Essentials Primer for Beginners Guitar Course
Introduction
A journey of a thousand miles must begin with a single step.” – Lao Tzu (Ancient Chinese Philosopher)
When I started playing the guitar many years ago I had no idea that all these years later it would bring me to you today. I’m genuinely excited and I hope that this is the first step of many that you, your guitar, and I will take together.
My first lesson was horrific and it made me think my teacher hated me. My fingers ached; they refused to do what I wanted them to do. I had to borrow guitars for every lesson because I didn’t even have my own guitar; the other students seemed way better than me, and yet…I started to enjoy it. In spite of all of that I began to love playing or more accurately – trying to play. I discovered that playing music made me appreciate it in an entirely different way than merely listening to it. Honestly, it felt like I’d found the unlock code to an esoteric world full of wonder and magic that was in plain sight but remained invisible to most – not unlike the train platform to Hogwarts in the Harry Potter movies.
I started to make new friends that played all kinds of instruments; we shared ideas; we wrote awful songs; we pretended to be rockstars into the wee small hours. I also found great joy just playing my guitar peacefully, alone in my room, while my family watched tv and ate snacks in the living room. During this time I realised I was part of something. I wasn’t exactly sure what that something was, however I felt like I had started a very special journey. I didn’t care that I didn’t know where I was going and it didn’t matter. I was just happy to be along for the ride with my trusty guitar as sidekick and confidante. Life is a journey, and learning guitar is a journey within that journey.
Our lives are full of ups, downs, trials, tribulations, circles and squares, yet I’m beyond grateful that the guitar has been a refrain in the song that is my life’s journey. Every now and again when I turn on my metronome I ponder how it may have clicked off the many beats of my life if I hadn’t decided to see what this piece of wood and strings was all about.
My name is Joshua Rogers – welcome to the Essentials Primer Beginners Guitar Course for You! Grab your guitar – your journey is about to begin.
Course Instructor
NBN Guitar Essentials Primer Course
$275.00
Module 1
Overview
Naming the First Three Strings
Ex 1a 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Open Strings
Abbreviations for the Picking/Strumming Fingers
Fretting/Fingering Hand Thumb Positions
Basics of Tablature and Music Notation
Ex 4a Tablature Explanation
The 80:20 Rule
Module 1 Checklist
Module 2
Overview
Strumming & Strumming Symbols
Strumming and Strumming Symbols Exercise
Chord Definition & Chord diagram
G Major Chord & The Fretting/Fingering Hand
Ex 4a Down Strum
Ex 4b Up Strum
Ex 4c Down & Up Strum
Ex 4d Up & Down Strum
Reducing Hand & Finger Pain
Module 2 Checklist
Module 3
Overview
E Minor Chord
E Minor Chord Exercise
Changing From G Major (simple) To E Minor (simple)
Changing from G major to E minor
Semibreves/Whole Notes
Semibreves/Whole Notes Exercise
Understanding Counting, Bars & Measures
Ex 4a Using the numbers
Ex 4b Removing the numbers
Difficulty with Chords & Chord Changes
Module 3 Checklist
Module 4
Overview
C Major Chord
Strumming the C major chord
Changing From E Minor to C Major
Changing from E minor to C major Exercise
G – Em – C Chord Progression
G – Em – C chord progression
Basic Hand Position and Picking with Thumb and Fingers
Ex 4a Picking with thumb
Ex 4b Picking with Thumb, Index, and Middle using Em
G – Em – C chord progression
Strumming the C major chord
Module 4 Checklist
Module 5
Overview
D7 Chord
Ex 1 Picking or Strumming the D7 chord
Pivoting from C Major (simple) to D7 (simple)
Ex 2a C – D7 Chord Change using Pivoting & Preparation Exercise
G – Em – C – D7 – G Chord Progression using Preparation, Pivoting, and Guiding
G – Em – C – D7 Chord Progression using Preparation, Pivoting, and Guiding Exercise
Minims/Half Notes & Crotchets/Quarter Notes
Minims/Half Notes & Crotchets/Quarter Notes Exercise
Counting & Strumming Minims & Crotchets
Ex 5a Counting indications above all measures
Ex 5b Counting indications above the first two measures only
Ex 5c Counting indication above first measure only
Ex 5d Counting indication removed
Ex 5e Start with up strums
Ex 5f Alternate strumming with starting with a down strum
Ex 5g Alternate strumming starting with an up strum
Strumming & Rhythm (Keeping Time) Issues
Module 5 Checklist
Module 6
Overview
Naming the Last Three Strings
Naming the Last Three Strings Exercise
Classical/Fingerstyle Hand Position & Thumb Movement
Classical/Fingerstyle Hand Position & Thumb Movement Exercise
Picking Patterns
Ex 3a P, i, m, i with open strings
Ex 3b P, i, m, i with chords
Ex 3c P, m, i, m with open strings
Ex 3d P, m, i, m with chords
Ex 3e m, i, P, i, m with chords
Ex 3f m, i, P, i, m with chords
Information Overload
Module 6 Checklist
Module 7
Using The Progression In The Real World
Stand by Me Lesson
Module 7 Checklist
Module 8
Overview
Open Strings First Octave
Open Strings First Octave
G Major Scale with Preferred Fingering
Ex 2a G Major Scale with preferred fingering (first octave)
Ex 2b G Major Scale with alternative fingering (first octave)
Ex 2c G major Scale First Octave Progressive
Open Strings Second Octave
G Major Scale Two Octaves
A Brief Explanation of Scales and Octaves
Lack of Progress
Ex 3a Open Strings Second Octave
Ex 3b G Major Scale Second Octave with Fingering
Ex 3c G Major Scale Second Octave Progressive
G Major Scale Two Octaves (with preferred fingering)
Module 8 Checklist
Module 9
The Importance of Routine
Listening for Guitar in Songs
Finding a Role Model
Taking your Guitar Everywhere
Happy Accidents versus Mistakes
Module 9 Checklist
Module 10
Overview
Alternate Picking
Ex 1a Alternate Picking i, m (m, i)
Ex 1b G major scale alternate picking open strings i, m (m, i)
Ex 1c G major scale with fingering second octave i, m (m, i)
G Major Scale Alternate Picking First Octave
Ex 2a Alternate picking i, m
Ex 2b G major scale alternate picking open strings i, m (m, i)
Ex 2c G major scale with fingering first octave
G Major Scale Two Octaves with i, m (m, i)
Ex 3 G major scale Two Octaves with i, m (m, i)
Module 10 Checklist
Module 11
Overview
Ode To Joy
Ode to Joy Exercise
Ex 1a Recognise 1st & 2nd Time Repeats
Ex 1b Dotted Crotchet/Dotted Quarter Note
Ex 1c Quaver and Beamed Quavers
G – D7 Chord Change
G to D7 Chord Change
A7 – D7 Chord Changes; C Natural & Repeat Two Bars Symbol
A7 to D7 Chord Changes, C Natural & Repeat Tw Bars Symbols
G, D7, Em & A7 Chordal Accompaniment
G, D7, Em & A7 Chordal Accompaniment
Learning and Playing Two Different Guitar Parts for Ode to Joy
Reading Music & Tablature
Module 11 Checklist
Module 12
Overview
3/4 Time Signature, Repeat One Bar Symbol, G# & F
3/4 Time Signature, Repeat One Bar Symbol, G# & F
Counting & Inverted Pedal Point
Counting and Inverted Pedal Point
E Major Chord
E Major Chord
A Minor Chord
A Minor Chord
E – Am – E Chord Change
E & Am Chordal Accompaniment
E & Am Chordal Accompaniment
E – Am – E Chord Change
Learning & Playing Two Different Guitar Parts for Malaguena Facil
Overcoming the Lack of Motivation
Module 12 Checklist
Module 13
Overview
Riff with Open Strings and New Beams
Open Strings
Full Riff
Full Riff Exercise
A7, D7, and E7
E7 – D7 – A7 – E7 – A7 Chord Changes
E7 – D7 – A7 – E7 – A7 Chord Changes
Learning & Playing Two Different Guitar Parts for the 12 Bar Blues in A
Module 13 Checklist
Module 14
Overview
Improvising with A Pentatonic Major over A7
Now it’s your turn! Improvising with A Pentatonic Major over A7
Now it’s your turn! Ex 1a Changing rhythm
Now it’s your turn! Ex 1b Changing one note
Now it’s your turn! Ex 1c Changing a note in every bar
Now it’s your turn! Ex 1d Changing rhythm and notes
Now it’s your turn! Ex 1e Introducing a note from outside the scale (brackets)
Now it’s your turn! Ex 1f Introducing two notes from outside the scale (brackets)
Now it’s your turn! Ex 1g Changing rhythm and adding two notes from outside the scale
Improvising with D Pentatonic Major over D7
Now it’s your turn! Improvising with D Pentatonic Major over D7
Improvising with E Pentatonic Major over E7
Now it’s your turn! Improvising with E Pentatonic Major over E7
Improvising over 12 Bar Blues in A
Now it’s your turn! Improvising over 12 Bar Blues Riff in A
Module 14 Checklist
Module 15
Lack of Guidance
Maintaining Consistent Practice Habits
Developing Proper Technique
Equipment Limitations
Module 15 Checklist
Module 16
Overview
Dexterity ‘Spider’
Now it’s your turn! Dexterity Spider
Vertical Stretching
Now it’s your turn! Vertical Stretching
Horizontal Stretching
Now it’s your turn! Horizontal Stretching
Full Versions of G, C, & Em
Now it’s your turn! G major
Now it’s your turn! E minor
Now it’s your turn! C major
Playing Chords with Arpeggios
Arpeggios
Module 16 Checklist
Module 17
Congratulations!
Where To From Here?
NBN Guitar Practice Spreadsheet
Course Overview
This course is comprised of modules. Within each module are lessons and exercises that are numbered and named for easy reference.
You can find and navigate to any course content in this eBook quickly and easily by clicking on a module, lesson or exercise in the table of contents.
Each module begins with an overview where I explain what you will learn in the module. Modules are usually comprised of instructional videos, music scores, quizzes, and exercises aimed at gradually building and strengthening your technique, theory and mental fortitude.
I strongly recommend that you finish one module before proceeding to the next, otherwise you may find yourself struggling unnecessarily with material that is too advanced which leads to frustration, which in turn hinders progress.
The course has been designed to introduce you to guitar using classical guitar fundamentals. It avoids rushing in with lofty promises of teaching you to play songs because that approach often ends in tears. Beginners feel compelled to play exactly like the song, only to discover their efforts are futile, progress slows, and in the worst case they give up entirely.
Instead, you and I are going to play the long game. We trade short-term thrills for long-term gains and ability. Crafting technique and theory over time resulting in a consummate guitarist that is armed with the techniques and theoretical knowledge to confidently make music alone and with collaboratively.
During this course you will learn how to:
- Strum and pick with your fingers
- Recognise the symbols used to name the fingers on both hands
- Name all the strings on the guitar
- Understand two different time signatures
- Count different rhythms, name notes, dotted notes, and their values
- Read tablature and develop an awareness of music notation
- Recognise and understand the effect of sharps and natural signs
- Play eight different chords and a chord progression that is used in thousands of songs
- Play Ode to Joy, Malagueña Facil, and the 12 Bar Blues in A
- Accompany and be accompanied by another player
- Interpret the meaning of several musical symbols and score indications
- Four different scales including G major, A Pentatonic Major, D Pentatonic Minor, and E Pentatonic Major
- Improvise and create your own solos using the A, D and E Pentatonic Scales
- Cope and deal with finger pain, lack of progress, information overload, poor motivation and more
- Use classical guitar techniques for both hands
- Communicate and share your experiences with like-minded people on their own journey’s via the NBN Guitar Community Forum
All exercises and pieces or songs are played at 60bpm (sixty beats per minute). In classical terms this tempo is known as Adagio and it was chosen because it is considered neither too slow nor too fast.
Four or three clicks are played at the beginning of every exercise or song to set the tempo and to serve as an introduction before you are required to begin.
I estimate the course to take anywhere from two to four months to complete, based on completing either one or two modules every week.
House Keeping & Essential Equipment
Below are some tips to help you get through the course in good time with minimal stress and interruptions:
- Get your guitar set up by a luthier or guitar technician
- Buy a metronome, guitar tuner, and a stand
- Keep your guitar in good condition
- Have a spare set of strings handy
- Keep snacks and a drink nearby
- Practice in a quiet tidy space
- Tell people your routine
- Minimise distractions
Links to the gear mentioned above are at the end of the eBook
Course Information
Course Instructor
NBN Guitar Essentials Primer Course
$275.00
Module 1
Overview
Naming the First Three Strings
Ex 1a 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Open Strings
Abbreviations for the Picking/Strumming Fingers
Fretting/Fingering Hand Thumb Positions
Basics of Tablature and Music Notation
Ex 4a Tablature Explanation
The 80:20 Rule
Module 1 Checklist
Module 2
Overview
Strumming & Strumming Symbols
Strumming and Strumming Symbols Exercise
Chord Definition & Chord diagram
G Major Chord & The Fretting/Fingering Hand
Ex 4a Down Strum
Ex 4b Up Strum
Ex 4c Down & Up Strum
Ex 4d Up & Down Strum
Reducing Hand & Finger Pain
Module 2 Checklist
Module 3
Overview
E Minor Chord
E Minor Chord Exercise
Changing From G Major (simple) To E Minor (simple)
Changing from G major to E minor
Semibreves/Whole Notes
Semibreves/Whole Notes Exercise
Understanding Counting, Bars & Measures
Ex 4a Using the numbers
Ex 4b Removing the numbers
Difficulty with Chords & Chord Changes
Module 3 Checklist
Module 4
Overview
C Major Chord
Strumming the C major chord
Changing From E Minor to C Major
Changing from E minor to C major Exercise
G – Em – C Chord Progression
G – Em – C chord progression
Basic Hand Position and Picking with Thumb and Fingers
Ex 4a Picking with thumb
Ex 4b Picking with Thumb, Index, and Middle using Em
G – Em – C chord progression
Strumming the C major chord
Module 4 Checklist
Module 5
Overview
D7 Chord
Ex 1 Picking or Strumming the D7 chord
Pivoting from C Major (simple) to D7 (simple)
Ex 2a C – D7 Chord Change using Pivoting & Preparation Exercise
G – Em – C – D7 – G Chord Progression using Preparation, Pivoting, and Guiding
G – Em – C – D7 Chord Progression using Preparation, Pivoting, and Guiding Exercise
Minims/Half Notes & Crotchets/Quarter Notes
Minims/Half Notes & Crotchets/Quarter Notes Exercise
Counting & Strumming Minims & Crotchets
Ex 5a Counting indications above all measures
Ex 5b Counting indications above the first two measures only
Ex 5c Counting indication above first measure only
Ex 5d Counting indication removed
Ex 5e Start with up strums
Ex 5f Alternate strumming with starting with a down strum
Ex 5g Alternate strumming starting with an up strum
Strumming & Rhythm (Keeping Time) Issues
Module 5 Checklist
Module 6
Overview
Naming the Last Three Strings
Naming the Last Three Strings Exercise
Classical/Fingerstyle Hand Position & Thumb Movement
Classical/Fingerstyle Hand Position & Thumb Movement Exercise
Picking Patterns
Ex 3a P, i, m, i with open strings
Ex 3b P, i, m, i with chords
Ex 3c P, m, i, m with open strings
Ex 3d P, m, i, m with chords
Ex 3e m, i, P, i, m with chords
Ex 3f m, i, P, i, m with chords
Information Overload
Module 6 Checklist
Module 7
Using The Progression In The Real World
Stand by Me Lesson
Module 7 Checklist
Module 8
Overview
Open Strings First Octave
Open Strings First Octave
G Major Scale with Preferred Fingering
Ex 2a G Major Scale with preferred fingering (first octave)
Ex 2b G Major Scale with alternative fingering (first octave)
Ex 2c G major Scale First Octave Progressive
Open Strings Second Octave
G Major Scale Two Octaves
A Brief Explanation of Scales and Octaves
Lack of Progress
Ex 3a Open Strings Second Octave
Ex 3b G Major Scale Second Octave with Fingering
Ex 3c G Major Scale Second Octave Progressive
G Major Scale Two Octaves (with preferred fingering)
Module 8 Checklist
Module 9
The Importance of Routine
Listening for Guitar in Songs
Finding a Role Model
Taking your Guitar Everywhere
Happy Accidents versus Mistakes
Module 9 Checklist
Module 10
Overview
Alternate Picking
Ex 1a Alternate Picking i, m (m, i)
Ex 1b G major scale alternate picking open strings i, m (m, i)
Ex 1c G major scale with fingering second octave i, m (m, i)
G Major Scale Alternate Picking First Octave
Ex 2a Alternate picking i, m
Ex 2b G major scale alternate picking open strings i, m (m, i)
Ex 2c G major scale with fingering first octave
G Major Scale Two Octaves with i, m (m, i)
Ex 3 G major scale Two Octaves with i, m (m, i)
Module 10 Checklist
Module 11
Overview
Ode To Joy
Ode to Joy Exercise
Ex 1a Recognise 1st & 2nd Time Repeats
Ex 1b Dotted Crotchet/Dotted Quarter Note
Ex 1c Quaver and Beamed Quavers
G – D7 Chord Change
G to D7 Chord Change
A7 – D7 Chord Changes; C Natural & Repeat Two Bars Symbol
A7 to D7 Chord Changes, C Natural & Repeat Tw Bars Symbols
G, D7, Em & A7 Chordal Accompaniment
G, D7, Em & A7 Chordal Accompaniment
Learning and Playing Two Different Guitar Parts for Ode to Joy
Reading Music & Tablature
Module 11 Checklist
Module 12
Overview
3/4 Time Signature, Repeat One Bar Symbol, G# & F
3/4 Time Signature, Repeat One Bar Symbol, G# & F
Counting & Inverted Pedal Point
Counting and Inverted Pedal Point
E Major Chord
E Major Chord
A Minor Chord
A Minor Chord
E – Am – E Chord Change
E & Am Chordal Accompaniment
E & Am Chordal Accompaniment
E – Am – E Chord Change
Learning & Playing Two Different Guitar Parts for Malaguena Facil
Overcoming the Lack of Motivation
Module 12 Checklist
Module 13
Overview
Riff with Open Strings and New Beams
Open Strings
Full Riff
Full Riff Exercise
A7, D7, and E7
E7 – D7 – A7 – E7 – A7 Chord Changes
E7 – D7 – A7 – E7 – A7 Chord Changes
Learning & Playing Two Different Guitar Parts for the 12 Bar Blues in A
Module 13 Checklist
Module 14
Overview
Improvising with A Pentatonic Major over A7
Now it’s your turn! Improvising with A Pentatonic Major over A7
Now it’s your turn! Ex 1a Changing rhythm
Now it’s your turn! Ex 1b Changing one note
Now it’s your turn! Ex 1c Changing a note in every bar
Now it’s your turn! Ex 1d Changing rhythm and notes
Now it’s your turn! Ex 1e Introducing a note from outside the scale (brackets)
Now it’s your turn! Ex 1f Introducing two notes from outside the scale (brackets)
Now it’s your turn! Ex 1g Changing rhythm and adding two notes from outside the scale
Improvising with D Pentatonic Major over D7
Now it’s your turn! Improvising with D Pentatonic Major over D7
Improvising with E Pentatonic Major over E7
Now it’s your turn! Improvising with E Pentatonic Major over E7
Improvising over 12 Bar Blues in A
Now it’s your turn! Improvising over 12 Bar Blues Riff in A
Module 14 Checklist
Module 15
Lack of Guidance
Maintaining Consistent Practice Habits
Developing Proper Technique
Equipment Limitations
Module 15 Checklist
Module 16
Overview
Dexterity ‘Spider’
Now it’s your turn! Dexterity Spider
Vertical Stretching
Now it’s your turn! Vertical Stretching
Horizontal Stretching
Now it’s your turn! Horizontal Stretching
Full Versions of G, C, & Em
Now it’s your turn! G major
Now it’s your turn! E minor
Now it’s your turn! C major
Playing Chords with Arpeggios
Arpeggios
Module 16 Checklist
Module 17
Congratulations!
Where To From Here?
NBN Guitar Practice Spreadsheet
About this Course
Introduction
A journey of a thousand miles must begin with a single step.” – Lao Tzu (Ancient Chinese Philosopher)
When I started playing the guitar many years ago I had no idea that all these years later it would bring me to you today. I’m genuinely excited and I hope that this is the first step of many that you, your guitar, and I will take together.
My first lesson was horrific and it made me think my teacher hated me. My fingers ached; they refused to do what I wanted them to do. I had to borrow guitars for every lesson because I didn’t even have my own guitar; the other students seemed way better than me, and yet…I started to enjoy it. In spite of all of that I began to love playing or more accurately – trying to play. I discovered that playing music made me appreciate it in an entirely different way than merely listening to it. Honestly, it felt like I’d found the unlock code to an esoteric world full of wonder and magic that was in plain sight but remained invisible to most – not unlike the train platform to Hogwarts in the Harry Potter movies.
I started to make new friends that played all kinds of instruments; we shared ideas; we wrote awful songs; we pretended to be rockstars into the wee small hours. I also found great joy just playing my guitar peacefully, alone in my room, while my family watched tv and ate snacks in the living room. During this time I realised I was part of something. I wasn’t exactly sure what that something was, however I felt like I had started a very special journey. I didn’t care that I didn’t know where I was going and it didn’t matter. I was just happy to be along for the ride with my trusty guitar as sidekick and confidante. Life is a journey, and learning guitar is a journey within that journey.
Our lives are full of ups, downs, trials, tribulations, circles and squares, yet I’m beyond grateful that the guitar has been a refrain in the song that is my life’s journey. Every now and again when I turn on my metronome I ponder how it may have clicked off the many beats of my life if I hadn’t decided to see what this piece of wood and strings was all about.
My name is Joshua Rogers – welcome to the Essentials Primer Beginners Guitar Course for You! Grab your guitar – your journey is about to begin.
Course Instructor
NBN Guitar Essentials Primer Course
$275.00
Module 1
Overview
Naming the First Three Strings
Ex 1a 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Open Strings
Abbreviations for the Picking/Strumming Fingers
Fretting/Fingering Hand Thumb Positions
Basics of Tablature and Music Notation
Ex 4a Tablature Explanation
The 80:20 Rule
Module 1 Checklist
Module 2
Overview
Strumming & Strumming Symbols
Strumming and Strumming Symbols Exercise
Chord Definition & Chord diagram
G Major Chord & The Fretting/Fingering Hand
Ex 4a Down Strum
Ex 4b Up Strum
Ex 4c Down & Up Strum
Ex 4d Up & Down Strum
Reducing Hand & Finger Pain
Module 2 Checklist
Module 3
Overview
E Minor Chord
E Minor Chord Exercise
Changing From G Major (simple) To E Minor (simple)
Changing from G major to E minor
Semibreves/Whole Notes
Semibreves/Whole Notes Exercise
Understanding Counting, Bars & Measures
Ex 4a Using the numbers
Ex 4b Removing the numbers
Difficulty with Chords & Chord Changes
Module 3 Checklist
Module 4
Overview
C Major Chord
Strumming the C major chord
Changing From E Minor to C Major
Changing from E minor to C major Exercise
G – Em – C Chord Progression
G – Em – C chord progression
Basic Hand Position and Picking with Thumb and Fingers
Ex 4a Picking with thumb
Ex 4b Picking with Thumb, Index, and Middle using Em
G – Em – C chord progression
Strumming the C major chord
Module 4 Checklist
Module 5
Overview
D7 Chord
Ex 1 Picking or Strumming the D7 chord
Pivoting from C Major (simple) to D7 (simple)
Ex 2a C – D7 Chord Change using Pivoting & Preparation Exercise
G – Em – C – D7 – G Chord Progression using Preparation, Pivoting, and Guiding
G – Em – C – D7 Chord Progression using Preparation, Pivoting, and Guiding Exercise
Minims/Half Notes & Crotchets/Quarter Notes
Minims/Half Notes & Crotchets/Quarter Notes Exercise
Counting & Strumming Minims & Crotchets
Ex 5a Counting indications above all measures
Ex 5b Counting indications above the first two measures only
Ex 5c Counting indication above first measure only
Ex 5d Counting indication removed
Ex 5e Start with up strums
Ex 5f Alternate strumming with starting with a down strum
Ex 5g Alternate strumming starting with an up strum
Strumming & Rhythm (Keeping Time) Issues
Module 5 Checklist
Module 6
Overview
Naming the Last Three Strings
Naming the Last Three Strings Exercise
Classical/Fingerstyle Hand Position & Thumb Movement
Classical/Fingerstyle Hand Position & Thumb Movement Exercise
Picking Patterns
Ex 3a P, i, m, i with open strings
Ex 3b P, i, m, i with chords
Ex 3c P, m, i, m with open strings
Ex 3d P, m, i, m with chords
Ex 3e m, i, P, i, m with chords
Ex 3f m, i, P, i, m with chords
Information Overload
Module 6 Checklist
Module 7
Using The Progression In The Real World
Stand by Me Lesson
Module 7 Checklist
Module 8
Overview
Open Strings First Octave
Open Strings First Octave
G Major Scale with Preferred Fingering
Ex 2a G Major Scale with preferred fingering (first octave)
Ex 2b G Major Scale with alternative fingering (first octave)
Ex 2c G major Scale First Octave Progressive
Open Strings Second Octave
G Major Scale Two Octaves
A Brief Explanation of Scales and Octaves
Lack of Progress
Ex 3a Open Strings Second Octave
Ex 3b G Major Scale Second Octave with Fingering
Ex 3c G Major Scale Second Octave Progressive
G Major Scale Two Octaves (with preferred fingering)
Module 8 Checklist
Module 9
The Importance of Routine
Listening for Guitar in Songs
Finding a Role Model
Taking your Guitar Everywhere
Happy Accidents versus Mistakes
Module 9 Checklist
Module 10
Overview
Alternate Picking
Ex 1a Alternate Picking i, m (m, i)
Ex 1b G major scale alternate picking open strings i, m (m, i)
Ex 1c G major scale with fingering second octave i, m (m, i)
G Major Scale Alternate Picking First Octave
Ex 2a Alternate picking i, m
Ex 2b G major scale alternate picking open strings i, m (m, i)
Ex 2c G major scale with fingering first octave
G Major Scale Two Octaves with i, m (m, i)
Ex 3 G major scale Two Octaves with i, m (m, i)
Module 10 Checklist
Module 11
Overview
Ode To Joy
Ode to Joy Exercise
Ex 1a Recognise 1st & 2nd Time Repeats
Ex 1b Dotted Crotchet/Dotted Quarter Note
Ex 1c Quaver and Beamed Quavers
G – D7 Chord Change
G to D7 Chord Change
A7 – D7 Chord Changes; C Natural & Repeat Two Bars Symbol
A7 to D7 Chord Changes, C Natural & Repeat Tw Bars Symbols
G, D7, Em & A7 Chordal Accompaniment
G, D7, Em & A7 Chordal Accompaniment
Learning and Playing Two Different Guitar Parts for Ode to Joy
Reading Music & Tablature
Module 11 Checklist
Module 12
Overview
3/4 Time Signature, Repeat One Bar Symbol, G# & F
3/4 Time Signature, Repeat One Bar Symbol, G# & F
Counting & Inverted Pedal Point
Counting and Inverted Pedal Point
E Major Chord
E Major Chord
A Minor Chord
A Minor Chord
E – Am – E Chord Change
E & Am Chordal Accompaniment
E & Am Chordal Accompaniment
E – Am – E Chord Change
Learning & Playing Two Different Guitar Parts for Malaguena Facil
Overcoming the Lack of Motivation
Module 12 Checklist
Module 13
Overview
Riff with Open Strings and New Beams
Open Strings
Full Riff
Full Riff Exercise
A7, D7, and E7
E7 – D7 – A7 – E7 – A7 Chord Changes
E7 – D7 – A7 – E7 – A7 Chord Changes
Learning & Playing Two Different Guitar Parts for the 12 Bar Blues in A
Module 13 Checklist
Module 14
Overview
Improvising with A Pentatonic Major over A7
Now it’s your turn! Improvising with A Pentatonic Major over A7
Now it’s your turn! Ex 1a Changing rhythm
Now it’s your turn! Ex 1b Changing one note
Now it’s your turn! Ex 1c Changing a note in every bar
Now it’s your turn! Ex 1d Changing rhythm and notes
Now it’s your turn! Ex 1e Introducing a note from outside the scale (brackets)
Now it’s your turn! Ex 1f Introducing two notes from outside the scale (brackets)
Now it’s your turn! Ex 1g Changing rhythm and adding two notes from outside the scale
Improvising with D Pentatonic Major over D7
Now it’s your turn! Improvising with D Pentatonic Major over D7
Improvising with E Pentatonic Major over E7
Now it’s your turn! Improvising with E Pentatonic Major over E7
Improvising over 12 Bar Blues in A
Now it’s your turn! Improvising over 12 Bar Blues Riff in A
Module 14 Checklist
Module 15
Lack of Guidance
Maintaining Consistent Practice Habits
Developing Proper Technique
Equipment Limitations
Module 15 Checklist
Module 16
Overview
Dexterity ‘Spider’
Now it’s your turn! Dexterity Spider
Vertical Stretching
Now it’s your turn! Vertical Stretching
Horizontal Stretching
Now it’s your turn! Horizontal Stretching
Full Versions of G, C, & Em
Now it’s your turn! G major
Now it’s your turn! E minor
Now it’s your turn! C major
Playing Chords with Arpeggios
Arpeggios
Module 16 Checklist
Module 17
Congratulations!
Where To From Here?
NBN Guitar Practice Spreadsheet
Course Overview
This course is comprised of modules. Within each module are lessons and exercises that are numbered and named for easy reference.
You can find and navigate to any course content in this eBook quickly and easily by clicking on a module, lesson or exercise in the table of contents.
Each module begins with an overview where I explain what you will learn in the module. Modules are usually comprised of instructional videos, music scores, quizzes, and exercises aimed at gradually building and strengthening your technique, theory and mental fortitude.
I strongly recommend that you finish one module before proceeding to the next, otherwise you may find yourself struggling unnecessarily with material that is too advanced which leads to frustration, which in turn hinders progress.
The course has been designed to introduce you to guitar using classical guitar fundamentals. It avoids rushing in with lofty promises of teaching you to play songs because that approach often ends in tears. Beginners feel compelled to play exactly like the song, only to discover their efforts are futile, progress slows, and in the worst case they give up entirely.
Instead, you and I are going to play the long game. We trade short-term thrills for long-term gains and ability. Crafting technique and theory over time resulting in a consummate guitarist that is armed with the techniques and theoretical knowledge to confidently make music alone and with collaboratively.
During this course you will learn how to:
- Strum and pick with your fingers
- Recognise the symbols used to name the fingers on both hands
- Name all the strings on the guitar
- Understand two different time signatures
- Count different rhythms, name notes, dotted notes, and their values
- Read tablature and develop an awareness of music notation
- Recognise and understand the effect of sharps and natural signs
- Play eight different chords and a chord progression that is used in thousands of songs
- Play Ode to Joy, Malagueña Facil, and the 12 Bar Blues in A
- Accompany and be accompanied by another player
- Interpret the meaning of several musical symbols and score indications
- Four different scales including G major, A Pentatonic Major, D Pentatonic Minor, and E Pentatonic Major
- Improvise and create your own solos using the A, D and E Pentatonic Scales
- Cope and deal with finger pain, lack of progress, information overload, poor motivation and more
- Use classical guitar techniques for both hands
- Communicate and share your experiences with like-minded people on their own journey’s via the NBN Guitar Community Forum
All exercises and pieces or songs are played at 60bpm (sixty beats per minute). In classical terms this tempo is known as Adagio and it was chosen because it is considered neither too slow nor too fast.
Four or three clicks are played at the beginning of every exercise or song to set the tempo and to serve as an introduction before you are required to begin.
I estimate the course to take anywhere from two to four months to complete, based on completing either one or two modules every week.
House Keeping & Essential Equipment
Below are some tips to help you get through the course in good time with minimal stress and interruptions:
- Get your guitar set up by a luthier or guitar technician
- Buy a metronome, guitar tuner, and a stand
- Keep your guitar in good condition
- Have a spare set of strings handy
- Keep snacks and a drink nearby
- Practice in a quiet tidy space
- Tell people your routine
- Minimise distractions
Links to the gear mentioned above are at the end of the eBook
Course Information
Course Instructor
NBN Guitar Essentials Primer Course
$275.00
Module 1
Overview
Naming the First Three Strings
Ex 1a 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Open Strings
Abbreviations for the Picking/Strumming Fingers
Fretting/Fingering Hand Thumb Positions
Basics of Tablature and Music Notation
Ex 4a Tablature Explanation
The 80:20 Rule
Module 1 Checklist
Module 2
Overview
Strumming & Strumming Symbols
Strumming and Strumming Symbols Exercise
Chord Definition & Chord diagram
G Major Chord & The Fretting/Fingering Hand
Ex 4a Down Strum
Ex 4b Up Strum
Ex 4c Down & Up Strum
Ex 4d Up & Down Strum
Reducing Hand & Finger Pain
Module 2 Checklist
Module 3
Overview
E Minor Chord
E Minor Chord Exercise
Changing From G Major (simple) To E Minor (simple)
Changing from G major to E minor
Semibreves/Whole Notes
Semibreves/Whole Notes Exercise
Understanding Counting, Bars & Measures
Ex 4a Using the numbers
Ex 4b Removing the numbers
Difficulty with Chords & Chord Changes
Module 3 Checklist
Module 4
Overview
C Major Chord
Strumming the C major chord
Changing From E Minor to C Major
Changing from E minor to C major Exercise
G – Em – C Chord Progression
G – Em – C chord progression
Basic Hand Position and Picking with Thumb and Fingers
Ex 4a Picking with thumb
Ex 4b Picking with Thumb, Index, and Middle using Em
G – Em – C chord progression
Strumming the C major chord
Module 4 Checklist
Module 5
Overview
D7 Chord
Ex 1 Picking or Strumming the D7 chord
Pivoting from C Major (simple) to D7 (simple)
Ex 2a C – D7 Chord Change using Pivoting & Preparation Exercise
G – Em – C – D7 – G Chord Progression using Preparation, Pivoting, and Guiding
G – Em – C – D7 Chord Progression using Preparation, Pivoting, and Guiding Exercise
Minims/Half Notes & Crotchets/Quarter Notes
Minims/Half Notes & Crotchets/Quarter Notes Exercise
Counting & Strumming Minims & Crotchets
Ex 5a Counting indications above all measures
Ex 5b Counting indications above the first two measures only
Ex 5c Counting indication above first measure only
Ex 5d Counting indication removed
Ex 5e Start with up strums
Ex 5f Alternate strumming with starting with a down strum
Ex 5g Alternate strumming starting with an up strum
Strumming & Rhythm (Keeping Time) Issues
Module 5 Checklist
Module 6
Overview
Naming the Last Three Strings
Naming the Last Three Strings Exercise
Classical/Fingerstyle Hand Position & Thumb Movement
Classical/Fingerstyle Hand Position & Thumb Movement Exercise
Picking Patterns
Ex 3a P, i, m, i with open strings
Ex 3b P, i, m, i with chords
Ex 3c P, m, i, m with open strings
Ex 3d P, m, i, m with chords
Ex 3e m, i, P, i, m with chords
Ex 3f m, i, P, i, m with chords
Information Overload
Module 6 Checklist
Module 7
Using The Progression In The Real World
Stand by Me Lesson
Module 7 Checklist
Module 8
Overview
Open Strings First Octave
Open Strings First Octave
G Major Scale with Preferred Fingering
Ex 2a G Major Scale with preferred fingering (first octave)
Ex 2b G Major Scale with alternative fingering (first octave)
Ex 2c G major Scale First Octave Progressive
Open Strings Second Octave
G Major Scale Two Octaves
A Brief Explanation of Scales and Octaves
Lack of Progress
Ex 3a Open Strings Second Octave
Ex 3b G Major Scale Second Octave with Fingering
Ex 3c G Major Scale Second Octave Progressive
G Major Scale Two Octaves (with preferred fingering)
Module 8 Checklist
Module 9
The Importance of Routine
Listening for Guitar in Songs
Finding a Role Model
Taking your Guitar Everywhere
Happy Accidents versus Mistakes
Module 9 Checklist
Module 10
Overview
Alternate Picking
Ex 1a Alternate Picking i, m (m, i)
Ex 1b G major scale alternate picking open strings i, m (m, i)
Ex 1c G major scale with fingering second octave i, m (m, i)
G Major Scale Alternate Picking First Octave
Ex 2a Alternate picking i, m
Ex 2b G major scale alternate picking open strings i, m (m, i)
Ex 2c G major scale with fingering first octave
G Major Scale Two Octaves with i, m (m, i)
Ex 3 G major scale Two Octaves with i, m (m, i)
Module 10 Checklist
Module 11
Overview
Ode To Joy
Ode to Joy Exercise
Ex 1a Recognise 1st & 2nd Time Repeats
Ex 1b Dotted Crotchet/Dotted Quarter Note
Ex 1c Quaver and Beamed Quavers
G – D7 Chord Change
G to D7 Chord Change
A7 – D7 Chord Changes; C Natural & Repeat Two Bars Symbol
A7 to D7 Chord Changes, C Natural & Repeat Tw Bars Symbols
G, D7, Em & A7 Chordal Accompaniment
G, D7, Em & A7 Chordal Accompaniment
Learning and Playing Two Different Guitar Parts for Ode to Joy
Reading Music & Tablature
Module 11 Checklist
Module 12
Overview
3/4 Time Signature, Repeat One Bar Symbol, G# & F
3/4 Time Signature, Repeat One Bar Symbol, G# & F
Counting & Inverted Pedal Point
Counting and Inverted Pedal Point
E Major Chord
E Major Chord
A Minor Chord
A Minor Chord
E – Am – E Chord Change
E & Am Chordal Accompaniment
E & Am Chordal Accompaniment
E – Am – E Chord Change
Learning & Playing Two Different Guitar Parts for Malaguena Facil
Overcoming the Lack of Motivation
Module 12 Checklist
Module 13
Overview
Riff with Open Strings and New Beams
Open Strings
Full Riff
Full Riff Exercise
A7, D7, and E7
E7 – D7 – A7 – E7 – A7 Chord Changes
E7 – D7 – A7 – E7 – A7 Chord Changes
Learning & Playing Two Different Guitar Parts for the 12 Bar Blues in A
Module 13 Checklist
Module 14
Overview
Improvising with A Pentatonic Major over A7
Now it’s your turn! Improvising with A Pentatonic Major over A7
Now it’s your turn! Ex 1a Changing rhythm
Now it’s your turn! Ex 1b Changing one note
Now it’s your turn! Ex 1c Changing a note in every bar
Now it’s your turn! Ex 1d Changing rhythm and notes
Now it’s your turn! Ex 1e Introducing a note from outside the scale (brackets)
Now it’s your turn! Ex 1f Introducing two notes from outside the scale (brackets)
Now it’s your turn! Ex 1g Changing rhythm and adding two notes from outside the scale
Improvising with D Pentatonic Major over D7
Now it’s your turn! Improvising with D Pentatonic Major over D7
Improvising with E Pentatonic Major over E7
Now it’s your turn! Improvising with E Pentatonic Major over E7
Improvising over 12 Bar Blues in A
Now it’s your turn! Improvising over 12 Bar Blues Riff in A
Module 14 Checklist
Module 15
Lack of Guidance
Maintaining Consistent Practice Habits
Developing Proper Technique
Equipment Limitations
Module 15 Checklist
Module 16
Overview
Dexterity ‘Spider’
Now it’s your turn! Dexterity Spider
Vertical Stretching
Now it’s your turn! Vertical Stretching
Horizontal Stretching
Now it’s your turn! Horizontal Stretching
Full Versions of G, C, & Em
Now it’s your turn! G major
Now it’s your turn! E minor
Now it’s your turn! C major
Playing Chords with Arpeggios
Arpeggios
Module 16 Checklist
Module 17
Congratulations!
Where To From Here?
NBN Guitar Practice Spreadsheet
NBN Guitar Essentials Primer Course
$275.00
Course Outline
Module 1
Overview
Naming the First Three Strings
Ex 1a 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Open Strings
Abbreviations for the Picking/Strumming Fingers
Fretting/Fingering Hand Thumb Positions
Basics of Tablature and Music Notation
Ex 4a Tablature Explanation
The 80:20 Rule
Module 1 Checklist
Module 2
Overview
Strumming & Strumming Symbols
Strumming and Strumming Symbols Exercise
Chord Definition & Chord diagram
G Major Chord & The Fretting/Fingering Hand
Ex 4a Down Strum
Ex 4b Up Strum
Ex 4c Down & Up Strum
Ex 4d Up & Down Strum
Reducing Hand & Finger Pain
Module 2 Checklist
Module 3
Overview
E Minor Chord
E Minor Chord Exercise
Changing From G Major (simple) To E Minor (simple)
Changing from G major to E minor
Semibreves/Whole Notes
Semibreves/Whole Notes Exercise
Understanding Counting, Bars & Measures
Ex 4a Using the numbers
Ex 4b Removing the numbers
Difficulty with Chords & Chord Changes
Module 3 Checklist
Module 4
Overview
C Major Chord
Strumming the C major chord
Changing From E Minor to C Major
Changing from E minor to C major Exercise
G – Em – C Chord Progression
G – Em – C chord progression
Basic Hand Position and Picking with Thumb and Fingers
Ex 4a Picking with thumb
Ex 4b Picking with Thumb, Index, and Middle using Em
G – Em – C chord progression
Strumming the C major chord
Module 4 Checklist
Module 5
Overview
D7 Chord
Ex 1 Picking or Strumming the D7 chord
Pivoting from C Major (simple) to D7 (simple)
Ex 2a C – D7 Chord Change using Pivoting & Preparation Exercise
G – Em – C – D7 – G Chord Progression using Preparation, Pivoting, and Guiding
G – Em – C – D7 Chord Progression using Preparation, Pivoting, and Guiding Exercise
Minims/Half Notes & Crotchets/Quarter Notes
Minims/Half Notes & Crotchets/Quarter Notes Exercise
Counting & Strumming Minims & Crotchets
Ex 5a Counting indications above all measures
Ex 5b Counting indications above the first two measures only
Ex 5c Counting indication above first measure only
Ex 5d Counting indication removed
Ex 5e Start with up strums
Ex 5f Alternate strumming with starting with a down strum
Ex 5g Alternate strumming starting with an up strum
Strumming & Rhythm (Keeping Time) Issues
Module 5 Checklist
Module 6
Overview
Naming the Last Three Strings
Naming the Last Three Strings Exercise
Classical/Fingerstyle Hand Position & Thumb Movement
Classical/Fingerstyle Hand Position & Thumb Movement Exercise
Picking Patterns
Ex 3a P, i, m, i with open strings
Ex 3b P, i, m, i with chords
Ex 3c P, m, i, m with open strings
Ex 3d P, m, i, m with chords
Ex 3e m, i, P, i, m with chords
Ex 3f m, i, P, i, m with chords
Information Overload
Module 6 Checklist
Module 7
Using The Progression In The Real World
Stand by Me Lesson
Module 7 Checklist
Module 8
Overview
Open Strings First Octave
Open Strings First Octave
G Major Scale with Preferred Fingering
Ex 2a G Major Scale with preferred fingering (first octave)
Ex 2b G Major Scale with alternative fingering (first octave)
Ex 2c G major Scale First Octave Progressive
Open Strings Second Octave
G Major Scale Two Octaves
A Brief Explanation of Scales and Octaves
Lack of Progress
Ex 3a Open Strings Second Octave
Ex 3b G Major Scale Second Octave with Fingering
Ex 3c G Major Scale Second Octave Progressive
G Major Scale Two Octaves (with preferred fingering)
Module 8 Checklist
Module 9
The Importance of Routine
Listening for Guitar in Songs
Finding a Role Model
Taking your Guitar Everywhere
Happy Accidents versus Mistakes
Module 9 Checklist
Module 10
Overview
Alternate Picking
Ex 1a Alternate Picking i, m (m, i)
Ex 1b G major scale alternate picking open strings i, m (m, i)
Ex 1c G major scale with fingering second octave i, m (m, i)
G Major Scale Alternate Picking First Octave
Ex 2a Alternate picking i, m
Ex 2b G major scale alternate picking open strings i, m (m, i)
Ex 2c G major scale with fingering first octave
G Major Scale Two Octaves with i, m (m, i)
Ex 3 G major scale Two Octaves with i, m (m, i)
Module 10 Checklist
Module 11
Overview
Ode To Joy
Ode to Joy Exercise
Ex 1a Recognise 1st & 2nd Time Repeats
Ex 1b Dotted Crotchet/Dotted Quarter Note
Ex 1c Quaver and Beamed Quavers
G – D7 Chord Change
G to D7 Chord Change
A7 – D7 Chord Changes; C Natural & Repeat Two Bars Symbol
A7 to D7 Chord Changes, C Natural & Repeat Tw Bars Symbols
G, D7, Em & A7 Chordal Accompaniment
G, D7, Em & A7 Chordal Accompaniment
Learning and Playing Two Different Guitar Parts for Ode to Joy
Reading Music & Tablature
Module 11 Checklist
Module 12
Overview
3/4 Time Signature, Repeat One Bar Symbol, G# & F
3/4 Time Signature, Repeat One Bar Symbol, G# & F
Counting & Inverted Pedal Point
Counting and Inverted Pedal Point
E Major Chord
E Major Chord
A Minor Chord
A Minor Chord
E – Am – E Chord Change
E & Am Chordal Accompaniment
E & Am Chordal Accompaniment
E – Am – E Chord Change
Learning & Playing Two Different Guitar Parts for Malaguena Facil
Overcoming the Lack of Motivation
Module 12 Checklist
Module 13
Overview
Riff with Open Strings and New Beams
Open Strings
Full Riff
Full Riff Exercise
A7, D7, and E7
E7 – D7 – A7 – E7 – A7 Chord Changes
E7 – D7 – A7 – E7 – A7 Chord Changes
Learning & Playing Two Different Guitar Parts for the 12 Bar Blues in A
Module 13 Checklist
Module 14
Overview
Improvising with A Pentatonic Major over A7
Now it’s your turn! Improvising with A Pentatonic Major over A7
Now it’s your turn! Ex 1a Changing rhythm
Now it’s your turn! Ex 1b Changing one note
Now it’s your turn! Ex 1c Changing a note in every bar
Now it’s your turn! Ex 1d Changing rhythm and notes
Now it’s your turn! Ex 1e Introducing a note from outside the scale (brackets)
Now it’s your turn! Ex 1f Introducing two notes from outside the scale (brackets)
Now it’s your turn! Ex 1g Changing rhythm and adding two notes from outside the scale
Improvising with D Pentatonic Major over D7
Now it’s your turn! Improvising with D Pentatonic Major over D7
Improvising with E Pentatonic Major over E7
Now it’s your turn! Improvising with E Pentatonic Major over E7
Improvising over 12 Bar Blues in A
Now it’s your turn! Improvising over 12 Bar Blues Riff in A
Module 14 Checklist
Module 15
Lack of Guidance
Maintaining Consistent Practice Habits
Developing Proper Technique
Equipment Limitations
Module 15 Checklist
Module 16
Overview
Dexterity ‘Spider’
Now it’s your turn! Dexterity Spider
Vertical Stretching
Now it’s your turn! Vertical Stretching
Horizontal Stretching
Now it’s your turn! Horizontal Stretching
Full Versions of G, C, & Em
Now it’s your turn! G major
Now it’s your turn! E minor
Now it’s your turn! C major
Playing Chords with Arpeggios
Arpeggios
Module 16 Checklist
Module 17
Congratulations!
Where To From Here?
NBN Guitar Practice Spreadsheet
Course Information
NBN Guitar Essentials Primer Course
$275.00
Course Outline
Module 1
Overview
Naming the First Three Strings
Ex 1a 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Open Strings
Abbreviations for the Picking/Strumming Fingers
Fretting/Fingering Hand Thumb Positions
Basics of Tablature and Music Notation
Ex 4a Tablature Explanation
The 80:20 Rule
Module 1 Checklist
Module 2
Overview
Strumming & Strumming Symbols
Strumming and Strumming Symbols Exercise
Chord Definition & Chord diagram
G Major Chord & The Fretting/Fingering Hand
Ex 4a Down Strum
Ex 4b Up Strum
Ex 4c Down & Up Strum
Ex 4d Up & Down Strum
Reducing Hand & Finger Pain
Module 2 Checklist
Module 3
Overview
E Minor Chord
E Minor Chord Exercise
Changing From G Major (simple) To E Minor (simple)
Changing from G major to E minor
Semibreves/Whole Notes
Semibreves/Whole Notes Exercise
Understanding Counting, Bars & Measures
Ex 4a Using the numbers
Ex 4b Removing the numbers
Difficulty with Chords & Chord Changes
Module 3 Checklist
Module 4
Overview
C Major Chord
Strumming the C major chord
Changing From E Minor to C Major
Changing from E minor to C major Exercise
G – Em – C Chord Progression
G – Em – C chord progression
Basic Hand Position and Picking with Thumb and Fingers
Ex 4a Picking with thumb
Ex 4b Picking with Thumb, Index, and Middle using Em
G – Em – C chord progression
Strumming the C major chord
Module 4 Checklist
Module 5
Overview
D7 Chord
Ex 1 Picking or Strumming the D7 chord
Pivoting from C Major (simple) to D7 (simple)
Ex 2a C – D7 Chord Change using Pivoting & Preparation Exercise
G – Em – C – D7 – G Chord Progression using Preparation, Pivoting, and Guiding
G – Em – C – D7 Chord Progression using Preparation, Pivoting, and Guiding Exercise
Minims/Half Notes & Crotchets/Quarter Notes
Minims/Half Notes & Crotchets/Quarter Notes Exercise
Counting & Strumming Minims & Crotchets
Ex 5a Counting indications above all measures
Ex 5b Counting indications above the first two measures only
Ex 5c Counting indication above first measure only
Ex 5d Counting indication removed
Ex 5e Start with up strums
Ex 5f Alternate strumming with starting with a down strum
Ex 5g Alternate strumming starting with an up strum
Strumming & Rhythm (Keeping Time) Issues
Module 5 Checklist
Module 6
Overview
Naming the Last Three Strings
Naming the Last Three Strings Exercise
Classical/Fingerstyle Hand Position & Thumb Movement
Classical/Fingerstyle Hand Position & Thumb Movement Exercise
Picking Patterns
Ex 3a P, i, m, i with open strings
Ex 3b P, i, m, i with chords
Ex 3c P, m, i, m with open strings
Ex 3d P, m, i, m with chords
Ex 3e m, i, P, i, m with chords
Ex 3f m, i, P, i, m with chords
Information Overload
Module 6 Checklist
Module 7
Using The Progression In The Real World
Stand by Me Lesson
Module 7 Checklist
Module 8
Overview
Open Strings First Octave
Open Strings First Octave
G Major Scale with Preferred Fingering
Ex 2a G Major Scale with preferred fingering (first octave)
Ex 2b G Major Scale with alternative fingering (first octave)
Ex 2c G major Scale First Octave Progressive
Open Strings Second Octave
G Major Scale Two Octaves
A Brief Explanation of Scales and Octaves
Lack of Progress
Ex 3a Open Strings Second Octave
Ex 3b G Major Scale Second Octave with Fingering
Ex 3c G Major Scale Second Octave Progressive
G Major Scale Two Octaves (with preferred fingering)
Module 8 Checklist
Module 9
The Importance of Routine
Listening for Guitar in Songs
Finding a Role Model
Taking your Guitar Everywhere
Happy Accidents versus Mistakes
Module 9 Checklist
Module 10
Overview
Alternate Picking
Ex 1a Alternate Picking i, m (m, i)
Ex 1b G major scale alternate picking open strings i, m (m, i)
Ex 1c G major scale with fingering second octave i, m (m, i)
G Major Scale Alternate Picking First Octave
Ex 2a Alternate picking i, m
Ex 2b G major scale alternate picking open strings i, m (m, i)
Ex 2c G major scale with fingering first octave
G Major Scale Two Octaves with i, m (m, i)
Ex 3 G major scale Two Octaves with i, m (m, i)
Module 10 Checklist
Module 11
Overview
Ode To Joy
Ode to Joy Exercise
Ex 1a Recognise 1st & 2nd Time Repeats
Ex 1b Dotted Crotchet/Dotted Quarter Note
Ex 1c Quaver and Beamed Quavers
G – D7 Chord Change
G to D7 Chord Change
A7 – D7 Chord Changes; C Natural & Repeat Two Bars Symbol
A7 to D7 Chord Changes, C Natural & Repeat Tw Bars Symbols
G, D7, Em & A7 Chordal Accompaniment
G, D7, Em & A7 Chordal Accompaniment
Learning and Playing Two Different Guitar Parts for Ode to Joy
Reading Music & Tablature
Module 11 Checklist
Module 12
Overview
3/4 Time Signature, Repeat One Bar Symbol, G# & F
3/4 Time Signature, Repeat One Bar Symbol, G# & F
Counting & Inverted Pedal Point
Counting and Inverted Pedal Point
E Major Chord
E Major Chord
A Minor Chord
A Minor Chord
E – Am – E Chord Change
E & Am Chordal Accompaniment
E & Am Chordal Accompaniment
E – Am – E Chord Change
Learning & Playing Two Different Guitar Parts for Malaguena Facil
Overcoming the Lack of Motivation
Module 12 Checklist
Module 13
Overview
Riff with Open Strings and New Beams
Open Strings
Full Riff
Full Riff Exercise
A7, D7, and E7
E7 – D7 – A7 – E7 – A7 Chord Changes
E7 – D7 – A7 – E7 – A7 Chord Changes
Learning & Playing Two Different Guitar Parts for the 12 Bar Blues in A
Module 13 Checklist
Module 14
Overview
Improvising with A Pentatonic Major over A7
Now it’s your turn! Improvising with A Pentatonic Major over A7
Now it’s your turn! Ex 1a Changing rhythm
Now it’s your turn! Ex 1b Changing one note
Now it’s your turn! Ex 1c Changing a note in every bar
Now it’s your turn! Ex 1d Changing rhythm and notes
Now it’s your turn! Ex 1e Introducing a note from outside the scale (brackets)
Now it’s your turn! Ex 1f Introducing two notes from outside the scale (brackets)
Now it’s your turn! Ex 1g Changing rhythm and adding two notes from outside the scale
Improvising with D Pentatonic Major over D7
Now it’s your turn! Improvising with D Pentatonic Major over D7
Improvising with E Pentatonic Major over E7
Now it’s your turn! Improvising with E Pentatonic Major over E7
Improvising over 12 Bar Blues in A
Now it’s your turn! Improvising over 12 Bar Blues Riff in A
Module 14 Checklist
Module 15
Lack of Guidance
Maintaining Consistent Practice Habits
Developing Proper Technique
Equipment Limitations
Module 15 Checklist
Module 16
Overview
Dexterity ‘Spider’
Now it’s your turn! Dexterity Spider
Vertical Stretching
Now it’s your turn! Vertical Stretching
Horizontal Stretching
Now it’s your turn! Horizontal Stretching
Full Versions of G, C, & Em
Now it’s your turn! G major
Now it’s your turn! E minor
Now it’s your turn! C major
Playing Chords with Arpeggios
Arpeggios
Module 16 Checklist
Module 17
Congratulations!
Where To From Here?
NBN Guitar Practice Spreadsheet
Enrol Full Beginners Course
