“The Keys to Strumming Up Pure Joy: How to Play the Guitar”
Most music fans can recall the heart-pounding moment of hearing a favorite guitar riff for the first time, and many wish to replicate that feeling themselves by learning to play. To accomplish such a feat takes dedication, passion, and a little bit of know-how. But with some practice and determination, anyone can begin to strum away and create beautiful music. Here, we break down the basics of guitar for beginners so aspiring rock stars can get that first magical strum out of their instrument.
The Guitar
No matter the type of guitar you have, the fretboard basically remains the same. At the headstock, the player should find high strings that have lower tones and lower strings that emit higher tones. As one moves their way down the guitar, they will follow an alternating pattern of thicker and thinner strings. It’s important to take time to get to know your guitar, as each note will sound different depending on the instrument.
The Pick
Though picking with your fingers is possible, it is much easier to learn the instrument with a pick. Players should hold the pick between the thumb and index finger and make certain to avoid gripping it too tightly. Beginners may find holding their pick this way difficult but it sends a clearer signal and can sound better in the long run.
Tuning the Guitar
Tuning the guitar is an essential step for all players. Not only does the proper tuning make learning a piece easier to learn, but it also ensures the notes being played sound correct. Electric tuners come in all shapes and sizes, and are often able to be connected directly to a guitar. There are also various apps developers have created that allow users to tune a guitar perfectly with the turn of a knob.
Strumming and Chords
One of the most important things to learn when beginning the guitar is strumming and chord progressions. A chord is essentially a combination of three or more notes played simultaneously, and the combination of these notes will dictate the sound of the chord. When strumming, players should use the right-hand motion to move the pick up and down the strings in such a way that all strings sound. Depending on the genre, the upstroke and downstroke will have different sounds, but it’s important to alternate both motions in order to create a chord.
Position of the Left Hand
Another basic concept every aspiring guitar player needs to know is the position of the left hand. Depending on the style of guitar, the position of the fingers changes slightly, though the basic concept is the same. Players should use their thumb to press the back of the neck and place their other fingers near the frets. Additionally, players should use the tips of their fingers and apply a light pressure in order to create the sound.
Tablature Reading
Tablature, or guitar tab, are graphic symbols that represent a song that detail the exact finger positions and instrumentals in a piece. Tablature is often easier for beginners as some may not be ready to tackle chords or music notation. It’s worth noting that tablature is highly abstract and only represent what the composer of the piece wants to hear, though it can be an invaluable tool for the budding musician.
Listening
Though the practice of playing is invaluable, the most important part of learning the instrument is listening. Much like spoken languages, it is important to listen to the sounds of the guitar, and to then relate them to other pieces. It’s important to note that the language of music is both subjective and ever-changing. So, listening to a range of styles can both inspire and educate.
The Last Note
Taking up the guitar can be daunting at first, but the reward of playing music can be extraordinary. With the guidance supplied here and plenty of practice, anyone can start their journey from novice to rock star. And don’t forget one last piece of advice: have fun!
“The Keys to Strumming Up Pure Joy: How to Play the Guitar”.