As the year draws to a close, it's the perfect time to look back on your musical journey. We think about the progress we've made, the songs we've enjoyed, but also the mistakes we could have avoided. For me, 2024 has been a year rich in learning and sharing with you, the community. Le Guitovore. Thank you for your support, your comments, and your enthusiasm.
In this article, I will answer a simple but crucial question: What would I do differently if I started playing guitar again today? This reflection is an opportunity to share advice that could prevent others from making the same mistakes as me. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced guitarist, these ideas can inspire you to enrich your practice.
Take classes from the start
When I started playing guitar, I was self-taught. While this approach allowed me to develop a certain freedom, it also left me with gaps. For example, I learned chord positions without understanding their construction or harmonic logic.
A good teacher can give you a solid foundation to progress faster. They can correct your bad habits from the beginning, such as poor posture or approximate technique. Today, online platforms and accessible private lessons allow you to benefit from personalized advice.
If you are just starting out, invest in a few courses, even for a short period of time. The benefits will be immense.
Playing with other musicians
During my early years, I mostly played alone in my room. While this allowed me to explore at my own pace, it deprived me of the unique experience of playing with others.
Playing in a band or with a partner pushes you to be more precise, work on your listening, and understand how to fit into an ensemble. It can be intimidating at first, but each jam session will make you progress at an incredible speed.
You don’t need to find a band right away. Start by playing with a friend or attending local workshops. You’ll discover that music is all about connection.
Explore other instruments
From guitar, I quickly tinkered with bass and even drums, but without really deepening my knowledge. Learning piano, for example, would have helped me better understand music theory. The piano offers a clear view of intervals and chord progressions that the guitar can sometimes hide due to its more complex layout.
Additionally, playing multiple instruments enriches your musical sensibility. You learn to think differently, which can inspire your compositions or arrangements. So, if you have the opportunity, don't limit yourself to the guitar.
Practice with a metronome
Playing with a metronome is not only helpful for getting the tempo right, it's also essential for developing impeccable timing and developing an unwavering sense of rhythm.
The metronome helps you feel the strong and weak beats, work on your rhythmic placements and become more comfortable with rhythm changes. Even if it's frustrating at first, keep at it. You'll quickly see a difference in your playing.
Play Every Day with Intention
I remember spending hours playing without any real goal. While it helped me develop my fluency, I could have progressed faster if I had practiced with more intention.
When you play, ask yourself questions:
- What do I want to improve today?
- What is my goal for this piece or exercise?
Even 15 minutes of focused practice can be more effective than an hour of random play.
Conclusion: Learn from your mistakes to move forward better
These five lessons are the result of my years of practice and reflection. If I could do it all over again, I would do it differently, but I am also grateful for the journey I have made and the challenges I have overcome.
To those of you just starting out or looking to improve, remember: guitar is a journey, not a destination. Take the time to enjoy each step, learn from your mistakes, and surround yourself with musicians who inspire you.
Thanks again for your support in 2024. Stay tuned for the many upcoming projects on the channel and on the site Le Guitovore. Good practice and see you soon!