The Most Common Mistakes that Guitar Students Make

The Most Common Mistakes that Guitar Students Make

Over the years, I have found that there are some common mistakes that all guitar students make at some point or another.  But these problems are easily fixed, once you can name what they are, and point them out with a sense of encouragement!  And truth be told, this applies to all music students, regardless of what instrument they might be learning:

1) Failing to tune up before you play:  Tuning your guitar is incredibly important, especially for beginning students.  Not only do you want the songs you are learning to sound good--but as you learn, your brain is memorizing both where your fingers should be placed, as well as the notes you are playing.  Trying to memorize these notes and sounds becomes much more difficult with an out-of-tune instrument.

2) Failing to pay attention to tempo and timing:  Although most students do not enjoy playing along with a metronome, it is an extremely valuable tool to help build a sense of timing and rhythm.  You can also use rhythm tracks, or a rhythm machine included with software like Garage Band. Or, simply tap your foot in a quarter note rhythm to help guide you through a musical piece.  This sense of rhythm and timing is especially important if you ever plan to perform with other musicians!

3) Failing to have patience:  Most students want to learn to play notes and chords as quickly as possible, forgetting that playing an instrument takes time, patience, and practice!  You have to put the time in to get the results that you want.  Or as one of my younger students says, "Practice makes perfect,and practice makes permanent."  You will get where you want to be musically, but it does take time!

4) Failing to play for others:  Many students are "shy" about playing in front of other people, especially if they're just starting out with lessons--but your friends, family, and other students are a great audience to have as you grow and learn your instrument.  They're there to give you support and encouragement on your musical journey, so let them be there for you!

5) Falling prey to discouragement:  Most often, we are our own harshest critics.  When you get discouraged, remember what I said earlier--that in time, you will get where you want to be musically, if you are willing to put the time, energy, and discipline into learning and practicing.  Every well-known and talented performer that you like to listen to started out exactly as you did--and probably made the same mistakes as you!

Click on the video link below to hear me talk a little more about these issues.  Happy Pickin'!

Common Mistakes That Guitar Students Make