Txwelder

Got a freebie acoustic and decided to learn. I have been watching youtube lessons trying to get better and learn chords. Anybody have any great advice on learning or is it just keep picking and strumming until it finally comes together? Thanks.

rip 112

I've always been told to practice extending you fingers. The hardest part to mastering a guitar is being able to manuever your fingers accordingly. To newer musicians this is a hard task, you will have sore fingers and calluses the more you play. Welcome the calluses, they will harden up and help you emphasize your chords. Keep your mind clear, don't let frustration overtake you, it will take some time... A chord book will help you identify your chords so you can practice one by one.

Txwelder

Ive got a chord book and have been using it. Just need more practice in the transition from chord to chord and learning the fret board so I get my fingers in the right place. I beat on that thing as much as I can and my neighbor plays so Im sure that will be a plus when I get frustrated or just need a pointer.

bgoodwin

Practice.
I've been playing 24 years, still got alot to learn.
Learn EVERY chord you can.
Buy a metronome, I have played with alot of guys with great technique, but no timing.

graphitecumnz

one word... practice.

Been playing for 11 years and I learn new things all of the time... youtube is full of some really horrible guitar players.

ouchman

1. Don't be discouraged - it will take a good year before you REALLY can start to learn. Right now you need to develop your fingers, both stretching and toughness.

2. As a newbie I recommend you practice chords, chords, chords. Also practice picking back and forth between strings. Go as slow as you need to to get it right - don't be sloppy.

3. Once you get to a point where you feel confident with picking, start out learning scales and practice them until your fingers bleed. Then some more.

4. Learn to play along with albums - it's fun. Listen to and play music that you don't necessarily like - it will broaden your knowledge and give you more to create your own style from.

I've been playing for 31 years and I still practice my scales... but my fingers haven't bled for a long time...

Txwelder

I found a good line of lessons that I feel is giving me a good base. Mostly in the first couple you just practice finger placement and picking to build the strength and toughness in the fingers. Im enjoying it and Im sure it will come in time like all things that take practice. Thanks.

CarlJensen

Being able to pluck out a simple two or three chord tune makes you feel good while building up strength and agility so a link for you for some tabs. Pick a simple one like "Ring of Fire" or other. It will make you feel better while learning. Have FUN!!

http://www.chordie.com/