Thursday Tips
What’s Guitar Action?
The action, or set up, on a guitar is basically the height of the strings over the fretboard. It’s a key component to the ease and playability of your guitar, and it can change over time. It’s helpful to learn about guitar action (high and low), how it can change, and which is best for your playing style.
Play on…
Marlene
*To gain a better understanding of guitar action and it’s affects on playing listen to my newest podcast episode by clicking here!
Acoustic Steel String Guitar
Typical Action Chart
low action medium action high action
low E high E low E high E low E high E
0.11″ 0.08″ 0.125″ 0.095″ 0.155″ 0.125″
Luthier Information Website
Olympics Themed Songs!
The 2021 Summer Olympics begin this Friday, July 23rd in Tokyo, Japan, so I thought it would be the perfect time for you to ‘go for the gold’ with your music by playing these ‘thrill of victory’ themed songs*!
1. One Moment in Time
2. Bugler’s Dream
Play on…
Marlene
*To learn about the inspiration, history and playing recommendations for these songs listen to my newest podcast episode by clicking here!
10 Tips to Help Alleviate Performance Anxiety
Have you ever felt uneasy or anxious about performing? These 10 tips can help you overcome those feelings and enjoy your performance!
1. Be prepared
2. Limit caffeine/sugar
3. Focus on the fun
4. Visualize your success
5. Avoid negative thoughts
6. Connect with your audience
7. Be yourself
8. Dress/look your best
9. Walk, jump, shake out your muscles
10. Practice deep breathing, meditation, yoga
Play on…
Marlene
*To learn more details about these 10 tips and other tricks of the trade, listen to my newest podcast episode by clicking here!
Got Calluses? How to Build & Maintain Fingertip Calluses
For us guitar players, callused fingertips are normal and important. They can be a bit painful to acquire though, but worth it. Here’s a few tips* to help toughen your skin and build up those precious calluses:
1. Play guitar regularly (everyday is ideal)
2. Play shorter, more frequent sessions (i.e. 5-10 minutes, 3x/day)
3. Use lighter gauged strings or nylon strings
4. Be patient, it takes time!
5. Check out these soreness relieving ideas to help you as you build your calluses
Play on…
Marlene
*To learn more details about building calluses, as well callus maintenance, listen to my the newest episode by clicking here!
3 Festive Songs to Play on 4th of July!
There are so many great patriotic songs that you can play on July 4th, or any other time for that matter. Here are 3 songs* that are festive and fun!
America the Beautiful chords
You’re a Grand Old Flag chords
Living in America chords
Play on…
Marlene
P.S. If you’re looking for more patriotic songs to play, check out past tips for July 2018 July 2019 July 2020
*To learn more about each song’s history and inspiration, as well as playing suggestions, listen to my the newest episode by clicking here!
Songwriting Tips & More From Laura B. Whitmore!
Laura, a music industry pro and accomplished singer/songwriter, shares her music inspirations, performing experiences and singer/songwriter advice in this week’s podcast*, such as:
Go to open mics
Network
Continuously learn
Play on…
Marlene
*To hear more of Laura’s tips and advice, listen to my Guitar Friends Interview with Laura Whitmore!
Songs to Play on Father’s Day!
As you know by now, I love to run with a good theme! Here are some songs* to play on Sunday for, or in honor of, your father:
1. My Old Man by Zac Brown Band video chords
2. Song For Dad by Keith Urban video chords
3. Cat’s in the Cradle by Harry Chapin video chords
Happy Fathers Day!
Play on…
Marlene
*To hear about the writers’ inspirations and playing/rhythm suggestions for each song, listen to my newest podcast ~ episode 68!
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