If you’ve been learning guitar for a while, you’ve probably come across the term Dorian mode. It’s one of the seven musical modes and has a unique sound that sits between major and minor. If you’re into jazz, blues, rock, or funk, mastering the Dorian mode can take your playing to the next level. Let’s…
Ever wonder why some songs make you feel like conquering the world while others make you want to stare out the window dramatically? That’s the magic of modes! Modes are like different flavors of a scale that completely change the mood of a song. Understanding modes is key in whether you want your music to…
It’s 11 p.m. You just got off a gig and are heading home. You decide to pull into a Wendy’s for a quick snack. You ask for a Baconator Jr. and a small french fry. The voice on the drive-through intercom asks, “Anything else?” and you respond, “Large Dr. Pepper, please.” Unbeknownst to you, the…
A smooth chord transition is one of the biggest hurdles for beginner guitarists. It can feel frustrating when your fingers don’t move fast enough, but don’t worry, every guitarist has been there! With the right approach, you’ll learn about chord transition like a pro in no time. Here’s how to do it. 1. Start Slow…
The melodic minor scale is a powerful and versatile tool in a musician’s arsenal, particularly for jazz players. Unlike the natural minor and harmonic minor scales, the melodic minor has a unique structure that makes it incredibly useful for improvisation, chord voicings, and harmonic flexibility. But what makes the melodic minor scale so special? Let’s…
Learning how to hold a guitar properly is one of the first steps to becoming a confident player. Whether you choose an acoustic or an electric guitar, holding it correctly ensures comfort, good posture, and better technique. While the fundamentals are similar, there are a few key differences between holding an acoustic versus an electric…
The natural minor scale is one of the most fundamental scales in music, providing a darker, more emotional feel compared to the bright and happy major scale. If you are a beginner guitarist or musician, learning the natural minor scale is essential for expanding your musical vocabulary and understanding how melodies and harmonies work in…
If you’re new to playing the guitar, one of the best places to start with scales is the pentatonic scale. It’s simple, sounds great, and forms the foundation for countless songs across rock, blues, and pop music. In this guide, we’ll break down the pentatonic scale, why it’s a beginner’s best friend, and how you…
I invented a musical scale! Sort of. Not really – well kinda. Actually, not at all. Let me explain. One of my favorite things to teach is how to improvise musically – you know, ‘shred a solo’ or whatever you want to call it. You get to free yourself from the shackles of written lines…
When it comes to practicing guitar, repetition is essential for building muscle memory and improving technique. But let’s be honest—mindlessly playing the same riffs and scales over and over can get boring. That’s where guitar loops come in! Using loops can transform your practice sessions into engaging, dynamic, and creative experiences. In this blog, we’ll…