Thursday Tips
How to Play Pull Offs
Pull offs* are the reverse of hammers ons, it’s another way to play 2 notes with one string vibration. Here’s how to play pull offs:
1. Place finger 1, on fret 1, of string 1, play the string, then immediately pull off fret 1
2. Check the volume of the string sound, it should be even and clear
3. Play this skill using neighboring frets
4. Try this on different neck locations and with chords
5. Combine hammer ons and pull offs for trills
Play on…
Marlene
*To learn more about pull offs, click here to listen to my newest podcast episode!
Pull off tab
Trill tab
How to Hammer On
No hammer needed, just your finger!
To play a hammer on*, playing 2 notes with 1 string vibration, simply follow these 5 steps:
1. Play string 1, open, then quickly & strongly place your finger on fret 1
2. Practice this, be sure you’re only playing the string 1 time
3. Play this skill using neighboring frets
4. Check the volume of the string sound, it should be even and clear
5. Try this with chords, i.e. hammer on the 5th string of the G chord.
Play on…
Marlene
*To learn more about hammer ons, click here to listen to my newest podcast episode!
What’s in Your Guitar Case?
Being prepared for your guitar necessities and those pesky guitar emergencies is vital. Here’s a list of the 6 items* I recommend you have in your case ~ just in case!
1. Set of Strings
2. Guitar tuner
3. Capo
4. Flat picks
5. Nail trimmers
6. Cleaning cloth
Play on…
Marlene
*To learn more about these 6 essential items and 3 bonus items, click here to listen to my newest podcast episode!
Understanding Acoustic Guitar Body Shapes & Sizes
Guitars are not a ‘one size fits all’ instrument. There are various guitar shapes and sizes* from small (Mini) to large (Jumbo) and everything in between. Understanding the differences can help you find the best one for you and your playing style. Here’s a list so you can size things up!
Classical
Dreadnought
Concert
Grand Concert
Orchestra/Grand Auditorium
Jumbo
Mini & Travelers
Play on…
Marlene
*To learn more about these guitar shapes, sizes, plus their playing style applications click here to listen to my newest podcast!
Nylon string vs Steel String Acoustic Guitars
Ever wonder what the difference is between nylon string and steel string guitars ~ besides the strings? Well don’t fret (ha, ha), I’ve got you covered, here’s a quick comparison*:
Nylon String Guitars
Strings are easier on your fingers, the headstock is slotted (cut out) for the strings, the neck has no truss rod and no guide markers, there are very little size and shape variations, the strings are looped or tied to the bridge, well suited for Classical or Flamenco music but all music can be played.
Steel String Guitars
The strings are harder on your fingers, the headstock string posts are attached from the top. the neck has a truss rod and guide markers, there are many shapes and sizes, a pin bridge is used to attach the strings, well suited for rock, country, jazz, blues, etc., but all music can be played.
Play on…
Marlene
*To gain a better understanding about both nylon string and steel string guitars Click here to listen to my newest podcast episode!
Guitar Summer Song Playlist for the… Dog Days of Summer!
Summer is officially winding down, but that doesn’t mean we can’t keep playing cool summery songs on our guitar. Here’s 3 songs to keep your summer vibe alive!*
1. Soak Up The Sun by Sheryl Crow
2. Under The Boardwalk by The Drifters
3. Walking On Sunshine by Katrina and the Waves
Play on…
Marlene
*For my playing recommendations, listen to my newest podcast episode by clicking here!
Acoustic Guitar vs Electric Guitar, The Differences & Similarities
It’s good to understand various types of guitars, for example acoustic and electric guitars*. They have similarities and differences, and here are a few:
Similarities
Made of wood
Head, neck & body
6 strings
Differences
Sound
Size/weight
Body shape
Play on…
Marlene
*To learn more about the similarities and differences, as well as a comparison, listen to my newest podcast episode by clicking here!
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