There are several ways to learn how to play a guitar. One would be classical instruction while another might be called the Christopher Columbus Method, "Discover it and Land on it." This technique is exemplified in learning to play popular songs on the guitar by ear. Many popular musicians have learned the guitar by plinking along with the radio or their stereo until they pick up the melody and can strum along. Others and more accomplished musicians found it much more efficient to receive instruction. Having a teacher means that correct skills can be acquired quickly rather than by trial and error, and bad habits are avoided.
Brain Connection
Successful play of popular songs on the guitar means that the artist has enough knowledge and skill to convert hearing to their fingers without thinking about it. The mechanics of music must be internalized and not the result of thought. Practice, repeated practice burns the motions of music in to automatic responses much like keyboard typing on the computer. The typist must not think, they must rely on the learning patterns they have developed over time in practice. More typing mistakes occur as a result of thinking rather than doing.
In the same way playing popular songs on the guitar or any instrument requires patience, diligence and practice, practice, practice. It is a well understood principle that there is a relationship between music skills and creativity, but science has found that music skills actually create specialized neural pathways that otherwise would not exist. Brain matter is more effectively utilized in young people who acquire musical skills. A similar response occurs with learning a foreign language if it is initiated early enough in life. It is for this reason that learned music skills for children is a vital way to enhance their development. Moreover, it allows them to express themselves in creative ways that expands verbal skills and attention span.
Simple Beginnings
Beginners should begin with simple compositions to develop basic skill but also choose some songs that are fun. After all, we learn to play and instrument because we like music first. Without fun and familiar or popular songs on the guitar, disinterest results as the discomfort of practice overcomes the desire to learn. Have fun first. Make it interesting. Focus on both the immediate results, with an eye on the future. It will help you to keep from quitting and every step of music mastery will provide new rewards and challenges.
Variety
So exposure to a variety of music resources is an important step in the development of style and appreciation. Besides conventional forms of music, adaptation of different instruments and even household items to make music combined with scores and lyrics enhance the flexibility of music expression. And like syntax and idioms of a new language, the nuances of tempo and dynamics of music must be internalized so as to avoid disruptive or incongruous play. Much can be leaned by watching and hearing accomplished artists play the guitar. Study of instructional videos is also helpful because skill can be taught and acquired quickly from repeat observation and practice.
Make games out of playing popular songs on the guitar and invite others to participate. Perhaps a garage band is an outlet for you or maybe you have someone you seek to impress. Either way involving others will heighten your commitment. Keep the reward of accomplishment in front of you and your diligence will pay off.
Commitment
Flawless strumming comes with frequent practice. You will move from simple chord strumming to single string picking and then you will be able to perform complex compositions. Your motivation cannot be based on what you are now but rather what you intend to become. Don't give up.
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