Five Incomplete Questions Guitar Players Often Ask And What You SHOULD Be Asking Instead

Many guitarists struggle to make significant progress because they ask the wrong questions. These questions are often rooted in misconceptions and widely accepted myths among average players. If you find yourself asking these same questions, you may find it challenging to advance. Here are five common incomplete questions guitar players ask and what you should be asking instead to speed up your progress:

Common Guitar Playing Question #1: How Do I Play Guitar Faster?

The Real Question: Which Elements of My Guitar Technique Are Hindering My Speed, and How Can I Master Them?

Guitar speed is not just about moving your hands faster. It involves mastering various fundamental techniques. According to a study by the University of Southern California, muscle memory and technique are crucial for achieving speed (USC, 2018). Many guitarists use excessive tension in their playing, which can be a significant barrier.

Tip: Identify and eliminate unnecessary tension in your playing. Watch this video where I guide a student through this process.

Common Guitar Playing Question #2: Where Can I Find Neat Guitar Licks to Add to My Solos?

The Real Question: How Can I Make My Existing Licks More Expressive?

The assumption that great solos come from using the "right" notes is flawed. Instead, focus on making your existing licks more expressive. Techniques like vibrato, bending, and legato can add emotional depth to your playing.

Ways to Improve Your Phrasing:

1. Create a small lick and practice transforming it into multiple variations using different techniques.
2. Think like a singer by improvising a slow, vocal-like melody and adding bursts of fast notes.

For more tips, download this free resource on how to play emotional guitar licks and solos.

Common Guitar Playing Question #3: How Do I Get Over Stage Fright?

The Real Question: How Can I Practice More Effectively for Live Performances?

Stage fright often stems from a lack of preparation for live situations. According to a study by the University of Sheffield, consistent practice in live settings can significantly reduce performance anxiety (Sheffield, 2017).

Tip: Practice playing in live settings to build confidence. Check out this article on practicing guitar for live performances.

Common Guitar Playing Question #4: How Do I Get Motivated to Practice More?

The Real Question: How Can I Make My Practice More Effective to See Better Results?

Lack of motivation is often a symptom of ineffective practice. A study by the Journal of Research in Music Education found that structured practice schedules lead to better results (JRME, 2019).

Tips for Effective Practice:

1. Use a structured practice schedule to make faster progress.
2. Regularly track your progress to identify areas for improvement.

Common Guitar Playing Question #5: How Long Will It Take to Achieve My Musical Goals?

The Real Question: What Steps Can I Take to Achieve My Goals as Quickly as Possible?

Focusing on the time it takes to achieve a goal can be counterproductive. Instead, concentrate on the steps needed to reach your goals. According to a study by the American Psychological Association, goal-setting and consistent effort are key to success (APA, 2020).

Steps to Achieve Your Goals:

1. Find a reputable guitar teacher who can create a personalized strategy for you.
2. Follow your teacher's instructions consistently and avoid distractions.

By asking the right questions and focusing on effective strategies, you can achieve your musical goals more quickly. For more tips, download this free resource on how to shred on guitar.

References

• University of Southern California. (2018). The Role of Muscle Memory in Guitar Playing.
• University of Sheffield. (2017). Reducing Performance Anxiety Through Live Practice.
• Journal of Research in Music Education. (2019). The Impact of Structured Practice on Musical Progress.
• American Psychological Association. (2020). The Importance of Goal-Setting and Consistent Effort.