The Basic Techniques of Guitar Practice (No Experience Required)

Join us for a snack, drink and a lively discussion on beginner guitar study.
1. Basic Positioning

• How to hold the guitar properly (sitting vs standing with a strap).
• Correct left-hand finger placement on the fretboard.
• Proper right-hand strumming or picking posture.

2. Open Chords

• Learn essential open-position chords: C, G, D, E, A, Em, Am.
• Practice smooth transitions between chords.

3. Strumming & Rhythm

• Downstrokes and upstrokes.
• Counting beats (4/4 time is most common).
• Simple strumming patterns for songs.

4. Finger Exercises

• Chromatic exercises to build finger independence and strength.
• Stretching across frets gradually.

5. Scales (Basics)

• Open position major scale.
• Pentatonic scale (often used for solos and riffs).

6. Picking Techniques

• Alternate picking (down-up-down-up).
• Simple single-note riffs to practice accuracy.

7. Barre Chords (Intro Level)

• Start with F major (the classic barre “challenge”).
• Understanding how one shape can move up and down the neck.

8. Ear & Song Practice

• Play along with easy songs you like.
• Train your ear to recognize chord changes and rhythms.