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Beginning Metal Guitar Workshop Part 1 |
Perhaps the most defining trait of Metal music is incredible, blazing guitar riffs and shredding leads. Though implemented differently, every sub-genre of Metal shares this common theme.
Learning to play an instrument is quite a rewarding experience. Overcoming what seems impossible at first will give you the motivation to continue making breakthroughs. Every riff or lick learned builds your knowledge and influences your style.
So you want to play but don't know where to begin? The following pages will act as a springboard to get you started. Do not be intimidated by the seemingly vertical learning curve at first. Learning to play guitar or any other instrument is a stepped process in which plateaus are reached one at a time. There are no shortcuts. It will likely take a few months before you will begin to feel comfortable with a guitar in your lap. Practicing every day is critical during the initial phases to build muscle memory in your hands. Your fingers will hurt until calluses developed in the fretting areas and your hand will cramp because previously unused muscles will be getting a workout.
Getting started
To begin you will need a guitar (obviously!), small practice amp, cord and a pick. Much has been written about choosing the "right" beginners guitar. Some people suggest skipping the entry level guitars ($100-$200) and going for an intermediate level axe right away. The mentality being that you will be starting with a higher quality instrument so there will be no need to upgrade in 6-12 months after learning to play. I cannot dispute that fact however would counter that the entry level guitars of today are far superior to those of years past. Also, if you decide guitar is not right for you, it is better to have $200 collecting dust than $600. Further once you know how to play, you can shred on any guitar. |
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