by Joseph Brenna | Nov 21, 2015 | Chords, Creativity & Songwriting
The Trick Cool trick that’s embedded in the nature of guitar: wringing exotic new sounds from shopworn guitar chords. It’s simple to accomplish and opens the gates to new sonic worlds. It’s a songwriter’s paradise, and you don’t have to...
by Joseph Brenna | Aug 24, 2015 | Chords, Technique
Open Chords Learning basic open chords, those that contain some fretted notes and some open strings, is a fun and important early step in every guitar player’s journey. The ring of an open chord is magical, and few instruments create a similar experience. But along...
by Joseph Brenna | Apr 3, 2014 | Chords, Improv & Lead Guitar |
In our first lesson on the blues, we learned in 6 steps the 12 bar blues form, the chords involved, and how to play rhythm guitar through the form. Beginning with step 7 below we’ll move on to lead guitar playing. 7) Learn the Blues Scale If you know the minor...
by Joseph Brenna | Mar 31, 2014 | Chords, Improv & Lead Guitar
Playing the blues is a great way to get into improvisation, phrasing, rhythm guitar, swing feel and shuffle grooves. Here’s a step-by-step how to. 1) Choose a Key Any key will do but some guitar friendly blues keys are E, A and G. If you happen to be jamming with...
by Joseph Brenna | Dec 3, 2013 | Chords, Technique |
Barre chords can be the breaking point for many beginning guitarists. Everyone who has learned them knows that they can cause a lot of frustration and discomfort. One issue is that every guitarist’s hands and fingers are shaped a little differently, so it can be...
