Thursday Tip
Q. Do you ever find yourself being a serious/intense guitar player and not making progress?
A. Laugh!
Scientific studies have show that there are many health benefits to laughing, including relieving tension. Imagine feeling less tension in your fingers and body and then trying that song or skill again. So, the next time you’re not making progress ~ laugh it off!
Play on…
Marlene
Enjoy these last lazy, hazy days of summer by learning some fun new songs. This list of 3 songs (along with the chords and lyrics) are fairly simple to learn and really fun to play!
Play on…
Marlene
Another option to increase the sound output is a built-in amp system. This newer idea, which I got to try out at Guitar Town in Colorado, and seen here in this Yamaha TransAcoustic guitar demo, means no cables or external devices are required. It’s sound advice!
Play on…
Marlene
Learn about amplifier options for your gigs. A lightweight portable amplifier can he helpful when playing at a larger venue, like a coffee shop, etc., because it will deliver a greater sound output and is easily transportable ~ as explained and demonstrated in this Acoustic Guitar article. You’ll likely ‘dig’, an amp for your gig!
Play on…
Marlene
An amplifier can bring out more of your beautiful music. There are many great amps, large and small, that will help highlight and embellish your sounds including this new, easy to use Tonewood attachable amp.
Play on…
Marlene
Effective practice time can make all the difference. Your 30 Day Practice Challenge (last Thursday’s Tip) might be more productive using some or all of these 7 simple tips. I really like the last one on the list!!!
Play on…
Marlene
Fact: we’re better guitar players when we practice, but we get busy… So here’s how to make it a habit; schedule the same 30 minutes each day to play your guitar, block that time on your daily calendar and ~ this is the important part ~ stick with it for 30 days*. Become a creature of (guitar) habits!
Play on…
Marlene
*As described in this Ted Talks video, you can turn an activity into a habit by sustained daily repetition.
Strengthen your fretting hand with dexterity exercises. There are a few exercises you can do to improve your fingering abilities on the neck and this one using a rubber band is quite innovative. ‘Expand’ your playing possibilities!
Play on…
Marlene
Learn all you can about guitars. If you’re in or near Nashville this summer the Gallery of Iconic Guitars at Belmont University is a must see. The exhibit includes dozens of vintage guitars, some dating as far back as 1887, and you can even play them. It’s a hands-on learning experience in Music City!
Play on…
Marlene
Celebrate the 4th of July by playing patriotic songs. These 5 prideful American themed songs, ranging from pop, to country, to traditional, would be a great addition to your 4th of July festivities. It’s a 242nd birthday party play list!
Play on…
Marlene