we might be laying over, be it generic pop or ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Improvising
Style: Fusion
Topic: Improvising
Style: Fusion
Ok then. We begin our journey through these 4 chords with a simple Asus4! I've chosen this voicing because it sounds very "in-between", and can be easily tweaked to serve as a platform for both major and minor playing. It's b...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Improvising
Style: Fusion
Topic: Improvising
Style: Fusion
The same thing applies here, listen to the video examples, and follow suit yourself over the backing. As I mention in the video though, certain chords, such as this one, might have a strong inclination towards a certain scale...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Improvising
Style: Fusion
Topic: Improvising
Style: Fusion
Nothing differs here, you get the idea by now. This articular chord shares notes with both the A Whole-Half diminished, but also with A Lydian (the #4 and 7 in common apart from the root).
So try the A Lydian out as well!!
...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Improvising
Style: Fusion
Topic: Improvising
Style: Fusion
This is the last chord of the sequence, and when practicing over the Part 4. Backing, start out by playing the tried and true A Whole-Half diminished. Treat A as the root, or "home-base", but also try to play the same scale, ...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Hi Folks!
This tutorial will be focusing on a number of licks that can be used in a rock situation. They are all based around the key of E minor, especially focusing on the pentatonic box that we are all so familiar with!
R...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
This example falls into the basic minor pentatonic box that the majority of guitarists know and use. The lick starts out with an almost cliché blues/rock lick, and then moves on to more of a country flavour, using chro...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
When played alone, this lick sounds more like a diminished run, than a rock lick. Try playing it over an Em backing track, or even an E drone. It will make much more sense to your ears upon doing so! It would also be cool to ...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Here, we have an example of a somewhat basic shred lick, that I have modified to sound a bit more exotic. The first part of the lick is heavily influenced by John Petrucci, in terms of technique. It can be looked at as polyrh...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Our final lick of this tutorial uses alternate picking, and features many chromatic tones. This lick sounds great when played fast! I use this type of lick a lot when playing in a funk/fusion situation, but it can of course b...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Practice hard and be creative! What works for me, may not work for you. You may prefer to use alternate picking, where I may have used legato. Remember, our main goal as musicians is sound appealing to our audience! Focus on ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
Welcome guys!
In this tutorial we will look into a simple, yet effective practising method you can use to help nail your licks in the musical context of your choice. The idea here is to choose a riff, rhythm or chord pr...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
And here we have the riff I've chosen as an example, just treat this and the licks to follow as the examples they are. The main lesson in this tutorial will be you finding and experimenting with your own ideas.
The riff itse...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
Here's some short lick examples, in the video I mainly improvise all the variations, so I'll just give you a basic lick idea or two, that you can use as a guideline, and a starting point for your own lick excursions. Actually...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
Nothing different here really, just me dividing the video in 2 parts for easier and faster viewing. Did some tab ideas here as well for you, just the two though, remember to find your own variations to your own ideas!
Now, o...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Hey everyone!
In this tutorial we'll be learning a piece called "Trial and Error". It has a mix of some old school progressive rock elements as well as some modern rock elements.
I labeled this as a "Beginner" tutorial. How...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
When you observe the tablature below, the first thing you'll notice is that there are a lot of slides. Sliding is a form of legato and is a technique you'll definitely need to master. The most important thing about slides is ...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
In Exercise 2, we'll now learn the clean chorus section. If you want to pull this part off like I played it in the video, you'll need to use a timed delay effect. If you have the proper gear for that, set your delay to a temp...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Hey everyone and welcome to this Creative Scales tutorial!
We are going to get creative with the Pentatonic scale by creating a hybrid of two scales:
A minor Pentatonic and E minor Pentatonic
What we are going to do is mak...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Time to get working on the 5 scale positions!
There are a number of ways you can visualize these shapes to make it easier for yourself. There are 2 methods which you can try. Either you can think completely in A minor (doria...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
OK, here's a no frills improvisation example using the Pentatonic Hybrid scale. Hopefully, you can hear how pleasing it is to the ear with the addition of the 9th to the scale.
Also take note that I try to stick to just the ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Hey guys, and welcome to this lesson on string skipping arpeggios!
We will be looking major and minor arpeggios, and how to transform them into string skipping arpeggios, and also adding other notes from the major and minor ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
In this part, we take the major and minor arpeggios and scalar approach from the first part, and put those to use over a chord progression. The progression is Am, G, F, and below you can see the sequence I have played over it...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
In the third part of our journey through string-skipping land, we encounter the mighty diminished arpeggios, heard through perhaps every guitar player's amp at some point of their career (let's face it guys, who hasn't had th...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Time for tapping!
In this example I use the same major and minor patterns found in the very first part, only adding the root and fifth in the right hand to create a tapping arpeggio. You could of course find numerous other w...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Diminished tapping arpeggios has the exact same technique as any other tapping arpeggios, with the main difference being that the consistent pattern lends itself very well to position shifting, and sliding up and down the nec...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
This final example is the exact same sequence as in Part 5, but with a superimposed shuffle rhythm.
The idea is to try to keep that rhythm going whatever you do, or wherever you go on the fretboard. This will REALLY free up ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Recording
Style: Any Style
Topic: Recording
Style: Any Style
Hi there guys and welcome to this tutorial on creating backing tracks!
We're going to be focusing on how I record my backing tracks with specific reference to the software I use and the plugins used to create the sounds.
I ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Recording
Style: Any Style
Topic: Recording
Style: Any Style
Okay! So now we've got the drum track set up in a simple form (no need for fills here as we want just an 8 bar loop). I now need to come up with a chord sequence to play over.
As we've been studying playing over changes, let...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Recording
Style: Any Style
Topic: Recording
Style: Any Style
Now for the bass part in Trilian.
In order to keep the video's time down I've already written the bass part off camera but I'll go through it for you in the video.
The Trilian interface is very similar to Stylus RMX and it'...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Recording
Style: Any Style
Topic: Recording
Style: Any Style
The final part I want to add is actually a lead guitar part. In other words I'm going to try jamming over the backing track I've created.
For this guitar part I'm running my Suhr into the new Shiba Drive and a Redux delay pe...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Recording
Style: Any Style
Topic: Recording
Style: Any Style
Okay so that about raps things up for this tutorial.
Again, be aware that these are just the tools that I use for creating backing tracks, but there are many other products on the market that do the same job. You just have t...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Hey everyone!
In this tutorial we'll be learning a short experimental rock piece. It has a bit of a Latin rock feel and part of it is also slightly influenced by a band called Muse.
The wah pedal I'm using in this video is ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
This first exercise is where I significantly implemented the wah pedal. If you have a wah pedal, definitely use it for this so you can get that rock/funk sound.
Basically all you'll be doing with the wah pedal is pressing do...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Exercise 2 is pretty straightforward in that we'll be playing straight sixteenth notes throughout the entire thing. Keep your alternate picking steady and make sure each note sounds crystal clear and equal in volume.
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Exercise 3 has both a clean part and a distorted part. In the clean part, you'll primarily be playing dead notes on most your downstrokes, then with your upstrokes you'll be playing the notes normally. Watch out for the quick...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Hey everyone and welcome to this new tutorial on Hybrid Picking!
For the uninitiated, Hybrid Picking is a technique which requires the use of pick and right hand fingers. It's a technique which is used by all manner of guita...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
OK, check out the video of our Hybrid Picking Solo Study and make any notes that you think will be relevant before we head on over to the breakdown videos.
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Throughout this study we have a recurring right hand pattern which repeats throughout the majority of the piece. Once we have this pattern under our fingers we can concentrate on negotiating the chord changes as smoothly as w...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
We continue the piece with more of the same, this time with a series of descending diminished 7th chords. The fingering stays the same with the exception of the final diminished 7th chord.
These chords are followed by ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
After the descending slurred passage we find ourselves back on familiar ground with the right hand pattern that by now you should be comfortable with.
This continues until the final Em chord which is a repeat of the pattern ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Hey everyone! I hope you've all been having a great holiday season!
In this tutorial we'll be learning a simple and catchy rock rhythm. Regardless of your skill level, I want you to really concentrate on feeling the rhythm a...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
There are basically 3 parts to this piece. In the tab below, you'll see each part specified.
When you first observe the tab, you'll see plenty of "X" markings. These markings represent what are called dead notes. Dead notes ...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Improvising
Style: Fusion
Topic: Improvising
Style: Fusion
Hi there and welcome to part 2 of 'Playing over Changes'. This time we'll be dealing with melodic minor chords and their associated scale choices and also with motivic development over changes. For the purpose of this tutoria...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Improvising
Style: Fusion
Topic: Improvising
Style: Fusion
Our next chord is very common in fusion and jazz music and has a very attractive but dark sound. It's called a Major7 #5 chord and is the III chord from the melodic minor scale.
The scale required to play over this chord is ...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Improvising
Style: Fusion
Topic: Improvising
Style: Fusion
Our next chord type is dominant 7th chord with a sharpened 11th interval. This gives us a lydian dominant chord also known as the chord symbol 7#11. From the root note G this would give us G7#11 for example.
The scale associ...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Improvising
Style: Fusion
Topic: Improvising
Style: Fusion
Our penultimate chord type is based on a min7b5 chord, also known as a locrian chord. The difference here is that the melodic minor version of this chord contains a natural 9 and is the 6th chord of melodic minor.
Since the ...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Improvising
Style: Fusion
Topic: Improvising
Style: Fusion
Okay, our final chord type is named an altered dominant chords. If you've seen my other melodic minor tutorial you'll know that an altered dominant is a dominant chord that contains any of the following intervals in any combi...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Improvising
Style: Fusion
Topic: Improvising
Style: Fusion
One of the hardest things to do when playing over changes is phrase well through the chords. In order to do this successfully we need a few things in our playing bag of tricks. The first is an excellent fretboard knowledge. W...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Improvising
Style: Fusion
Topic: Improvising
Style: Fusion
Okay, here's the video example with the accompanying transcription below. I'm playing over four chords. The sequence goes as follows.
A7sus4, Bb7#11, Dmaj7, C7#11 so two of these are melodic minor chords requiring lydian dom...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Improvising
Style: Fusion
Topic: Improvising
Style: Fusion
Now, when using motifs to play through chord changes you must remember that this is only an exercise and were you to play a complete solo this way, with very little rhythmic variation, you'd ultimately end up sounding like an...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Improvising
Style: Fusion
Topic: Improvising
Style: Fusion
Here's the example of anticipating the changes.
The changes here are:-
Amaj7, Bb7alt, Dmaj7, C7sus4
Try playing over each chord a beat earlier than it actually comes in or even two beats. Very seasoned players can come in ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Chords
Style: Holiday
Topic: Chords
Style: Holiday
Well that time of the year has crept out of nowhere on us all again. So let's get in the spirit of Christmas by taking a look at one of the most popular seasonal tunes of all, 'Jingle Bells'.
This particular arrangement is o...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Chords
Style: Holiday
Topic: Chords
Style: Holiday
The most technically demanding aspect of this arrangement is the control of the individual voices.
It is a good idea to study the score away from your guitar and grab a pencil and mark in any inner voices that you feel may n...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Chords
Style: Holiday
Topic: Chords
Style: Holiday
Technically, you may find the position shifts need the most work in this section as the alternation between the chords and the octave figures require considerable shifts from a lower to higher position, and vice versa.
If yo...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
Welcome to this tutorial on Flexibility Training guys!
As our hands are our tools of the trade as guitar players, keeping them in shape, keeping them strong and flexible should be a priority for us. This tutorial is geared t...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
Ok, in this first example, we have an age-old exercise for flexibility and coordination. It’s all pretty self-evident in the video so you should need no in-depth explanation really. Just keep in mind that all notes must...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
The second exercise is almost the exact same procedure as with the first, but the only difference is you keep one fret between each finger, as opposed to keeping them on adjacent frets as in Exercise 1. This will give your ha...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
This next exercise is called “the Spider”, named thus after the way your hand will resemble a large tarantula moving across the fret board. :)
Same thing goes for this exercise as with the others. The notes must ...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
This last part consists of two “parts” really. First of all, you have Exercise 4, which is similar to Exercise 3 but played with 1 fret between each finger (same thing as we did with Exercises 1 and 2).
Then, we'...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Exercises
Style: Rock
Topic: Exercises
Style: Rock
Welcome to this tutorial on Sequencing Pentatonics!
A sequence, as I'm sure you know, is a group of notes played together in a specific order. Sequencing scales is very common in classical music, or classical inspired music ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Exercises
Style: Rock
Topic: Exercises
Style: Rock
Ok!
In this example, we have a tried and true pentatonic sequence, that you will probably have come across in one shape or another before. You play the sequence descending in 3-note groupings.
First off, we play it in tripl...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Exercises
Style: Rock
Topic: Exercises
Style: Rock
This example is similar to the previous one, but uses a 4-note grouping instead.
The way to approach it is still the same however. You first play it in the original note value (seeing how 4-note groupings are often played us...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Exercises
Style: Rock
Topic: Exercises
Style: Rock
In this example, I have added an additional note, to change the 3-note pattern into a 4-note one.
You simply play the first note in each 3-note sequence twice. As in the previous examples, try it with both note values.
Anot...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Exercises
Style: Rock
Topic: Exercises
Style: Rock
Of course any sequence can also be played ascending, as well as descending. This here is one example of an ascending sequence. Use the same approach as before!
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Exercises
Style: Rock
Topic: Exercises
Style: Rock
In this example, I am moving down the sequence but through several positions, not just the first one.
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Exercises
Style: Rock
Topic: Exercises
Style: Rock
Here is something a bit different. This time I have a lick rather than just a sequence. This one is intended to be played over the turn-around of a funk-blues or jazz-blues, with some altered or substituted chords. Therefore ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Exercises
Style: Rock
Topic: Exercises
Style: Rock
Now the fun begins!
Tapping sequences in the pentatonic scales is something that has been an integral part of my playing style since early on, brought about by guys like Reb Beach, Greg Howe and Nuno Bettencourt.
There are ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Exercises
Style: Rock
Topic: Exercises
Style: Rock
Ok guys!
In these last examples we are moving our right hand up throughout positions 3,4 & 5.
It is basically the same thing as in example 7.a, but there we are staying in the 2nd position with our right hand. I hope th...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Hello everyone!
Welcome to this song tutorial called "Mind Melt". This is a short clip taken from a song I'm currently writing. I hope you enjoy it!
We're going to be learning some significantly intense rhythm playing in th...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
In Exercise 1, we're mainly going to be dealing with eighth notes here with the exception of bar 8.
In all of these exercises, be very mindful of all the notes that require palm muting. Anytime you see the "P.M." markings, b...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
This particular riff is played for a large portion of the song. What I really like about it is how it's played identically over three sections, yet each section sounds unique. This is in large part due to the other instrument...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
In this riff, we're going to be all over the place on the 6th string, so make sure your fret-hand is loose and limber! Use whatever fingering feels best for you, but of course feel free to use my fingering in the video as an ...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
To close out the piece, we're going to break away from the intense rhythm playing on the lower strings and play something a bit more melodic.
Make sure all your pull-offs on the G string sound clean and equal in volume to th...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Hey there and welcome to this month's follow up tutorial. It's hammer time you lot!
Now that you have practiced the basic principles we went over in the previous tutorial, you are ready to take a step forward with your legat...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
These first set of exercises start with a b minor pentatonic scale. Make sure that throughout the exercises you do not slip back into using pull offs, hammers only gentlemen! Try not to use too much distortion if you can help...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
These next examples start with B Mixolydian. Again, make sure that you are making each note sound with the same volume and tone as the previous and be sure to pay close attention to the weaker index finger.
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
These final examples are based around simple arpeggio shapes as opposed to the previous scale based examples. The position shifts may require some work and again, try to keep total control over every note that you play keepin...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Chords
Style: Any Style
Topic: Chords
Style: Any Style
Greeting guitar slingers!
In this tutorial we will analyze a song of mine, still in the making.
The reason for choosing such a song, is to be able to more easily explain a bit about the creative process in which the song de...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Any Style
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Any Style
Here is the current draft of the main melody of the tune. This will give you an idea of how far from its basic origins it has developed, and perhaps a glimpse of what's to come for this little tune. As this is not in any way ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Chords
Style: Any Style
Topic: Chords
Style: Any Style
Ok, so here we begin with the basic chords upon which I built my melody. The key to any strong melody (at least in my experience) is to be able to sing it. If you work out a melody that you aren't able to sing, you can also b...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Chords
Style: Any Style
Topic: Chords
Style: Any Style
In this part I explain how I took the chords up to a higher position, in order to get a little more of that "john mayer" sound I was going for. Much of it is the same chords (some even the same voicings).
However, as I took ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Chords
Style: Any Style
Topic: Chords
Style: Any Style
Here I explain more about the bridge part of the tune, and show the melody, and how the chords for this came to be. It differs quite a bit from the verse, since it is arpeggiated in a more traditional manner, and also uses th...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Chords
Style: Any Style
Topic: Chords
Style: Any Style
So, now we have covered all the parts leading up to what the song has grown into so far.
The only thing remaining now is to check out what we have so far, and maybe try out a run over the backing track. So, head on over to t...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Recording
Style: Any Style
Topic: Recording
Style: Any Style
Hi there guys! Welcome to this months tutorial which is a slight departure from what you were probably expecting.
First let me say that "Playing over Changes Part II' is coming your way next month but I wanted to make that t...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Recording
Style: Any Style
Topic: Recording
Style: Any Style
So, as I said in the previous video, we'll be using convolution technology to record the preamp section of our amp and model the Power Amp and Cabinet section. This enables us to keep the fantastic tone produced by our amp ye...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Recording
Style: Any Style
Topic: Recording
Style: Any Style
Okay, so I have my FX send connected by a standard guitar cable into Input 8 on my soundcard. Remember - I have NOT unplugged the speaker from my amplifier. I can still hear the sound of the amp coming through the cabinet - j...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Recording
Style: Any Style
Topic: Recording
Style: Any Style
Here's the links for the IR hosts named above,
LAConvolver for the Mac
http://audio.lernvall.com/
Kefir for the PC
http://habib.webhost.pl/
Voxengo Boogex for the PC
http://www.voxengo.com/product/boogex/
Freeverb 3 fo...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Acoustic
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Acoustic
Hello all!
In this tutorial, we'll be learning an acoustic piece called "Memories". It's a soft CMaj7, G progression that gave me the imagery of taking a "stroll through memory lane".
Once you've checked out the full video ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Acoustic
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Acoustic
In the first exercise, we'll be doing some picking patterns while we play through the CMaj7 and G chords.
If you're new to playing picking patterns through chord progressions, make sure you practice this slowly so you can fo...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Acoustic
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Acoustic
This exercise can be played a couple different ways. The easy way would be to simply play the notes how they're indicated in the tab below. But if you want to give the pattern some extra rhythmic flavor, I'd recommend adding ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Acoustic
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Acoustic
You'll find this exercise to be similar to the last one, but it has an added variation. If you look towards the middle of each measure, you'll see we now have some palm-muted notes on the 7th fret. The "P.M." markings above t...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Hi and welcome to this new tutorial on the subject of Legato.
I'm going to break this subject up into two tutorials which will start with the basic essentials of this technique and progress to the more advanced material in t...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
The first step is to consider the left hand thumb positioning on the back of the neck. More often than not, the ideal position for the thumb is opposite somewhere between the first and second fingers of the left hand. This do...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Now that we have the thumb positioning covered, I'd like to discuss an element of playing that is not only applicaple to legato style playing but to everything and that is economy of motion. It does have it's roots based pret...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
One of the most important techniques that we need to achieve control over our legato technique is a good solid muting technique. Again, this technique will be beneficial to you whatever technique you are employing but as disc...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
OK now that you have these basic but extremely important elements in place you will need to get practicing them in order to be ready for the follow up tutorial. It is essential that you create a solid foundation for yourself ...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Reference
Style: Any Style
Topic: Reference
Style: Any Style
Welcome to this tutorial on ear training techniques!
I’m sure many of you have already had some kind of ear training in school, and are familiar with the concept. What I want to do here is to perhaps give you some new ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Reference
Style: Any Style
Topic: Reference
Style: Any Style
As discussed in the introduction, there are 2 sides of the “hearing coin”. One side is Absolute Pitch (Color hearing pitch, perfect pitch, it has many names). What this entails is the ability to hear any note play...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
So, this is our first exercise, not counting the preparatory one you just did, singing all up and down the neck in your chosen interval.
As mentioned in the video, I recommend that you start out with one of the following int...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
In this exercise we make the whole thing a little bit harder. Instead of playing the root note of the interval, singing that, and then singing the target pitch, we will now sing the target pitch only. For example, you are pra...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
So, we need to be able to TEST ourselves right? To confirm that we really DO have these intervals firmly established in our mind. So how do we go about this then? Well, the testing should be done in 2 parts as I see it.
Firs...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
Ok guys, in this part we will start to sing melodies over chords. There is no shame in having a less-than excellent singing voice, heck listen to my “strangling a wolverine in a coffee jar”-wavering voice, and you...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
In this final part we will try to establish the “sound-character” or individual scales. When we previously sang and played notes over a chord (recorded, a friend playing, or what not), we had a back drop, and a fr...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Improvising
Style: Fusion
Topic: Improvising
Style: Fusion
Hi there guys! Welcome to this month's tutorial which is the first part of a series on 'Playing Over Changes'. This is the idea of playing or improvising over a series of chords that change key every bar or other bar. We aren...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Improvising
Style: Fusion
Topic: Improvising
Style: Fusion
So throughout this tutorial I already mentioned that we'll be dealing with Modal Progressions which are non-functional. In other words, they don't outline one key centre as with functional progressions. Each chord is from a d...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Improvising
Style: Fusion
Topic: Improvising
Style: Fusion
When soloing over Major chords and their derivatives we have two scales to choose from. These are Ionian (our standard major scale) and the Lydian scale.
The Lydian Scale is what we'll call our 'Go To' scale for major chords...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Improvising
Style: Fusion
Topic: Improvising
Style: Fusion
When soloing over minor chords and their derivatives we end up with three scale choices. These are our three minor modes - Dorian, Phrygian and Aeolian. As with major chords we have a 'Go To' scale choice that works best over...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Improvising
Style: Fusion
Topic: Improvising
Style: Fusion
Dominant 7th chords and their derivitives use the mixolydian mode exclusively. We are only going to be dealing with un-altered dominant 7th chords in this tutorial. Any dominant 7th chords with altered extensions (b5, #5, b9,...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Improvising
Style: Fusion
Topic: Improvising
Style: Fusion
It's fairly unusual to come across a minor7b5 chord in a modal context but when we do the scale that fits over it is the Locrian mode. It's more commonly found in a functional harmony context in a minor II-V progression which...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Improvising
Style: Fusion
Topic: Improvising
Style: Fusion
So, now you have the theoretical knowledge down of which scales to play when you see the relevant chord symbols in a modal context. Your next step is to develop your fretboard knowledge so that you can play these scales seaml...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Improvising
Style: Fusion
Topic: Improvising
Style: Fusion
We're nearly there!
This is the easiest exercise to expand upon. Try some of the following:-
More chords of the same type (try the backing tracks with 4 chords)
More chords of different types (try the backing track with di...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Improvising
Style: Fusion
Topic: Improvising
Style: Fusion
One final thing. Make sure that you try singing all these scale lines as you play them. It's so important to make the link between what your fingers are doing and what you hear. When playing over changes your most important t...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
Welcome!
In this tutorial, we'll be learning a short etude taken from a song I wrote. The purpose of this etude is to practice our inside picking along with our outside picking. If you aren't sure what those picking types ar...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
Firstly, let's make sure we're aware of the type of rhythmic notes we're playing. If you look at the tab/notation below, you'll see that there are six notes for every beat. So we'll be playing sixteenth-note triplets.
While ...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Hi everybody and welcome to this tutorial on vibrato.
This tutorial is the next step on from the previous string bending tutorial.
I like to think of vibrato technique as essentially a different form of string bending in th...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
The next logical step is to take the basic principal we talked about in the previous video and apply it across all 6 strings.
We are going to start with the 6th string at the 5th fret and we will do the semi-tone bend using ...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Now we are going to have a look at a technique which I consider to be a very difficult one.
What we are going to do is apply a string bend to a fretted note and then apply vibrato whilst holding the bend at the target note. ...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
So far we have only looked at the standard blues-rock style vibrato. There are other techniques that we can use to manipulate the pitch and while I very rarely use anything other than the standard vibrato technique, it is wel...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Reference
Style: Blues
Topic: Reference
Style: Blues
Welcome to this introduction to slide guitar playing!
First of all, this will not be a song tutorial, where you learn to play riffs or solos. Rather, this is a technical overview and reference guide to help you make the most...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Reference
Style: Blues
Topic: Reference
Style: Blues
Which type of slide you choose to use are largely a matter of taste. Different materials produce different tones. If you lay acoustic (Dobro, lap, regular acoustic) might mean you choose a copper or metal slide, depending on ...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Reference
Style: Blues
Topic: Reference
Style: Blues
Which finger you choose to use your slide with, also affects your playing to a large extent. Traditional blues players often used their slide on their pinky, perhaps not because of technical considerations, but perhaps more b...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Reference
Style: Blues
Topic: Reference
Style: Blues
In this segment we discuss the open D-tuning and how this is used in slide guitar playing. We also discuss the issues with tuning the major third to equal temperament pitch, or to a harmonically correct pitch.
Level: Beginner
Topic: Reference
Style: Blues
Topic: Reference
Style: Blues
In this part we discuss how the intonation of your guitar is affected by raising the string height. As I mentioned in my setup tutorial about string height vs. intonation, the pitch of a string raised it the string height is ...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Technique
Style: Blues
Topic: Technique
Style: Blues
Pitch accuracy is together with correct muting the most important aspect of slide technique. Having bad pitch is like a violinist having bad pitch, it just won’t do! The similarities with violin players do not stop ther...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Technique
Style: Blues
Topic: Technique
Style: Blues
In this example we take the muting technique a step further by adding individual finger muting techniques in our right hand. This is the key to creating clean and singing lead lines with the slide. It will be difficult in the...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Technique
Style: Blues
Topic: Technique
Style: Blues
In this example we are covering more strings but using the same right and left hand muting technique as in the previous examples. Try using this technique in any type of scale or arpeggio shape to further your technique. ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
This final chapter deals with some more experimental slide techniques. Many slide players play slide above the range of the fret board to access notes normally unavailable for them. Duane Allman, Jeff beck, Derek Trucks are s...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Chords
Style: Fusion
Topic: Chords
Style: Fusion
Hey there Guys! Welcome to this month's tutorial.
This time we'll be looking at a form of harmony known as Quartal Harmony.
Before we get into that though lets have a look at what normal harmony is in a Western context. In...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Chords
Style: Fusion
Topic: Chords
Style: Fusion
In this video I'll try to show you the difference in sound between tertiary harmony (the chords you already know) and quartal harmony.
Remember that we're not dealing with functional harmony anymore so we can play any of the...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Chords
Style: Fusion
Topic: Chords
Style: Fusion
Okay, so here we'll start to learn the construction of these quartal shapes. In the video I outline each shape for you using note names on the fretboard. If you don't know your note names don't fear! The shapes are all repres...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Chords
Style: Fusion
Topic: Chords
Style: Fusion
Here's the shapes for C dorian on the top 4 strings.
Work through them in the same way without worrying about the Roman numerals over each shape. Remember all of these shapes are basically a C dorian scale harmonised in 4th'...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Chords
Style: Fusion
Topic: Chords
Style: Fusion
Right - now the important bit! You've learnt the shapes but how do you use them?
Well, you'll have noticed that each quartal voicing or shape has a Roman Numeral above it. These refer to one of the seven modes built from a m...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Chords
Style: Fusion
Topic: Chords
Style: Fusion
Here's two grooves for you, both played over a static C bass pedal. The first groove starts with the IV chord on the note C. I play all the other quartal voicings in relation to this one using the sequence outlined in the tut...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Reference
Style: Any Style
Topic: Reference
Style: Any Style
Welcome everyone!
In this tutorial, we're going to take a look at a software program called Anvil Studio. This software is an excellent tool for musicians who wish to compose and more. And best of all, it's fre...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Reference
Style: Any Style
Topic: Reference
Style: Any Style
In this video, we'll cover the basics of creating your first instrument tracks. Each instrument track can have a particular midi instrument assigned to it. As you'll see in the video, there are many instruments to choose from...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Reference
Style: Any Style
Topic: Reference
Style: Any Style
Now let's go ahead and create a drum track. When you create a drum track in Anvil Studio, you'll have the option to select which particular drums you want assigned to your drumkit. I generally just use typical drum sounds suc...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Reference
Style: Any Style
Topic: Reference
Style: Any Style
In this video, we'll compose a short example riff so you can get a general idea on how you can compose with Anvil Studio.
Feel free to pause the video whenever necessary so you can follow the steps I'm taking. You don't have...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Hey there and welcome to this tutorial on String Bending technique!
I personally feel that this particular technique is often neglected by guitarists even though it is something which can help your musicianship immeasurably....
Level: Beginner
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Ok, here we have three similar examples which start with a semi-tone bend followed by a tone bend. We will use A minor pentatonic for these examples. We will also be using the third finger for these bends so make sure to impl...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Let's take things a step further by doing a minor 3rd bend (3 frets). This does require a little more strength from the left hand and may require some work to get the intonation spot on.
Remember to play these examples with ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
With the following examples we will be performing the bends with the index finger and as a result we will not be able to use any idle fingers to help us to bend the string. This does present a challenge certainly if you have ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
In this example we will be moving sequentially through the scale of A minor pentatonic but keeping it all within the confines of one string: the g string. Due to the nature of the pentatonic scale, we will be required to use ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
This example is slightly different than the previous examples in that we will be required to sustain other notes whilst performing the string bends at the same time. We have a mixture of semi-tone and tone bends coupled with ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
This final example is a short but deceptively awkward lick to get right. The challenge is in targeting the correct successive pitch while releasing the string.
It will be essential for you to play the fretted target notes be...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Country
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Country
Greetings guitar slingers!
Welcome to this look back at the previous tutorial. We will use the TT-Zop tutorial as a starting point to head on into some Country guitar playing, so if you haven't checked out the previous tutor...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Country
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Country
In this example, I expand upon the main rhythm idea, adding arppegiated ideas with hammer-ons and pull-offs that are so typical for Country guitar playing. You will also find the G-arpeggio from the TT-Zop riff here, but play...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Country
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Country
Example 3a is yet another variation of the main rhythm idea. I included a short lick as a turn-around in the end. Try grooving along on the main rhythm, and throw in any of these variations at the end, to be able to always ge...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Country
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Country
In this example you will find some double stop bending, typical in country guitar playing. Even though this tutorial is not aimed towards this technique (The bending part of Country needs a tutorial all by itself!) I choose t...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Country
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Country
In this example, I use the A major (F#min) pentatonic, and incorporate open strings as well (thus expanding the scale a bit). You recognize the beginning "roll" from example 2. Pay attention to the right hand fingerings, and ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Country
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Country
And here' s the final example for you!
Here I have once again taken inspiration from the TT-zop solo, part 1. Check it out here, in case you missed that one!
This one has a slightly more "blues-country" feel to it, since I'...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Any Style
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Any Style
Hi guys! Welcome to this month's tutorial - a lesson all about developing your internal metronome and time feel.
Time in music is without doubt the most important aspect of your playing. This has been demonstrated most gra...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Any Style
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Any Style
Right - Here we go!
The first thing we'll need to be able to do is to play both on and off the beat whilst feeling each beat of the bar with your internal metronome. To demonstrate this, here's a visual representation of 2 b...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Any Style
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Any Style
Here's a demonstration of Exercise 1. In the video my metronome is set to 82bpm.
Refer to the TAB if you're confused in any way and tap your foot at all times throughout this exercise.
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Jazz
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Jazz
Okay, hopefully you were coping well with that last lesson.
In the previous exercise our physical metronome and internal metronome were playing on every beat in the bar. The premise of the remaining exercises is to gradually...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Jazz
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Jazz
Here's the video demonstration of Exercise 2. Metronome is set up at 82 bpm on beats 2 and 4 giving me a perceived tempo of 164 bpm.
Remember to tap your foot on beats 2 and 4 also and try to match my feel in the video.
Try...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Fusion
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Fusion
The remaining three exercises follow the same premise we used for exercise two (with an easier chord progression) except that we'll gradually be leaving more and more space in between the physical metronome clicks leaving you...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Fusion
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Fusion
Here is the video demonstration of Exercise 3 with the click set to 41 bpm giving a perceived tempo of 164 bpm.
Refer to the TAB below for the chord progression and again try to match my feel.
Keep that foot going on beats ...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Fusion
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Fusion
This exercise mirrors number 3 except that out click is now perceived on beat 4 of the bar instead of beat 2.
Again the click is set to 41 bpm to display this beat 4 giving us a perceived tempo of 164 bpm.
Your internal met...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Fusion
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Fusion
Here's the video demonstration for Exercise 4 with the metronome set to 41 bpm to represent beat 4 of the bar.
Remember to tap your foot on beats 2 and 4!
Again, I improvise somewhat with the rhythm of the chord sequence bu...
Level: Crazy!
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Fusion
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Fusion
In this final exercise we're really making life very hard for your internal metronome. This one I struggled with and found an area where I need to do some significant practice!
Now we're going to set our click to represent b...
Level: Crazy!
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Fusion
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Fusion
Here's the video demonstration of Exercise 5. Again, the perceived tempo is 164 bpm.
Refer to the TAB for the chord progression which is the same as the previous exercises.
Again, I improvise somewhat with the rhythm of the...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
I don't know about you, but I dislike it very much when my alarm clock goes off. Stop beeping at me and let me sleep! :) So, here's a short piece for all of you alarm clock haters. The imagery I see in this piece basically ha...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Let's take a look at the first beat in each of the bars below. See the triplet note grouping? Those are sixteenth note triplets, which basically have a span of six notes per beat. Make sure you palm mute that grouping, then i...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
The first thing to point out about this riff is that the first two beats of each bar are very similar to what we saw in Exercise 1. So be sure to keep that part the same.
The main things new in this riff are the quick legato...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Latin
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Latin
Hello Infinite Guitarists!
In this song tutorial, we'll be learning a piece I wrote called "Moonlit Waters". It has a bit of a sexy, latin jazz feel to it. Once you watch the full video above, head on over to the next page t...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Latin
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Latin
Picking-Hand Fingering
T
Thumb
I
Index Finger
M
Middle Finger
A
Ring Finger
O
Pinky Finger
In Exercise 1, we're going to be accenting certain eighth note beats with ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Latin
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Latin
In this section, we're going to be playing an octave pattern on the Low E and D strings. Just like in Exercise 1, we have a lot of rests and space between the chords.
Try adding that rhythmic effect that we discussed in Exer...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Latin
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Latin
Now we get to the main theme of the song. This part isn't too difficult, but be careful with your fingering on both the left and right hands. Using proper fingering will help the transitions between the parts go as smoothly a...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Chords
Style: Classical
Topic: Chords
Style: Classical
Hey there and welcome to another lesson with me here at the web's coolest guitar instructional site!
We will be looking at a very popular piece for classical guitar entitled 'Romanza'. There seems to be a variety of titles f...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Chords
Style: Classical
Topic: Chords
Style: Classical
OK, what I think would be a great way of approaching this study would be to play each triplet pattern as a block chord, homophonically just to get those chord shapes under your belt. What I tend to do once I have those is to ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Chords
Style: Classical
Topic: Chords
Style: Classical
Exactly the same practice technique can be employed for this section too. It will be a little more challenging however as some of the stretches required by the left hand may need specific practice.
What you must remember is ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Blues
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Blues
Summer-greetings Guitarslingers!
In this song tutorial, we will play through some texas-style blues-rock.
As you might have guessed by the title alone, this track is rather inspired by a certain bearded texas-trio named ZZ-...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Blues
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Blues
Let's begin with the intro riff.
Here we have a classic type of texas-riff, which lends heavily from country guitar playing, but is played in a shuffle beat. Many country ideas can be used in rock and blues, it's just that m...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Blues
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Blues
Ok guys, in this part we're looking at the main riff during the solo. Pretty much the same thing as the last riff, same chords, just with distortion and more "edge". Don't be afraid to "dig in", this is supposed to be played ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Blues
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Blues
In the first part of the solo, we begin with a classic Texas bluesline, a minor third with some heavy víbrato. It's all in triplets, to keep that groovy shuffle feel.
The second part includes an almost country'e...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Blues
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Blues
In the second part fo the solo, we start out with a more Blackmore-styled ide. The key here is to get that small, but quick and agressive bend going in the first finger. It is easy to slip of the string, especially on a vinta...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Blues
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Blues
Ok! This final part introduces a technique of playing harmonics that I personally love!
What I'm doing is playing the harmonics with the side of the nail and the flesh of the side of my fingertip (middle finger). This is a t...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Chords
Style: Blues
Topic: Chords
Style: Blues
Hi there everyone and welcome to this tutorial on Shell Voicings.
Shell voicings are chords which contain the minimum number of voices or notes required to outline a particular harmonic sound. In other words, if I wanted to ...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Chords
Style: Blues
Topic: Chords
Style: Blues
So let's map out these shell voicings on the guitar.
The nice thing about these chords is that they only contain 3 notes so they are pretty easy to play. If you're a beginner trying to figure out blues and jazz chord progres...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Chords
Style: Blues
Topic: Chords
Style: Blues
Now let's do the same thing but for shell voicings rooted on the 5th string - A.
Again, we'll do all these voicings from the note G which is located up at the 10th fret of the A string. Learn each voicing as listed below and...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Chords
Style: Blues
Topic: Chords
Style: Blues
Now let's apply these shell voicings we've just learned to a chord progression and specifically a blues pattern.
The blues is a great place to start for this as it usually only contains three chords and they're all dominant ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Chords
Style: Blues
Topic: Chords
Style: Blues
Our second chord progression is again based in the blues genre but now sounds a lot more like a jazz progression.
As you can see from the TAB below we've added another chord type into the progression in the form of some mino...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Chords
Style: Jazz
Topic: Chords
Style: Jazz
Our last chord progression is going to live firmly in the jazz camp. It's still a blues, but it's mainly called a 'Parker Blues'. Named after the famous sax player Charlie Parker, it differs considerably from our standard blu...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Chords
Style: Any Style
Topic: Chords
Style: Any Style
Now, here is the aspect of shell voicings that I think you'll find the most useful. They make a fantastic starting point for building our chord vocabulary.
Due to the fact that they are constructed from the minimum number of...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Exercises
Style: Jazz
Topic: Exercises
Style: Jazz
Hey folks!
In this lesson, we're going to learn a jazz rhythm exercise that will help us get familiar with the concept of polymeter. Polymeter occurs when there are multiple time signatures being used simultaneously. For exa...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Hey there and welcome to this lesson!
Today we will be learning another arpeggio study I wrote specifically for you guys here which has particular emphasis on pedal notes. Just to clarify if you are not sure, put as simplist...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
OK, you'll really need to focus on the clarity between the notes throughout the study and as always, make sure you practice it as slowly as possible and let your ears be your guide.
If you are using a pick(which I think 99.9...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
In this 2nd section we see the patterns that have already been established ascending by step through each diatonic chord until we reach the highest point of the fretboard that we can go.
Technically, once you have mastered t...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Now that we have reached the highest note on the fret board, well my fretboard at least lol, we are going to make a descent on the top two strings. Be very careful with this patter because at speed you may find that maintaini...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
Hi everyone!
In this tutorial, we'll be taking a brief look at developing a solid "crunch" sound with our palm muting. This is especially significant in regards to hard rock and metal riffing.
Palm muting involves putting t...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
Now let's go ahead and apply what we learned in the last lesson. In the video above, you'll see me play the exercise at 126 bpm (beats per minute) and also at 156 bpm.
This exercise is primarily going to revolve around an E ...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Hi there guitar lovers!
This months tutorial is on Minor 6th pentatonic scales. What an earth are those you may ask?
A minor 6th pentatonic is a hybrid pentatonic scale built from a Dorian or Melodic Minor scale and differs...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Obviously before we can use the scale we need to know how to play it in a few different positions.
Below and on the video I show you how to play a C minor 6th pentatonic scale in a few different ways using 'box' type pattern...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
So now you've learned the scale we need to know how to apply it. In other words, which minor 6th pentatonic to play over each chord in a progression.
Well in actual fact, it's pretty simple. If you're chord is built from a m...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Okay - so now we'll apply these ideas to an actual chord progression.
The progression in question is a minor blues in the key of C. You can see the chords below in the Tab with suggested voicings given. Feel free to substitu...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Now I'm going to demonstrate the application of these minor 6th pentatonics and play each relevant scale over the C minor blues chord progression.
Note the tab below with some suggested chord voicings for a minor blues and t...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Welcome folks!
In this song tutorial, we'll be learning an intermediate rock piece called "The Seeker". As you learn this piece, keep in mind that there's a tempo change about half way through, where the bpm (beats per minut...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
In Exercise 1, we'll be learning the main riff of the song. This riff will be primarily played in the 2nd position.
There's going to be a good amount of palm muting in this song, so be mindful of all the "P.M." markings thro...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
With the exception of a few notes in bar 4, Exercise 2 will mainly be played using eighth notes.
For now, go ahead and observe the note grouping on the fourth beat of bar 12. See how there are 5 notes joined together over th...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
In Exercise 3, we'll be playing a brief chord progression before the song transitions to a tempo increase in Exercise 4.
We'll start off strumming the D power chord, then in bar 18 we'll play the A and G# chords along with t...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
In Exercise 4, we have the section of the song where the tempo increases from 127bpm to 148bpm. In the context of the song, once Exercise 4 is finished, you'll then proceed to play Exercise 1 and Exercise 2 at the new speed o...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Classical
Topic: Technique
Style: Classical
Hey there and welcome back to my continuing series of classical guitar pieces penned by Francisco Tarrega.
In this lesson we will be looking at perhaps Tarrega's most recognised piece 'Gran Vals' due to a phrase from the pie...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Classical
Topic: Technique
Style: Classical
Alrighty then, lets get started with part one.
This piece is significantly more difficult to play in comparison with the pieces that we have studied thus far. In actual fact, 'Gran Vals' has been included as an examination p...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Classical
Topic: Technique
Style: Classical
We have now modulated to the dominant of the original key which is E.
The parts which will require the most practice will be the slurs with the left hand. As always, slow methodical practice will yield the best results. Be v...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Classical
Topic: Technique
Style: Classical
In this section we have modulated once more in the dominant direction to the V of E which is B major.
The melody now shifts from being in the upper register to being in underneath the chords on the lower strings. You may nee...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Classical
Topic: Technique
Style: Classical
We have now made another modulation, this time moving from B major back to E major - the Dominant of the original key of A major.
This last section has a certain humour to it I find and I feel it works very well if one can m...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Chords
Style: Any Style
Topic: Chords
Style: Any Style
Greetings Guitar slingers!
In this tutorial we will look at the concept of Scale Chords.
The main focus of this tutorial is not chord theory, scale theory, or any theory in general. Of course it always helps if you do have ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Chords
Style: Any Style
Topic: Chords
Style: Any Style
To begin with, let’s review what a chord is. A chord is a group of notes derived from a given scale, put together in a cluster. For instance, let’s take the key of Emajor (as presented in the scale charts below). ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Chords
Style: Any Style
Topic: Chords
Style: Any Style
OK, in this second part of major voicings, we’re looking at D major. Same idea; map out the scale across the fret board, and find a voicing you like. The difference here is that I have incorporated the open D-string thr...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Chords
Style: Any Style
Topic: Chords
Style: Any Style
Time for Minor! In this part we’re looking at the E minor scale. Also, I have chosen other voicings. I found a voicing I really liked, and ran with that. As you will hear this leads to more “fusionesque” ton...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Chords
Style: Fusion
Topic: Chords
Style: Fusion
So, here I’ve derived my voicings from the same E minor scale, but started out with an Esus4 voicing. I also touch upon another topic here, the topic of key change by altering root. Let’s say you play these voicin...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Chords
Style: Fusion
Topic: Chords
Style: Fusion
In this last part, I discuss outlining scales. What I mean by this is that just as a voicing or chord has a certain overall quality and texture, an entire scale has a quality of its own. That is, if you run scales up and down...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Improvising
Style: Fusion
Topic: Improvising
Style: Fusion
Hi Guys and Gals!
Welcome to this months tutorial which is all based on 'outside' playing. Now I'm not suggesting that you all find a nice field somewhere and play in the fresh air. Rather the way in which fusion and jazz gu...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Improvising
Style: Fusion
Topic: Improvising
Style: Fusion
This first method is based on an idea I took from Greg Howe's playing and is a very 'open' and simple concept.
It's based on the idea that music is divided into simple phrases which are then combined into longer sentences. W...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Improvising
Style: Fusion
Topic: Improvising
Style: Fusion
I've transcribed the first section of each improvisation leaving you some left to work out and transcribe yourself if you want to. Each transcription should give you an idea of the kind of phrases I play and their placement w...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Improvising
Style: Fusion
Topic: Improvising
Style: Fusion
Okay, how did you get on with that then? Hopefully it was okay...
Our second method is really simple to understand and I'm going to call is 'side stepping'. This is a method which is tailor-made for guitarists as it's a very...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Improvising
Style: Fusion
Topic: Improvising
Style: Fusion
Here's the transcription for the first section of my improvised solo. I use Am Pentatonic and A Dorian throughout.
Level: Advanced
Topic: Improvising
Style: Fusion
Topic: Improvising
Style: Fusion
Using shapes refers to the idea that we can use material other than scales to play out. In order for an outside phrase to work, the listener simply needs something to latch on to. In this way we can use 'shapes' on the guitar...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Improvising
Style: Fusion
Topic: Improvising
Style: Fusion
With this method I've written out the shapes I've used and their sequence method without the rest of the solo so that you can stick them into your own improvisations. Hopefully they'll spark your imagination so you can come u...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Improvising
Style: Fusion
Topic: Improvising
Style: Fusion
Now, this method should really have a tutorial all of it's own but we'll leave that for the future.
For our outside playing in this example we'll be using two symmetrical scales - the wholetone and diminished scale. The whol...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Improvising
Style: Fusion
Topic: Improvising
Style: Fusion
In this example video I use A Dorian for my inside playing and A Wholetone and A diminshed for my outside playing. I've included the scales for your convenience too. I also sneaked in an A# diminished line at the end.
Level: Advanced
Topic: Improvising
Style: Fusion
Topic: Improvising
Style: Fusion
The final method we'll use for playing out relies on the following idea,
"Anything will work if you play it fast enough!"
This may sound like a bit of a cop out but in fact it's a very effective method for creating tension ...
Level: Crazy!
Topic: Improvising
Style: Fusion
Topic: Improvising
Style: Fusion
Haha! This isn't my best playing ever but presents some interesting ideas about just how out you can go when you're shredding. I think this is an idea you should use sparingly if possible - it gets a bit much as in this video...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Welcome!
In this tutorial, we'll be looking at a progressive rock piece I wrote called "Spatial Gravity". We'll be learning a good mix of rhythm and lead playing in this one while also incorporating various time signatures.
...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Before we learn the first exercise, I want to highlight the fact that we'll be using a couple different time signatures in this song, primarily being 7/8 and 4/4, and a little bit of 2/4. If you need a refresher course on any...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
This is the section where the drums come into the song and we play a bit of a teaser before building up into Exercise 3.
In bar 5, we'll start out by playing a G power chord on the 3rd fret of the Low E-string. Make sure to ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
This is the main "groove" part of the song. Now, let's pay very close attention to what's going on rhythmically here. When you watch the Full Video, listen carefully to what the guitar and drums are playing in this part. Basi...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
It's time for the solo!
We'll now be branching away from the 7/8 time signature into a more groove-oriented 4/4 feel.
When you look at the tablature below, you'll see quite a few "wavy lines" above certain notes. Those mark...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
This section is definitely the most difficult part of the song. So warm up, stretch your arms and fingers, and get ready to rock!
First, let's observe the type of rhythmic notes we'll be playing: thirty-second notes. 32nd no...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
The final section of the solo has a bit of a bluesy feel with lots of bends and pentatonic phrases. The goal here is to add as much "attitude" to these notes as possible. Give the vibrato-indicated notes a good amount of heav...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
As we conclude the song, we'll be playing an exercise that is very similar to Exercise 3. The main difference is that in this exercise, we'll be playing a brief descending pattern to close out the song.
There is one other di...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Classical
Topic: Technique
Style: Classical
A very warm welcome to you for this continuation of pieces by the Spanish master Francisco Tarrega.
For today's installment, we will be taking a look at Tarrega's "Pavane", which is one of many charming 'miniatures' penned b...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Classical
Topic: Technique
Style: Classical
With this type of composition, I really feel that you must try and approach it in a very classy kind of way. Hmmm, what exactly do I mean by that? Well, Tarrega wrote quite a few of these short but very charming pieces of mus...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Classical
Topic: Technique
Style: Classical
As we have modulated to the dominant key, B major, you may want to think about adding some subtleties in dynamics or tone to heighten the tension a little. No need to go overboard with it, just a little sprinkling here and th...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Classical
Topic: Technique
Style: Classical
OK, final section now.
For the C section, Tarrega creates some nice tension by outlining the Dominant of the original key with ascending lines played with pizzicato, which I feel really adds to the tension somewhat. It also ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Theory
Style: Any Style
Topic: Theory
Style: Any Style
Greetings Guitar Slingers!
Welcome to yet another (long) tutorial from yours truly. This time we will dive deep into the wonderful world of Harmonics! The theory, concepts and practice of harmonics in all its various incarna...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Theory
Style: Any Style
Topic: Theory
Style: Any Style
Welcome to part 1 of the theoretical part of natural harmonics. The first thing we need to cover and understand is the physics of the string – String Theory. The first thing we need to acknowledge is that when you play ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Theory
Style: Any Style
Topic: Theory
Style: Any Style
In this part you will have to keep a close eye on the Table of Harmonics as well. As you can see, the 1/3 division is always the perfect 5th up from the ½ (or the perfect 4th down from the ¼ division). That is, ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Theory
Style: Any Style
Topic: Theory
Style: Any Style
Before going into this part, it would be wise to re-visit (or visit) my set-up tutorial where I discuss Intonation, and the equal temperament system of the guitar, as opposed to true temperament. You can find that part of the...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Theory
Style: Any Style
Topic: Theory
Style: Any Style
In this part, I just reinforce the fact that the string's length is not relevant, only its pitch. Regardless if the string is divided by fretting a note, or elongated say on a bass, the positions of the harmonics will ALWAYS ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
First off, we need to discuss the terms artificial and pinch harmonics. These are most often labeled as two different names for the same thing, that is, the harmonics produced using the thumb and pick in unison. In reality, A...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
As I mentioned in the end of the last part, you can only produce the harmonics given to you by the divisions and nodes of the natural harmonics. You cannot produce something that is not there! I’ve seen instructional vi...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
This part re-emphasizes the difference between the natural over-tone series (with the harmonics) and the equal temperament (compromised) division of the fret board. For instance, you cannot produce a perfect major third inter...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
As explained in the video, Tap Harmonics is just another variation on the same theme. Let's say you fret a D on the 5th fret of the A-string. The ½ division of this new string length would then be situated at the 17th ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Finally! Time for some actual examples huh?!
Now, even though notating tap harmonics isn't as bad as trying to notate correct pinch harmonics, there is still no software that does it well I’m afraid. I can notate the o...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Harp Harmonics is a technique mostly used by classical guitarists, and is also often used with a clean tone, not a distorted one. What you do here is let the tip of your index finger touch the harmonic node while your right t...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Okay then! Time for the cutting edge stuff!
Before we go into this part, I must direct your attention to ALL the transcribed tabs for both the Flick and the Slap harmonic parts. As I have mentioned time and time again, there...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
On to the Slap/Spank/Left Hand Tap Harmonics!
Same as with previous examples, the notated harmonics do not exactly match what is played.
This is another technique to produce a similar result, and is my preferred weapon of c...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Okay, the next step is to add other whammy bar effects to the stew. First up is the regular “hitting the ol’ wang-bar”. As you release the whammy bar, you just hit it again, slightly depressing it in a rhyth...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
"Capo Harmonics" is maybe not the most imaginative name, but it was the best I could come up with. I have no idea if this particular technique has a specific name. To start out with, you’ve all tried and heard the Vai/S...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Improvising
Style: Fusion
Topic: Improvising
Style: Fusion
Hi guys!
It's nearly Easter and winter is pretty much gone, so it's time for some funky sounds to prepare for the warmer weather!
This tutorial is a song of mine from my upcoming album due to be released this year. It's a f...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Fusion
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Fusion
Here's the intro section of the tune which is repeated again when the band enters and at the end after the drum solo.
This line is created from a hybrid pentatonic scale - B minor Pentatonic with an added 6 (the note G#). Th...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Fusion
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Fusion
Here's the main melody played slowly then at tempo. Check out the fingerings and phrasing. A lot of these notes are played using slides and vibrato which is hard to notate so be sure to check these out in the video.
The melo...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Fusion
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Fusion
Now onto the Riff Section which is played underneath the Drum solo. This is very much influenced by later Greg Howe and Wayne Krantz. Lots of syncopation (off the beat playing) and built from a few different harmonic areas.
...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Welcome everyone!
In this tutorial, we're going to learn a song of mine called "Spiral". It has a modern metal feel with a few Eastern themes thrown in there.
Please note that this song is in Drop D tuning. If you aren't ex...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
As you probably noticed from watching the main video, there is going to be a lot of fast picking involved with the rhythm playing. When you look at the tablature throughout the song, you'll be noticing a lot of sixteenth note...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
In Exercise 2, we have the part of the song where the full band kicks in gear. The actual riff is similar to that of Exercise 1, but we'll be adding a couple new ideas.
Pay attention to the palm-mute markings (indicated as "...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Exercise 3 represents the "Symphony X" part of the song. I like playing riffs that somewhat tease the listener, letting them know that there's an even bigger riff coming their way next. So I like to think of this part of the ...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
And now, we have the big riff that we were building up to in Exercise 3. Make sure you headbang when you play this one. It will make you play better!...
...Okay maybe not. :)
Similar to Exercise 3, the effectiveness of this...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
In this last exercise, we're going to be adding in a hint of tapping into our rhythm playing.
First off, make sure you use alternate picking exclusively in this riff. The only time you won't be using it is when you'll be tap...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Hey and welcome to my Mixing Time Signatures tutorial!
Checkout the video of the example riff and before we head over to the breakdown section, see if you can try and figure out what the time signature is and where it change...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Welcome back and give yourself a big pat on the back for getting the time signatures correct! If you did, that is. ;)
The purpose of this tutorial is to give you a gentle push in the direction of combining time signatures, w...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Chords
Style: Blues
Topic: Chords
Style: Blues
Hi everyone! Welcome to this tutorial on the minor blues.
The minor blues is much like our beloved standard blues in many ways. It contains 3 primary chords, is generally 12 bars long and doesn't follow our standard ideas of...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Chords
Style: Blues
Topic: Chords
Style: Blues
Okay, here we go!
In this first progression we'll only be using our three minor chords in their most basic open string form. All the chord shapes we'll use throughout each progression are given below each example in TAB, sta...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Chords
Style: Blues
Topic: Chords
Style: Blues
The transition from progression 1 to progression 2 is a simple one. It's more usual to play minor 7th chords instead of straight minor chords when playing a blues in this way. This is much the same as with a major blues where...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Chords
Style: Blues
Topic: Chords
Style: Blues
Let's make our chords more sophisticated for this 3rd progression. Open string chords aren't going to cut it any more. In this version we still use minor 7th chords but we're going to move up the neck a little and use shapes ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Chords
Style: Blues
Topic: Chords
Style: Blues
In progression 3 we had very full sounding chords where we were playing the root note as the lowest note or bass note in each shape. This is fine for solo or duo performances but is a bit of a problem when playing with a bass...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Chords
Style: Blues
Topic: Chords
Style: Blues
Right - we're at the final stage now.
Our final alteration will occur in bars 9 and 10 of our progression. We're going to use a classic blues trick using two chords as substitutions for the Dm9 and Em7 already in those bars....
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Reference
Style: Any Style
Topic: Reference
Style: Any Style
Hi there guys and welcome to this tutorial on tuning in 4ths.
Normally we tune the guitar in what we call standard tuning. In other words out strings are tuned to the following notes,
E, A, D, G, B and E
This system of tun...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Reference
Style: Any Style
Topic: Reference
Style: Any Style
Okay, so as an example we can take a Cmajor Triad. If we play this on the A, D and G strings we get a triad composed from the notes C, E and G played at the 3rd fret of the A string. If we take this shape up an octave and pla...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Reference
Style: Any Style
Topic: Reference
Style: Any Style
It's actually pretty easy to work out shapes that will work in this tuning. The system is easy and relies on information you probably already know.
Basically, any shapes that work on the bottom 4 strings will work anywhere o...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Welcome to this riffage tutorial based on a tune of mine called "TapOut". You guessed it, I'm a UFC fan! :)
This riff is pretty much what you might label "Swedish Metal", in which I have tried to capture some of the essence ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
In this first breakdown, we'll be looking at the first riff. This riff is made up of a sliding 3-string chord (an augmented power chord, or "half-diminished power chord" or "b5 power chord" as I believe you call it in the US)...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
This part contains a continuous 16-note riff, with some off-beat accents occurring thanks to the placement of the un-muted notes in relation to the muted low C. This type of riffing can get really mesmerizing, so please use t...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
In this part, I'm using a rather un-orthodox harmonic technique. The actual physics of this technique is something I will include in my upcoming tutorial on harmonics, which will cover just about every possible harmonic techn...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Acoustic
Topic: Technique
Style: Acoustic
Hey everyone! Welcome to this tutorial on acoustic percussion. This is a short etude tutorial that will help familiarize yourself with the basic techniques of this modern acoustic style. Percussive playing on the acoustic gui...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Acoustic
Topic: Technique
Style: Acoustic
If you aren't familiar with playing percussion on the acoustic, be sure to learn this at a very slow pace. Watch the videos very closely and pay attention to my hand movements. At first, it might seem like there's a lot goin...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Acoustic
Topic: Technique
Style: Acoustic
In Part 2, there will be a lot more movement with your left hand as it makes its way over to knock the guitar body. Make sure you have the guitar in a stable position so it doesn't sway too much with your arm and hand movemen...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Welcome folks!
In this tutorial, we'll be focusing on a rock tune in 6/8 time, hence the amazingly creative title, "6/8 Rock". :) You can think of 6/8 as having a span of six eighth notes per measure. Listen for the high-hat...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
In the first exercise, we'll be doing some sweep arpeggios in the key of D Major. The first 2 bars highlight the Major feel, then in bars 3 and 4, we'll be playing in B minor (D Major's relative minor key). We'll then repeat ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
In this section, we'll be playing a "call and answer" sequence. A "call and answer" sequence is when you have a brief musical theme that somewhat "leaves you hanging", then it's immediately followed by another brief theme tha...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
This is the slightly "metal" section of this seemingly upbeat rock tune.
Be mindful of the palm mutes. Anytime you see the "P.M." markings in the tab, be sure to play solid palm mutes.
Also, you might notice that I'm doing ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
We're now going to be doing some full out sweep picking.
In bar 25, we'll be sweeping over an A Major triad. Then in bar 26, we'll be sweeping over a D Major triad. Bar 27 will go back to the A Major triad. Then lastly, in b...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
This is the quiet part of the song and is pretty easy. You'll see a couple bars of only rests as well. In bars 35 and 36, be sure to gradually build the intensity of your playing as you transition back into the main chorus me...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Exercises
Style: Classical
Topic: Exercises
Style: Classical
In today's lesson, we will be looking at a study written by Spanish composer/guitarist Francisco Tárrega (1852-1909).
Tárrega is considered by many to have been responsible for the revival of interest in the gu...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Exercises
Style: Classical
Topic: Exercises
Style: Classical
This study is very simplistic harmonically, offering the briefest of excursions to the relative major in bars 11-12, while the remainder stays within the confines of E minor. From a technical standpoint, it is well within the...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Reference
Style: Any Style
Topic: Reference
Style: Any Style
Welcome guitar slingers, to this behemoth of a tutorial on guitar set-up!
Proper guitar set-up is something that everybody know is needed, but few know how to do. It’s sort of like the mechanics of a car. We all know h...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Reference
Style: Any Style
Topic: Reference
Style: Any Style
Having the proper tools will make your guitar-tech life a lot easier. Here’s a list of the most necessary tools. Of course you could get a professional guitar tech tool-kit if you do a lot of setup work, but regular too...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Reference
Style: Any Style
Topic: Reference
Style: Any Style
New Strings
A fresh set of strings is always a relief to play, as the feel fresh, slick and you don’t get caught on them whilst playing (sort of a like a satin-finished neck vs. a sticky gloss finish). Many player chan...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Reference
Style: Any Style
Topic: Reference
Style: Any Style
String change for vintage tuners
The first part with fastening the string to the bridge is the same. Then follow this procedure (And check the video!):
1. Turn the tuning head, so that the slot in the peg head is in line wi...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Reference
Style: Any Style
Topic: Reference
Style: Any Style
String Change for locking tuners
In this first part, you will be presented with the workings on the locking tuner, and how to un-fasten strings from them.
There are mainly two ways of doing this:
1. Start to unwind the str...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Reference
Style: Any Style
Topic: Reference
Style: Any Style
Locking Tuners cont.:
1. Thread the string through the bridge like before. Nothing out of the ordinary here.
2. Thread the string through the hole in the locking tuning peg. Pull the string tight and hold it taut on the oth...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Reference
Style: Any Style
Topic: Reference
Style: Any Style
Fret Board Maintenance
When changing strings, I recommend you change them one at a time, unless you feel the need to clean your fret board, oil it in, or polish your frets. This will keep the neck in constant tension, and wo...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Reference
Style: Any Style
Topic: Reference
Style: Any Style
Truss Rod Adjustment
What is a truss-rod you might ask? The truss-rod is a metal bar inside the guitar neck, that flexes in or (or sometimes both) directions. This rod in place for two reasons: 1. To stabilize the neck and s...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Reference
Style: Any Style
Topic: Reference
Style: Any Style
Truss Rod Adjustment - cont:
First of all we need to determine what our current relief is, and decide how or if we want to change that. The way to do this is either by using you eye-sight, or by measuring with a steel ruler ...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Reference
Style: Any Style
Topic: Reference
Style: Any Style
String height adjustment
So, once we’ve set the relief to a point that fits our string gauge and playing preferences, it’s time to adjust the string height. String height is also a matter of preference. Some like...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Reference
Style: Any Style
Topic: Reference
Style: Any Style
History and background introduction
Okey then, time for the big one, which will contain much information besides the practical intonation adjustments. Intonation is probably the most misunderstood part of guitar set-up, and ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Reference
Style: Any Style
Topic: Reference
Style: Any Style
Ok, let’s say that your top nut is fine. Then let’s move on to intonating to rest of the neck.
The common way of intonating an electric guitar is to tune the open harmonic to pitch, and then check to see if the f...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Reference
Style: Any Style
Topic: Reference
Style: Any Style
Nut Height
Nut height is yet another thing we need to cover. The nut height affects playability and sound to a great extent, more so than intonation (that is more the contact points of the strings, as described earlier). If ...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
Tremolo Equipped Guitars For the final chapter, we will look at setup for a typical tremolo guitar, a Floyd Rose-type guitar such as an Ibanez. Some of the things have already been covered, such as cleaning the fret board and...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Reference
Style: Any Style
Topic: Reference
Style: Any Style
String change
In this first part of the video, I will just discuss and show you how to remove the strings, and things to consider.
Level: Beginner
Topic: Reference
Style: Any Style
Topic: Reference
Style: Any Style
String Change cont.
On a guitar with a locking nut, it is not necessary to use the string fastening techniques we've discussed before. You will have a locking top nut that will secure the strings. There are 2 main ways of fa...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Reference
Style: Any Style
Topic: Reference
Style: Any Style
Checking the knife edges
As described in the video (and I do urge you to check this on the video), you can easily take off the tremolo to do maintenance, cleaning and such. If you have any tuning stability problems, you shou...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Reference
Style: Any Style
Topic: Reference
Style: Any Style
Shimming the neck pocket
Let’s say that you have lowered your bridge as far as you can into the cavity without bottoming out, and the action is still too high. Your truss-rod and relief has been adjusted, and all else ...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Reference
Style: Any Style
Topic: Reference
Style: Any Style
For this specific chapter, show and tell is by far easier than reading text. So for this chapter I urge you to just watch the video, and listen to what I have to say there.
Level: Beginner
Topic: Reference
Style: Any Style
Topic: Reference
Style: Any Style
When you are finally ready to lock down on the top nut, one thing to consider is that the force of the locking nut will pull the strings out of pitch as you tighten it. As I turn the screw clockwise to tighten it, the plate b...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Hi Guys!
Welcome to this tutorial on using Melodic Minor Scales.
In this tutorial we'll be learning how to use melodic minor scales in conjunction with the major scales we already know in a harmonic context.
By the end of ...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Chords
Style: Any Style
Topic: Chords
Style: Any Style
Just as when we build the seven chords from a major scale, we can build seven chords from our melodic minor scale.
The first thing I want to say is don't worry if you've never studied chord construction at this stage. A sepa...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Chords
Style: Any Style
Topic: Chords
Style: Any Style
Remember that I'm playing these chords in 4ths tuning but the TAB is in standard so my shapes look a little different.
Chord V is built from the note G and is called,
G7#5 or G seven sharp five.
Two voicings are provided....
Level: Advanced
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Okay! So now we have our 7 chords for the key of C melodic minor. But how do we use them?
Well first it's important to understand the fundamental difference between major scale harmony and melodic minor scale harmony.
Major...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Here we go!
For the first set of examples I'll be using the key of Cmajor. This gives us the following chords and all their variations,
C major, D minor, E Minor, F major, G major, A minor and B diminished.
We're going to ...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Improvising
Style: Any Style
Topic: Improvising
Style: Any Style
In this improvisation, I'm soloing over just two chords. Remember, it's very common to combine a major scale with the melodic minor scale built from it's 4th degree.
The first chord is Eb Major and the second is Abm6 which i...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Improvising
Style: Any Style
Topic: Improvising
Style: Any Style
This improvisation combines chords from a few different scales but is primarily in the key of Cm (the relative minor of Eb major). It features a descending bass line progression with some really nice harmony going on.
We sta...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Improvising
Style: Any Style
Topic: Improvising
Style: Any Style
This final example is a bit more up tempo to give you a bit more of a soloing challenge!
Again we're in the key of Eb major but we have a new melodic minor source this time.
We start with two bars of Eb major and then get t...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Hey there Lads and Lasses and a very warm welcome to a special tutorial!
Following on from my tutorial of the solo section of 'Andromeda' by Marco Sfogli, today's tutorial will be an in depth look at the full track entitled ...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
OK, let's start with the intro.
The first thing we will want to do is take note of the time signature and key, which I can tell you is 7/8 and F#minor.
The first phrase begins on the fourth semiquaver of bar 9 and may requi...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
In practicing this section, I have found that it is good practice to attempt to sing each phrase as it occurs. The melody line is very vocal in nature and when sung, can give you a much more clear understanding of how to phra...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Take note of the change in meter at this point from 4/4 to 6/4.
This section has a particularly bluesy feel to it regarding some of the licks and you will need to be 100% in control of your intonation during some of these be...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Now this chorus is a highly melodic affair with a soaring melody in the high register of the guitar that evokes an awful lot of emotion. Whilst practicing the chorus section for the full performance, I found myself thinking h...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
OK, we're back to a second verse, however this time Marco takes the vocal approach one step further by playing this section entirely with tapped harmonics with the right hand. Using this technique gives an even more exaggerat...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
This section contains some particularly challenging licks, so take your time here and remember to subdivide the sections to enable you to really get to grips with these licks and shapes.
There are quite a lot of pickup chang...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
The part of this section that may give you the biggest challenge is the tapped arpeggio section. As always, if you need to, subdivide the sections so that you know exactly what you are doing at any given time. I always find t...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Now we hit the pre 2nd chorus section. It is imperative that you try to capture the sense of anticipation that Marco captures on the studio recording throughout this section. We are building up to a highly emotive return to t...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
The only difference between this chorus and the first chorus is in bars 130-135, where you shouldn't find anything too challenging.
What you should be working on more than anything is linking the end of this section into the...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Ok it's time for the 'Still Hurts' unison!
What you will need to do is subdivide this section into bars as I did in the above video. If necessary, subdivide the bars into sections as well so that you can really get a grasp o...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Now we reach the wonderfully melodic and inventive final section.
I have a real fondness for this section and particularly enjoy Marco's use of the trem bar for emotional effect. You will have to make sure that each trem bar...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Chords
Style: Classical
Topic: Chords
Style: Classical
Welcome!
In today's lesson we will be studying the classical guitar solo written by Spanish composer/guitarist Francisco Tárrega (1852 - 1909).
Tárrega is considered by many to have been responsible for the re...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Chords
Style: Classical
Topic: Chords
Style: Classical
OK, let's take a look at the opening bars.
The first thing that you should be aware of throughout the piece is to balance the bass movement, accompaniment, and melody. The use of rest strokes for the melody can be a very use...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Chords
Style: Classical
Topic: Chords
Style: Classical
For section 2, we have changed key from E major to E minor. I feel that this parallel key change lends itself to emotive composition and can be extremely effective.
Again, make sure you balance each individual part and be su...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Blues
Topic: Technique
Style: Blues
Holiday Greetings guitar slingers!
In this final tutorial of 2008, I will leave you with a blues tune that focuses on combining open strings and hybrid-picking. Pay close attention to the synchronization between the left and...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Blues
Topic: Technique
Style: Blues
Okay then, time for the first breakdown. This part covers the first 6 bars of the 12-bar blues. Once you've got the first 2 bars down, the rest should be a breeze. Also, pay attention to my choice of picking in the end of bar...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Blues
Topic: Technique
Style: Blues
The second breakdown covers bars 7-12. Here we have a slightly different outro-line that is a bit faster, and uses less hybrid-picking but more hammer-ons and pull-offs. Try it out, and make sure to start on the upbeat or you...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Holiday
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Holiday
Merry Christmas everyone!
I wrote this little piece after I heard an excellent song by Trans-siberian Orchestra. They did a medley where they mixed together two Christmas classics: "Carol of the Bells" and "God Rest Ye Merry...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Holiday
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Holiday
The first thing to be aware of with this piece is the 3/4 time signature. Except for the very last part of the song, everything will remain in 3/4 time. Before you start learning the piece, make sure you can properly identify...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Holiday
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Holiday
Here we have the second part of the main "Carol of the Bells" melody.
In bars 13 through 16, we have a different melody than the last lesson, but the rhythmic structure is exactly the same, where we have the following count:...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Holiday
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Holiday
Now comes the section where we begin playing the "God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen" theme.
This section begins at a very soft volume and I'd suggest using your picking-hand's thumb to gently play the notes. Look for the "T" marki...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Holiday
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Holiday
To close out the piece, we'll be playing a rockin' breakdown that will be sure to wreak havoc on the North Pole. So get ready to rock!
We'll now be playing in a standard 4/4 time signature. If you need a quick overview of th...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Scales
Style: Fusion
Topic: Scales
Style: Fusion
Hi there guys! Welcome to this tutorial on visualizing pentatonic scales for guitar.
This tutorial aims to help you break out of the rut that the typical box pattern approach to learning pentatonics can produce.
If I were t...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Chords
Style: Fusion
Topic: Chords
Style: Fusion
The first thing we have to be able to do in order to use the visualization technique described in this tutorial is understand the concept of a sus4 chord.
A sus4 chord is a chord containing a Root, 4th and 5th (R, 4, 5)
An ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Scales
Style: Fusion
Topic: Scales
Style: Fusion
So, how do these sus4 chords relate to our minor pentatonic scale?
Well, every minor pentatonic scale contains a couple of sus4 chords which we're going to focus on. Let's take Am pentatonic as our example. This scale contai...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Scales
Style: Fusion
Topic: Scales
Style: Fusion
One of the best uses I've found for this technique is for comping. In other words, for playing chord based accompaniment or solos over chord changes or a static groove.
Normally you'd rarely think of using a pentatonic scale...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Scales
Style: Fusion
Topic: Scales
Style: Fusion
Let's take this comping idea and apply it to a static groove. I know one problem many people have when playing over a static groove is knowing how to create interesting chordal ideas which don't just rely on your stock chord ...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Scales
Style: Fusion
Topic: Scales
Style: Fusion
Here's our final comping example using pentatonic scales as our harmonic source.
The chord sequence below is from a well known tune by John Coltrane. I'll name this one Giant Leaps! That should give you a clue!
Normally whe...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Scales
Style: Fusion
Topic: Scales
Style: Fusion
When you apply these ideas to playing chords, you simply need to follow a few simple rules and everything should fall into place.
Most fusion and jazz tunes and even some modern funk songs change key often. The first thing y...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Scales
Style: Fusion
Topic: Scales
Style: Fusion
One of the great things about visualizing the pentatonics is that it allows us to create lines in addition to new comping ideas. Over the next few videos, I'll introduce you to four of the kind of lines I play on a regular ba...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Scales
Style: Fusion
Topic: Scales
Style: Fusion
Now, on to line playing! All of these examples are TABBED for 4ths tuning but the standard tuned versions are at the end of the tutorial. I recommend you print these out for reference as some of the fingerings are different b...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Scales
Style: Fusion
Topic: Scales
Style: Fusion
Line No. 2 is a descending 16th note triplet phrase utilizing stretched sus4 arpeggios built from our Am pentatonic again.
I've incorporated a sneaky Dsus4 arpeggio at the beginning of the line (this works too!) but the rest...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Scales
Style: Fusion
Topic: Scales
Style: Fusion
Here is line no. 3, built exclusively from the Am Pentatonic scale.
Again, I've used sus4 shapes and their inversions to create the line beginning with a Gsus4 in the 1st inversion, followed by an Asus4 in the root position....
Level: Crazy!
Topic: Scales
Style: Fusion
Topic: Scales
Style: Fusion
Here is our final line built from the Am pentatonic scale. This example makes the most blatant use of it as far as the sus4 shapes go.
If you analyze the line, you'll see that we're simply playing each inversion of Asus4 and...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
Holiday greetings and salutations guitar slingers!
X-mas is drawing near, and what says happy holidays better than a sweeping-frenzy? In this technique/song tutorial, we will take a look at an excerpt from the song Tribute o...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
Alright then!
In this first exercise, we will look at an exercise designed to help you focus on right/left hand synchronization. By keeping the pattern pretty basic, with no finger-rolls (more on that in Exercise 2), you wil...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
Ok then, in this exercise we will look at another crucial aspect of sweeping, the finger roll. And no, this is not an appetizer you might find on Hannibal the Cannibal's dinner table. Whenever you play arpeggios based on the ...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
In this section, we will look at an arpeggio exercise that covers some wide interval stretches. This is in order to prepare you for some of the bigger fingerings occurring later on in this tutorial. This is also an exercise d...
Level: Crazy!
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
This part serves as an introduction to the sweeping etude, so just watch it as a warm-up for the next part.
Level: Crazy!
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
Alright! Here it is, the big chunk of all-you-can-eat sweep-o-rama!
This video is just the actual performance, so once you watch this through and get a feel for the piece, move on to the breakdown parts.
You can also listen...
Level: Crazy!
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
First breakdown section! All explanations will be found in the video. Please note that I wont go over every single bar in this piece, since much of it is just repetition, or maybe the exact same sweep technique, just a differ...
Level: Crazy!
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
The sixth and final breakdown, and then you're done! Now, all you need to do is try these sweeps out in your own playing and improvisation! Remember, as always, learning something is just step 1. Application and implementing ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Chords
Style: Holiday
Topic: Chords
Style: Holiday
Welcome one and all to this very special rendition of the classic Christmas song 'Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas' performed just for you even more special IG'ists.
Snuggle up to the roaring fire and don't forget your...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Chords
Style: Holiday
Topic: Chords
Style: Holiday
Hope you all enjoyed that 'special' performance lol!
OK, let's get cracking with this rather festive tutorial of an arrangement I made of this classic Christmas song (NO vocals this time I promise!)
Watch the solo in full a...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Chords
Style: Holiday
Topic: Chords
Style: Holiday
Welcome to part one!
The opening of this arrangement is very homophonic in nature, using a variety of inversions in block chord format. Take for instance the opening bar. In its most basic form we actually have a c major cho...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Chords
Style: Holiday
Topic: Chords
Style: Holiday
This section moves away from the previous homophonic approach and incorporates a lot more changes in rhythm with a more jazzy harmony.
It is essential that you sustain the melody wherever possible as it is imperative that it...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Chords
Style: Holiday
Topic: Chords
Style: Holiday
OK, now we come to the repeat section which is exactly the same as section 1 up until we get to bar 30.
Bars 31-32 may require a little experimentation with left hand positioning if you are using a classical guitar as access...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Welcome everyone!
In this tutorial, we'll be learning a piece I wrote called "Premonition". It has a bit of a Symphony X vibe to it and has a good mix of melodic and heavy riffs. I hope you enjoy it!
Once you've watched the...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
In this lesson, we'll be learning the riff that represents the main theme of the song.
All notes in this section will be played as sextuplets (16th note triplets). If you look at each beat in a given measure, you'll see that...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
In Exercise 2, we'll begin the prelude to the heavy middle section. When you listen to the full video with the band, you can hear how I'm playing some accented notes along with the drums between rests. This is a very common y...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
And now we come to the heavy riff we referred to in the last lesson. This is where the drums go full throttle and you begin headbanging in headbanging heaven.*
*Headbanging optional, but strongly encouraged.
The chords in t...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
In this riff, we're transitioning from the darker sound to a more melodic sound.
In bars 17 and 18, we'll be playing 32nd notes exclusively. Pay very close attention to the palm muting. The only notes you won't be palm mutin...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Welcome everyone!
In this song tutorial, we'll be learning a modern metal piece entitled "Eluding the Mastermind". Please note that this song is in Drop D tuning. If you aren't exactly sure what that is, click here.
Once yo...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
The intro riff to this song is mainly comprised of sixteenth notes. Most of the notes will be palm muted as well. However, study the tablature closely to catch which notes aren't supposed to be palm muted.
When you look at t...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Now let's start getting more melodic! I especially like this riff as it's pretty fun to play. It may be a bit challenging at first though as there are many hand movements shifting back and forth on the fretboard.
The trickie...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Now we've come to the very fast and heavy rhythm section. Make sure you are especially warmed and stretched before playing this part! There is a lot of strain on your picking hand here, so be sure to gradually increase your s...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
We'll begin this section by strumming back and forth between two particular chords: Am(without the 5th) and A#(without the 5th). You'll also see a lot of 16th note rests between the strumming patterns. When you encounter thes...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Hey IG'ists! Thanks for dropping in on this latest tutorial in which we will be looking at an arpeggio study I wrote entitled 'Freefall'!
Some of you may have seen the thread I posted in the forums about Captain Joe Kittinge...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Firstly, lets take a look at the chords for this first section:
Amaj7 - Amin7 - Gmaj7 - Gmin7 - F#maj7b5 - F#min7
Each arpeggio is based on the chord which is occurring underneath at the same time so over the first chord we...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Now we reach the first changes in harmony within this study which are as follows:
F#min7b5 - B7 - E7
For the first arpeggio I find it so much easier to think of it as exactly the same shape as the previous F#min7 chord but ...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Almost there guys!
It is at this juncture that Cpt. Kittinger approaches and lands safely on the ground in the desert of New Mexico. The harmonic pace quickens in these final bars where we have the following underlying chord...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Welcome!
In this tutorial, we'll be learning a metal piece entitled "Turbulence". Please note that this song is in Drop D tuning. If you aren't exactly sure what that is, click here.
Once you've viewed the video above, head...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
We will be starting out the song in a 5/8 time signature. In other words, there will be a span of 5 eighth notes in each measure.
The first riff is a bit Meshuggah-esque. Meshuggah often uses heavy palm muting riffs synced w...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
This part is a bit tricky as far as rhythm goes. As much as you can, really try to pay attention to what the different instruments are playing during this part in the Full Video. Basically, there are two time signatures occur...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
In the previous lesson, we were playing a 5/8 riff while the drums played a 4/4 groove underneath. In this lesson however, we'll begin playing the guitar in 4/4.
We'll be playing the same rhythmic pattern in this entire less...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
This riff has a really nice groove with the drums. As far as your picking, it will pretty much stay the same throughout this section. When you look at the tab, you'll see that most of the notes are in groupings of 2. For each...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Fusion
Topic: Technique
Style: Fusion
Hi there guys and welcome to this tutorial on Legato and Hybrid picking that I've entitled Modern Legato Application/Approach.
In this lesson I'm introducing you to 5 examples of phrases or lines that I often play when impro...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Fusion
Topic: Technique
Style: Fusion
Right! On to the application of this legato approach.
These preliminary exercises are designed to help you warm up and develop your legato and hybrid picking.
Preliminary exercise no.1 is based on a G major scale but is 'so...
Level: Crazy!
Topic: Technique
Style: Fusion
Topic: Technique
Style: Fusion
Right, here we go!
First of all I need to point out that all of these examples are written out in my 4ths tuning - in other words I'm tuned from low to high - E A D G C F. I've done this to represent these phrases in the for...
Level: Crazy!
Topic: Technique
Style: Fusion
Topic: Technique
Style: Fusion
Now onto exercise 2! Hope you got on okay with exercise 1! This one is also over a G major tonality.
Things become a bit trickier now with some fairly big stretches. Make sure you're warmed up for this one! The first section...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Fusion
Topic: Technique
Style: Fusion
Some of example 3 should be familiar to you as it borrows some ideas from example 1, namely the descending Gmaj7 arpeggio at the end of the line. Again, the line is over a G major tonality.
The difficulty with this phrase co...
Level: Crazy!
Topic: Technique
Style: Fusion
Topic: Technique
Style: Fusion
Here's example number 4.
Now, in this example, again over a G major tonality, I use some pretty unorthodox stretches between my 1st and 2nd finger stretching between the 5th and 2nd frets on the A string. I do this because i...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Fusion
Topic: Technique
Style: Fusion
Right! Hopefully you've still got some energy left in those fingers to tackle this final example.
Unlike the previous lines which were constructed over a Gmajor tonality, this one moves between two separate tonalities - G Do...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Hey there and welcome! In this tutorial we will be looking at a study I wrote that focuses on left hand hammers 'from nowhere' and right hand taps. The piece is called 'Tapdance'.
I am an avid tapdancer and I am currently pr...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Due to the nature of this study, it is essential that you are familiar with triad arpeggios and their inversions as we will be needing one inversion for the left hand and one for the right hand.
Regarding both the left and r...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
The arpeggios in this section are as follows:
Fmaj - Dmin - Gmaj - Gaug - Emin - Amin
Due to the nature of this study, it is essential that you are familiar with triad arpeggios and their inversions as we will be needing on...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
The arpeggios and scales in this section are as follows:
Bbdim - Dmin - Dmin pentatonic
Due to the nature of this study, it is essential that you are familiar with triad arpeggios and their inversions as we will be needing ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Welcome!
In this song tutorial we'll be learning a piece I wrote called "Redemption".
As you go through the tutorial, you'll notice that the entire piece is centered on the following chord progression: C, Em, Am, F. You'll ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
The riffs and picking are pretty straightforward in this piece, but be sure to examine the tablature closely so you don't miss any details. Also, there a few exceptions, but most of the notes we'll be playing in this piece ar...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Exercise 2 is where the rhythm playing gets interesting. This is also where you'll find a few eighth notes mixed in with the sixteenth notes.
Also, be mindful of the sixteenth note rests that you'll see in each bar. For thos...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Here we have the chorus section.
The main trick we have to master in this exercise is our picking. As far as our picking motions, we'll be using alternate picking. However, it gets a little tricky since we're repeating a gro...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Fusion
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Fusion
Hi guys!
Today we're going to learn part of a song from my forthcoming debut album. The song is called Sleeper and we're going to start about 3 minutes into the track after the main improvised solo section.
The tune moves b...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Fusion
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Fusion
Here we go then! The first bar of this tune is in 7/8 meaning we have seven 8th notes per bar. After this we're straight into 5/8 in bar two and for the rest of this section. Take note of the common rhythmic theme at the begi...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Fusion
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Fusion
Okay! Now onto the second half of the opening melody. Here we start by doubling the melody in the bass and synth part. Watch out for the long position change slide at the start of bar 11.
Bars 14 and 15 involve a very quick ...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Fusion
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Fusion
The ending melody is a 'tip of the hat' to Mr. Guthrie Govan and his track 'Waves'. It uses a great number of position shifts and slides combined with some awkward fingerings. The aim here is to produce a smooth, synth-like s...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Improvising
Style: Rock
Topic: Improvising
Style: Rock
Grettings Guitar Slingers!!
In this tutorial we will use the final example, 7b, from my Muting Techniques tutorial.
As you recall, this example alternated between major and minor in every bar. The first bar isn't really maj...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Improvising
Style: Rock
Topic: Improvising
Style: Rock
Alright then! Here we have the actual solo. If you feel like it, you could of course learn this right of, and then head on to the backing track to practice it. However, I highly recommend you go through the analysis part and...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Improvising
Style: Rock
Topic: Improvising
Style: Rock
In this first part, we will look into just the first 3 bars. Here I use artificial harmonics to produce my chosen notes. If you look closer at the very first note of this part, you will see that even though I'm fretting a B a...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Improvising
Style: Rock
Topic: Improvising
Style: Rock
In the next couple of bars we start out pretty straight forward. I go down the Dorian in bar 9, and end up in Mixolydian pentatonic in bar 10.
After that however, some technically interesting things comes into play. In bar 1...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Improvising
Style: Rock
Topic: Improvising
Style: Rock
Alright then, 3rd part of the analysis!
This part begins with the bend I held in the previous bar, I release this bend landing back on the D# on the first beat of the bar. This bar is over the major part of the riff, and wha...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Hey all!
In this tutorial, we're going to learn a short arpeggio etude that focuses on our sweeping and tapping skills.
In the video above, you'll notice that I played the etude at two different speeds. First at 140bpm (bea...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Before we get started, let's make sure you understand what an arpeggio actually is. An arpeggio is simply the notes of a chord played in succession. So if you took any random chord, and played the notes of that chord individu...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
In Exercise 2, we'll be incorporating a different arpeggio in each bar. First A Major, then G Major, then F# minor, then E Major.
As always, be mindful of the smooth gliding motions with your picking hand when sweeping. Also...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Welcome folks!
In this tutorial, we're going to focus on metal rhythm playing as we learn a song called "Time Constraint".
Once you've watched the video above, head on over to the next page for Exercise 1. Have fun!
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
To start the piece, we have an interesting rhythmic intro. The idea was to play something simple that sounded somewhat like a beeping alarm clock.
Throughout this piece, you'll notice many "X" symbols on the strings. That sy...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
In Exercise 2, we'll start out by playing an F octave chord on the A and G strings. Notice the "X" symbol on the D string? That simply means you'll be muting the D string while you strum the octave chords. Make sure your str...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
In this exercise, we have a fast, eastern sounding legato lick.
Accuracy is key here, so make sure you practice this part note by note. If you play it fast and some notes don't sound properly, slow it down. Only increase you...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
This last part has a bit of a funky feel to it. In bars 24 through 27, you'll be playing an octave riff that somewhat plays off of the drum beat. Be mindul of the many 8th note rests as well. Make sure those rests are super c...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Acoustic
Topic: Technique
Style: Acoustic
Hey IG'ists and welcome to this tutorial in the style of the phenomenal acoustic guitarist Andy McKee.
Andy McKee was born in Topeka, Kansas and is one of the world’s finest acoustic soloists. After receiving over 20 m...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Acoustic
Topic: Technique
Style: Acoustic
OK, lets check out the piece in it's entirety.
I wrote this piece to highlight the techniques which Andy employs in his compositions so, as always, pay close attention to everything that is happening both technique wise and ...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Acoustic
Topic: Technique
Style: Acoustic
Welcome to part 1!
Lets look at how the guitar is tuned:
6=D
5=A
4=D
3=G
2=A
1=E
I have chosen to notate this piece in 4/4 as opposed to 2/4 for ease of score writing. However, what I have done is divide the bar into ...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Acoustic
Topic: Technique
Style: Acoustic
The rhythmic figure we have here in the second part of the intro is the same as the first part but we have some development with the use of the open top string. Be sure to let that open string ring on throughout this section....
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Acoustic
Topic: Technique
Style: Acoustic
Here we have the main melody of the piece.
Notice how the tonality has changed from D min to D maj. I feel this has a very uplifting but subtle feel which I like a lot.
A key element of playing pieces like this with this ki...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Acoustic
Topic: Technique
Style: Acoustic
OK, we are now back to the D min tonality.
This section may require some extra practice as there are a couple of moments which could prove a little tricky. During bar 33, make sure that immediately after the percussion your ...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Acoustic
Topic: Technique
Style: Acoustic
This section is a repeat of the previous section but with a change in bars 45 and 46.
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Acoustic
Topic: Technique
Style: Acoustic
The percussion effect during this section is played slightly differently to how we achieved the effect before, as in with the thumb. What is more effective here is to clench the hand into a fist and let it fall onto the strin...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Acoustic
Topic: Technique
Style: Acoustic
OK, we have now reached the final part and perhaps the most exciting part, Tapping!!!
Note wise it is an exact repetition of part 6 but played with the inclusion of right and left hand taps.
In order to get the best results...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Blues
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Blues
I hope you've packed your suitcase, because we're about to leave on the Blues Cruise! Okay maybe not, but let's learn a cool blues song while we're here. :)
I was in a bluesy mood the other day so I decided to write this lit...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Blues
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Blues
Before we start, make sure you have a grasp on the song's underlying rhythm. If you haven't already figured it out, this tune has a very heavy triplet feel. So make sure you listen for that triplet pulse throughout the riffs ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Blues
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Blues
In the beginning of this exercise, we'll immediately notice more of the fingerpicking that we discussed in the last lesson. In this case, we'll be plucking octave notes with our picking hand fingers.
In the last two bars, we...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Blues
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Blues
In exercise 3, we're going to start things out by playing a smooth A minor arpeggio. I'd recommend practicing this arpeggio by itself before moving on to the rest of the exercise.
In bar 11, we'll be playing some nice bends ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Blues
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Blues
To start off exercise 4, we'll be playing a blues lick similar to the one I did in this lesson. Practice it very slowly at first. And it may sound silly, but really try to feel the blues "attitude" in this riff. Give that thi...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Blues
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Blues
Out of all the exercises, this last one has the most bends. Keep those bends in tune! And on a sidenote, if you are a guitarist that isn't very used to bending, make sure you pace yourself and your fingers when getting used t...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Hi there guys!
Welcome to this tutorial on how to Visualize the Fretboard. This tutorial is going to deal with learning major scales and their modes and how to visualize them on the guitar.
I'm sure in your time as a guitar...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
We're going to be using 3 fingerings only to learn these scales all over the neck.
Fingering number 1 uses our 1st, 2nd and 4th fingers with a gap of 1 fret between each. On the video and in the diagram I use the frets 3, 5 ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Okay! Let's put these fingerings to work.
We're going to be doing everything in the key of G major for this tutorial but these ideas will transpose into any key you wish.
Our first scale is going to be the G Major Scale. In...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
So here's our first modal scale - dorian. Dorian is the second mode of the major scale and in the key of G starts on the note A. We'll start our scale on the 5th fret of the low E string.
If you look at the diagram below you...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Moving on to Phrygian we have a scale starting on the note B. This occurs on the 7th fret of the low E string giving us B Phrygian.
Our phrygian scale starts on the second of our fingering no.2's. So we have one fingering no...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
So, moving on we have Lydian. In the key of G we have C Lydian so our scale starts on the 8th fret of our low E string.
We start the scale with the third of our fingering no. 1's. Because this is the third fingering no.1 it ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Now we move onto the Mixolydian Scale. In the key of G our Mixolydian Scale starts on the note D at the 10th fret of the low E string.
When we apply our fingerings sequence we can see that the scale starts on the first of ou...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Here is the idea applied to the Aeolian Scale. In the key of G our Aeolian scale is E Aeolian. This starts at the 12 fret on the low E string with the note A.
Now, in terms of our sequence of fingerings, Aeolian starts on th...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
So next we'll apply this idea to the Locrian scale.
Be sure to look at the diagram below for guidance whilst watching the video. The locrian scale in the key of G starts on the note F# which is up at the 14th fret of our low...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
So what have we achieved here?
Well, basically we've mapped out the entire key of G Major over the majority of the fretboard using just 3 different fingerings. This gives us a strategy for learning major scales and their mod...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Welcome my friends!
In this song tutorial, we're going to learn a rock piece called "Trusting a Hope". The majority of this piece is at an intermediate level, but we'll also be mixing in some advanced techniques here and the...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
To start the piece, we'll be using alternate picking to play a riff spanning over strings 3 through 6. We'll be playing sixteenth notes exclusively.
Also, when you look at the tablature, be sure to observe the palm mutes thr...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Here we have a short breakdown for the piece where the drums fade out.
I'd recommend using all downstrokes here. Any idea why? Well, if you look at all the D string notes, you'll see that they're palm muted. So since that's ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
This is where the song starts to get kicking!
We're primarily going to be using power chords here. First we'll start out playing an E chord in bar 13. Then in bar 14 we'll play a G. At the end of bar 14 and the beginning of ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Here we have another 16th note pattern, and we'll again be using only downstrokes to help our picking attack. When you practice this riff to the backing track, you'll hear guitar harmonies playing along with you. Let those ha...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
On to the solo!
When you look at the tablature, the first thing you might notice are those wavy lines throughout. Those lines simply mean to give vibrato to the notes. Anytime you have a note with significant duration, be su...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
The second half of the solo is a little more challenging.
We'll be playing 32nd notes to an aggressive picking and legato pattern. I strongly suggest playing along with your metronome for this exercise in particular. Nail it...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Welcome to this tutorial on Muting Technique!
In this tutorial we will be taking a closer look at some various uses of muting for rock rhythm playing. First of is the good old palm muting we all know and love. When you read ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Example number 2 then. Here I have moved the right hand a few millimeters (or fractions of an inch) closer to the neck, away from the bridge. I can still feel the bridge touching the outside of my palm. This position produces...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Very well then, on to example number 3. Here I have chosen to play a riff more in the style of bands like Metalica. Less single note riffing, and more power chord based. Here I’m also alternating between palm muted and ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
In example number 4, we reach the end of the line. This is pretty much as far as you can go from the bridge without completely killing the string. Also, with a heavier pressure and muting, you also run the risk of raising the...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Very well then. Example 5a! Examples 5-6 will all explore a technique I call “slap-muting”. This entails using your left hand, slapping on the strings while palm muting with your right hand. This creates a percuss...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Here comes the fun! In example 5b, I use the fingers of my left hand to slap and fill in the “gaps” so to speak. That is, where ever there is a rest in the riff from 5a, I will slap, thereby creating a continuous ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Example 6a is a riff from my FretDance (2003) album from a song called Road Less Travelled. On the original tune I use a drop-A tuned seven string guitar for some really heavy riffing. This type of slap-muting sounds very coo...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Not much to say here really, just follow the same procedure as in example 5b and you will be fine. This rhythm is less consistent than example 5, and will thus be a bit trickier to nail at higher speeds, but keep working at i...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
So what is Dividing Rhythm? Well, it’s just a phrase I use to describe the concept of splitting up a riff into several lines or “melodies”, almost like a classical fuge. What I do is that I allow some notes ...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Final example! Here I have the same exact notes and riff, but I mute out certain notes completely, whilst accentuating others (the upstrokes) but hitting them hard, not muting at all. This creates and interesting rhythm withi...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Fusion
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Fusion
Hi there! Welcome to this tutorial on phrasing over the bar line!
This is the first of a set of tutorials where we'll be covering phrasing and more specifically phrasing over the bar line and developing independence from bar...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Fusion
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Fusion
So here I'm going to demonstrate how a hemiola works. I'm starting with a very simple 3/4 rhythm consisting of a quarter note followed by two 8th notes finishing with a final quarter note. This gives us an unmistakeable 3/4 s...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Fusion
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Fusion
Okay, so here we go!
Here's our first rhythm. It's a simple 3/4 rhythm which we're going to superimpose over a 4/4 groove in order to make a our phrases go over the bar line.
Getting the feel of 3/4 over 4/4 can be very tri...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Fusion
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Fusion
Now here's another rhythm in 3/4. The same rules apply and you'll see me improvise in double time again. By doing this you can confirm whether the rhythm has become part of your improvisational repertoire.
My timing could've...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Fusion
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Fusion
Here's the first of our 5/4 rhythms. The same rules apply as for previous rhythms - just take your time and free yourself from those dastardly bar lines!! Again, I go double time when I improvise.
Level: Advanced
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Fusion
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Fusion
So now we'll practice 2 different superimposed rhythms in one exercise. In this example I start with a 5/4 rhythm followed by a double time 6/4 rhythm.
Both are written out underneath. Again, take your time to assimilate the...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Fusion
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Fusion
Make sure you refer to the text and music/TAB for each example as it's often easier to 'see' these rhythms than to hear them at first. It might help to print or write the rhythms out and then identify each 3/4, 5/4 or 6/4 rhy...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Theory
Style: Any Style
Topic: Theory
Style: Any Style
Scale Degrees.
The term 'Degree' is used to identify a particular note in a scale. The point of using this terminology is that it can make life a whole lot easier when trying to identify chords and intervals in new keys.
As...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Theory
Style: Any Style
Topic: Theory
Style: Any Style
The Major Third.
The Major third can be found by combining the first and third degrees of a major scale.
You can create this harmony over any note by simply counting up 3 degrees of a major scale.
For example. In the video...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Theory
Style: Any Style
Topic: Theory
Style: Any Style
Major Triad.
The next interval we need to look at is our Perfect 5th. Otherwise represented as 'P5'.
We can create this harmony by combining the first and 5th notes of any major scale. In this video we used C and G as an ex...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Theory
Style: Any Style
Topic: Theory
Style: Any Style
The Major 7th. A Major 7 chord is built with the 1st, 3rd, 5th and 7th degrees of a major scale.
At this point, I want to begin introducing chord formulas. The formula for our Major 7 chord is: 1 3 5 7. These numbers are re...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Theory
Style: Any Style
Topic: Theory
Style: Any Style
The Major 2nd - Sus 2 chord.
We are now up to the Major 2nd. When stacking intervals from the major scale, we don't always wind up with a Major chord. Here is the first example.
A harmonic interval of a Major second comes f...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Theory
Style: Any Style
Topic: Theory
Style: Any Style
The Perfect 4th. Suspended 4.
This interval is found by adding the 1st and 4th degrees of a major scale.
Used in context of a chord, the Sus4 chord is a great representation.
Exactly like our sus2, the sus4 is a Major chor...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Theory
Style: Any Style
Topic: Theory
Style: Any Style
The Major 6.
Used in a chord, this is one of my favorite sounds.
We identify the Major 6 by playing the first and sixth degrees of the Major scale. The formula for this chord in full would appear like this:
1 3 (5) 6 (7) ...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Theory
Style: Any Style
Topic: Theory
Style: Any Style
The Major 9. The Major 9th interval comes from moving 9 scale degrees away from the root of the Major scale.
As you will notice, the 9th scale degree is the same as the 2nd. When using this interval in a chord, it is import...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Chords
Style: Any Style
Topic: Chords
Style: Any Style
Hi there and welcome to this tutorial on anchored fingers.
"Anchored fingers" refers to the idea that when we change between chords on the guitar, it's very common to keep some fingers in place on the fretboard while we move...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Chords
Style: Any Style
Topic: Chords
Style: Any Style
Okay - so here's the TAB/Notation for the exercise. Don't worry too much about the chord names. One thing at a time here, so learn the exercise slowly and accurately and then gradually speed it up until you can feel your fing...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Welcome!
In this tutorial, we're going to explore a technique I call "Pedal Tone Legato". This is a classically-influenced technique that combines different elements of legato and pedal tones.
Before we learn the technique,...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
We're now going to expand on the exercise we learned in Lesson 1. If you truly took the time to master the pattern in Lesson 1, then you'll definitely be ready for this exercise!
In total, there are 8 measures in this sequen...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Let's make it more difficult! We're going to do a similar pattern from the last lesson, except we'll be taking the difficulty level up a notch.
We're now going to be moving higher up the fretboard and playing on the D, G, an...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
In Lesson 4, we're going to learn a variation of the 6-note pattern that we've been playing in the previous lessons. Up until now, in our 6-note grouping, we've always pulled-off from nowhere on the 5th note in the grouping. ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Even though Pedal Tone Legato has a classical feel by default, that doesn't mean it can only be applied to classical styles. So in this lesson, let's apply it to a rock song.
One thing to note, is that we're now going to be ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Acoustic
Topic: Technique
Style: Acoustic
Hello again! Welcome to my latest acoustic fingerstyle tutorial in which we will be studying a piece I wrote called 'Lullaby'.
I have done some strategic editing as the original piece is much longer and I feel that it is muc...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Acoustic
Topic: Technique
Style: Acoustic
The eagle eyed amongst you will have noticed that I am using a thumbpick for this piece. I must admit that I haven't often used one, but I tried the piece with it and quite enjoyed the sound so I decided to keep it in the mix...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Acoustic
Topic: Technique
Style: Acoustic
In this section, it is very important that you are totally aware of where the upper melody is and that you make it as prominent as you possibly can. What I find works best for me is to separate the upper and lower parts and p...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Hey IG'ists and welcome to my latest tutorial in which we will be looking at a rock tune called 'Golden Champagne'.
To begin with I'd like to give you a little background on the track.
I wrote it around 6 years ago when I f...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
OK, welcome to the first part of this tutorial.
The first thing thing I want you to pay attention to is the initial opening phrase or motif which occurs within the first bar and repeats although slightly different in bar 2. ...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
OK, it's time to play spot the motif!
The first place that the original motif occurs is in bar 22. Using and developing motifs can give a real sense of cohesion to a piece and it is a device that has been used as a compositi...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Time for some tapping folks!!!
I have purposely played this in the video with an even tempo and rhythm just so as to make it easier to learn. Once you have the whole pattern, that is after you have dissected it and practiced...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
In our 3rd "Speed and Stamina" exercise, we'll be looking at an excerpt from an old song I wrote called "Repetition". This short solo will definitely test your endurance for both hands.
Before you begin, you need to do somet...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Improvising
Style: Blues
Topic: Improvising
Style: Blues
Hey people!
In this lesson I'd like to discuss basic 12 bar blues improvisation. Although this element of music is taught all over the world and has been for quite some time, I feel that a lot of players can overlook the sol...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Improvising
Style: Blues
Topic: Improvising
Style: Blues
OK, lets take a look at the solo!
Actually, before we look at the solo, the first thing you'll want to do is familiarise yourself with the chords marked in the notation below. We have:
G7 - C7 - D7
These chords form the I ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Hey Dudes and Dudettes! Welcome to another installment of my 'exploiting shapes' series.
The major scale will be the focus of this tutorial. Following the same direction as all of the previous lessons in this series, we will...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Here we have the first six notes of a Gmajor scale taken from the second position on the 6th and 5th strings:
A, B, C, D, E, F#
which are then repeated on the 4th and 3rd and 2nd and 1st strings.
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Here we have the first six notes of a Gmajor scale taken from the third position on the 6th and 5th strings:
B, C, D, E, F#, G
which are then repeated on the 4th and 3rd and 2nd and 1st strings.
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Here we have the first six notes of a Gmajor scale taken from the fourth position on the 6th and 5th strings:
C, D, E, F#, G, A
which are then repeated on the 4th and 3rd and 2nd and 1st strings.
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Here we have the first six notes of a Gmajor scale taken from the fifth position on the 6th and 5th strings:
D, E, F#, G, A, B
which are then repeated on the 4th and 3rd and 2nd and 1st strings.
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Here we have the first six notes of a Gmajor scale taken from the sixth position on the 6th and 5th strings:
E, F#, G, A, B, C
which are then repeated on the 4th and 3rd and 2nd and 1st strings.
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Here we have the first six notes of a Gmajor scale taken from the seventh position on the 6th and 5th strings:
F#, G, A, B, C, D
which are then repeated on the 4th and 3rd and 2nd and 1st strings.
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Welcome to this song tutorial on chordal tapping! The song Last Stand is off my Fret Dance (2003) album, and is the last track on that album. This lesson will only be an excerpt from that song, since I have omitted the last u...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Alright then, time to start the analysis!
In this first part, we are subjected to pretty much all the tools we need throughout the song. Make sure that all the notes of each chord ring out in unison, and that you don’...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Part 2 uses pretty much the same approach as part 1. However, the left hand uses a counter-motion in this part. This shouldn't pose any large problem as long as you pay attention to the fingerings in the tab.
Another differe...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
In the third part we take things up a notch.
Here you will need to angle your right hand in a steeper angle towards the neck, to be able to group your fingers together without muting out the chord notes played by the left ha...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Welcome everyone!
In this song tutorial, we're going to learn some intense metal riffs and ideas. Please note that this song is in Drop D tuning. If you aren't exactly sure what that is, go ahead and click here.
Once you've...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
This first riff has somewhat of a Pantera influence. Dimebag Darrell had a knack for playing chunky sounding riffs with a good amount of dissonance.
We have a lot of Drop D power chords played throughout this riff. Let's exa...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
In bars 9 through 12 of Exercise 2, we have a build-up where just the guitar and bass are prompting the drums to start playing so to speak. The most important part of this section is the use of rests. Make sure the rests are ...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
In Exercise 3, we have some fun 3-string sweep arpeggios. We'll be playing them as 16th notes. And make sure you follow the pick strokes very closely in the tab below. Since we're sweeping, don't individualize each pick strok...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
In Exercise 4, we'll be playing a neat little trick using open strings and legato.
The whole pattern of this riff will be a grouping of 3 notes. First you'll play the open B string, then you'll hammer-on a B string note, the...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
This exercise is probably the most straightforward part of the song. We're basically just going to be doing a palm muted build on the 6th string. There are a select few non-palm muted notes though, so make sure you examine th...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
This last exercise involves some intense speed picking and is a bit tricky.
On the 2nd beat of each bar, do you see how we'll be playing 16th note triplets? Make sure you keep alternate picking throughout.
Now, look at the ...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Welcome!
In this tutorial we are going to look at a technique I call "half picking". Half picking involves patterns where every other note is played with a pick. The notes that are not picked will be played using legato. For...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Here is the first of four parts of the etude. Don't skip ahead to the other ones until you have this one down. The goal of this tutorial is for you to get the actual technique down first, then branch out and start applying it...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
This exercise is a little different than the last in that the octaves shift every two beats. In the last exercise, the octaves shifted every measure (four beats).
We'll also find a big finger stretch in this exercise. Just a...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
This is the exact same pattern as the last exercise, except it's shifted to where it starts on the 19th fret B string.
Make sure you keep the legato notes equal in volume with the picked notes!
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
With this exercise, we'll finish up the etude. This is the only exercise that slightly deviates from the octave patterns we've been playing.
Once you have all 4 exercises down, you can either go to the next page for the etud...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
We're now going to apply the half picking technique to a couple descending patterns in B Major, or more specifically, the B Ionian scale.
In example 1, we'll just descend each note of the scale in a 3-note-per-string pattern...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Here we'll be playing a descending and ascending pattern in the C# minor Pentatonic scale. Practice it slowly and make sure you don't forget to keep the notes equal in volume.
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
To close out the tutorial, we'll apply the half picking technique to a fun metal riff. Some of the patterns are similar to the patterns we played in the etude, but there are some new shapes as well. We'll also be dipping into...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Latin
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Latin
Welcome!
In this tutorial, we're going to delve into some Latin styles. If you enjoy guitarists like Al Di Meola and Steve Oliver, this will be right up your alley. And if you haven't heard of those guitarists, go check them...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Latin
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Latin
Here we have the main theme of the song. It has a bit of a sexy, smooth jazz feel to it.
First thing to observe, is the first two notes played at the very start. This is called a "pick up", where a single note or group of no...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Latin
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Latin
This section mainly contains 16th notes and 32nd notes. We'll also be inserting multiple 16th note rests throughout.
Be careful with your picking as well. I primarily used alternate picking for this part, but there are a few...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Latin
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Latin
This is the part where we'll be playing along to a second guitar's harmonies. It mainly builds with ascending patterns on the G string, then moves to the B string at the end of the build.
In bars 15 and 17 you'll encounter 3...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Latin
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Latin
In this riff, we'll be incorporating Major and minor 3rd harmonies on the B and High E strings.
Also, if you watch my picking hand in the video, you'll notice that I'm fingerpicking this section, rather than using an actual ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Latin
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Latin
We're also going to take a little time to explore the backing for this piece. When you hear the song, you'll notice a rhythm guitar in the background strumming some chords. Let's go ahead and learn that strum...
As far as th...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Latin
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Latin
To continue with the backing, we'll also look at the guitar percussion I used. When you listen to the song, you'll hear a bit of a drum beat going on, and that's me playing percussion on the body of the guitar. Guitar percuss...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Hey there and thanks for joining me!
I'd like to take the idea I discussed in my previous lesson regarding exploiting shapes and apply it to various scales. Let's start with the good old minor pentatonic scale.
OK, we can a...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Here we have the first four notes of the first position of A minor pentatonic scale:
A,C,D,E
which gives us our first shape in the first position.
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Here we have the first four notes of the second position of A minor pentatonic scale:
C,D,E,G
which gives us our second shape in the second position.
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Here we have the first four notes of the third position of A minor pentatonic scale:
D,E,G,A
which gives us our third shape in the third position.
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Here we have the first four notes of the fourth position of A minor pentatonic scale:
E,G,A,C
which gives us our fourth shape in the fourth position.
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Here we have the first four notes of the fifth position of A minor pentatonic scale:
G,A,C,D
which gives us our fifth shape in the fifth position.
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Improvising
Style: Any Style
Topic: Improvising
Style: Any Style
Welcome guitar slingers!
The goal of the Timing and Note Value Alteration tutorial is to expand your improvisational and musical abilities drastically. When you apply these concepts, I can guarantee you that you improvisatio...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Improvising
Style: Any Style
Topic: Improvising
Style: Any Style
Very well then! Let's begin shall we?
The first thing I will tell you is the no.1 commandment of timing practice! ALWAYS STOMP YOUR FOOT TO THE BEAT!
This is extremely important to help in internalizing your feel for variou...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Improvising
Style: Any Style
Topic: Improvising
Style: Any Style
So, on we go. Now that we have some major note values down, we can start exploring the possibilities of note value alteration. The first concept we will dive headlong into is to take any idea, and alternate the note values wi...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
So, on to example 2d then. In this example, I have mixed two note values within the same line; sixteen note triplets, and straight sixteen notes. You hear how much more random and musical this is starting to sound when compar...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Improvising
Style: Any Style
Topic: Improvising
Style: Any Style
Now it’s time for some real excitement people! Let’s look into the concept of Rhythmic Superimposition shall we? Do you remember me ranting about Scale Superimposition in my Pentatonic Finder tutorial? Well, thi...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Improvising
Style: Any Style
Topic: Improvising
Style: Any Style
Did you make it through? Warmed up yet are we? Sweet, let’s continue. One thing that most people don’t think about is that this concept is every bit as useful when it comes to riffing and rhythm guitar playing! Le...
Level: Crazy!
Topic: Improvising
Style: Any Style
Topic: Improvising
Style: Any Style
Okay then, let's dive head first into example 4. What I've done here is I've taken the rhythmic figure from example 3a, and used it in improvisation. What you see below and in the video is me improvising over a drumbeat, and ...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Improvising
Style: Any Style
Topic: Improvising
Style: Any Style
Ok, time to break out that tapping finger! Before cutting into this one, look at this video and the next one as I explain my view of, and approach to tapping. This could help you immensely when attempting these things, and es...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Improvising
Style: Any Style
Topic: Improvising
Style: Any Style
In this part, I discuss my approach to tapping more in-depth, and exemplify the technique I use. What I tend to do, is to tap upwards instead of downwards for several reasons. I find it more comfortable, and I see tapping as ...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Improvising
Style: Any Style
Topic: Improvising
Style: Any Style
First off, we have example 5a, where I have taken an E min pentatonic tapping lick (actually not strictly E pentatonic, since I’m starting off with F#, which is the major 2nd). Follow the advice given in the video about...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Improvising
Style: Any Style
Topic: Improvising
Style: Any Style
Then we come on to example 5d. Here I’m using Ninetuplets (nine-what now?). This might look intimidating at first glance, but is actually not much harder to play than triplets, same feel almost, just faster. This is a n...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Improvising
Style: Any Style
Topic: Improvising
Style: Any Style
Next up is example 5e. This is another pentatonic tapping idea that I personally use a lot. You can see these types of thing in a real musical context in my Super Continental song tutorial.
Same idea here in example 5f, bu...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Improvising
Style: Any Style
Topic: Improvising
Style: Any Style
Here we are, the final section!
What I will do here is similar to what I did in example 4. I will take the rhythm from one idea, and superimpose that over everything I improvise. So to begin with, here is example 6a, where y...
Level: Crazy!
Topic: Improvising
Style: Any Style
Topic: Improvising
Style: Any Style
And we're at the finish line!! Time for the outro impro. Here I have improvised with tapping over a drum beat, but kept the rhythm from example 6a, regardless of what I play. Try it on, analyze it and make it your own.
After...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Chords
Style: Jazz
Topic: Chords
Style: Jazz
Welcome Guitar Players!
Over the next several lessons we are going to be looking at possible chord substitutions that can be used over a 'I Vi ii V' progression.
To begin with, I want you to have a go at this sequence of ch...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Chords
Style: Jazz
Topic: Chords
Style: Jazz
Tonic Substitute
The first substitution I want to introduce is called a 'tonic substitute'. It is also known to some as 'two to the right'.
In the key of C Major there are 7 chords. That's one chord for each note in the C M...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Chords
Style: Jazz
Topic: Chords
Style: Jazz
Now we are going to experiment with turning some minor chords into Dominant Chords.
Dominant chords generally resolve down to a Perfect 5th. You can see an example of this in our progression via the G7 > Cmaj7 movement.
...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Chords
Style: Jazz
Topic: Chords
Style: Jazz
Before we get into Tri-tone substitutions, I owe some people the answer to the homework task from last lesson.
Am7 contains the notes - A C E G also expressed as R b3 5 b7. If the b3 (minor 3rd) of this chord is C, and we kn...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Chords
Style: Jazz
Topic: Chords
Style: Jazz
The next chord we are going to manipulate is chord ii (D7), which was earlier a Dm7.
Just as in our previous lesson, we are going to identify the 5th of this chord: D F# (A) C.
Now we lower it by a half step, giving us Ab.
...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Chords
Style: Jazz
Topic: Chords
Style: Jazz
For our final tri-tone substitution, A7 will become Eb7.
We identify the 5th of A7: A C# (E) G. Lower it by a half step. Eb
Build a new Dominant7 chord from Eb. Eb7 = Eb G Bb Db
Once again you will see that the 3rd and 7th...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Thanks for joining me!
What I'd like to do in this lesson is progress a little further with our arpeggio knowledge. Yes, we have already looked at seventh arpeggios however, as you will recall, the previous lesson was reall...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Here we have an A Major 7th Arpeggio with the formula:
1 3 5 7
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Here we have an A minor 7th arpeggio with the formula:
1 b3 5 b7
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Here we have an A Dominant 7th Arpeggio with the formula:
1 3 5 b7
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Here we have an A minor7b5 Arpeggio with the formula:
1 b3 b5 b7
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Here we have an A diminished7th Arpeggio with the formula:
1 b3 b5 bb7
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Welcome!
In this song tutorial, I wanted to write an etude that focuses on string skipping. String skipping occurs when you play a note on any given string, then skip a string to play a following note. This technique is esse...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
The first 2 measures of the intro start out with string skipping on the D and B strings. If you look at the tablature, you can see that you'll be palm muting all the notes on the D string while the other notes will be played ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
In this section, we're going to start using a lot of octave passages. Even though this part is a little less difficult than the other parts, be sure to keep your picking clean and controlled.
On a side note, you may want to ...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
This riff is all over the fretboard. Even though it might seem a little intimidating, there's actually a really basic pattern to it that you can follow. And that pattern is simply...octaves.
We are going to span over 3 octav...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Exercise 4 also utilizes a prevalent octave pattern. The string skipping will occur between the Low E string and the D string. Keep the 16th notes even and consistent, and make sure your picking stays controlled.
When you fe...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Theory
Style: Any Style
Topic: Theory
Style: Any Style
Hello and welcome! In this tutorial we're going to take a very in-depth look at time signatures. This is a rather large tutorial, but don't let that overwhelm you. I'd encourage you to go through it slowly so you can digest a...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Theory
Style: Any Style
Topic: Theory
Style: Any Style
With time signatures, we will always see 2 numbers in the form of a fraction. (Yes, music has math too!) So we'll see a number on top, and a number on the bottom. The top number represents how many of a certain note, and the ...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
You'll notice in the example videos, I count the time signature out loud at the beginning. I strongly recommend you count out loud during these exercises if possible. If you can count out loud as you play, that will help deve...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Fusion
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Fusion
Here we have a more advanced example in a blues-rock-funk style. So we'll just call it a "Fusion" style. :)
There's a lot going on within each bar, so learn it very slowly. And really listen for that 4/4 pulse. Since there's...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Theory
Style: Any Style
Topic: Theory
Style: Any Style
We now continue exploring the quarter note time signatures with 3/4. With the top number being "3" and the bottom number being "4", we can conclude that the 3/4 time signature represents three quarter notes in a measure.
You...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
This 3/4 example is pretty straightforward. Be sure to count "One Two Three" out loud while you play.
Level: Beginner
Topic: Theory
Style: Any Style
Topic: Theory
Style: Any Style
The last quarter note time signature we're going to look at is 5/4. With the top number being "5" and the bottom number being "4", we can conclude that the 5/4 time signature represents five quarter notes in a measure.
You c...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Since 5/4 has an extra quarter note beat, it's going to have a somewhat "extended" feel to it.
In this particular example, we're going to be strumming some basic chords to the 5/4 time signature. For the first four beats, we...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
In the second 5/4 example, we're going to play an intense metal riff. As always, make sure you practice counting along with the riff before you start to physically learn it.
Level: Beginner
Topic: Theory
Style: Any Style
Topic: Theory
Style: Any Style
We're now going to look at our first eighth note time signature, 6/8. With the top number being "6" and the bottom number being "8", we can conclude that the 6/8 time signature represents six eighth notes in a measure.
You c...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
In this 6/8 example, we're going to use a few power chords along with the open G and B strings. Be sure to use alternate picking throughout.
Level: Beginner
Topic: Theory
Style: Any Style
Topic: Theory
Style: Any Style
We're now going to look at the 7/8 time signature. With the top number being "7" and the bottom number being "8", we can conclude that the 7/8 time signature represents seven eighth notes in a measure.
You can count the beat...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
In the first 7/8 example, we're going to play a subtle yet dynamic palm-muted riff. As always, count along with the riff before learning it.
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
This 7/8 example has a bit of a "celtic metal" feel to it. It's also quite a bit more advanced than the previous example. Be sure to get the count down first, then practice the riff very slowly.
Level: Beginner
Topic: Theory
Style: Any Style
Topic: Theory
Style: Any Style
The last eighth note time signature we're going to look at is 9/8. With the top number being "9" and the bottom number being "8", we can conclude that the 9/8 time signature represents nine eighth notes in a measure.
You can...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Blues
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Blues
Now, we're going to delve into a bit of blues as we explore the 9/8 time signature. This riff will consist primarily of eighth notes. As always, do your best to count along as you play.
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
In this 9/8 example, we're going to utilize a lot of silence between quick bursts of notes. This will require some very tight rhythm playing, so make sure your mutes are executed cleanly.
And as always, analyze and count alo...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Theory
Style: Any Style
Topic: Theory
Style: Any Style
We're now going to look at our first sixteenth note time signature, 15/16. With the top number being "15" and the bottom number being "16", we can conclude that the 15/16 time signature represents fifteen sixteenth notes in a...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
In this 15/16 example, we'll be using 16th notes exclusively as we play a few arpeggios.
I'd recommend using alternate picking while you play this, and also starting on a downstroke with each measure. However, watch out for ...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Theory
Style: Any Style
Topic: Theory
Style: Any Style
The last sixteenth note time signature we'll be looking at is 19/16. With the top number being "19" and the bottom number being "16", we can conclude that the 19/16 time signature represents nineteen sixteenth notes in a meas...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
With the first 19/16 example, we're going to play a short bar chord riff. You'll primarily be playing 8th notes as you strum. However, at the end of each measure we'll be strumming three 16th notes.
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
In the last 19/16 time signature, we're going to use a good amount of legato. Practice the legato sections slowly at first and make sure the notes are equal in volume.
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
This is our first example where we'll be using more than one kind of time signature. In this particular exercise, we're going to use 6/8, 5/8, and 4/4. Now that we're mixing time signatures, it's especially important that you...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
We're now going to be mixing the following time signatures: 7/8, 4/4, 15/16, and 19/16. This passage has a bit of a Joe Satriani vibe to it.
The most difficult parts you'll face with this are the 15/16 and the 19/16 sections...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Welcome! This tutorial is based on a snippet from a song I wrote called "Wake of Souls". We're going to be focusing primarily on tight rhythm playing with metal genres, particularly with progressive metal and metalcore.
Also...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
In this exercise, we're going to use a lot of palm muting on the 5th and 6th strings mixed between some higher notes. The higher notes are all on the D and G strings, so we're naturally going to be using some string skipping ...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Rock
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Rock
This riff is pretty straightforward. We're basically going to be strumming through some Drop D chords while exclusively using sixteenth notes.
One thing I really want to point out with this, is how much we need to focus on m...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
In this riff, we'll be going back and forth between 32nd notes and 8th notes. There won't be any palm muting in this one, so be sure to let the strings ring out nice and clean. Also, give the 8th notes a good amount of vibrat...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Metal
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Metal
This is my favorite riff of the song. Melodically, it somewhat shadows the very 1st riff we did. However, it sounds much more aggressive here, especially with the accompanying drum parts.
Be sure to keep your palm muting tig...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Country
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Country
Time to put your cowboy hats on, folks! It's time for a country twangin' lick.
Be sure to use your bridge pickup to get a sharp, crisp sound for riffs like these. You can also try adding a hint of close delay to give your so...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Hello all!
In this tutorial we're going to explore a short solo from a song I wrote. And we're also going to learn an alternate version of the solo.
In the video above, you'll hear the original version of the solo, then in ...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Okay, let's check out the alternate version! This one is a little more on the "shred" side.
Once you've heard both solos, decide which one you'd like to learn and start learning! :)
In the next lesson, we will start with th...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
This part is pretty straightforward. We have some sustaining melody notes and a good use of legato.
You'll notice in the video how I use the whammy bar on the 3rd beat of the first measure. If you have a whammy bar, try it t...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
In the first part, we're going to use legato while playing a few 3-note-per-string patterns. Make sure all those notes stay equal in volume.
At the end, we have a small sweeping pattern followed by a double bend/release. Fir...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Here, we have two fast sweeping/legato patterns. Learn each pattern individually before merging them together.
You'll notice that we're going to tap a note at the end of each sweeping pattern. That makes things a little more...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
To start, we're going to be playing some fast thirty-second notes up the lydian mode in a 3-note-per-string pattern. In the full video for this solo, my note speed varies very slightly in this area to give it a bit of texture...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
To start off Part 2, we're going to be playing one of my favorite kinds of arpeggio patterns. I just love the sweeping/tapping combinations.
You'll start out by down-sweeping as you ascend in the A# Ionian mode. Then once yo...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
Hey there!
I put this lesson in the "Beginners" section because I think all beginners should practice with their pinky. That's one of the elements guitarists forget the most - they always forget about the pinky. A question I...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Chords
Style: Acoustic
Topic: Chords
Style: Acoustic
Hey everyone! Welcome to the Drop D Chord Progressions Tutorial. I recently did a chord progression tutorial based on standard tuning, but in this one we'll be experimenting with the tunings a bit. We're primarily going to st...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Chords
Style: Acoustic
Topic: Chords
Style: Acoustic
In this progression, we will be using the following chords: Dadd9, Bsus4, G6, E5.
Just like we did with the last lesson, we'll be using the open B and High E strings throughout the progression. Also, be mindful of how we swi...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Chords
Style: Acoustic
Topic: Chords
Style: Acoustic
We're now going to experiment with DADGAD tuning. To go to DADGAD tuning, switch the following strings accordingly from standard tuning:
High E: switch to D B: switch to A G: leave as is D: leave as is A: leave as is Low E: ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Chords
Style: Acoustic
Topic: Chords
Style: Acoustic
Here we have another progression in DADGAD tuning. We will be using the following chords: D5, DMaj7, Gsus2, Asus4.
In this lesson, we'll be picking the chord notes instead of strumming. Be sure to keep the sixteenth notes ni...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Acoustic
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Acoustic
Okay! I threw this one in just for fun. It's kind of an acoustic/funk/rock progression. Lots of good rhythm elements going on as well. Please note that we are now back in normal Drop D Tuning for this lesson. We will be using...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Hey all, thanks for joining me!
In today's lesson we are going to be focusing on Seventh Arpeggios. What we are going to do is take 5 different 7th chord types:
1) Major7th
2) Minor7th
3) Dominant7th
4) Minor7b5
5) Dimi...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Here we have an A Major 7th Arpeggio with the formula:
1 3 5 7
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Here we have an A minor 7th arpeggio with the formula:
1 b3 5 b7
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Here we have an A Dominant 7th Arpeggio with the formula:
1 3 5 b7
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Here we have an A minor7b5 Arpeggio with the formula:
1 b3 b5 b7
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Here we have an A diminished7th Arpeggio with the formula:
1 b3 b5 bb7
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Chords
Style: Acoustic
Topic: Chords
Style: Acoustic
In this tutorial, we're going to learn a handful of simple chord progressions. I played everything on an acoustic guitar, but the progressions and principles can of course be applied to electric as well.
Let each progression...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Chords
Style: Acoustic
Topic: Chords
Style: Acoustic
In the 2nd progression, we're going to use the following chords: E, EMaj7, C#m7, Aadd9. I like this pattern because of how we incorporate the open B and High E strings with each chord. Let those two strings ring out, and that...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Chords
Style: Acoustic
Topic: Chords
Style: Acoustic
Next, we'll be using these chords: BMaj7, EMaj7, F#, E. As with most Major 7 progressions, this one sounds very calm and soothing.
Make sure you mute the appropriate strings in this. Anytime you see an "X" in the chord diagr...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Chords
Style: Acoustic
Topic: Chords
Style: Acoustic
In our 4th chord progression, we'll be using the following chords: B, D#m, C#, G#, A#.
Please pay very close attention to the strumming pattern I indicated in the tab. This progression relies heavily on a "flow" type of feel...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Chords
Style: Acoustic
Topic: Chords
Style: Acoustic
We will now use the following chords: Bsus4, F#m7, C#m7, Aadd9.
This is the first progression where we won't be doing any strumming at all. We'll just be picking. Make sure you pick steadily and those sixteenth notes sound c...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Chords
Style: Acoustic
Topic: Chords
Style: Acoustic
Okay, time for our 6th progression. We will be using the following chords: Am, FMaj7, C, Em.
For the first three chords (Am, FMaj7, and C), be sure to anchor your index finger on the 1st fret B string since that note is incl...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Chords
Style: Acoustic
Topic: Chords
Style: Acoustic
Now, we of course couldn't do a chord progression tutorial without doing a short exercise with the famous "Canon" progression. In this last lesson, we will be using the following chords: C, G, Am, Em, F.
Now that you've lear...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Exercises
Style: Rock
Topic: Exercises
Style: Rock
In our 2nd exercise, we're going to be switching back and forth from thirty-second notes to sixteenth notes. Also, be aware of the 6/8 time signature.
This one is a little more difficult than the last exercise because we hav...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Effects
Style: Any Style
Topic: Effects
Style: Any Style
In this tutorial, we're going to explore the very cool world of digital delay. Digital delay can be great for subtle, natural sounding delay, but it can also be great for creating a prominent doubling track to your guitar.
W...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Effects
Style: Any Style
Topic: Effects
Style: Any Style
Now that we have the basic understanding of the delay, let's get a little more creative with it. In this lesson, we're going to play on two strings and we'll use a more involved melody.
Be sure to keep the notes clean while ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Effects
Style: Any Style
Topic: Effects
Style: Any Style
In this lesson, we're going to apply the digital delay to arpeggios. We will be playing the following arpeggios in order: D Major, E minor, B minor, A Major. Since we're playing within a span of four different strings, be ext...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Welcome!
In this tutorial, we're going to learn a short metal piece called "The Chase". Once you've checked out the video, head on over to the next lesson so we can start learning those riffs!
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
The riff in this lesson is somewhat of a "build up" to the riff in the next lesson. It's primarily focused on the open Low E string as well as the E and F power chords on the A and D strings.
Before playing the riff, be sure...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
This riff is a great example of pure "groove metal". It just grooves!
Just like in the last lesson, we're again focusing on using triplets. We have a good mix of both quarter and eighth note triplets.
There is no palm mutin...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Now we come to the melodic lead riff.
We have a lot of legato here. Plenty of hammer-ons, pull-offs, and slides. Since most of the notes are generated using legato, make sure your legato playing is smooth and the notes are c...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Welcome to the Pentatonic Scale Tutorial!
The pentatonic scale is an extremely important scale and should be learned and respected by every guitarist. The pentatonic is a foundational scale, as many other scales are drawn an...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
With each scale position, we are going to play the pattern with eighth notes, then triplets, then sixteenth notes. The fingering you use is optional. Since these scales are 2-notes-per-string, I have a personal preference of ...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Now, let's examine the second position.
Position 2 is the position that primarily represents the Major key. So we can apply the same process as we did with Position 1 when we found the minor key on the fretboard.
For an exa...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Out of all five positions, the 3rd position is the only one that spans across 5 frets, rather than 4. Use whatever fingering you find most comfortable and effective.
Then when you have it down, head on over to learn Position...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
The 4th position is my personal favorite. I'm not exactly sure why, but I think it's just because I enjoy the playing opportunities that the patterns provide.
Once you have it down, head on over to the next lesson where we'l...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Alright, here is our last position. The patterns in this one are pretty simple as there aren't any drastic shape changes.
Now that you have the 5 positions down, let's work on blending them together in the next lesson.
Posi...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Great job! If you've made it this far, that means you know the 5 positions of the pentatonic scale.
Now that you know the positions individually, it's time to start learning how to put them together. If you only practice and...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Hey guys!
Sometimes we get tired of practicing and just want to have fun on guitar. What is better than a couple of groovy riffs! In this short piece you'll get a chance to have fun with some heavy metal riffs and get to kno...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
Welcome to the "Building Speed and Stamina" Tutorial! Throughout this tutorial, we are going to be strengthening our ability to control speed changes while playing. It's critical that we are able to transition smoothly from o...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Exercises
Style: Metal
Topic: Exercises
Style: Metal
Okay! Let's get going on the first exercise. This is a long sequence, and I made it that way on purpose so we can focus on improving our stamina.
In this riff, we'll be playing different sequences repeatedly while we modulat...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Exercises
Style: Metal
Topic: Exercises
Style: Metal
Here is the sequence slowed down a bit. Once you learn the notes, practice playing the riff very slowly. Concentrate on your timing and the transitions from 8th notes to 16th notes and vice versa. Before you start applying sp...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Acoustic
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Acoustic
In this lesson we'll be learning a short acoustic piece called "Solace". When I compose, I really enjoy taking chord structures and incorporating open-string themes throughout a passage. So in this lesson, be sure to observe ...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Chords
Style: Any Style
Topic: Chords
Style: Any Style
Chords!
A chord is a series of notes played together.
There are hundreds even thousands of chords available to play on the guitar. Once you begin to understand the essentials of building chords, and understanding what defin...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Theory
Style: Any Style
Topic: Theory
Style: Any Style
Building Major Chords is quite simple, and with this video I hope to show just that.
We begin by picking the chord we want to build. In this case it will be a CMaj chord.
Play the Major scale which begins on the same root n...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Theory
Style: Any Style
Topic: Theory
Style: Any Style
So now that we have built a Major triad and Major7th chord. Lets make a minor chord!
The process of building minor chords is exactly the same, bar one thing.
If the chord is a 'minor triad' (meaning it has 3 notes) we must ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Improvising
Style: Fusion
Topic: Improvising
Style: Fusion
Greetings Guitarslingers!
Welcome to my tutorial on Line Alteration!
As is mentioned in the video, the goal of this tutorial is for you to understand the concept of line alteration, not just to learn the licks and improvisa...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Improvising
Style: Fusion
Topic: Improvising
Style: Fusion
In this first part, we will take a look at the original line we will work with in this tutorial. This idea is in G min pentatonic, with the added b5 (Db), turning this into a G Blues Scale.
We will play this idea with 5 diff...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Improvising
Style: Fusion
Topic: Improvising
Style: Fusion
Okey, time for example #1!
In this example, using the fingering from the 1st position, it feels natural for me to expand and vary this idea with a more traditional blues/funk approach. The result is example #1. You can see t...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Improvising
Style: Fusion
Topic: Improvising
Style: Fusion
Example #2.
In this example I take a different approach, both harmonically and rhythmically. I begin by playing the line close to the original, but then start adding rests, and going into a G min9 arpeggio, broken up into a ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Improvising
Style: Fusion
Topic: Improvising
Style: Fusion
Example #3.
This example has, like the previous, more of a jazz/fusion feel to it. However, this has a more linear approach, and is strictly played using triplets.
You should ultimately be able to play any line in any note ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Improvising
Style: Fusion
Topic: Improvising
Style: Fusion
Example #4.
This example uses a more arpeggio based idea, and also utilizes the handy concept of moving an idea up a half-step. This is frequently used by all the best jazz and fusion players out there, and is an excellent w...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Improvising
Style: Fusion
Topic: Improvising
Style: Fusion
Example #5.
Finally, we have example #5, which is a simple chromatic idea, moving you from the 5th position down to the 4th. Chromatics is another great way of tying together your outside playing, and making it more interest...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Improvising
Style: Fusion
Topic: Improvising
Style: Fusion
In this final stop, I will attempt to tie it all together for you. I have improvised a solo over a funk/fusion backing in G min (with some heavy alteration going on harmonically).
Look through the video, and then start worki...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Improvising
Style: Jazz
Topic: Improvising
Style: Jazz
Hello! and welcome to the Rhythm Changes. This tutorial will have two ends to it. Right now we are just going to learn a 32 bar solo. The solo will be broken up into two 16 bar segments for you to work on.
Then I'll introdu...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Exercises
Style: Jazz
Topic: Exercises
Style: Jazz
Here are the first 16 bars of this solo.
Be sure to play it with a steady swing and practice it slowly to begin with. Then up your tempo as you become more comfortable with it.
Also, I have not indicated any of the legato t...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Exercises
Style: Jazz
Topic: Exercises
Style: Jazz
This video includes the bridge section and the final 8 bars, slowed down.
Once again, take it slow to begin with and keep it swinging.
In the next video I will introduce you to the chord changes we are playing over.
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Chords
Style: Jazz
Topic: Chords
Style: Jazz
The Chords.
The chord changes for this tune are possibly some of the most used changes in the history of Jazz.
In the first 4 bars we have a I-Vi-ii-V progression, looping. This is commonly known as a 'turn around' and will...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
This is a little piece called "Fahrenheit". You'll be playing some Yngwie Malmsteen sweeps along with a few other cool techniques. Once you've seen the full video, head on over to the first exercise so we can start nailing th...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
With this first riff, we're going to be repeating it in a few different ways, mixing around the picking execution as well as the octaves. We'll also be using sixteenth notes exclusively.
To start, check out the first 4 measu...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
This section is a bit more challenging than the last. We have a lot going on within the span of 4 measures, so let's take it one section at a time. You'll see in the video how I split up the riff into separate parts.
In the ...
Level: Crazy!
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Hey all, thanks for joining me!
In this tutorial we will be taking an in-depth look at the style of one of the finest emerging guitarists of our generation, Marco Sfogli.
Born in 1980, Marco started playing music at 4 years...
Level: Crazy!
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Welcome to section 1!
The first thing I'd like you to be aware of is the numerous changes in meter. It can be very easy to forget about these things while you're learning a new piece so try to keep it at the forefront of you...
Level: Crazy!
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Let's continue with section 2!
You'll need to spend most of your time on bars 14 to 15 here. Remember that throughout this legato passage, the lightest touch will yield the best results. Use a pickstroke(up or down) when pla...
Level: Crazy!
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
On with the show into section 3!
The first thing you're going to need to be aware of is the change of meter here from 6/8 to 5/8. It may feel a little unusual at first so I would suggest watching the video to really digest h...
Level: Crazy!
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Now it's time to tackle the most difficult part of the solo.
Although it is vital for you to understand what is happening here on a note for note level, it is much more important that you concentrate on the phrase and its cr...
Level: Crazy!
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Hang in there people, we're almost there!
Bars 31 and 32 display Marco's wonderful bluesy style phrasing. To achieve this effect to the fullest, you will need to concentrate on achieving perfect intonation with a subtle but ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
Welcome to my neoclassical lesson! If you have read my profile page than you probably know that I'm a huge fan of classical music and everything that goes with orchestra so I very often write music with orchestra.
If you lik...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
Alright! Here we are at the first part of this piece! The whole exercise is played 100% alternate picking so you won't have to worry about some fancy picking patterns. Instead we'll concentrate on left hand fingering and the ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
Here comes part 2! To me the most difficult part to play because we have a lot of movement going on here and also some string skipping. When you first start practicing it you might want to overdo the lifting of fingers to fee...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
The last part is mostly based on movement between 2 strings so a lot of control and muting is required to play this cleanly. Besides that, nothing spectacular is going on here so just learn the notes and than practice this sl...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Blues
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Blues
Although John Petrucci isn't a straight "blues player", he definitely has some cool blues ideas that convey serious attitude. And hey, attitude is what blues is all about right? :) This particular riff was inspired from some ...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Welcome to the "Blackout" tutorial! With this song, we're going to look at some ideas focusing primarily on metal and Eastern styles.
Also, note that this song is in Drop D tuning. If you aren't exactly sure what that is, cl...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
This is my favorite riff in the tutorial. I love the atmospheric Eastern vibe it conveys.
This riff has a time signature of 7/8. So that means we have seven 8th notes accounted for in each measure. If you wanted to count the...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Here, we continue the Eastern vibe with a more rhythmic and staccato approach. It's also an excellent exercise to help develop finger control.
First thing to notice are the rests. You'll encounter 8th note rests as well as 1...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
This exercise utilizes the open 6th string as well as octave chords.
In bars 10-13, we'll be playing the 6th string ringing out, but then be sure to palm mute that string starting on bar 14.
While you play the octave chords...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Just as in Exercise 2, we're going to be encountering some quick 16th note rests. When these rests occur, slap your fret-hand fingers down on the strings to ensure a solid mute. Watch closely how I do that in the video.
In b...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Hey there guys! Welcome to my little tutorial on Alternate Picking Phrasing. You can also call it "Melodic Sequencing" as we'll use sequences to build a melodic solo and practice a bit of phrasing using sequences.
Phrasing i...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Chords
Style: Any Style
Topic: Chords
Style: Any Style
Welcome Aboard!
Right now we will take a look at 'Power Chords'
At the beginning of this video you will see a short demonstration of Power Chords in action. More often than not you will hear these chords used in Metal/Rock ...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
In this tutorial, we're going to explore a cool sliding technique that can add some spice to your playing. This "downward slide" basically involves your finger quickly sliding from a higher point on a string to the desired no...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
In this lesson, we're experimenting with a riff that has a bit of an Eastern feel. Watch the video closely to get a good idea of the slides and timing.
Practice it slowly, then when you're ready, jump on over to the next les...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
John Petrucci is pretty much the one who got me into this simple and fun sliding technique. I remember hearing some of his solos and really liking how the slides gave so much feeling to his playing.
In this lesson, we'll foc...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Welcome to the "Metal Breakdowns" Tutorial! Throughout this tutorial, I'm going to add some random breakdowns that you can practice to work on your rhythm chops. If you're into hardcore or metalcore music, you've probably hea...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Hey there! Welcome to the wonderful world of Pinch Harmonics.
If you listen to the playing of guitarists such as Zakk Wylde(Ozzy Osbourne), Billy Gibbons(ZZTop) or more recent players such as Thomas Blug, you will hear pinch...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Welcome to the Harp Harmonics Tutorial! Here we will lean how to play harp harmonics as well as how to incorporate them into musical contexts.
Harp harmonics are played when a finger on your picking hand gently touches a str...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Acoustic
Topic: Technique
Style: Acoustic
In this lesson, we're going to experiment with playing harp harmonics within a chord progression. The progression will be as follows: D, G5, Bm, G5.
These chords are listed in the tab below if you don't know them already. An...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Lastly, let's play some harps in a more rockin' context. I personally love incorporating harp harmonics into my rhythm or solo playing. They can really add a neat flavor to the notes you play.
Go ahead and crank up some dist...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
A few questions about dampening strings have been raised in the forums lately. Hopefully this lesson will guide some of you toward solving this frustration.
Basically I have outlined two methods for keeping open strings unde...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Chords
Style: Any Style
Topic: Chords
Style: Any Style
Hey all and thanks for joining me!
In this tutorial we will be taking a look at how to play some simple chord progressions with two example progressions to get our teeth into.
To begin with I guess we need to know exactly w...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Chords
Style: Any Style
Topic: Chords
Style: Any Style
Ok lets take a closer look at the role of the left hand.
It is essential at this point that you understand the importance of economising the movement in the left hand. By doing so it will give you the facility to play whatev...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Chords
Style: Any Style
Topic: Chords
Style: Any Style
Now that you have the techniques needed to play chord progressions lets kick of with our first example which will highlight the use of Anchor finger technique.
Finger 3 of the left hand will be the common thread between our ...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Chords
Style: Any Style
Topic: Chords
Style: Any Style
OK it's time to learn our second chord progression example!
This time we will be concentrating on a progression which contains the Guide finger technique.
The chords we will be playing are as follows:
Dmajor - Emajor - Gma...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Welcome to the Finger Tapping Tutorial! This is a fairly large tutorial that spans from beginning to advanced levels. So no matter what skill level you're at, I'd encourage you to go through the whole thing from start to fini...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Most of the time, you will be using both hands while finger tapping. When playing tapping passages, you'll usually either be hammering on from your fret-hand to your tapping-hand, or pulling off from your tapping-hand to your...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Now that you have a grasp on the basic execution of finger tapping, we are going to start working on the coordination of our fret-hand fingers while we tap.
There are four exercises in this lesson. The 1st exercise utilizes ...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Using open strings while tapping is an excellent way to add some cool texture to your playing.
There are two ways to make an open string sound. An open string either sounds after being picked, or after a finger pulls off fro...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Okay. Now that we practiced how to avoid unwanted open-string noise, we can work on tapping with an open string.
In this tapping exercise, you are going to be tapping with your index finger, then pulling off to your fret-han...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Here is one more example of how we can incorporate an open string with tapping. In this exercise, we will be playing the open D string for every other note.
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
In the next three lessons, we are going to learn three different ways we can tap the same 8 notes on two strings.
All the following exercises will be in the key of A minor. Practice them very slowly and do your best to copy ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Note Variations - Exercise 2 of 3
In the next lesson, we'll look at the 3rd variation.
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Note Variations - Exercise 3 of 3
Good job. Now I recommend that you try your own variations using the same notes. There are infinite possibilities!
Head on over to the next lesson where we'll be looking at some Pentatonic ...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
If you desire to effectively implement tapping into your playing, you need to make sure that you are very comfortable finger tapping through scales. Finger tapping is a popular and sometimes necessary element to lead guitar p...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Now, let’s ascend on the B minor pentatonic scale, still playing three notes per string. To “ascend” means to start from a lower note and progress toward a higher note. Again, make sure every note is equal i...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Lastly, we are going to merge descending and ascending together. In lengthy tapping runs, it is likely you will both ascend and descend through scales, as you can only do one or the other for so long until you run out of note...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Pedal tones, as they pertain to guitar, are repeated notes played within a musical passage. Pedal tones are a very popular tapping technique. The concept of pedal tones is also heavily used in classical music.
So, let’...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Let’s try another pedal tone variation. In this exercise, we will be playing a pedal tone melody within the E Major scale. The 12th fret of the E string will be the pedal tone note.
Once you feel comfortable with these...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
String skipping is pretty self-explanatory. It is the method of moving from one string to another while skipping a string. It is a technique used usually for practical purposes. A guitarist might choose to string-skip in the ...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
In this lesson, we are going to utilize the A Major diatonic scale. If you aren't sure what that means, don’t worry, the scale is outlined in the picture below. Notice the dots have different colors. The green dots repr...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
In this exercise, we will be grouping 3 strings together at a time while descending. In other words, we’ll descend on a set of 3 strings, then descend on the next set of 3 strings, and so on.
Playing with groups of str...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Slides can add a very cool element to your tapping. We do slides all the time with our fret-hand right? So let's slide with our tapping-hand as well!
In this exercise, we're going to practice sliding with all four fingers. B...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Now we’ll use a more melodic approach with our slides. Watch out for the second measure. You’ll be sliding from the 5th fret to the 7th fret and back. So since you’re sliding a whole step apart, you’ll...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
What is multi-finger tapping? It's pretty self-explanatory, as it simply involves the use of multiple tapping-hand fingers tapping through a passage. Its existence is for practical reasons, as sometimes it’s difficult t...
Level: Crazy!
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Let's end this tutorial with a neat multi-finger tapping run in A minor. This one is pretty tough. I recommend practicing it literally note by note. Remember, you're in no rush! Take your time and concentrate on accuracy and ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Improvising
Style: Jazz
Topic: Improvising
Style: Jazz
What Is This Thing Called Love?
A classic tune by the great composer, Cole Porter.
In this video I will play a 32 bar solo through the chord changes to this song.
Provided below is the tab if you want to get stuck into it ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Improvising
Style: Jazz
Topic: Improvising
Style: Jazz
Hello again.
Hopefully this video will give you a better chance to observe the fingerings I have used throughout the solo.
Early on in the tune I used some chord fragments in the solo. These were Inversions of Fm6 / Dm7b5. ...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Acoustic
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Acoustic
Hey everyone!
Here's a little acoustic piece I wrote called "Acoustic Synergy". Why did I call it "Acoustic Synergy"? Because it sounds cool!
I hope you enjoy this short tutorial. Once you check out the full video above, he...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Acoustic
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Acoustic
Alright, before we start the first exercise, we need to adjust our guitar tuning. From your Low E string to your High E string, the tuning will go as follows: D(6) A(5) D(4) E(3) A(2) D(1)
Let's be sure to learn every part o...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Acoustic
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Acoustic
Now we'll learn the strumming section for "Acoustic Synergy". We're going to have the 1st and 2nd strings ringing out through the entirety of this riff. I love the sound it gives when we layer chord changes on top of underlyi...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Alright! Time for some metal riffing! What we'll do in this lesson is - we'll take a simple key of E but will turn it into a Locrian mode and apply such techniques as standard down stroke picking, a bit of slides, artificial ...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Hey all!
This is a piece I wrote called "Expiration Date". It has a good mix of metal, progressive, and hardcore elements.
Once you've checked out the video, head on over to the next lesson and let's learn it!
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
This first riff is pretty fun to play. The particular note choice coupled with legato gives this riff a subtle Asian sound.
Keep in mind the use of legato throughout this riff. For example, check out the first 5 notes in th...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Here we have some tight rhythm playing along with the bass drum. I love this kind of metal riffing, where there are quick bursts of notes amidst short rests in between. The contrast of notes and silence can really add a lot o...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
This riff is pretty straightfoward. We'll be using all downstrokes as well.
The picking in bars 19 and 20 might be a little tricky at first. We're basically switching a bass note melody from the 9th fret A string(F#) to the ...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
This might be the most difficult rhythm section in this piece. We have a lot of fast sixteenth notes and we need to make sure the notes are played cleanly and that we avoid unwanted string noise.
Play it slow. Don't sacrific...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
And finally, we have the outro.
The first 8 measures is a bit of a teaser for the following blast of metal madness. We're basically just playing the melody using quarter notes with all downstrokes.
After that, we're going t...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
In this lesson, we're going to explore the basic fundamentals of standard picking. As I mention in the video, standard picking is the most basic form of guitar picking. So if you're just starting out on the guitar, you're in ...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Let's take a look at alternate picking. Alternate picking is definitely one of the most popular forms of guitar picking. The reason it's so popular is because it's extremely practical to use in many musical situations.
Alter...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Chords
Style: Any Style
Topic: Chords
Style: Any Style
Barre chords, what exactly are they?
Barre chords are chords which enable us to take all of the open chords that we have learned, open chords being the basic chords which incorporate the use of open strings, and play them in...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
In this tutorial, we're going to practice some patterns that utilize all 4 of the fret-hand fingers. Just as with any other instrument, playing guitar requires solid coordination. If you think about it, if you had absolutely ...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
As I mention in the video, this is one of my favorite coordination exercises. It sounds pretty weird and boring, but it's not as easy as it sounds!
In this exercise, we're going to be using the same G Major scale notes as we...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Technique
Style: Acoustic
Topic: Technique
Style: Acoustic
Welcome to an Introduction to Fingerstyle!
Fingerstyle is a technique that is beneficial to us in many ways. With this technique we are able to achieve a much more pianistic way of playing; that is, the ability to play seper...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Technique
Style: Acoustic
Topic: Technique
Style: Acoustic
Let's get started with our first piece in fingerstyle!
This piece is a chord sequence taken from the famous composition written by Johann Pachelbel called Canon in D. It is an ideal progression to enable you to work on the s...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Acoustic
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Acoustic
Welcome everyone! This tutorial is designed to lay out the very basics of guitar strumming. If you're just starting out on guitar, then these lessons are for you!
First, be sure to review the important posture points that I ...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Acoustic
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Acoustic
As mentioned in the video, for all our strumming exercises we'll be using chords with similar shapes. Doing this allows us to keep most of our focus on our strumming hand.
Before playing the patterns below, watch the video...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Acoustic
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Acoustic
Now let's try some patterns with the C and FMaj7 chords. These patterns are a little more difficult because there is a lot more silence between the strums. The more silence there is, the more responsible you are for keeping...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Funk
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Funk
Greetings Guitar slingers!
Welcome to my tutorial on funk rhythm guitar playing!
As I mention in the video, there are many, many variations on funk guitar playing. There is single note funk (more like playing bass lines on ...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Funk
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Funk
Ok then! Let's begin shall we?
As stated in the video, the first thing you need to grasp to be able to play funk rhythm guitar, is your right hand strumming. Most funk guitar playing revolves around variations of the sixteen...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Funk
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Funk
So, for the first example we have a slightly syncopated funk rhythm. This particular rhythm is quite common in Funk, and can be found on countless of groovy funk tunes from the 60’s and 70’s (the hey-day of funk!)...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Funk
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Funk
This example is similar to the first, just accentuating other parts of the 16th note groupings. If you nailed the 1st one, this should present no significant obstacle. Remember to practice with the backing track as well, and ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Funk
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Funk
Time for example 3!
This is slightly harder, since it has a more syncopated figure, but also since when playing the rhythm in a loop, you have the first two 16th note accents, and the last 2 binded together. This might look ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Funk
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Funk
Example 4...
Not much to say about this one, other than what is covered in the video really. What we have here is a rhythm that is easier to get down than example no.3, but that contains a chord change. It’s not much o...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Funk
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Funk
Alright then! Example 5. Now we’re getting somewhere!
This example contains chord changes (same as in example 4.), but also some different note values and syncopations than earlier examples. First of all, I deviate fro...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Funk
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Funk
This example expands further on the idea presented in the last one, about inserting rests into the 16th note strumming pattern. It also contains different note values, and chords.
To start out with we use the same A7 (no roo...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Funk
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Funk
Alright! Example 7 is in shuffle beat. Using shuffle in funk is not common practice, but makes for a nice deviation of the norm. And in the words of the late, great Frank Zappa; “Without deviation from the norm, progres...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Funk
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Funk
Example 8, the final rhythm example, utilizes strictly 8th note triplets. This is a very uncommon approach to funk, and one I have personally never come across. But, referring back to ‘ol Zappa, I suggest you don’...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Improvising
Style: Funk
Topic: Improvising
Style: Funk
Bonus Round #1
The most essential things when soloing over funk music is timing and the ability to play with and against the beat/rhythm.
In this first example, I have taken the A minor pentatonic scale and played it straig...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Improvising
Style: Funk
Topic: Improvising
Style: Funk
Bonus Round #2
As with regular blues and rock playing, many songs are constructed using dominant 7th chords, which in effect means we should be playing a major scale (Mixolydian to be exact). However, in most blues and funk,...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Improvising
Style: Funk
Topic: Improvising
Style: Funk
Bonus Round #3
This example takes the exact same approach to playing with and against the beat, but in the form of a more traditional blues “lick”. Try it out, and think of how you can apply this to your own lick...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Improvising
Style: Funk
Topic: Improvising
Style: Funk
Bonus Round #4
This final example has the same rhythmic approach as the previous examples, but has a more advanced and “realistic” harmonic approach. In the first bar, I begin by using the Mixo-penta scale from B...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Chords
Style: Any Style
Topic: Chords
Style: Any Style
Welcome.
In my next few lessons I want to lay out some simple structures that I found valuable when altered chords became more a part of my vocabulary.
Although, this is marked as intermediate. Hopefully some of you beginne...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Chords
Style: Any Style
Topic: Chords
Style: Any Style
Hello again!
In this part of the tutorial we are going to have a look at some simple ways to find our altered 5th and 13th voicing's.
Early in the video I emphasized the importance of the Perfect 5th interval. For me, early...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Hey folks!
Welcome to Canon in D-sharp. If you've heard of Canon in D, then you're going to love Canon in D-sharp. It's just a lot sharper sounding than Canon in D. :-) Okay bad joke, I know.
As said in the video, the rhyth...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
"Settle for Metal!"
That's what my great grandfather always used to tell me. Okay maybe not, but it sounds cool to say.
Alright, in this short song tutorial, we're going to look at some intense rhythm playing in the metal v...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Greetings Guitar Slingers!
In this tutorial, we will take a close look at an intro to one of my songs. This one is called NeoBlues, and is a track off of my FretDance (2003) album.
We won't be covering the entire song for t...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Here is the first analysis part. We will begin by looking at the intro. Here we have an up-tempo, string skipping and finger tapping run in the G minor pentatonic scale.
In the first part without tapping, you will encounter ...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Here we have the second analysis part, which covers the interlude theme of the song. The pattern used on the triplets is exactly the same as in the intro, so that should not pose any significant challenge once you’ve na...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
And finally, here is the main riff. Isn’t it fun how the simplest things are often the most difficult? This is also true in this case. This one presents some challenges, especially if your hands are small or your reach ...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Country
Topic: Technique
Style: Country
OK guys, it's time for some serious string twangin' and finger pluckin' in my latest tutorial.
You'll find a variety of different techniques in here, from string bending to hybrid picking and much more. The piece is in three...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Country
Topic: Technique
Style: Country
OK, for the intro to this I decided to try to emulate the sound of a banjo with a rolling type of effect.
This works very well on the guitar and is not too difficult to replicate. In this case we play a g note at the 5th fre...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Country
Topic: Technique
Style: Country
Lets now take a look at what I have called the 'rhythm section'.
The majority of this section is made up of patterns which have alternating 8th note basslines juxtaposed with a syncopated upper part. If you are new to this s...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Country
Topic: Technique
Style: Country
It's time for the solo!
As always with this style of playing, hybrid picking is a heavily featured technique and there's plenty of it here.
I find that I get good results by accentuating the fingerpicked notes by playing th...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
Hello and welcome to this tutorial on building speed and accuracy. One thing that alot of people ask is "How do I get faster?" and of course, the almost automatic reaction is "Practice!" and while that may be true, I really b...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Another way to build speed is to combine both of the previous lessons and put them through what are called "Cycling Patterns" That is, playing certain licks over and over while increasing the tempo slowly, building your speed...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Chords
Style: Any Style
Topic: Chords
Style: Any Style
Hello, I now bring you part 2 of this tutorial.
To start, we will be working with Augmented, Diminished, Sus4, and Sus2 chords. For simplistic reasons, we will be building these (once again) in the key of C major but the cho...
Level: Crazy!
Topic: Improvising
Style: Rock
Topic: Improvising
Style: Rock
Yo! and welcome to my latest tutorial this time focusing on the style and techniques of the amazing UK guitarist Guthrie Govan.
This lesson was created with inspiration from the following:
I first came across...
Level: Crazy!
Topic: Improvising
Style: Rock
Topic: Improvising
Style: Rock
OK let's nail this solo!
One of the most important aspects of this first section is the string bending and control of intonation. You must practice with the aim of getting perfect intonation and complete control over your ma...
Level: Crazy!
Topic: Improvising
Style: Rock
Topic: Improvising
Style: Rock
Ok let's continue!
Notice how the motifs start developing here. Including motivic development within this solo was a vital part of capturing the style of Guthrie's playing. If you analyse any of his solos, the majority of wh...
Level: Crazy!
Topic: Improvising
Style: Rock
Topic: Improvising
Style: Rock
Lets continue further into the world of Mr Govan!
Again the use of motivic development occurs here in a sequential chromatic pattern which ascends on the top e string by step. With these legato patterns try to keep as light ...
Level: Crazy!
Topic: Improvising
Style: Rock
Topic: Improvising
Style: Rock
OK, the legato madness continues to greater heights!
This section is where the solo reaches its dynamic peak in the tapped string skipped arpeggio again commonly used by Mr Govan!
At this point I'd like to comment on uhe us...
Level: Crazy!
Topic: Improvising
Style: Rock
Topic: Improvising
Style: Rock
Hang in there guys we're almost there!
This final section includes a very often used 'Guthrie-ism' in the final string skipped tapping lick.
The actual pattern is based on the pentatonic scale and the beauty of this kind of...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Improvising
Style: Rock
Topic: Improvising
Style: Rock
Alrighty, let's kick off the proceedings with the first lick.
Guthrie tends to use this kind of idea within his improvisations with great effect. I really like that kind of unexpected burst of notes and to achieve the same e...
Level: Crazy!
Topic: Improvising
Style: Rock
Topic: Improvising
Style: Rock
OK, time to take a deep breath as this one is a challenge!
I try to see this whole pattern as one entire lick rather than segments pieced together. Of course, it will be necessary to subdivide the parts so that you can put t...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Improvising
Style: Rock
Topic: Improvising
Style: Rock
This final Lick is very reminiscent of Guthrie's style of playing and is one that he uses on a regular basis.
It is made easier by the fact that the shapes used on each successive string are exactly the same. The lick will t...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Welcome to the "Legato for Beginners" tutorial. By the time you go through these lessons, you should have a solid understanding of what legato is, and how we can apply it to guitar.
So, what is legato? Legato is a characteri...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
The first legato technique we're going to look at are hammer ons. The name "hammer ons" is somewhat self-explanatory. This technique is going to involve our fingers hammering on the fretboard in order to produce notes.
In or...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Now, let's focus on pull offs. With pull offs, our fingers are going to pull off the strings to produce notes.
In order to play a pull off, you'll first pick a note that one of your fret-hand fingers is holding down. Then on...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Lastly, let's have a look at slides. Slides are pretty much the epitome of legato. The reason for that is slides are the absolute smoothest possible transition you can have from one note to another.
In order to play a slide,...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Okay, it's time to put these techniques to practical use! In this lesson, we'll learn a short riff that includes all 3 legato techniques we've just learned in this tutorial: hammer ons, pull offs, and slides.
In this riff, y...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Recording
Style: Any Style
Topic: Recording
Style: Any Style
Welcome to our first lesson in Cubase. Cubase covers a huge area of recording and editing your audio and MIDI tracks, so I will break it into small lessons and explain it part by part not to make it a boring 12 hour lesson. A...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Recording
Style: Any Style
Topic: Recording
Style: Any Style
Latency is the main problem music producers encounter when recording audio tracks and working with VST instruments. It's an unwanted delay we should get rid of straight away, before we start working with music.
In case you m...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Recording
Style: Any Style
Topic: Recording
Style: Any Style
Greetings!
In this chapter we'll go through some general stuff concerning MIDI tracks and you can find some more detailed info at this link MIDI@Wikipedia, and also you can read a bit about this GM Map@Wikipedia.
So, in sim...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Recording
Style: Any Style
Topic: Recording
Style: Any Style
Ok, now when you know some basic stuff about MIDI tracks, let's actually work with them!
So to get started you need to create an Empty Project (like in our very first lesson of this tutorial). After that simply follow the le...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
In this lesson, we will be looking at a technique that a lot of people tend to overlook, which is using open strings within your soloing. If you listen to any Joe Satriani, you might know what I am talking about.
The first ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
Now that we have the basic motions and understanding of how this is done, I am now going to show you a way of using open strings on 2 or more strings, switching between them simultaneously.
This requires a bit of key signatu...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Reference
Style: Any Style
Topic: Reference
Style: Any Style
Every guitarist needs to know the notes and numbers of the guitar strings. If you're a beginning guitarist, this is one of the very first things you'll want to tackle. As I mention in the video, we instructors always refer to...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Reference
Style: Any Style
Topic: Reference
Style: Any Style
Maintaining good posture while playing guitar is vital. Not only does it help your guitar playing be more effective, but it also helps keep you healthy.
Here are a few tips you should keep in mind...
1. When sitting down, b...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Reference
Style: Any Style
Topic: Reference
Style: Any Style
Other than our fingers, picks are the main tool that guitarists use to play the guitar strings. There are a lot of different kinds of picks, and you should experiment with different picks to find out what kind is best for you...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Funk
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Funk
Funk in the Trunk!
Every once in a while, I get a crazy urge to play some funk music. This is a short piece I wrote that focuses on some fundamental funk guitar elements. So grab your guitar, break out the disco ball, and le...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Funk
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Funk
Make sure you keep an extremely tight rhythm sound with this riff as well as the remaining riffs in the piece. Funk music is all about groove and tight rhythm with the drums and bass. Drums and bass drive funk music, and guit...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Funk
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Funk
Now, we're basically taking the exact rhythm from the previous riff, and adding more funk flavor to it.
First thing to do is make sure you're comfortable playing the E minor bar chord on the 7th fret. Make sure you can get a...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Funk
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Funk
Here, we have a little bit of fingerpicking while we go back and forth between some Major chords.
First, we're trading off with A Major and Ab Major. Then next, we trade off between C Major and B Major.
While you play this ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Funk
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Funk
Now we get into the super funky part. This is actually very similar to the riff we played in Exercise 2, except we're adding in some key melodic notes at the end of each measure.
Look at the end of each measure, and you'll s...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Funk
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Funk
Here, we have a bluesy melody line to finish up the piece. This riff revolves around the 1st and 5th modes of the E minor pentatonic scale.
Be sure to notice how you won't be picking every single note in this riff. We have s...
Level: Crazy!
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
Learning certain technique can easily become boring sometimes. So to break out of a routine, we'll make it more fun by mixing up different techniques in giant licks which you can use in your solos.
So the idea behind this is...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Reference
Style: Any Style
Topic: Reference
Style: Any Style
In addition to this lesson, be sure to check out an article I wrote on Guitarist Tendonitis.
Stretching and warming up is critical for any guitarist. Playing guitar can be very strenuous on your fingers, wrists, and forearms...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Reference
Style: Any Style
Topic: Reference
Style: Any Style
Every guitarist needs to know the anatomy of the guitar so they can properly reference the various parts. Be sure to study the video and image below to memorize everything.
Also, it's worth noting that some guitar parts have...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Acoustic
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Acoustic
Hey everybody! This is a little intro to a song I wrote called "Revealed Essence". It has a nice, soft jazzy feel.
First thing to keep in mind, is how we need to keep our strumming hand constantly moving during the strumming...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Thanks for joining me in this latest tutorial where we will be looking at various ways of practicing scales.
Spending a lot of time playing scales can be extremely boring, especially if we employ few ways of traversing the ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Lets deal with group 2. This group incorporates alternate picking with slurs. It will feel a little awkward to start with but as long as you keep to a nice tempo you'll be fine.
The first pattern involves picking the first t...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
OK, the eagle eyed amongst you will notice that in group 3, the picking patterns are the same as group 2 but with one exception: the introduction of the hybrid picking.
The picking patterns are the same however we will be re...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
OK, in group 4 we will be leaning more towards the legato school of playing. That is, less picking and more slurring.
In the first example we will be picking the first note and hammering the following two on every string(rev...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Welcome to the final group in this tutorial, group 5.
This group will cover some of the more unusual ways of practicing scales. The first example utilizes left hand hammer ons only. In the previous group, we played the scale...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Chords
Style: Blues
Topic: Chords
Style: Blues
Joe Pass Style Blues Guitar
Joe Pass is arguably one of the most important and historically significant Jazz Guitar players, in line with the likes of Wes Montgomery and the great Charlie Christian. More particularly though,...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Blues
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Blues
Hey Guitarist's and Guitarete's.
Here are the first 12 bars of our Chordal Blues. Aside from the novelty of having this broken up into manageable sections, I'll be laying out all the chords and substitutions being used in ea...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Blues
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Blues
Welcome back!
Same deal as before. I have slowed down the next 12 bar segment for you and will post the chord changes below.
Bar 1- Fm7 > E13 Bar 2- Eb9 > Bbdim Bar 3- Bb7 > F altered Bar 4- Fm9 > Bb7 Bar 5- Eb9...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Blues
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Blues
Continuing from the last chorus.
Bar 1- following through with Bb9 into Fm7 to Bb13 >Bm7 Bar 2- Bm7 > Eb13 > B#9 Bar 3- Bb9 > Fm9 - Bb13 (B13 - Fm9) Bar 4- on beat 3 we have Bb13 > D9 Bar 5- Eb9 ( from here t...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Metal
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Metal
Hey! Thanks for tuning in to this tutorial in which we are going to look at a piece that I have written for my new album called "Aftermath'.
Aftermath started off a study I wrote for one of my students. The music was inspire...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Metal
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Metal
Alrighty then! Now that you have watched the full video, very carefully I might add, we can get to work breaking those riffs down so that we can totally nail them.
The opening riff alternates using the open, in this case, lo...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Metal
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Metal
Riff 2 sees our first change of meter from 4/4 to 3/4 and then back to 4/4. Notice how the change of meter is very subtle, that is, it doesn't scream out at you.
The 16 note run in bar 15 should be played very tightly and cl...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Metal
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Metal
Syncopation is the key word with riff 3. It is important that you follow the accents notated within the score to achieve the correct rhythmic pulse. The meter here is 5/4 and each bar is divided into two groups of five 8th no...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Metal
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Metal
Now we get some really heavily textured stuff. I really enjoyed creating this section of the composition as it was more about achieving an effect than anything else, although the common thread is still there as we shall see.
...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Metal
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Metal
This riff is a little trickier than it seems at first glance, (or listening). The key element(surprise, surprise:p) is rhythm. You must practice this keeping everything as tight as you possibly can and at this point, there ar...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Chords
Style: Blues
Topic: Chords
Style: Blues
Chord Inversions - What are they ??
An inversion is a name for a chord who's notes have been re-arranged. Lets start by looking at the Bb7 Chord.
For each inversion I will give you a notated example of each chord as you mig...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Chords
Style: Blues
Topic: Chords
Style: Blues
Dominant Inversions 1st Inversion Part 1.
Enjoy our new riff!!
This demonstration is showing us one possible scenario for using the 1st Inversion.
After you have played through and made some sense of this lesson, have a go...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Chords
Style: Blues
Topic: Chords
Style: Blues
This video is a follow up to part1 of the first inversion study. Hence part2.
All I want you to do here is take notice of the similarities between the first inversion and the half diminished chord(aka m7b5)
There are many o...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Chords
Style: Blues
Topic: Chords
Style: Blues
Dominant Inversions
In this video, I will be giving you a demonstration on using the 2nd Inversion of a Dominant Chord. It is a short riff based on the first few bars of a I-IV-V blues progression.
As we work through this t...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Chords
Style: Blues
Topic: Chords
Style: Blues
Before breaking down this track I want to point out our 3rd Inversion.
As we discussed earlier, the 3rd inversion is a voicing that begins with the 7th degree of the chord as the Root note(bass note) and as it happens, this ...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Classical
Topic: Technique
Style: Classical
Hey there, Thanks for joining me! In this lesson we are going to be taking a look at one of Mauro Giuliani's well known op49 studies. No19 is my choice today. Lets take a look at the study in its entirety on video and then we...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Classical
Topic: Technique
Style: Classical
Let's kick off with the first part of the study.
Giuliani presents us with a variety of techniques within the piece so make sure you subdivide this section into smaller subsections so that you can really hone in on every tec...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Classical
Topic: Technique
Style: Classical
The same principals apply to the second section as we discussed in the first section. During the rising and descending octaves section, it would be worth really emphasizing the dynamic element to achieve a positive effect. A ...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Alright! Welcome to the "Pending Closure" song tutorial. This is definitely one of my favorite tunes that I've written. What I'll be showing you in this tutorial is a segment taken from the song's mid-section.
Ready? Buckle ...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
In this riff, we have a good mix of alternate picking, palm muting, and legato.
First thing we should note, is how on every single pull-off you do, you'll be using a downstroke. Make sure you keep that pattern throughout so ...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
Here we have a short little sweeping/tapping run. I love implementing these type of licks into my playing. It's a great way to add some flavor amidst all the intense rhythm as well.
If you are unfamiliar with sweeping and/or...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Metal
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Metal
In this section, we have a strong rhythm mixing octave chords with palm-muted alternate picking in between.
As always with octave chords, make sure that your index finger mutes all 4 of the non-applicable strings. We only wa...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Like some of the other riffs in this song, we'll be palm muting the Low E string notes, while all other notes are played normally without palm muting.
Also, if you want, some of the picking in this riff can be played a littl...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
In this riff, we're actually playing the harmonies to the previous lesson's riff. So it's pretty much the same thing as far as the rhythms and techniques go, just played on different notes.
One key difference though is that ...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Theory
Style: Any Style
Topic: Theory
Style: Any Style
Hey everyone! Welcome to the "Metal Riffing with 16th Note Triplets" tutorial.
Today we're going to focus on a group of rhythmic notes called 16th Note Triplets, also known as sextuplets. First off, let's go over what 16th n...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Metal
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Metal
As you probably saw in the last part of the previous lesson's video, 16th note triplets are a great way to get a machine-gun like effect with your guitar. And that's exactly what we want since we're focusing on metal playing....
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Metal
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Metal
Next, let's mix up the 16th note triplets with a different kind of note. In this lesson, we're going to mix them with standard sixteenth notes.
Observe the first and second beats in the tab below. Do you see how the first be...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Metal
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Metal
In the last lesson, we split up multiple beats using different notes. Now, we're going to split up the notes within individual beats...
Check out the first beat in the tab below. You'll see the first half of the beat has thr...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Okay now let's just play a snazzy riff!
Before you try to play anything with the guitar, observe the notation below and recognize where the 16th note triplets are, as well as where the 8th notes are. Even though we're just l...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Exercises
Style: Metal
Topic: Exercises
Style: Metal
In this lesson, we're going to focus on a riff that helps your stamina. Stamina is the ability to do things for a long period of time. So with this riff, we're going to play straight 16th note triplets for the entire sequence...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Here's one more heavy riff. There are actually only a few 16th note triplets in this one, but it's a good exercise nonetheless. In the notation, look at the first beat in the first measure. The first half of the beat has an 8...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
So how do we get from A to B? How do we go from strict ”box” thinking, to literary thinking “outside the box”?
Well as the great Miles Davis said “First learn the rules, the break them”.
...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
In this exercise we will start to expand our thinking, and start to see the scales horizontally, and begin to truly break out of the box.
In the first one we do the same 4-note, 2-string idea as in the vertical exercises, bu...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
Well guitar slingers! Now we’re starting to go places!
In these exercises we will start connecting the boxes diagonally, which is a great way to open up the fretboard by moving more naturally across the neck. Once you ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
In this exercise will we take a short sequence or ”lick” if you may in the A blues scale and pay that in varied fingerings all over the neck. The scale parts we will use are… the whole thing:
The line we...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
So, without further ado, here's the example promised in part 4. As with previous things, do not just practice this as a lick, but try to think about how the lines pass through the positions of the boxes, and also how other sc...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
For me, the easiest way to get into string skipping is from utilizing the simplest of scales: The Pentatonic.
This first example will help to get the basic movements of how string skipping is done. Play this example slowly ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
This next segment is going to cover the string skipping patterns that we are all familiar with: 3 note per string patterns. I will show you some basic examples and show how you can arrange them to help create your own voice ...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Hey there IG guitar players,
Let's start working on a very useful technique called legato. After you watch the video explanation, let's once more review the important parts of legato:
1. bring the wrist forward to obtain th...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
In the previous lesson we worked on moving our fingers totally separately from each other. In this one will work on getting your fingers to work in linear sequence. The difference is that in this exercise the loudness of the ...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Ok, it's now time to move from single string exercises and have a bigger bite. :)
2 strings exercises are more difficult as you now have to watch carefully what you mute and what you pick so here it is step by step:
1. as w...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
OK, remember the first legato lesson? Well, now we'll use that same exercise and play it on 2 strings which will make it way more difficult.
First of all, I want to turn your attention to tabs: in the tab you can only see ea...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Here we go - 3 strings legato exercise.
As you can see, we involve a few pickstrokes here and there. These are unavoidable as we move between strings a lot and we only use picks when we are playing ascending runs as it is ha...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
In this lesson, we will be talking about the most important technique that you can learn as a guitar player, which is having good vibrato. I feel that you can have all the chops in the world, but if you don't have good vibra...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Improvising
Style: Jazz
Topic: Improvising
Style: Jazz
In this tutorial, I hope to enlighten you somewhat in the ways of improvisation. Particularly on the subject of outlining chords. We will be having a look at several short musical phrases and analyzing them in context to the ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Improvising
Style: Jazz
Topic: Improvising
Style: Jazz
Before we start learning to play some lines and understanding what makes them tick, it is important we understand the concept of guide tones.
A good improviser will always be able to 'outline' the chord progression he/she is...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Improvising
Style: Jazz
Topic: Improvising
Style: Jazz
Guide Tones. Part 1
This lesson will contain a lot more discussion about chord tones used than the following, so be sure to read carefully. If there is anything you don't understand please join me in the forums. Let's get ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Improvising
Style: Jazz
Topic: Improvising
Style: Jazz
Guide Tones part 2
Welcome!
This lesson has two separate phrases but are all played as one long passage. The Chord voicings used are also tabbed for you, not the rhythms though. I will leave that part of it for you to work ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Improvising
Style: Jazz
Topic: Improvising
Style: Jazz
Guide Lines part 3
Before you do anything with this lesson, I want you to just listen to the first half of the video. It is a 16 bar phrase over our II-V-I progression. The chords progression is simply repeated as such, Am7 ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Improvising
Style: Jazz
Topic: Improvising
Style: Jazz
It's time to open the fretboard up! This lesson will hopefully help you visualize each of the chord/scale relationships over the fretboard a bit easier.
All of these exercises are built on the II-V-I progression just as we h...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Hey dudes, wassup! Thanks for checking in on this tutorial. What we're going to be doing is looking at the solo to my track 'Ascendance of the Spheres' taken from my 2005 ep, Re-Invention. Let's take a look at the solo in its...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Theory
Style: Rock
Topic: Theory
Style: Rock
Right then! Let's take a closer look at the solo.
Solo overview
Whenever I am learning a piece using a score, I always take time out to make some important observations indicated within the score rather than diving headfirs...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Theory
Style: Any Style
Topic: Theory
Style: Any Style
Welcome to the 16th Note Displacement Tutorial!
What are 16th notes? 16th notes add up to 4 counts in one beat. So you have a total of 16 counts in a measure that has 4 beats.
Full 16th note measure: "1 e + a 2 e + a 3 e + ...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Theory
Style: Any Style
Topic: Theory
Style: Any Style
Now, let's mix it up a little bit. In the last lesson, we learned how to omit specific 16th note counts consistently throughout a single measure. Now we're going to omit different 16th note counts throughout a single measure....
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Rock
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Rock
Alright, let's get a bit of a feel of what it's like to use 16th note displacement accompanied by drums.
At the beginning of the video, you'll hear the high hats playing quarter notes. We're going to play straight 16th notes...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Rock
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Rock
In the first exercise, we're going to take out all of the number and the "+" counts. So therefore, we're only going to play the "e" and "a" counts. As you can hear from me playing it in the video, it has kind of an uneasy, up...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Rock
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Rock
Okay, here's where we apply everything we've discussed in this tutorial.
When I made this riff, I didn't think too hard about it at all. I basically just picked random notes and put them in random places. And hey, it didn't ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Chords
Style: Any Style
Topic: Chords
Style: Any Style
Welcome!
For this lesson I just wanted to introduce some new voicings to your vocabulary. All the chords listed here are G Major chords. Most are either basic triads or Maj7th chords. There are a few inversions and one exten...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Palm muting is a common device used in all styles of music. Those chugging distorted metal riffs that I'm sure you have all heard at one stage, sound the way they do partly because of the palm muting technique.
In funk bands...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
How well do you know your Major scale?
Can you play it all over the fretboard? In every key? Do you know where all the voicings of each particular major chord are? Do you know their inversions? Substitutions?
If the answer ...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Now for the scales.
As you can see below we have a G major scale broken up into 5 Patterns. Each pattern has a corresponding voice of the G chord, one of each of the CAGED forms.
The logic in these forms will become evident...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
D Major Scale - CAGED Scale System
OK guys. Here are your five patterns for the D Major scale. Remember to stay conscious of which chord form your playing over when you practice the pattern. Be it the C A G E or D form. This...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Bb Major - CAGED Scale System
Here are your five patterns for the Bb Major scale. Remember to stay conscious of which chord form your playing over when you practice the pattern. Be it the C A G E or D form. This will help yo...
Level: Crazy!
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Greetings Guitar Slingers!
In this lesson, we will take a close look a song I call Super Continental. Not only will this serve as a good insight into my playing style, but will also be a good challenge for you both technical...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Ok guitar slingers!
Let’s start by looking closer at bar…1! (Well, actually the entire first page, containing the main theme of the song).
The first thing to keep in mind throughout this song, is to keep your s...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
In bar 11, you see some ghost notes, and semi-articulated notes. This is also a good weapon to have in your arsenal, and this type of dynamic development can spice up a lick or line and make it groovy.
What you have to keep ...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Same thing as in bar 11 occurs in bar 13 (with ghost notes), but I'm also using the hybrid picking technique (playing with pick and fingers simultaneously).
You will see the palm muted notes marked with "P.M", and the notes ...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
In bar 22, we encounter some precise bending. Bending (vibrato) is one of the most over-looked techniques among younger players. But to have precise control over bending really makes the difference between a seasoned, all-ro...
Level: Crazy!
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
In bar 23, you will come across one of the “hurdles” in this song. You might ask yourself “hey, I know tapping. Why should this be a problem?” Well, dear Sir or Madam, let me tell you...
When looking...
Level: Crazy!
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
The same problems with note value alteration as in the 5th analysis, can be found in bar 35-36.
Here I’m playing a long legato/tapping run, pretty much floating all over the place, but still keeping that 9-tuplet note ...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
Now, I'm sure for a lot of guitar players in the 21st century, sweep picking is an essential that you need to have in order to be a successful guitar player and be able to express yourself more freely. Many guitar players, w...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
Welcome to part 2 of this tutorial on sweep picking. Before, we learned the 3 types of 3 string major arpeggios, so now we are going to focus on the 3 types of minor arpeggios.
Now, if you know anything about chords, you wi...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
In this lesson, I have combined most of the 3 string arpeggios we have learned so far into a little "Etude" which will give you an idea of how these can be used.
Now you might be wondering why we are learning all of these in...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Scales
Style: Rock
Topic: Scales
Style: Rock
Alrighty then! Let's get cracking on the first sequence.
The whole sequence is based around the tonal centre of A dorian and while it is mainly diatonic, there are some additional passing notes present which make the sequenc...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Scales
Style: Rock
Topic: Scales
Style: Rock
Ready to go with exercise 2? Good stuff!
OK, this exercise is based upon an A minor pentatonic scale which shifts positions using the 3rd finger. The best way to practice this pattern is to play the notes in the same order a...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Scales
Style: Rock
Topic: Scales
Style: Rock
Alrighty then! The next sequence is in the tonal centre of E and utilizes the notes of the E minor pentatonic scale. Pentatonic scales are more often than not, played as two note per string scales but here it requires 4 note ...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Scales
Style: Rock
Topic: Scales
Style: Rock
Thanks for joining me in sequence 4!
This sequence is based upon an A diminished scale. This scale is an octotonic scale and is sometimes called a whole/half scale. This is because the scale is built upon those intervals whi...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Scales
Style: Rock
Topic: Scales
Style: Rock
This sequence is a particular favourite of mine and can actually be heard on my track 'Aftermath' which will be appearing on my new album. This main pattern is a suspended 2nd arpeggio with an added tapped 13th and it descend...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Scales
Style: Rock
Topic: Scales
Style: Rock
In sequence 6 we are in familiar ground again in that the sequence is based around the A minor pentatonic scale. The use of left hand slides give this sequence a very Asian flavour to it which is very pleasing to the ear. If...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
These exercises are designed for when you first pick up your guitar either before practicing or before a gig. These are not for speed at all, but to get your hands warmed up and to eliminate any tension beforehand.
I feel it...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
Now that we have gone over some left hand exercises, we are now going to tackle the right hand. These right hand exercises can be used as both a warm-up and also as a speed building exercise as well.
The first exercise is a...
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Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
This lesson will cover one of my favorite techniques along side alternate picking, which is legato. This technique has been favored by a lot of different players, especially jazz/fusion players like Allan Holdsworth and Bret...
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Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
In this lesson, we will be going over Pull-Off and stretching exercises. Now, for the pull-offs, the trick is that you're not just simply lifting your finger off the fretboard, you're actually pulling the string off of the fr...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
This lesson will help you in your quest in breaking out of those standard "Box" shapes and be able to use your entire fretboard. One way is to use what are called "Linear Scales" which are using scales on one string up and do...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Now that you have the basic concept under your fingertips, we will now apply this idea to your box patterns and connect them together in a way that utilizes the entire fretboard. Make sure when going through these examples th...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
You probably wonder what NE->SW means? Well, it's North East to South West - may sound funny but it's the best way to describe it!
I would like to mention one thing you will sure meet in some of my lessons - and that is D...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
Alright, there we have it! If you saw the previous lesson of this tutorial you will see this one is totally opposite in the direction we move. My first encounter with this kind of approach was when I saw Rusty Cooley and his ...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
Ready to move on? Cool!
Usually people can shred on thin strings but when they hit the low and thick strings they get into trouble as these strings behave a bit different and require different strength applied to function pr...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
And another lesson for thick strings workout :) Here we'll combine diagonal runs, both EW and WE (East->West and West->East).
This lesson and the previous one are perfect for nice and smooth warm-up before serious prac...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Reference
Style: Any Style
Topic: Reference
Style: Any Style
As you can imagine, tuning is extremely important with the guitar and any other instrument. Every guitarist needs to know how to do it, and how to do it effectively and quickly.
There are different ways you can tune your gui...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Reference
Style: Any Style
Topic: Reference
Style: Any Style
(Tuning Chart below)
In the video, I show you how to tune your guitar using just your ear.
Basically, you can tune your whole guitar using just your Low E string as a starting reference point. So that means that we'd need t...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Reference
Style: Any Style
Topic: Reference
Style: Any Style
Drop D tuning is when you make your Low E string go down a whole step to a D note. This tuning is a very popular tuning for 6-string guitarists who want to get a lower end with their guitar. I personally love this tuning and ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Blues
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Blues
Blues clichés, although sometimes boring and predictable, are a valuable asset to your musical vocabulary.
Before you can break through the boundaries of pentatonic scales and repetitive 'over used' musical ideas, you...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Jazz
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Jazz
Bossa style lines. no.1,
This one of the first lines I was ever proud to put my name to, It has since become a common tool in my improvisations. It is based on the first 8 bars of the tune ' Blue Bossa '
Analysis; ========
...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Blues
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Blues
Welcome!
Today we are looking at a Charlie Parker style approach to 12 bars of the blues. We are sticking to the more simplistic edge of his playing today but in the future ill be adding some of his more wild lines.
In the ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
What are symmetrical scales?
Quite simply it is a scale that appears visually symmetrical.
Consider a Major scale. This scale is generally played in 5 or 7 different positions. Each position has its own unique fingering pat...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Welcome to the "Internal Life" song tutorial. This is one of my heavier tunes and it focuses on having tight rhythm playing. Influential-wise, there's probably a little bit of Symphony X and Meshuggah in there.
Also, note th...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
I like this intro because it's pretty "in your face" and sudden. The main thing to concentrate on with this section is the silence and timing in between the passages.
Notice how in the video I motion the counts with my picki...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Okay, there's a lot of palm muting in this riff. Study the tablature below carefully to know which notes to palm mute and which notes to let ring out. If you look carefully, you can see that all the open string notes are palm...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
This is where the song really gets pumping. Here, you'll mainly be playing 8th notes, but be aware of the quick bursts of 16th notes as well.
Also notice the couple of slides on the A string that you'll be playing with your ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
This part has a lot of 16th note open notes on the Low E string. And mixed in between we'll have some 8th note rests and quarter note rests.
Notice how my left hand is muting the strings again during rests? Be sure to always...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
This is a section where we have a hint of lead playing amidst all the rhythm. It adds a tasty flavor to the tune.
There's a little bit of string skipping in this as you'll see during the first few notes. Also, observe how th...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
I like this riff because it shows a neat contrast between higher and lower notes. It's kind of a like a "call and answer" riff, where the higher notes call, then the lower notes answer.
Keep it clean and watch for the palm m...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Okay, here's the last riff of the tutorial.
As mentioned before, do your best to have your left hand fall on the strings during the rests. This definitely helps your rhythm playing to have a tighter sound.
First, we build u...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
Welcome to the "SEQUENCING" tutorial.
Sequencing is a very important thing to understand in your playing. It is also REALLY useful. When we talk about sequencing we think about making a certain group of notes, put in a certa...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
This is a B-Major 1-octave scale. Now we will use a sequence of 6 notes to make a cool exercise and not play just a scale up and down. If you take a look at the notes/tabs each group of 6 notes is 1 sequence. Than we just mov...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
In this lesson, we'll use same sequence as in the previous lesson from this tutorial but we'll extend the exercise to 2 octaves and we'll move it to A-Major to change the sounding of it a bit. My advice is as usual: don't go ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
Now let's sequence a whole scale exercise on 2 strings. I used D-Major scale for this exercise and used 3-notes-per-string boxes to move the sequences up the fretboard.
In order to achieve optimal speed you need to relax and...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
Looks like too many notes? Don't worry - nothing difficult around here! What you see here are 2 sequences: 1 goes 6 notes descending, and the other one goes 6 notes ascending. The only thing to think about are scale boxes. We...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
Topic: Exercises
Style: Any Style
Hey there!
In this lesson we'll again work with 2 sequences: one goes 6 notes descending, than 2 notes ascending, and the other sequence is 6 notes ascending than 2 notes descending.
Mixing those 2 sequences will sound like...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Topic: Scales
Style: Any Style
Hello and welcome to my new tutorial on Economy of motion. In this tutorial we will be focusing on the key elements required to play the guitar with the minimum amount of physical exertion.
In this first installment we will ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Ok, let's have a look at this sequence in a little bit more depth.
This sequence is made up of the notes of an G minor penatonic scale and is played on the 5th and 6th strings only. We start in scale position 5 and gradually...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Classical
Topic: Technique
Style: Classical
Hello and welcome to my new tutorial focusing on the 120 studies for the right hand written by virtuoso guitarist/composer Mauro Giuliani.
Mauro Giuliani was born in the coastal village of Bisceglie in the Puglia region of I...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Classical
Topic: Technique
Style: Classical
Remember to apply the 4 techniques we discussed in the introductory lesson to each example. Take it nice and slowly, and be sure to observe any rests within the score as this will be an important part of building your techniq...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Classical
Topic: Technique
Style: Classical
Remember to apply the 4 techniques we discussed in the introductory lesson to each example. Take it nice and slowly, and be sure to observe any rests within the score as this will be an important part of building your techniq...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Classical
Topic: Technique
Style: Classical
Remember to apply the 4 techniques we discussed in the introductory lesson to each example. Take it nice and slowly, and be sure to observe any rests within the score as this will be an important part of building your techniq...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Classical
Topic: Technique
Style: Classical
Remember to apply the 4 techniques we discussed in the introductory lesson to each example. Take it nice and slowly, and be sure to observe any rests within the score as this will be an important part of building your techniq...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Classical
Topic: Technique
Style: Classical
Remember to apply the 4 techniques we discussed in the introductory lesson to each example. Take it nice and slowly, and be sure to observe any rests within the score as this will be an important part of building your techniq...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Classical
Topic: Technique
Style: Classical
Remember to apply the 4 techniques we discussed in the introductory lesson to each example. Take it nice and slowly, and be sure to observe any rests within the score as this will be an important part of building your techniq...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Classical
Topic: Technique
Style: Classical
Remember to apply the 4 techniques we discussed in the introductory lesson to each example. Take it nice and slowly, and be sure to observe any rests within the score as this will be an important part of building your techniq...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Classical
Topic: Technique
Style: Classical
Remember to apply the 4 techniques we discussed in the introductory lesson to each example. Take it nice and slowly, and be sure to observe any rests within the score as this will be an important part of building your techniq...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Classical
Topic: Technique
Style: Classical
Remember to apply the 4 techniques we discussed in the introductory lesson to each example. Take it nice and slowly, and be sure to observe any rests within the score as this will be an important part of building your techniq...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Classical
Topic: Technique
Style: Classical
Remember to apply the 4 techniques we discussed in the introductory lesson to each example. Take it nice and slowly, and be sure to observe any rests within the score as this will be an important part of building your techniq...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Classical
Topic: Technique
Style: Classical
Remember to apply the 4 techniques we discussed in the introductory lesson to each example. Take it nice and slowly, and be sure to observe any rests within the score as this will be an important part of building your techniq...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Classical
Topic: Technique
Style: Classical
Remember to apply the 4 techniques we discussed in the introductory lesson to each example. Take it nice and slowly, and be sure to observe any rests within the score as this will be an important part of building your techniq...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Classical
Topic: Technique
Style: Classical
Remember to apply the 4 techniques we discussed in the introductory lesson to each example. Take it nice and slowly, and be sure to observe any rests within the score as this will be an important part of building your techniq...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Classical
Topic: Technique
Style: Classical
Remember to apply the 4 techniques we discussed in the introductory lesson to each example. Take it nice and slowly, and be sure to observe any rests within the score as this will be an important part of building your techniq...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Classical
Topic: Technique
Style: Classical
Remember to apply the 4 techniques we discussed in the introductory lesson to each example. Take it nice and slowly, and be sure to observe any rests within the score as this will be an important part of building your techniq...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Jazz
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Jazz
Four to the bar swing, otherwise known as 'Gypsy Swing' or 'long short rhythm' is the most commonly used rhythm among traditional Jazz bands.
This lesson will be focused on using this rhythm to develop a better understanding...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Chords
Style: Jazz
Topic: Chords
Style: Jazz
Alright, hopefully by now you have this chord progression well under your belt. The melody should be memorized, and all the chord voicings we looked at ought to be flowing when you play them. If so, it's time to look at some ...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Chords
Style: Jazz
Topic: Chords
Style: Jazz
As this tutorial is intended to be more of a guide to the various ways we can approach playing through a tune, as opposed to viewing the techniques from an analytical standpoint. I wont be explaining how exactly this bass lin...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Welcome to the "Haste" song tutorial. This is kind of a progressive/hardcore/metal sounding tune. There's a lot of intense rhythm playing in this one. Influential-wise, this tune was inspired by bands such as August Burns Red...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Metal
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Metal
This particular riff, as well as other parts in the song, utilize a lot of palm muting, power chords, and octave chords.
All of the octave chords are played on the A and G strings. When playing these types of chords, make su...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Metal
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Metal
This part exclusively uses those Drop D power chords that we discussed in the previous lesson.
One important thing to note here, is my left hand. Besides playing the power chords, can you see what else it's doing? It's also ...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Metal
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Metal
This riff has the exact same rhythmic pattern as the previous riff, but with a few minor minor chord changes. You'll notice that instead of just using the Drop D power chords, we're using some harmonized chords on the A and D...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Metal
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Metal
In this pattern we'll be playing those octave chords we mentioned earlier. Keep in mind to mute them properly with your fret-hand index finger.
Use alternate strumming as you can see me doing in the video (down,up,down,up, e...
Level: Advanced
Topic: Exercises
Style: Metal
Topic: Exercises
Style: Metal
Here's my favorite part. What can I say, I like fast picking. In this riff you'll be playing 32nd notes, so it's pretty fast. However, as always, make sure you play the notes slowly until you're comfortable with the passage.
...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Blues
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Blues
In this lesson we will look at one rhythmic pattern that can be used when accompanying in 6/8. Our chord progression is based on the tune 'All Blues' by Miles Davis.
Note that in the video I am playing extensions on the D7 a...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
When you start learning guitar, picking style is one of the most important things to think about, because it will always be with you. Once you learn it - you don't want to re-learn it! So it's best to try a couple of styles, ...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
In order to learn big things we first have to cover small and simple stuff to make sure we learn it all right, so we don't have to relearn things later.
Here is the exercise which will help you to try out the picking styles ...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
On to the next exercise! This one involves 2 strings and it is very similar to our previous lesson. Now we will again play alternate picking and we'll extend it to second string.
Start slowly and make your way to the place w...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Moving between strings in Alternate Picking (further in text: AP) is a very important thing to practice. Most of the time we play 3 notes per string (3 nps) patterns and that is were changing strings becomes really important....
Level: Beginner
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
When I was starting to practice guitar and technique, this was actually the first exercise I ever played. I practiced it for hours and hours each day (couldn't do any better back than). Unfortunately, in order to learn diffic...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Topic: Technique
Style: Any Style
Welcome to the "Picking Inside the Strings" tutorial!
First thing you'll want to do is watch the video and notice the difference between picking "inside" the strings and picking "outside" the strings. You can also see the di...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Here we have a nice, soothing melodic riff that incorporates inside picking.
Look closely at the tabs below. See how with every 2 notes you play, you're picking inside a pair of strings? The first 2 notes, you're picking ins...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Rock
Now we're going to play another riff very similar to the last one. Just like in the last lesson, we're going to be alternate picking across 3 strings while picking inside.
In the first measure, you'll play a C power chord wi...
Level: Beginner
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Now, we're going to mix it up to where you'll be using both inside and outside picking.
In this chord progression, we'll be playing power chords. First with E, then G, then A, then B.
As in the last lesson, I want you to lo...
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Topic: Technique
Style: Rock
Here we'll do a little expansion on the last exercise. We'll use the exact same chord progression, except we're going to incorporate some string skipping.
Look at all the notes in groups of 4. If you look at the first 4 note...
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by Ti-Ti
