Thursday Tips
Nylon vs Steel, Understanding Acoustic Guitar Differences
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.
Play on…
Marlene
*To gain a better understanding about both nylon string and steel string guitars listen to my newest podcast ~ episode 37!
In-Store Guitar Shopping During COVID
Playing a prospective guitar before making a purchase can be helpful. The in-store shopping experience is a little different right now, but still very accessible and fun! Here’s what you can expect*:
• Masks are required to be worn by both you and the store’s staff
• Stores take employee temperatures before their shifts
• Capacity limitations, so be patient if there’s a line to get in
• Hand sanitizer is available
• Instruments, equipment, etc., are wiped down after each use
• And more!
Play on…
Marlene
*To hear more about the COVID safety measures at Guitar Center stores and advice about shopping for a guitar listen to my newest podcast ~ episode 36!
3 Simple Steps to Choosing the Best Guitar for You
With so many great guitars out there, choosing and purchasing the best one for you can be a little overwhelming. These 3 simple steps*
1. Budget: Know your budget & stick to it
2. Feel: How does it feel to hold & play?
3. Sound: Do you like the sound?
are an easy and fun way to narrow the field and ultimately choose your ‘Goldilocks guitar’ ~ the one that’s just right for you!
Play on…
Marlene
*To learn more details about the 3 Simple Steps to Choosing the Best Guitar for You listen to my newest podcast ~ episode 35!
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 guitar shapes, sizes, and playing style applications listen to my newest podcast ~ episode 34!
How to Practice with a Metronome
Using a metronome* while playing can be helpful in many ways, like keeping your song tempo consistent and improving chord changes, notes and rhythm patterns. Try using this one (video) or download the free Pro Metronome app on your device. Start out by changing simple chords on the tick sound, at a slow tempo, then faster tempos. As you become more comfortable with the concept, then move on to songs, rhythms patterns, etc. Timing is everything!
Play on…
Marlene
*To hear more about using a metronome, and other cool guitar info and insights, listen to my newest podcast, Guitar Friends interview with Preston Huber ~ episode 33!
How to Play a Scale on Your Guitar
Playing scales on your guitar is fairly basic once you understand the interval patterns. The Major Scale pattern is W, W, H, W, W, W, H (W= Whole step, H= Half Step), so the notes for a C Major Scale* are C, D, E, F, G, A, B, C. Give it a try and soon you'll be scaling your guitar!
Play on…
Marlene
*To learn more about the C Major Scale and hear a detailed description of how to play the scale listen to my newest podcast ~ episode 32!
Learn Your Musical ABC’s!
Learning the note letters and musical sequence* of those letters, including sharps & flats, are the building blocks to chords and scales. The letters are the first 7 letters of the alphabet; A, B, C, D, E, F & G, and they go in order including sharps (up) or flats (down) except between B & C and E & F. It's all elementary!
Play on…
Marlene
*To learn more about and hear the musical ABC's listen to my newest podcast ~ episode 31!
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