How to Use Online Guitar Lessons to Learn Extended Techniques
Are you ready to push the boundaries of your guitar playing? Learning extended techniques is an excellent way to broaden your musical horizons and enhance your skills. With the advent of online guitar lessons, mastering these advanced techniques has never been more accessible. This guide will show you how to effectively use online resources to learn and perfect extended guitar techniques.
Understanding Extended Guitar Techniques
Before diving into online lessons, it’s crucial to understand what extended guitar techniques are. These techniques go beyond basic chords and strumming patterns, incorporating unique methods to produce sounds that are not typical of standard guitar playing. Examples include tapping, harmonics, slap bass, and percussive elements.
Why Online Guitar Lessons?
Online guitar lessons have surged in popularity, with 62% of guitar learners opting for digital platforms over traditional in-person lessons. The reasons are clear: flexibility, a wide range of resources, and the ability to learn at your own pace. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced player, there’s a myriad of online courses tailored to your skill level.
Flexibility and Convenience
The beauty of online guitar lessons lies in their flexibility. You can learn anytime, anywhere, allowing you to fit practice into your schedule. This convenience is perfect for those with busy lives who still wish to advance their guitar skills.
Diverse Range of Resources
From video tutorials to interactive software, online platforms offer a diverse range of learning tools. Websites like Fender Play and Yousician provide structured courses that include extended techniques.
Choosing the Right Online Platform
With numerous platforms available, selecting the right one can be daunting. Consider factors such as the platform’s reputation, the quality of instructional content, and user reviews. Some popular platforms include:
MasterClass
Offering lessons from guitar legends like Carlos Santana, MasterClass provides insights into advanced techniques directly from the masters themselves.
TrueFire
With over 40,000 guitar lessons, TrueFire specializes in extended techniques, blues, jazz, and rock genres, catering to intermediate and advanced players.
JamPlay
JamPlay is another excellent platform with a variety of courses focused on extended techniques, featuring content from well-known guitarists.
Structuring Your Learning Process
Once you’ve chosen a platform, it’s essential to structure your learning to ensure steady progress. Here’s how you can do it:
Set Clear Goals
Define what you want to achieve with extended techniques. Is it to enhance your soloing skills, or perhaps to incorporate new sounds into your compositions? Having clear goals will keep you focused and motivated.
Create a Practice Schedule
Consistency is key in learning any musical instrument. Allocate specific times for practice, focusing on one technique at a time to build proficiency.
Track Your Progress
Keep a practice journal to document what techniques you’ve learned and areas that need improvement. This will help you stay organized and encourage you to practice regularly.
Utilizing Additional Online Resources
In addition to structured lessons, take advantage of other online resources to deepen your understanding of extended techniques:
YouTube Tutorials
Platforms like YouTube offer a plethora of free tutorials by talented guitarists. Channels like JustinGuitar provide step-by-step guides on various techniques.
Online Guitar Communities
Join online forums and communities such as Reddit’s r/guitar to connect with fellow guitarists. These platforms are great for sharing tips, getting feedback, and finding motivation through peer support.
Tips for Mastering Extended Techniques
Learning extended techniques can be challenging, but with persistence and the right approach, you can master them. Here are some tips to help you along the way:
Start Slow
Don’t rush the process. Focus on accuracy before speed. This ensures that you’re playing the techniques correctly and will help build muscle memory.
Use a Metronome
Practicing with a metronome can improve your timing and rhythm, which are crucial when playing complex techniques.
Record Yourself
Recording your practice sessions allows you to listen back and identify areas for improvement. It’s also a great way to track your progress over time.
Conclusion
Embracing online guitar lessons to learn extended techniques can significantly enhance your playing skills and open new musical possibilities. By choosing the right platform, setting clear goals, and utilizing additional resources, you can effectively master these advanced techniques from the comfort of your home. Remember, persistence and practice are key. So grab your guitar, get online, and start exploring the exciting world of extended guitar techniques today!