Exploring Finger Style Guitar: A Comprehensive Guide for Newbies in Chicago

As a Chicagoland band director with a decade of experience playing acoustic rhythm guitar, you're now looking to delve into the world of finger style guitar arrangements. This transition can seem daunting, but fear not, as there are countless resources available to help you get started. In this article, we will explore some of the best methods and materials to aid your journey into finger style guitar.

Why Videos Are Your Best Friend

When it comes to learning finger style guitar, YouTube has become an invaluable resource. While there are many print materials and DVDs available, the dynamic and interactive nature of video tutorials sets them apart. Many committed guitarists have shared their expertise through YouTube, creating a wealth of content that covers everything from basic techniques to advanced performance skills.

Why YouTube?

Convenience: You can learn from wherever and whenever you want, as long as you have a stable internet connection.

Visual Learning: Watching someone play and explaining the techniques can make the learning process much more engaging and less frustrating.

Community: Joining online guitar communities can provide support and inspiration for your journey.

Consider starting with some recommended channels:

Pat Donohue's channel:

Mark Hanson's tutorials: _querymark hanson finger style guitar

Trey Songz's lessons: _querytrey songz finger style guitar

Simply type finger style guitar in the YouTube search bar, and you'll be set for at least six months of practice and learning!

Starting Simple

For beginners, starting with simpler tunes based around a Travis picking style is highly recommended. Travis picking is a strumming technique that involves a specific order of finger or pick placement, allowing you to play complex chord progressions with a consistent and melodic rhythm. It's a great way to get a feel for the basics of finger style guitar.

Educational Materials:

Mark Hanson's Books: He has published several books that are tailored to beginners and intermediate players, offering a step-by-step approach to mastering finger style techniques.

Online Tutorials: Along with video tutorials, there are many websites that offer free lessons and tutorials for finger style guitar. These can be very helpful in reinforcing what you've learned.

Community and Support

Learning a new instrument can be overwhelming, and having a supportive community can make all the difference. Consider joining local or online guitar communities, where you can:

Share progress and struggles.

Learn from more experienced musicians.

Get feedback on your playing.

In addition, attending local workshops or guitar meetups can provide hands-on learning and networking opportunities with fellow musicians.

Remember, the key to success is consistency and practice. Start slow, and gradually work your way up to more challenging pieces. Patience and persistence are essential!

Conclusion

Whether you're a veteran in the local music scene or just starting out, the journey into finger style guitar is a fascinating and rewarding one. With the wealth of resources available online and through community channels, you have everything you need to embark on this musical adventure. Happy playing!

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Social Proof:

Here are a few testimonials from people who successfully transitioned from acoustic rhythm guitar to finger style:

I was skeptical at first, but after following Mark Hanson's finger style guitar videos, I found myself improving more than I ever thought possible. It's amazing what you can achieve with just a few simple techniques! — John D., Chicago guitarist

Pat Donohue's tutorials on YouTube made me fall in love with finger style guitar. It was like discovering a whole new world of musical expression. — Jane S., Chicago musician