Elevating Your Lead Guitar Licks from Average to Extraordinary

Understanding Guitar Phrasing

The art of guitar phrasing is essential for lead guitarists. It's not just about playing notes; it's about how you play them. Many guitarists try to mask their inadequate phrasing by overloading their licks with additional notes. However, the key to captivating guitar play lies in the expression of each note.

Common Pitfalls in Lead Guitar Licks

1. Overloading with Notes: Adding too many notes can clutter the music, making it difficult to impart any meaningful musical expression.
2. Neglecting Dynamics: Dynamics in music are as crucial as the notes themselves. Playing at one dynamic level can make licks sound flat and uninteresting.
3. Ignoring Timing and Rhythm: Without proper attention to timing, even the most well-constructed licks can lose their effectiveness.

Techniques to Enhance Your Guitar Licks

To truly make your guitar licks stand out, focus on the following techniques:

Step 1: Simplify Your Approach

Start with a simple lick, using fewer notes. This allows you to concentrate on the expression of each note. For example, choose a sequence with less than five notes and play them with clear intention.

Step 2: Experiment with Expression Techniques

Focus on the first note of your lick and apply different techniques such as bends, vibrato, and slides. Create at least ten unique variations of this first note while keeping the other notes unchanged. This practice helps in understanding the impact of each technique on the musical expression of the note.

Step 3: Expand the Expressive Techniques to Other Notes

Apply the same process used on the first note to the other notes in your lick. This step-by-step approach ensures that each note is given attention, enhancing the overall phrasing of the lick.

Step 4: Integrate and Innovate

Now, integrate the variations you've created into new versions of your original lick. This synthesis allows you to explore different combinations and expressions, leading to a more dynamic and expressive performance.

Why This Method Works

• Focus on Expression: By concentrating on how each note is played, you move beyond mere note execution to expressive performance.
• Encourages Creativity: This method forces you to think creatively about how to use musical techniques, which enhances your overall musicality.
• Prevents Over-Complication: It helps in avoiding the common trap of adding unnecessary notes that do not contribute to the musical expression.

Next Steps for Improvement

1. Consistent Practice: Regularly apply these concepts to new licks.
2. Study and Analyze: Watch videos and analyze performances to gather new ideas (Great Rock Guitar Licks).
3. Seek Professional Guidance: Consider finding a guitar instructor who can provide personalized feedback and guidance.

Conclusion

Improving your lead guitar licks is not just about playing more notes; it's about playing better notes. By focusing on the expression of each note and using the techniques outlined, you can transform your guitar licks from average to extraordinary.

About the Author

Tom Hess is a renowned guitar instructor and performer. He offers online guitar lessons and has a wealth of resources available for guitarists looking to improve their skills. Visit his website for more information and additional resources on guitar playing.