Tuning the Guitar.
Before we go further let's make sure we learn how to tune the
guitar. This is also good ear training. If you have an electronic tuner, then
use it. If not
you will at least need a pitch pipe. If you do not have an
electronic tuner and have a pitch pipe do this:
Blow the E note on the pitch pipe, the higher of the 2 E notes
there. Pluck your 1st string. LISTEN to the pitch pipe and the 1st string and
compare
them. Tighten up or down the string until both pitches are the
same. It will be difficult doing this the first few times. Follow the same
method for the
remaining strings.
OR
1.
Blow the E note on the pitch pipe, the lower of the 2 E notes there.
Pluck your 6th
open string(E). LISTEN to the pitch pipe and
the 6th string
and compare them. Tighten up or down the
string until both pitches are the
same.
2.Hold the 5th fret of the 6th string and play the 5th open string(A).
Tune the 5th
string up or down until they
match.
3.Hold the 5th fret of the 5th string and play the 4th open string(D).
Tune the 4th
string up or down until they
match.
4.Hold the 5th fret of the 4th string and play the 3rd open string(G).
Tune the 3rd
string up or down until they
match.
5.Hold the 4th fret of the 3rd string and play the 2nd open string(B).
Tune the 2nd
string up or down until they
match.
6.Hold the 5th fret of the 2nd string and play the 1st open string(E).
Tune the 1st
string up or down until they
match.
The Guitar should be tuned in this order, starting from the 1st
string: E B G D A E
The latter method is best, because it trains your ear. Keep at it
until you are sure you
can tune the guitar by yourself.
Holding your Guitar
When learning to play the guitar it is important to realize that
personal style will develop later, and that you should not assume that you will
be as accomplished as those you have seen playing guitar in various bands of
sorts.
A
strap may be used to provide security (some players do not like the risk of the
guitar slipping while they play) whilst sitting or to allow playing to occur
whilst standing up.
Again, please be aware that this is a personal thing and you will
develop your own style as you practice more you will discover what is
comfortable.
Beginner’s Tips:
Some beginners are very aware of how they are holding the guitar
and this can cause undue strain on the body as it is tensed with the anxiety of
correct position.
The most important thing about playing the guitar is to enjoy it,
to have fun.
So before we even go in to the details of correct position, grip
and strumming action, let’s remember that we are doing this in order to acquire
a skill that will bring us great enjoyment all of our lives (and joy to
others!).
Naturally some people become more proficient at playing the guitar
than others, and learn very quickly (natural talent one could
say).
This is not to say that those who take longer do not enjoy
it.
Remember, whilst some may not have natural ability, they can still
become (very) good guitar players, depending on their desire.
Often those who have to work harder become better simply because
their commitment is stronger.
How to Hold Your Guitar:
For starters you should always play sitting down. Make sure it is
not a chair with armrests as you may knock the guitar against
them.
Although you will probably be leaning forward to see music, it is
best to sit where there is no danger of the guitar being knocked against
anything.
Choose a lounge or table chair that is the right height for you to
place music or instructions on a table in front of you.
Try not to use a table that is too low as you will find yourself
leaning forward too much and becoming uncomfortable very quickly. Plus you will
lose your spot on the music/instructions you are referring to as you are looking
too far down.
Obviously a music stand is ideal or a book stand for use on a
table. However these items are not always easy to come by at a reasonable price,
but do keep your eyes out in second hand stores, used goods in newspapers and
garage sales etc.
Some people sit on a cushion on the floor! It is up to you how you
develop and practice your style.
Be comfortable, keep the guitar out of danger and be able to see
music/instructions clearly.
Do not be nervous, simply relax – take things easy and you will
learn with confidence and enjoyment.
Once seated appropriately, make sure the strap is either removed
or not touching any of the strings. If you are using a strap, place it around
your neck and shoulders and allow the guitar to sit naturally.
Legs may be crossed or uncrossed, whatever is
comfortable.
The lower curved part of the guitar body rests on the right thigh
(or left if you are left handed*).
The guitar is lightly supported by the right (*) arm by placing
the hand over the sound hole thereby bending the elbow approximately at the
highest point of the wide part of the guitar body and keeping the wrist slightly
arched.
The neck of the guitar points slightly upward and using your left
hand (or right if you are left handed), nestle the neck in the hollow between
your thumb and forefinger – at the top of the neck. Curve your fingers in
slightly.
Your left (or right) elbow which is holding the neck should be
about 15cm away from your corresponding side.
This position may feel awkward now, but sooner than you think it
will be as natural as getting comfortable to start driving a
car.
Remember not to be too over conscious of the positioning as you
will prevent your own comfort and cause nervousness, thereby affecting your
actual playing.
Holding the guitar correctly makes it easier for you to play and
you will soon find out why it is held the way it is suggested
here.
IMPORTANT: When playing, the hand around the neck of the guitar is
not to hold any weight of the instrument. This must be on your thigh. The left
(or right) hand is kept free of weight so it can move quickly along the fret
board playing chords or strings.
You will also find that you arms will become sore from being held
in these positions, as you are not used to using them in this capacity.
The arm over the top of the guitar and the wrist playing chords
will be the most noticeable. Do not be concerned as just like learning any new
skill, time is needed for the body to adjust/strengthen the journey of musical
discovery will have well and truly begun - BON VOYAGE!
The 6 Strings of the Guitar
Let's plunge straight in and learn the names of each of the six
strings.
On the guitar the highest-sounding strings are nearest the floor,
and the lowest-sounding nearest your head. The lowest-sounding string is the one
closest to your head and is also the thickest string on the instrument - the low
E.
Moving upwards in pitch, but downwards in space, we have A, D, G,
B and finally a high E. Try to memorize these pitches and their order.
Maybe invent a funny saying, like 'Elephants All Dine Generally
Before Eight' to help you remember (I just made that up, by the way).
