How-To Practice "Ways To Get Better" Flashcards
Based on "60 Surefire Ways to Get Better at the Guitar" by Chris Murrin of "Six String Fingerpicking" at www.sixstringfingerpicking.com
Why should you ask yourself why you want to play guitar?
Like understanding why you’re starting a journey, Knowing your “why” is like choosing a destination. It ensures every practice session has purpose
Based on “60 Surefire Ways to Get Better at the Guitar” by Chris Murrin of “Six String Fingerpicking” at www.sixstringfingerpicking.com
How is setting clear goals like mapping out a road trip?
Goals are like the route on your map, they guide you and they help eliminate distractions.
How is setting a practice schedule like planning your daily commute? A practice schedule keeps you on track
Based on “60 Surefire Ways to Get Better at the Guitar” by Chris Murrin of “Six String Fingerpicking” at www.sixstringfingerpicking.com
like a set commute prevents you from wasting time wandering aimlessly.
How is learning with a friend similar to carpooling?
Just like carpooling makes the ride more enjoyable and efficient…
learning guitar with a friend keeps you motivated and accountable.
Why is recording yourself like checking your car’s dashboard?
Recording is like checking your speed and fuel levels—it gives feedback on how you’re doing and what needs adjusting.
Based on “60 Surefire Ways to Get Better at the Guitar” by Chris Murrin of “Six String Fingerpicking” at www.sixstringfingerpicking.com
How is practicing little and often like fueling up regularly instead of running on empty?
Consistent practice sessions keep your progress moving smoothly.
Based on “60 Surefire Ways to Get Better at the Guitar” by Chris Murrin of “Six String Fingerpicking” at www.sixstringfingerpicking.com
How is having a comfortable guitar action like adjusting your car seat for the perfect fit?
A properly set-up guitar is easier to play… just like a well adjusted seat makes driving mote comfortable and safer.
How is learning the fretboard like knowing all the streets in your hometown?
When you know the fretboard you can navigate songs effortlessly
How is practicing with others like driving in a convoy? Playing with others teaches you to stay in sync and adapt to their pace
just like driving in a group requires coordination.
Based on “60 Surefire Ways to Get Better at the Guitar” by Chris Murrin of “Six String Fingerpicking” at www.sixstringfingerpicking.com
Why is trust in the learning process like trusting GPS on an unfamiliar route?
Progress isn’t always clear and visible… but trusting the path and steps will ensure you get there.
Why is starting with simple songs like learning basic recipes?
Basic songs are like simple recipes… they teach fundamental skills that form the foundation for more complex creations.
How is experimenting with alternate tunings like trying new spices in a dish?
New tunings are like new spices and flavors for your music.
How is warming up before playing like preheating an oven to the gentle warm setting? Warming up prepares you for smooth action…
just like preheating to warm a dish ensures the dish warms smootly, evenly and effectively, and without drying out or burning.
Why is understanding scales like knowing the core ingredients in cooking? Scales are the ingredients for melodies and solos…
just like flour or eggs are staples for countless dishes.
Based on “60 Surefire Ways to Get Better at the Guitar” by Chris Murrin of “Six String Fingerpicking” at www.sixstringfingerpicking.com
Why is joining a band like cooking with a team in a busy kitchen?
Playing in a band teaches you timing and collaboration… just as cooking with a team demands coordination and rhythm.
How is improvising during solos like adding your own twist to a recipe?
Improvisation lets you personalize a song… just like tweaking a recipe makes it your own.
Why is understanding keys like knowing which herbs pair well with specific dishes? Keys define the song’s flavor…
just as the right herbs enhance the taste of a meal.
How is learning arpeggios like preparing a dishes ingredients?
Arpeggios break down chords into individual notes… just like preparing ingredients in advance simplifies the preparation of complex dishes.
How is developing your ear like training your palate?
Just as a trained palate can distinguish flavors a trained ear helps you recognize musical patterns and nuances.
Why is jamming with others like hosting a potluck?
Everyone brings something unique creating a shared experience that’s richer than what you could create alone.
Why is mastering barre chords like learning to sketch outlines in painting?
Barre chords help create the structure for songs… just like outlines form the foundation of a painting.
How is playing with finesse like blending colors smoothly in a painting?
Finesse makes your music expressive and polished just like blending enhances the depth and realism of a painting.
just like a ruler ensures straight
How is learning arpeggios like painting detailed textures?
Arpeggios add intricate beauty to your playing just like textured brushstrokes bring a painting to life.
Why is transposing songs like switching color palettes in painting?
Transposing shifts the feel of a song… just as choosing new colors changes the mood of a painting.
Why is experimenting with techniques like trying new styles of brushstrokes?
Different techniques create variety in your playing… just like new styles of strokes can add new dimensions to your painting.
How is composing your own song like painting a landscape from scratch?
You’re crafting a world that reflects your vision whether it’s through sound or visual art.
Why is repetition like painting layers on a canvas?
Repeating difficult parts builds depth and mastery just like layering paint creates richness in a piece.
How is playing with dynamics like working with light and shadow in a painting?
Dynamics bring emotional depth to your music just as light and shadow create drama in a painting.
Why is celebrating milestones like signing your name on a completed painting?
Acknowledging your progress affirms your effort and inspires you to continue creating.
Why is learning songs all the way through like completing a road trip?
Finishing a song gives you a sense of accomplishment just like reaching your destination makes the entire journey worthwhile.
How is practicing in a distraction-free environment like driving on an open highway?
A calm space lets you focus fully… just like an open road allows you to drive smoothly without interruptions.
How is studying the greats like learning from experienced drivers?
Watching skilled guitarists helps you pick up skills… just as driving with pros teaches you better driving habits.
Why is going to gigs like test-driving cars?
Seeing others play live inspires you to improve and helps you discover what’s possible… just like test-driving a car reveals more about what’s out there.
How is listening to a wide range of music like exploring different terrains?
Playing different styles expands your skills… just as driving through varied terrains hones your roadworthiness and adaptability.
How is warming up before practice like checking your car’s tires before a trip?
Preparing your fingers ensures everything works smoothly… just like checking your tires prevents mishaps on the road.
How are drills for your fretting hand like practicing parallel parking?
Hand drills refine precision and strength just like parking practice sharpens your control in tight spaces.
Why is caring about small details in your playing like cleaning your car windows?
Small adjustments make a big difference in clarity and presentation just like clean windows improve visibility.
How is building a repertoire of songs like filling up a gas tank before a long drive?
Having a collection of songs ready keeps you prepared for any musical journey just as fueling up prepares you for the road ahead.
Why is trying new chord shapes like testing new cooking techniques?
New chords expand your skills just like new techniques broaden your ability to create diverse dishes.
How is writing your own songs like creating your own recipe?
Crafting songs personalizes your music… just like inventing a recipe makes a meal uniquely yours.
Why is studying intervals like learning the chemistry behind baking?
Intervals explain how notes work together just as understanding chemistry explains why ingredients interact in a recipe.
How is jamming with a group like cooking a meal with friends?
Collaborating builds teamwork and creativity just like cooking together creates shared experiences and delicious results.
Why is celebrating milestones like enjoying a perfectly baked cake?
Marking progress reminds you how far you’ve come just like savoring a great cake rewards your effort.
How is playing with dynamics like adding salt or spice to a dish?
Dynamics give life to a performance just as seasoning transforms a meal from bland to exciting.
How is learning theory like following a recipe to the letter?
Music theory provides structure just like recipes guide you through creating a dish step-by-step.
Why is experimenting with tunings like experimenting with different cooking methods?
Tunings alter the feel and sound of your playing just like grilling or steaming changes the flavor of a dish.
Why is practicing little and often like snacking throughout the day instead of one big meal?
Consistent small practice sessions keep you sharp
How is learning guitar techniques like mastering brush strokes?
Techniques create the building blocks for expression just as brush strokes are essential to creating a painting.
Why is experimenting with tone like mixing paint colors?
Different tones bring a character to your sound… just like mixing colors add feelings and moods to a painting.
How is finding your own style like developing your artistic signature?
Your style defines you just as an artist’s unique touches make their work instantly recognizable.
How is learning to improvise like painting freestyle without an outline?
Improvisation frees your creativity just as painting without a plan allows for spontaneous beauty.
Why is playing with others like collaborating on a mural?
Group playing creates something bigger than you can do alone just as a mural is a collective artistic achievement.
How is learning arpeggios like creating detailed textures in a painting?
Arpeggios add complexity and richness to your music just as textures add layers to your artwork.
Why is building a consistent practice schedule like setting aside regular time to paint?
Consistency builds skill just like regularly painting sharpens your technique and creativity.
How is focusing on your progress instead of comparison like painting for yourself not for critics?
Progress becomes fulfilling when it’s personal.
Why is reflecting on your practice like stepping back to view your painting from a distance?
Reflection shows where adjustments are needed just as stepping back helps you see the big picture in art.
How is buying the right guitar like finding the perfect set of brushes for painting?
The right guitar feels natural and enhances your playing just as the right brushes make painting easier and more enjoyable.
Why is trying different playing techniques like experimenting with different painting tools?
Each technique offers new possibilities just as different tools create varied effects in painting.
How is playing with emotion like using bold colors in a painting? Emotion makes your music memorable
just as bold colors grab attention in art.
Why is trusting the process like letting paint dry before adding the next layer? Patience leads to better results
just as allowing layers to dry creates a more polished painting.
How is studying guitar masters like visiting art galleries for inspiration? Watching the greats inspires your creativity
just as seeing art masterpieces informs your technique.
Why is learning from mistakes like turning a painting mistake into a new idea? Mistakes are opportunities for growth
just as happy accidents in art can lead to unexpected beauty.
Why is playing regularly like always having a sketchbook nearby? Regular practice keeps you sharp and inspired
just as sketching keeps an artist’s skills fresh.
Why is setting clear goals in guitar practice like planning a road trip?
Without clear goals, practicing is like driving aimlessly. When you know your destination (what you want to achieve), every practice session becomes a step closer, just like following a map to your road trip destination.
How is learning the CAGED system like mastering basic knife skills in cooking?
The CAGED system breaks down the fretboard into manageable chunks, just like knife skills simplify cutting. It’s a foundational technique that helps you navigate efficiently and elevate your ‘guitar recipes.’
Why is experimenting with new chords or techniques like trying new colors in painting?
Experimenting adds depth and personality to your playing. Like painting with unique colors, new chords or techniques let you create art that stands out and reflects your style.
Why should you ask yourself why you want to play guitar, like understanding why you’re starting a journey?
Knowing your ‘why’ is like choosing a destination. It ensures every practice session has purpose, just like every journey has a reason behind it.
How is setting a practice schedule like planning your daily commute?
A practice schedule keeps you on track, like a set commute prevents you from wasting time wandering aimlessly.
How is learning with a friend similar to carpooling?
Just like carpooling makes the ride more enjoyable and efficient, learning guitar with a friend keeps you motivated and accountable.
Why is recording yourself like checking your car’s dashboard?
Recording is like checking your speed and fuel levels—it gives feedback on how you’re doing and what needs adjusting.
How is practicing little and often like fueling up regularly instead of running on empty?
Small, consistent practice sessions keep your progress moving smoothly, just like regular refueling keeps your car running.
Why is starting with simple songs like learning basic recipes?
Basic songs are like simple recipes—they teach fundamental skills that form the foundation for more complex creations.
How is experimenting with alternate tunings like trying new spices in a dish?
New tunings, like spices, add unique flavor and open up creative possibilities you hadn’t thought of before.
How is warming up before playing like preheating an oven?
Warming up prepares your fingers for action, just like preheating ensures the dish cooks evenly and effectively.
Why is understanding scales like knowing the core ingredients in cooking?
Scales are the ingredients for melodies and solos, just like flour or eggs are staples for countless dishes.
Why is joining a band like cooking with a team in a busy kitchen?
Playing in a band teaches you timing and collaboration, just as cooking with a team demands coordination and rhythm.
Why is mastering barre chords like learning to sketch outlines in painting?
Barre chords create the structure for songs, just like outlines form the foundation of a painting.
How is playing with finesse like blending colors smoothly in a painting?
Finesse makes your music expressive and polished, just like blending enhances the depth and realism of a painting.
Why is using a metronome like sketching with a ruler?
A metronome helps you stay in time, just like a ruler ensures straight, precise lines in your artwork.
How is learning arpeggios like painting detailed textures?
Arpeggios add intricate beauty to your playing, just like textured brushstrokes bring a painting to life.
Why is transposing songs like switching color palettes in painting?
Transposing shifts the feel of a song, just as choosing new colors changes the mood of a painting.
How is having a comfortable guitar action like adjusting your car seat for the perfect fit?
A properly set-up guitar is easier to play, just like an adjusted seat makes driving comfortable and safe.
How is learning the fretboard like knowing all the streets in your hometown?
When you know the fretboard, you can navigate songs effortlessly, like driving with confidence on familiar roads.
How is practicing with others like driving in a convoy?
Playing with others teaches you to stay in sync and adapt to their pace, just like driving in a group requires coordination.
Why is trust in the learning process like trusting GPS on an unfamiliar route?
Progress isn’t always clear, but trusting the steps ensures you get there, just like GPS guides you even when you can’t see the destination yet.
How is improvising during solos like adding your own twist to a recipe?
Improvisation lets you personalize a song, just like tweaking a recipe makes it your own.
Why is understanding keys like knowing which herbs pair well with specific dishes?
Keys define the song’s flavor, just as the right herbs enhance the taste of a meal.
How is developing your ear like training your palate?
Just as a trained palate can distinguish flavors, a trained ear helps you recognize musical patterns and nuances.
Why is jamming with others like hosting a potluck?
Everyone brings something unique, creating a shared experience that’s richer than what you could create alone.
Why is repetition like painting layers on a canvas?
Repeating difficult parts builds depth and mastery, just like layering paint creates richness in a piece.
How is playing with dynamics like working with light and shadow in a painting?
Dynamics bring emotional depth to your music, just as light and shadow create drama in a painting.
Why is celebrating milestones like signing your name on a completed painting?
Acknowledging your progress affirms your effort and inspires you to continue creating.
Why is it important to ask yourself why you want to learn guitar?
It gives your practice sessions focus and a long-term goal.
Understanding your motivation can help guide your learning journey.
What should you know about your goals in learning guitar?
You should know what you truly want out of it, whether it’s performing, relaxing, or something else.
Setting clear goals enhances your focus and direction.
Fill in the blank: Without clear goals, you’ll be ______.
aimlessly adrift
What is a practice schedule and why is it important?
A practice schedule is a realistic plan for how much time you can dedicate to guitar practice. It’s important for consistency and improvement.
What should you do if you miss a practice session?
Don’t beat yourself up; it’s normal to be flexible with your schedule.
How can keeping a practice diary help you?
It helps you stay focused, track progress, and identify areas for improvement.
What is better: practicing a little every day or a lot once a week?
Practicing a little every day.
Why is it important not to focus on too many things at once while learning guitar?
It prevents you from spreading yourself too thin and allows for mastery of specific skills.
What is an ideal practice environment?
A space where you can focus without disturbances.
Why should you buy guitar books?
Books provide structured learning and valuable resources that can complement online content.
How can YouTube be beneficial for learning guitar?
It offers millions of free lessons from various instructors.
What is the advantage of taking online courses for guitar?
They help eliminate distractions and provide focused learning.
What is the benefit of getting a private tutor?
A skilled tutor can tailor lessons to your specific goals and accelerate your learning.
How can learning with a friend enhance your guitar skills?
It provides motivation, accountability, and a support system.
What can you gain from playing with others?
New skills, experiences, and potentially lasting friendships.
What are open mic nights useful for?
They provide opportunities to perform and meet other musicians.
What is the benefit of joining a band?
It enhances your playing, confidence, and musical awareness.
Fill in the blank: Always be growing your ______ vocabulary.
chord
What are arpeggios?
Arpeggios are the notes of a chord played in sequence.
Why is learning scales important?
They help in understanding keys and are essential for soloing and songwriting.
Should you learn music theory?
It depends on the individual; it can aid some players but frustrate others.
Why is developing your ear important?
It allows you to play by ear without relying on sheet music.
How does using a metronome benefit your playing?
It improves your timing and rhythm.
What does it mean to ‘trust the process’?
It means to be patient and persistent, knowing that consistent effort will lead to improvement.
Why is learning the notes on the fretboard helpful?
It aids navigation and understanding of the guitar.
What is the significance of learning your keys?
It allows you to play songs in various keys with greater ease.
What is the purpose of a capo?
It facilitates transposing keys and simplifies playing certain chords.
What does it mean to transpose music?
It involves changing the key of a song while maintaining the same chord shapes.
Why should you study intervals?
Understanding intervals helps with note relationships and chord construction.
What should you consider when buying a guitar?
Your personal preferences for sound, feel, and aesthetics.
Why is it important to find the right gear?
Personal preferences for strings, effects, and amps can greatly affect your playing experience.
True or False: You should always emulate famous guitarists.
False
What is the importance of experimenting with your playing?
Creativity can lead to new techniques and personal style development.
What should you expect from your guitar learning journey?
It is a lifelong process with ups and downs.
What should you do when you have a bad day with your guitar?
Accept it and continue practicing the next day.
Why should you never think you know it all?
There’s always more to learn, and staying humble is key to growth.
What is the benefit of keeping your guitar in a stand?
It encourages more frequent playing.
How can having multiple guitars in your home help?
Based on “60 Surefire Ways to Get Better at the Guitar” by Chris Murrin of “Six String Fingerpicking” at www.sixstringfingerpicking.com
It increases the likelihood of playing more often.
What is one of the unexpected benefits of teaching guitar?
It reinforces your own knowledge and skills.
What is a benefit of keeping your guitar visible?
You will pick it up and play it more often
The saying ‘out of sight, out of mind’ applies; keeping the guitar in sight encourages usage.
How can having multiple guitars around your home benefit your playing?
Based on “60 Surefire Ways to Get Better at the Guitar” by Chris Murrin of “Six String Fingerpicking” at www.sixstringfingerpicking.com
You’ll be picking it up all the time and they look pretty
Having guitars readily accessible encourages practice.
What is a key advantage of teaching guitar?
It helps deepen your own understanding of the instrument
Teaching requires you to know the material well and anticipate questions.
What should you prioritize when learning a song?
Based on “60 Surefire Ways to Get Better at the Guitar” by Chris Murrin of “Six String Fingerpicking” at www.sixstringfingerpicking.com
Learn the song all the way through from start to finish
Completing a song is a significant milestone in learning an instrument.
Why is it important to build a repertoire?
People want to hear songs
Practicing exercises is less fulfilling than being able to play tunes.
What is an ideal practice environment?
A space where you’re not frequently disturbed
A focused environment enhances learning and concentration.
What is the purpose of studying iconic musicians?
To learn unique techniques and be inspired
Observing their playing can enhance your own skills.
What benefit comes from attending live gigs?
Inspiration to play more and enjoyment
Watching your favorite artists can motivate your practice.
What is a basic practice tip before playing?
Warm up your fingers
Warming up helps prevent injury and prepares you for playing.
What should you focus on to develop fretting hand mechanics?
Use drills and fretboard exercises
These exercises strengthen fingers and enhance speed and dexterity.
Why is repetition important in learning guitar?
It helps you do things effortlessly
Repeating a skill until mastered is key to improvement.
What are barre chords known for?
They are hard but essential for playing chords across the fretboard
Mastering barre chords expands your playing capabilities.
What should be done to ensure a comfortable guitar action?
Have a guitar technician set it at an easy-to-play height
A comfortable action reduces strain and improves playability.
What is a valuable practice tool to assess your playing?
Record yourself
Listening to recordings helps identify areas for improvement.
What should you care about in your playing?
The small details and finesse
Making your playing sound good is as important as hitting the right notes.
How should you take care of your guitar?
Avoid extreme temperatures and clean it regularly
Proper maintenance prolongs the life of the instrument.
Why should you use a tuner?
To ensure your guitar is in tune
Tuning affects sound quality and playability.
What is a benefit of writing your own songs?
It gives a sense of achievement
Songwriting is a form of practice and creativity.
What does the CAGED system help with?
It breaks up the fretboard into manageable chunks
Learning the CAGED system aids in navigating the fretboard.
What should you do when achieving milestones in your guitar learning?
Celebrate your achievements
Recognizing progress is important for motivation.
True or False: Being a slow learner means you won’t catch up to faster learners.
False
Consistent practice can lead to eventual mastery regardless of initial speed.
What is the most important aspect of learning guitar?
Have fun
Enjoying the process enhances motivation and learning.
What is the overall message of the 60 tips for guitar playing?
Learning guitar is challenging but achievable with practice and enjoyment
Breaking down skills into manageable steps makes progress easier.
