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Posted by: Marek Rojewski Feb 24 2009, 07:20 PM

Hi there Monte! I haven't expected the MTP to start so fast, but that's a good surprise:)

So first I will tell a bit about myself..

My name is Marek and I am 22 years old. Years ago I decided to buy a classical guitar. I think it was 8-9 years ago. I learned basic chords, some barre chords, also many songs from tabs. The progress wasn't huge, but stable. 6 years ago I bought my electric guitar, and after few tries with it, I concluded that I sucks and will never be good at playing ( how great is that ). After that I stopped learning new things, because I didn't believe in myself and also started dating with my girlfriend ( well ex now for few months after 5 years.. ). Not going into details I haven't learned to much over the years, playing same simple stuff, and learning rarely. The date I joined GMC is more less when the idea to try to learn playing arose again. Since than I improved, not as much as I could, but that is because I have some motivation problems, and also must study hard + work...

1. The weakest spot ( like there was a strong one ) It could be said I have no theory knowledge. I still have to learn where are certain notes on the fretboard. When it comes to pentatonic box, I can play all the boxes one after another, so I do know "box shapes". Still the only exercise I did about that was playing them up and down, box after box with the metronome.

2. I think I know how to practice with the metronome, although I don't like it. I rather play along guitar pro, or what I like the most with a backing track. In fact my "practicing" is warming up and after that learning lessons and playing them with backing tracks. I most probably will have to practice with metronome anyhow, as I need to improve my speed.

3. Oh my, that is really a tough question! I am not into shred to much, but if I could play those lvl 10 shred lessons, than I could surely be able to play the easier lessons also...

4. Well, I think that working with someone ( so with You in our situation ) will motivate me to keep stable practicing. I have no strict goals when it comes to my guitar playing. I would like to improve both at rhythm playing and soloing. I am a beginner so all my techniques need improvement, the technique that doesn't appeal to me is sweeping. We can say that rhythm lessons can be the first to concentrate on.

I will write more later, and am willing to answer any questions:)

Posted by: lcsdds Feb 24 2009, 09:12 PM

Hi Marek. Please download the tab in the main thread please. Unless you don't have guitar pro that is. Also, tell me what it is you want to work on first and I will recommend some lessons. Talk soon and check the main board soon for your first assignment.

Posted by: lcsdds Feb 24 2009, 10:30 PM

Hi Marek. First assignment can be found on the main thread. Post here if you have any questions about it. Also, post here and let me know what you want to start working on with your playing and I'll get you pointed in the right direction. It can be anything. Technique, rhythm etc. Looking forward to working with you!

Posted by: Marek Rojewski Feb 24 2009, 10:54 PM

Hello again:) I have tux guitar, so can open guitar pro files without any problems:)

Firstly I will write what lesson I learned/learn.

Carlos Carnillo - Melodic Solo in Gm - we can say this lesson is "learned". The video is already on video responses and upload section.

Jeff Curtis - Melodic Tapping - well the last tapping part is still to be learned up to speed.

Lian Garbino:
- Blind Guardian Style lesson - the fast scale run in the middle is what I can't do in time. Sometimes in 140 bpm I can do it, but most of the time do some mistakes also in that speed.
- Slayer beginner - well it was easy for me and learned it in few takes.

Marcus Siepen:
- Basic Rhythm Guitar - surely it could be played cleaner, but more less "learned". Will have to make a video.
- Black Sabbath Style - control over harmonics is very poor, otherwise quite good. On 130 bpm I play with more feeling, at full speed I play it less "soulfully" I think..
- Pentatonic Solo - also need polishing and speed improvement.

Daniel Robinson:
- George Lynch Style - I think I can play it quite good, will have to make a video also..
- Etude - hmm sweeping parts are terrible, otherwise quite good

Trond Vold:
- Picking Exercise - can play it at 80bpm, at 100 bpm I fail at the last part or even if not - my hand tense up as the speed and concentration is to much for me.
- Rock Solo Beginner - can't do the last pull off ending part.

Gabriel Leopardi:
- Muse Style - can play it, but it need more cleanness for sure.
- Megadeth Style - learned, palm muted middle could be cleaner
- Power Metal Rhythm - still to be learned properly

Pavel Denisjuk:
- Heavy Metal for Beginners 1,2,3 - can be marked as "learned".
- Hand Control - 60-80 bpm backings can do it, faster = mistakes

Kai Muchlenbrunch:
- Downstrokes Only - "learned", but as this lesson is so "headbanging" I am not sure if I play it clean or not:D

There are other lessons that I practiced, but these are the ones I remember well.


I think that something concerning cleanness and speed would be appropriate. Here is a list of lessons ( not all of them ) that I added to my bookmark to practice later, but haven't started/gave it enough attention:
Little Finger Work-out, Alternate Workout, AC/DC Style, Blues Soloing - Beginner, Black Sabbath Style Lesson ( Gabriels one ), Alice in Chains Style Lesson, Joe Satriani Style Rock , Neoclassical Etude #1, Rhythm Exercise.

Posted by: lcsdds Feb 25 2009, 12:45 AM

QUOTE (Marek Rojewski @ Feb 24 2009, 10:54 PM)

Posted by: Marek Rojewski Feb 25 2009, 10:09 AM

I am happy with Your choice Monte:) I will enjoy learning and playing this one. I hope to upload what You expect by Saturday, not later than on Sunday ( I have my last "winter session" exam at the university at Saturday morning ). Should I encounter any problems I will ask here:)

Posted by: lcsdds Feb 25 2009, 11:35 AM

QUOTE (Marek Rojewski @ Feb 25 2009, 10:09 AM)

Posted by: Marek Rojewski Feb 26 2009, 04:09 PM

Hmm improving my left hand abilities would come in handy for sure, as I have weak fingers, and I struggle for example with the pull-off ending part in Trond - Rock Solo Beginner lesson. So a bit of legato practice won't be bad for sure:)

Posted by: lcsdds Feb 26 2009, 05:58 PM

QUOTE (Marek Rojewski @ Feb 26 2009, 04:09 PM)

Posted by: Marek Rojewski Feb 26 2009, 07:33 PM

Well just sat with guitar for half an hour to check it, and well I can play it up to tempo at 55bpm with GuitarPro, at 75bpm I can't do it. What is more, it surely wasn't played with enough force, I mean the sound wasn't as strong as it should, and after 20 minutes of this "legato test" my hand tensed up and started to ache, but I don't know the right words to describe where:/ "the outside side" of the palm, the connection with the first finger. But well, the pain went away quickly, and it wasn't big, and I had no proper warm up so most probably it just the way it has to be when You have weak fingers, tensed up and pushing the strings without rest. Also it took my a while before I found out how many notes should I play in one metronome click.. So my metronome skills aren't good

I am also not able to play the "natural harmonics thingy" in bar 10, but that is "magic" to me..

So should I lower the tempo even more, to practice the 28 bar legato run, so that maybe my hand wouldn't tense up so much, or stay at 55 bpm and increase it gradually from there?

Posted by: lcsdds Feb 26 2009, 07:50 PM

QUOTE (Marek Rojewski @ Feb 26 2009, 07:33 PM)

Well just sat with guitar for half an hour to check it, and well I can play it up to tempo at 55bpm with GuitarPro, at 75bpm I can't do it. What is more, it surely wasn't played with enough force, I mean the sound wasn't as strong as it should, and after 20 minutes of this "legato test" my hand tensed up and started to ache, but I don't know the right words to describe where:/ "the outside side" of the palm, the connection with the first finger. But well, the pain went away quickly, and it wasn't big, and I had no proper warm up so most probably it just the way it has to be when You have weak fingers, tensed up and pushing the strings without rest. Also it took my a while before I found out how many notes should I play in one metronome click.. So my metronome skills aren't good

I am also not able to play the "natural harmonics thingy" in bar 10, but that is "magic" to me..

So should I lower the tempo even more, to practice the 28 bar legato run, so that maybe my hand wouldn't tense up so much, or stay at 55 bpm and increase it gradually from there?

Posted by: Marek Rojewski Feb 26 2009, 07:52 PM

Sounds good, I will do my best to upload the video on the weekend:)

Posted by: lcsdds Feb 26 2009, 08:08 PM

QUOTE (Marek Rojewski @ Feb 26 2009, 07:52 PM)

Posted by: Marek Rojewski Feb 26 2009, 10:15 PM

Well I had some time, so I recorded me playing the 1 ionian box as You wanted ( up and down, twice ), and all 5 boxes of pentatonic scale ( did one mistake in third box, also up and down ). The file is much bigger than it should, I modified some older "file" and it was long... Anyway it won't take years to hear it.

 exercise.mp3 ( 4.81MB ) : 181

Posted by: lcsdds Feb 26 2009, 10:21 PM

QUOTE (Marek Rojewski @ Feb 26 2009, 10:15 PM)

Well I had some time, so I recorded me playing the 1 ionian box as You wanted ( up and down, twice ), and all 5 boxes of pentatonic scale ( did one mistake in third box, also up and down ). The file is much bigger than it should, I modified some older "file" and it was long... Anyway it won't take years to hear it.

 exercise.mp3 ( 4.81MB ) : 181

Posted by: Marek Rojewski Feb 26 2009, 10:46 PM

Sure thing, will do. The triad thing is quite amusing I must admit. Not really familiar with these
2
2
4
shapes. But it can't be difficult can it?

Also I have found a great site with mp3 metronome clicks, here is the http://www.reztronics.com/prod01.htm
Wondered how to insert clicking into reaper, and this is exactly what I needed. Will share the site in separate topic also:)

Posted by: lcsdds Feb 26 2009, 11:02 PM

QUOTE (Marek Rojewski @ Feb 26 2009, 10:46 PM)

Sure thing, will do. The triad thing is quite amusing I must admit. Not really familiar with these
2
2
4
shapes. But it can't be difficult can it?

Also I have found a great site with mp3 metronome clicks, here is the http://www.reztronics.com/prod01.htm
Wondered how to insert clicking into reaper, and this is exactly what I needed. Will share the site in separate topic also:)

Posted by: lcsdds Feb 27 2009, 04:12 PM

Hi Marek. I'm getting ready to give an assingment for next week and I need your help. Can you look up what notes can be found in the scale of D Major? Thanks dude!!

Posted by: Marek Rojewski Feb 27 2009, 04:34 PM

Well D, E, F♯, G, A, B, C♯, these are the notes. I had to check Andrew theory lesson for the formula...

Posted by: lcsdds Feb 27 2009, 05:25 PM

QUOTE (Marek Rojewski @ Feb 27 2009, 04:34 PM)

Posted by: lcsdds Feb 28 2009, 12:31 PM

Hi Marek,
I am wanting to solo over a C mixolydian chord progression. From reading the posts I did in the main thread can you answer the following questions please?

1) Is this a Major or Minor mode?

2) What is it's scale of comparison to figure out my chord options?

3) What are my diatonic scale options for soloing over this?

4) What are my pentatonic scale options for soloing over this?


Use the chart I gave you to figure these out. Thanks Marek.

Posted by: Marek Rojewski Feb 28 2009, 12:42 PM

Here is the exercise I had to finish. I will dive into the theory stuff later, although I don't know if I will be able to learn "so much" now... My mind is burned after all these exams I had. Will try still.
 exercise2.mp3 ( 1.15MB ) : 180

Posted by: lcsdds Feb 28 2009, 01:52 PM

QUOTE (Marek Rojewski @ Feb 28 2009, 12:42 PM)

Here is the exercise I had to finish. I will dive into the theory stuff later, although I don't know if I will be able to learn "so much" now... My mind is burned after all these exams I had. Will try still.
 exercise2.mp3 ( 1.15MB ) : 180

Posted by: Marek Rojewski Feb 28 2009, 08:24 PM

I understand, I actually didn't know why I played it the way I did:P It was something like "ding ding ding - darn wrong, try againg - ding ding ding - bah wrong again - ding ding ding - hmm bit better, enough"

Posted by: lcsdds Mar 1 2009, 11:13 PM

Marek check out this thread:

http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/guitar_forum/index.php?showtopic=25229&pid=347187&st=0&#entry347187

Posted by: Marek Rojewski Mar 2 2009, 01:25 PM

Hi Monte! Sorry for the delay, I had a bad day yesteday... Not that this day is better, but I have found some time, so here is a video of me playing Trond's lesson. It is my first take, and there are some mistakes, but as I am quite nervous ( can be seen on the video also.. ) and it shows perfectly how pathetic my hammer-ons are I decided not to record another one. One of my "not so long, nor short" goals is to have many lessons recorded in their full speed and posted on Youtube, so hopefully there will be a better take on the lesson recorded in the future...



I think that the hammer ons are most problematic, pull offs don't require strength to "bash" the fret in order to make it sound, and the strength is what I lack... Anyway that is what I suspect, I am likely to be mistaken.. Sometimes it sounds bit better, but I must focus on using "extra strength". Otherwise I can "hit" the right spots with my fingers, but it won't sound anything good...


THE LICK PROBLEM/IMPROVISATION PROBLEM
I know it will sound stupid, but I never understood what a lick is... Because of that I never learned "certain licks" and so I also haven't improvised at all.

For example this part of the tab of Marcus Siepen - Pentatonic Solo lesson. Starting from the e-string 5-8-5 run, I don't know if the lick is just 4 notes, or maybe the lick is the whole bunch of notes from 5-8-5 up to 7-7 on the A string...

e|-------------------------------------------------5-8-5---5-----------------|
B|-------------------------------------------------------8---8-5-8-5---5-----|
G|--5----------5-----7--5-----5--------------------------------------7---7---|
D|-----7---7------7--------7------7--5--7---5--------------------------------|
A|---------------------------------------------7-----------------------------|
E|---------------------------------------------------------------------------|

e|----------------------------------------------------------------/12--------|
B|--------------------------10--10--10-8--10---8-10--10---8-10-8-------------|
G|--5-7-5---5----------------------------------------------------------------|
D|--------7---7-5-7-5--------------------------------------------------------|
A|--------------------7-7----------------------------------------------------|
E|---------------------------------------------------------------------------|

Posted by: lcsdds Mar 2 2009, 02:16 PM

QUOTE (Marek Rojewski @ Mar 2 2009, 01:25 PM)

Hi Monte! Sorry for the delay, I had a bad day yesteday... Not that this day is better, but I have found some time, so here is a video of me playing Trond's lesson. It is my first take, and there are some mistakes, but as I am quite nervous ( can be seen on the video also.. ) and it shows perfectly how pathetic my hammer-ons are I decided not to record another one. One of my "not so long, nor short" goals is to have many lessons recorded in their full speed and posted on Youtube, so hopefully there will be a better take on the lesson recorded in the future...



I think that the hammer ons are most problematic, pull offs don't require strength to "bash" the fret in order to make it sound, and the strength is what I lack... Anyway that is what I suspect, I am likely to be mistaken.. Sometimes it sounds bit better, but I must focus on using "extra strength". Otherwise I can "hit" the right spots with my fingers, but it won't sound anything good...


THE LICK PROBLEM/IMPROVISATION PROBLEM
I know it will sound stupid, but I never understood what a lick is... Because of that I never learned "certain licks" and so I also haven't improvised at all.

For example this part of the tab of Marcus Siepen - Pentatonic Solo lesson. Starting from the e-string 5-8-5 run, I don't know if the lick is just 4 notes, or maybe the lick is the whole bunch of notes from 5-8-5 up to 7-7 on the A string...

e|-------------------------------------------------5-8-5---5-----------------|
B|-------------------------------------------------------8---8-5-8-5---5-----|
G|--5----------5-----7--5-----5--------------------------------------7---7---|
D|-----7---7------7--------7------7--5--7---5--------------------------------|
A|---------------------------------------------7-----------------------------|
E|---------------------------------------------------------------------------|

e|----------------------------------------------------------------/12--------|
B|--------------------------10--10--10-8--10---8-10--10---8-10-8-------------|
G|--5-7-5---5----------------------------------------------------------------|
D|--------7---7-5-7-5--------------------------------------------------------|
A|--------------------7-7----------------------------------------------------|
E|---------------------------------------------------------------------------|

THEORY
I will try to read all the topics/posts about it as You adviced, although as I wrote earlier, my theory knowledge is non-existing and it is hard for me to even learn "much" of it at once, anyway will try my best. I feel guilty already about being the slowest responder

Posted by: opeth.db Mar 2 2009, 03:51 PM

Hey Marek-

Sorry for chiming in here but I can at least tell you what has been helping me regarding the hammers/pulloffs.

Repetition is key here. Right Monte? I think you should concentrate on what Monte is having us do. Pick the A ionian box and just run up and down the scale with your drumbeat/kazbox. You have to develop the strength to do this correctly. Counting will also help you improve this too.

I can also maybe recomend trying a different posture while your playing?
Also when you play it almost seems like your doing homework. Get into it! Stick your toungue out. Nod your haead. Tap your foot. Make stupid facial expressions like I do. THos can also help your accent your feeling and communicate better with yuor axe.

I'm having problems with Pull-offs. Monte recomended a procedure call "Pre-fretting" the note which has helped tremendously. If you interested I can explain more. Need to see you play the A Ionian Box to see if you are already doing it or not.

Keep going man!

Posted by: Marek Rojewski Mar 2 2009, 04:01 PM

Opeth.db no problem about You posting in this thread at all, nice to see You here!:)

You advice me to run the scale up and down doing hammer ons / pull offs? It will surely help and I will do more of these, but we all know that such exercises aren't to exciting:P

When it comes to my posture, I play bit differently when I am not recording myself, but when I am recording I have to put some more stuff like books on my chair, as otherwise I am sitting to low for the camera to see the lower part of the guitar:P So while playing without the camera, the posture is bit better. And when it comes to my facial expression, I am so angry that my face is visible at all:D If I could hide it, I would let myself to "express" more;)

I don't know what pre-fretting is, I would gladly hear about it. I suspect that it has something to do with placing fingers above the fret in advance of fretting it, but don't know:)

Posted by: opeth.db Mar 2 2009, 04:06 PM

QUOTE (Marek Rojewski @ Mar 2 2009, 10:01 AM)

QUOTE (Marek Rojewski @ Mar 2 2009, 10:01 AM)

Posted by: lcsdds Mar 2 2009, 04:17 PM

Posted by: Marek Rojewski Mar 2 2009, 04:17 PM

QUOTE (lcsdds @ Feb 28 2009, 12:31 PM)

Hi Marek,
I am wanting to solo over a C mixolydian chord progression. From reading the posts I did in the main thread can you answer the following questions please?

1) Is this a Major or Minor mode?
Major

2) What is it's scale of comparison to figure out my chord options?
Ionian

3) What are my diatonic scale options for soloing over this?
F Ionian -- don't understand that, just used the table You gave us.

4) What are my pentatonic scale options for soloing over this?
C Pentatonic Major

Use the chart I gave you to figure these out. Thanks Marek.

Posted by: lcsdds Mar 2 2009, 04:19 PM

Good job Marek!! 100%!!

Posted by: Marek Rojewski Mar 2 2009, 04:29 PM

Thanks Dan:)

Monte, behold! This is my "daily plan".

Monday: If not seeing friends I can find much time for practicing, but my stamina won't let me to practice more than two hours most probably.

Tuesday: horrible day, I get up, go to work, than to the university and am back at 8-8.30 pm.. So finding any real motivation can be hard, so lets say 30-60 minutes of practicing.

Wednesday: at the university from 2 pm to 8 pm. 60 minutes sounds right. Can be more, but I rather write the "lower limit".

Thursday: not known yet... Most probably will be back home 4 pm.
Friday: back at 12 am.
Weekend - well, differs.

Okay the list wasn't necessary... All in all, we can say that I have 1 hour per day for practicing, although one day it can be 30 minutes and another one 2 hours. Also if I am in "practicing mood" I will find some more time most probably. Lack of playing stamina makes playing more than 3 hours bit dangerous for my hands:P

Posted by: lcsdds Mar 2 2009, 06:04 PM

QUOTE (Marek Rojewski @ Mar 2 2009, 04:29 PM)

Posted by: Marek Rojewski Mar 2 2009, 06:40 PM

Sure:) I can use some warm up exercises, as most of the time I am doing the ones from Marcus Siepen lesson about warm-ups and sometimes run the pentatonic scale up and down in all the boxes.

There is a "good" legato "lick" ( as I said not sure what a lick is ) in Marcus Siepen - Pentatonic Solo lesson, here is the tab:

e|--/12--10--8--10-----------------------------------------------------------|
B|--------------------12-13-17-13-12-13-17-13-12-13-17-13-12-13-17-13-12-13--|
G|---------------------------------------------------------------------------|
D|---------------------------------------------------------------------------|
A|---------------------------------------------------------------------------|
E|---------------------------------------------------------------------------|

e|---------------------------------------------------------------------------|
B|-17-13-12-13-17-13-12-13-17-13-12-13-17-13-12-13-13--12----12--------------|
G|--------------------------------------------------------14-----14-13-14----|
D|---------------------------------------------------------------------------|
A|---------------------------------------------------------------------------|
E|---------------------------------------------------------------------------|

e|-----------------------------------------------------------12-14-16-----------------------------|
B|-----------------------------------------------12-14-15------------------------------------------|
G|------------------------------------11-13-14--------------------------------------|
D|------------------------11-12-14-----------------------------------------------------------|
A|------------11-12-14-----------------------------------------------------------------------|
E|--10-12-14-----------------------------------------------------------------------|

Posted by: lcsdds Mar 3 2009, 12:28 AM

QUOTE (Marek Rojewski @ Mar 2 2009, 06:40 PM)

Sure:) I can use some warm up exercises, as most of the time I am doing the ones from Marcus Siepen lesson about warm-ups and sometimes run the pentatonic scale up and down in all the boxes.

There is a "good" legato "lick" ( as I said not sure what a lick is ) in Marcus Siepen - Pentatonic Solo lesson, here is the tab:

e|--/12--10--8--10-----------------------------------------------------------|
B|--------------------12-13-17-13-12-13-17-13-12-13-17-13-12-13-17-13-12-13--|
G|---------------------------------------------------------------------------|
D|---------------------------------------------------------------------------|
A|---------------------------------------------------------------------------|
E|---------------------------------------------------------------------------|

e|---------------------------------------------------------------------------|
B|-17-13-12-13-17-13-12-13-17-13-12-13-17-13-12-13-13--12----12--------------|
G|--------------------------------------------------------14-----14-13-14----|
D|---------------------------------------------------------------------------|
A|---------------------------------------------------------------------------|
E|---------------------------------------------------------------------------|

But this one involves the pinky, and that is even more killer for me than Trond's one. Or in other words, this one is out of my reach now, still can try to practice it on some ultra shred speed like 50 bpm..


Also in pentatonic major scale, there are 5 boxes, I assume that the situation with lydian scale is more less the same?

We are supposed to solo in D lydian, so this will be "one box" , but it doesn't look so organized as "have here child, 5 pentatonic boxes, learn these"

e|-----------------------------------------------------------12-14-16-----------------------------|
B|-----------------------------------------------12-14-15------------------------------------------|
G|------------------------------------11-13-14--------------------------------------|
D|------------------------11-12-14-----------------------------------------------------------|
A|------------11-12-14-----------------------------------------------------------------------|
E|--10-12-14-----------------------------------------------------------------------|

Also do You thing checking out some Lydian based lesson is a good idea considering what we are supposed to do?
For example these two made by Muris the Mighty: http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/solo-guitar/lydian-phrasing-beginner/ http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/solo-guitar/lydian-riffing/

Posted by: Marek Rojewski Mar 3 2009, 03:11 PM

Cool I had a good idea:P I am still waiting for the exercises/plan ideas You said me to wait for:)

Posted by: lcsdds Mar 3 2009, 03:22 PM

QUOTE (Marek Rojewski @ Mar 3 2009, 03:11 PM)

Posted by: lcsdds Mar 3 2009, 06:44 PM

Hi Marek,
I am gonna have Opeth (Dan) stopping by to make sure you are up to speed with the rest of us on the theory. As far as your excercises I am gonna have you just run the Diatonic Boxes in 8th note triplets using hammer's and pulls at a slow comfortable tempo with the Kaz-Box to get you started. I want you to do this for 5 min a day WITH THE KAZ-BOX. I want to see an upload of you doing this please. The other thing I want you to do is to concentrate on learning your Major and Minor Triad shapes. 5 min/day on this as well. The rest of the time I want you to concentrate on the Lydian serial and the group assignments. Thanks dude!!


Dan....Help him out with the pre-fretting to get his pulloffs smooth!! Thanks!!

Posted by: opeth.db Mar 3 2009, 07:01 PM

Ok Marek-

I have been assign by the doctor to help you out here. I will get a a pre-fretting video for you tonight hopefully. Gotta go pick up my axe from the shop tonight.

Where are you with the theory we are explaining here? I can explain how to get triads needed for the specific mode to play with? Do you know the basics? Terminology?

Let me know.

Posted by: Marek Rojewski Mar 3 2009, 08:16 PM

Monte, will do my best:)

Dan: well in fact my theory is so bad that I don't know what I know What I know is that there are 12 notes:
A A# B C C# D D# E F F# G G#

So with the formula for for example the pentatonic scale, or major scale, I can say what notes are in the scale..

I know that the major triad is made of the first, third and fifth note in the certain scale, and that the minor triad is made of the first, flattened third and fifth note in the scale.

I know that Major Scale will have the notes that Major Pentatonic scale has. And suspect that the Minor Scale will have the notes of Minor Pentatonic scale also ( can be wrong.. ).

I do not understand the whole concept of the major scale and it modes... In pentatonic scale I had 5 boxes of the same scale, without any "moods". Now I have a scale, and each part/box of it has different subname/mood and I don't understand that. Are there different formulas of different modes? I expect not, because it "is" the same scale after all.. Really confusing...
I can read Andrew theory lessons to understand it... Here is the http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/guitar_forum/index.php?showtopic=3351to the "where to start" thread, maybe You could give me the numbers of lessons I should read, I know the more the better, but keeping things basic at one moment would help me, as now I just have so much new material before me, that I am bit lost:/ Many thanks in advance for You dedicating Your time for me..

Posted by: lcsdds Mar 3 2009, 08:34 PM

QUOTE (Marek Rojewski @ Mar 3 2009, 08:16 PM)

Monte, will do my best:)

Dan: well in fact my theory is so bad that I don't know what I know What I know is that there are 12 notes:
A A# B C C# D D# E F F# G G#

So with the formula for for example the pentatonic scale, or major scale, I can say what notes are in the scale..

I know that the major triad is made of the first, third and fifth note in the certain scale, and that the minor triad is made of the first, flattened third and fifth note in the scale.

I know that Major Scale will have the notes that Major Pentatonic scale has. And suspect that the Minor Scale will have the notes of Minor Pentatonic scale also ( can be wrong.. ).

I do not understand the whole concept of the major scale and it modes... In pentatonic scale I had 5 boxes of the same scale, without any "moods". Now I have a scale, and each part/box of it has different subname/mood and I don't understand that. Are there different formulas of different modes? I expect not, because it "is" the same scale after all.. Really confusing...
I can read Andrew theory lessons to understand it... Here is the http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/guitar_forum/index.php?showtopic=3351to the "where to start" thread, maybe You could give me the numbers of lessons I should read, I know the more the better, but keeping things basic at one moment would help me, as now I just have so much new material before me, that I am bit lost:/ Many thanks in advance for You dedicating Your time for me..

Posted by: opeth.db Mar 3 2009, 08:42 PM

I understand about all this new material my friend. Right Monte!

Anyways..Lets start with some simple stuff.

Your right there are 12 notes. The chromatic scale.
A A# B C C# D D# E F F# G G#

Ill just ask a series of questions. I dont want you to get a ton of info at once.

So If I were to say...
1. Give me the Scale of GMajor.
2. Scale of Gminor?

Can you figure it out..

Posted by: Marek Rojewski Mar 3 2009, 10:19 PM

I assume that scale Gmajor is Major Scale of G

Considering this is the formula for the major scale: 2 2 1 2 2 2 1

We have: G A B C D E F# G

Considering the formula for minor scale is : 2 1 2 2 1 2 2

We have: G A A# C D D# F G

Still I don't know these formulas by heart, had to check them before answering. I bet it won't need to much dedication to learn the formulas for pentatonic major and minor + major and minor scales, but it shows on "what level" I am.

Posted by: opeth.db Mar 3 2009, 10:35 PM

Im sorta at that same level Marek. Monte threw this at me to help solidfy the theory for me by helping you. SO bear with me too.

Ok. Using the GMajor scale do you know what chords we would use to play in this key?


Major/Minor Scale formula I have seen written 3 different ways.
-2212221
-TTSTTTS
-WWHWWWH

Minor
-2122122
-WHWWHWW
-TSTTSTT

All the same but technically we should be using the TS for Tone and Semi-Tone but they are all correct.

Do you know what an interval is?

Why do we use modes?

To start infusing some mode theory what mode would be Major/Minor be?
Major = ? / What number is the mode? =
Minor = ? / What number is this mode? =

Posted by: Marek Rojewski Mar 3 2009, 11:40 PM

Interval is the distance between notes in a scale. When we count the notes, we also count the ones between which the distance is.

Ionian, Lydian and Mixolydian= Major Modes --> I, IV, V
Aeolian, Dorian and Phrygian= Minor modes --> II, III, VI

I took the info about modes from our announcement thread, and the numbers from the table provided. I assume that the numbers presents the intervals between the root note and the certain ( numbered ) note in the major scale.

I can't answer what chords can be used in Gmaj scale. Using the table provided for us( and the knowledge that I, IV and V intervals are major, and II III VI are minor ), I would bet that as these are the triads:
Gmaj Amin Bmin Cmaj Dmaj Emin F#dim

So we could use these chords for sure. But most probably there are multiple ways of making those chords "different" yet still containing the base notes.

Still can't think of why to use modes, will try to re-read Monte's post about that...

Posted by: opeth.db Mar 4 2009, 03:54 PM

Ok.

So in order to get or chords on the GMajor scale we use somethin called stacking thirds.

So we have,.,.
The formula for the major scale: 2 2 1 2 2 2 1

We have: G A B C D E F# G
So count every third..
Our chords for GMajor is... G B D

Cmajor is..
C D E F G A B C
Our chords here would be.. C E G

Does this make sense?

WE use modes to get different feelings and are good for improvisation.
Read Andrew's lesson here. http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/guitar_forum/index.php?showtopic=5012

After you good here we will go into leaning how to find what you need for modes.

Posted by: opeth.db Mar 6 2009, 05:33 PM

Where'd you go Marek?


I posted a prefretting video for you.
http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/guitar_forum/index.php?showtopic=25322

Let me know how you are doing...

Posted by: Marek Rojewski Mar 6 2009, 11:08 PM

First of all, I am very grateful for You making the video! I think that I actually knew it already, but didn't do it all the time, and I haven't put enough attention to it, now I will certainly look after that. Don't know how could I help You in anything "in exchange", but if there would be a way, than tell me:)

When it comes to "stacking thirds". I understand how You did it, but I am unsure why is it so? Considering we would be limited to one scale, would we be limited to the three chords that we have thanks to "stacking thirds" thing? I read this lesson few days ago http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/guitar_forum/index.php?showtopic=3630 and from what I understood we could use chord based on any note that the scale consisted...

PS: excuses: I was quite busy last days, and also practiced playing quite heavily:)

Posted by: Marek Rojewski Mar 7 2009, 12:38 PM

Okay I just recorded two takes for the Lydian Phrasing Beginner lesson, I think the first one is better, but always better to have better players opinion:)







There are many things to improve for sure, but I didn't try to record better takes, as the more I try to record something the more mistakes I do Can't wait for the comment:)

Posted by: lcsdds Mar 7 2009, 04:16 PM

QUOTE (Marek Rojewski @ Mar 7 2009, 12:38 PM)

Okay I just recorded two takes for the Lydian Phrasing Beginner lesson, I think the first one is better, but always better to have better players opinion:)







There are many things to improve for sure, but I didn't try to record better takes, as the more I try to record something the more mistakes I do Can't wait for the comment:)

Posted by: Marek Rojewski Mar 7 2009, 09:44 PM

Oh my, I would rather spend some time on a different lesson, learning this one to the point shown on the video took much more time than my "set time" was, so I am bit tired playing it. But of course I will dedicate part of my time to polish it:)

Posted by: lcsdds Mar 7 2009, 11:41 PM

QUOTE (Marek Rojewski @ Mar 7 2009, 09:44 PM)

Posted by: jer Mar 8 2009, 01:44 PM

Posted by: opeth.db Mar 9 2009, 03:30 PM

QUOTE (Marek Rojewski @ Mar 6 2009, 06:08 PM)

Posted by: Marek Rojewski Mar 9 2009, 09:22 PM

I just want to say I uploaded my take on the Phrygian lesson http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/guitar_forum/index.php?showtopic=25486&hl=. I haven't practiced to much, because I found it easier than the lydian one, so the mistakes come more from lack of stable muscle memory of all the licks, than technique difficulty. Anyway I was in "maybe record something" mood. Don't know if uploading something You haven't learned 100% by heart is a good idea, but maybe it is?

Posted by: lcsdds Mar 9 2009, 09:30 PM

QUOTE (Marek Rojewski @ Mar 9 2009, 09:22 PM)

I just want to say I uploaded my take on the Phrygian lesson http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/guitar_forum/index.php?showtopic=25486&hl=. I haven't practiced to much, because I found it easier than the lydian one, so the mistakes come more from lack of stable muscle memory of all the licks, than technique difficulty. Anyway I was in "maybe record something" mood. Don't know if uploading something You haven't learned 100% by heart is a good idea, but maybe it is?

Posted by: Marek Rojewski Mar 9 2009, 10:29 PM

Thanks for nice words Monte:)

Considering how much stuff is going on, the plan could look more less like that:

Warm Up:

- play the triads and major scale positions provided by You in the "Triads__Diatonic_and_Pentatonic_boxes" guitar pro file.

Lessons to cope with:

Lydian Phrasing Beginner - well I will try to improve it, although I won't spend to much time on it, I play it bit better already, now need to focus on the things said already about bending with more than one finger and wrapping the thumb around the neck.

Phrygian Soloing Beginner - more to learn here, especially those little sweeps, I am less than novice in this technique.

Rock Solo in Bb Major - this months intermediate challenge. I already had it in my bookmarks, so this is a good excuse to learn it finally, it should be very time consuming I hope.

Beginner Rock Solo - well not really learn the whole lesson, just use the legato lick to improve my legato and be able to record this cool lesson at full speed one day.

Playing what I learned already for fun, but do that when "fed up" with more directed practice.

COLAB

Don't know how I will be able to come with anything, but I believe You ( have no other choice ) that You will show us the way;)


Some tips about theory ( what I should learn ) especially considering the collaboration, would be nice.

Posted by: lcsdds Mar 9 2009, 11:33 PM

QUOTE (Marek Rojewski @ Mar 9 2009, 10:29 PM)

Thanks for nice words Monte:)

Considering how much stuff is going on, the plan could look more less like that:

Warm Up:

- play the triads and major scale positions provided by You in the "Triads__Diatonic_and_Pentatonic_boxes" guitar pro file.

Lessons to cope with:

Lydian Phrasing Beginner - well I will try to improve it, although I won't spend to much time on it, I play it bit better already, now need to focus on the things said already about bending with more than one finger and wrapping the thumb around the neck.

Phrygian Soloing Beginner - more to learn here, especially those little sweeps, I am less than novice in this technique.

Rock Solo in Bb Major - this months intermediate challenge. I already had it in my bookmarks, so this is a good excuse to learn it finally, it should be very time consuming I hope.

Beginner Rock Solo - well not really learn the whole lesson, just use the legato lick to improve my legato and be able to record this cool lesson at full speed one day.

Playing what I learned already for fun, but do that when "fed up" with more directed practice.

COLAB

Don't know how I will be able to come with anything, but I believe You ( have no other choice ) that You will show us the way;)


Some tips about theory ( what I should learn ) especially considering the collaboration, would be nice.

Posted by: Marek Rojewski Mar 26 2009, 09:21 PM

Okay, some time has passed, and so I wonder ---->
1. My take for the collab is done, soon the whole collab will be over.
2. Learning of Rock Solo in Bb Major for the monthly challenge is more less done also, with an uploaded take. I am not 100% happy with it, but the last-fast part is quite fast for me, so I assume that I need to improve my overall speed in order to be able to play the fastest part "relaxed".

I must say that I haven't worked on other things to much, as You already know I tried to learn the Yngwie lesson by Carlos, but I am to slow to use even the slowest ( 110 bpm ) backing track. I will play those licks, but dedicating to much time just to rush speed in these licks isn't a good idea I think.

I started to look at this lesson http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/solo-guitar/melodic-piece-in-e-minor/ I think I will be able to learn it in few days, because the speed isn't high...

I also know that You wanted us to try learning Lydian Intermediate lesson, which would be easier thanks to Your great videos:)

Of course, after the current monthly challenge, there will be another one, and there is a possibility that I will want to participate again ( depends on lesson choice, it isn't easy to pick lessons from GMC archive that I don't like, but it is possible ).

What all this grumbling above serves? Well I am not sure But knowing what are the plans of our group after finishing the collab, would be useful;)

Posted by: lcsdds Mar 26 2009, 09:59 PM

QUOTE (Marek Rojewski @ Mar 26 2009, 09:21 PM)

Okay, some time has passed, and so I wonder ---->
1. My take for the collab is done, soon the whole collab will be over.
2. Learning of Rock Solo in Bb Major for the monthly challenge is more less done also, with an uploaded take. I am not 100% happy with it, but the last-fast part is quite fast for me, so I assume that I need to improve my overall speed in order to be able to play the fastest part "relaxed".

I must say that I haven't worked on other things to much, as You already know I tried to learn the Yngwie lesson by Carlos, but I am to slow to use even the slowest ( 110 bpm ) backing track. I will play those licks, but dedicating to much time just to rush speed in these licks isn't a good idea I think.

I started to look at this lesson http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/solo-guitar/melodic-piece-in-e-minor/ I think I will be able to learn it in few days, because the speed isn't high...

I also know that You wanted us to try learning Lydian Intermediate lesson, which would be easier thanks to Your great videos:)

Of course, after the current monthly challenge, there will be another one, and there is a possibility that I will want to participate again ( depends on lesson choice, it isn't easy to pick lessons from GMC archive that I don't like, but it is possible ).

What all this grumbling above serves? Well I am not sure But knowing what are the plans of our group after finishing the collab, would be useful;)

Posted by: lcsdds Apr 5 2009, 01:01 AM

Hi Marek...how is everything going? Need any help with anything or do you have it under control? I hope you keep signing up for collabs. They will improve your playing for sure. Good job on Pedja's collab.....told you you could do it.

Posted by: Marek Rojewski Apr 6 2009, 10:15 AM

Hi there Monte! Well I haven't practiced for 3 days, as I was needed by my "viking group" to finish some shields and other stuff, because we got an info from the television that they wanna make a program about us in two days. So I spent much time working with them, and after getting back home, had the motivation only to sit on the couch and read a book. But I finished the last book of the trilogy I started, so now there shouldn't be such strong distraction, and I am starting to practice again right now:)

I haven't learned to much the last days, only the lesson by Lian, the one I sent You a link to in a PM. I am unsure should I try to learn new lessons, or focus on the ones I listed weeks ago, because all of them could use some polishing. Learning new stuff is more exciting, but less effective as instead of focusing on the details, I need to learn the melody/notes first.

So I will start practicing soon, hope that my hands aren't to hurtful after all those fights we had to make while recording the TV show

Oh and have You seen new Dejan lesson about our beloved http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/ls/pentatonic_exercise_quintuplets/?

Posted by: Marek Rojewski Apr 15 2009, 09:49 PM

Hi there! Just wanna let You know that I uploaded my take for Pedjas collab.
Here is the link http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/guitar_forum/index.php?act=attach&type=post&id=14992

I came up with it fast, so I am unsure whether it is nice or not;)

I had less motivation for the last week, so haven't do anything but the above take, and also a take for Joe's collab, but that You know already because of the PM. http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/guitar_forum/index.php?act=attach&type=post&id=14912

I practiced today more, so I hope things will come back to "normal" now, with my practicing.

Posted by: lcsdds Apr 16 2009, 03:36 AM

Your take sounds good Marek....don't be afraid to do another one if you aren't happy with it. I'm glad to see you doing these collabs. When we first started the MTP you didn't think you could do anything and I think you are seeing that you can come up with cool takes and you are having fun as wel....Keep it up dude. \m/\m/

Let me know if you need anything.

Posted by: Marek Rojewski Apr 21 2009, 06:25 PM

Argh Monte help me!

I don't know what to do. I do different things and don't know which one to choose.

1. I haven't practiced my legato as I planed weeks ago, so it still is on the same crappy level.
2. I think that I need to improve my speed, don't have to be ultra fast, but I have problems with faster parts of lessons I otherwise learned, such as the fast passage in the http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/solo-guitar/blind-guardian-style-lesson/.
Because of that I practiced this fast passage bit more with the metronome. I also started learning http://Modal%20Madness for speed and stamina. I haven't learned all the notes, as repeating same few bars is also a good exercise, and I would have less notes to remember. I think I can play it at half speed, so 6 notes per beat in 60bpm. It is demanding for my right hand in this speed, my hand tenses, but not so much that it would hurt (I will check how long I can play it in that tempo, how much You think would be long enough, 10-15 minutes?).
3. I wanted to polish and record some older lessons I learned... First one was http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/rhythm-guitar/george-lynch-style-lesson/http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/rhythm-guitar/george-lynch-style-lesson/. I learned it some time ago, and after checking the video I have to say that I play something very different than Daniel... Each lick starts and ends in places that doesn't feel right for me.
Another one was http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/rhythm-guitar/power-metal-rhythm-guitar/ - I tried to record it today, but was unsatisfied with the results. I blame the tone for it, but don't know if thats right. When Gabriel plays this lesson, his guitar sounds tight, metal, but makes very little noise. I can't find a preset that would sound similar, and everything produces much more noise. I don't think that my muting is the only reason:/ Now I would like to try record http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/rhythm-guitar/basic-metal-rhythm/ I have some tone problems with this as well.. Oh I also practice downpicking, at higher speed my hand tense up, but that I suppose is normal.

So the conclusion of point three is --> I learned lessons without checking the main video, so they sound quite different than the lesson, AND - I am unsatisfied with my tones when it comes to rhythm playing.

4. well the three above are most important, but there are also some other things like: I play only with my Toneport GX because of the backing tracks and multiple preset options. I suspect that I should play more with my amp (Roland Cube 15, so nothing catchy). Another thing, that can be very important, is that I just can't play standing. When I play sitting, I have quite classical posture, so left leg on a stool, and guitar on it. Now the strap on my older guitar had very little regulation, and it felt bad. My new strap has normal regulation, but I yet have to find a way how it would work for me. For now playing standing is highly uncomfortable for me.



All in all, there are so many problems that I encounter, and I have very small idea how to organize myself. I know that with a limited practice time (although for the last few days I practiced much) I just can't do all things at the same time.

Now I like solo lessons, I don't have big problems with learning slower ones, and I like learning them, but that way I won't be able to play anything else anytime soon. My strongest(not strong anyway) technique is AP, but my speed isn't good enough still for my not so high needs. Tapping/legato/sweeps are all on beginner level(sweeps are almost 0 level), I think that legato(hammer ons and pulloffs) is the technique that needs to be improved soonest, from those three, as simply it is used most often.

What You think I should concentrate on? I am sorry that this post is so long, but it is easier to say what I mean in many words;)

Posted by: lcsdds Apr 21 2009, 08:54 PM

QUOTE (Marek Rojewski @ Apr 21 2009, 06:25 PM)

Argh Monte help me!

I don't know what to do. I do different things and don't know which one to choose.

1. I haven't practiced my legato as I planed weeks ago, so it still is on the same crappy level.
2. I think that I need to improve my speed, don't have to be ultra fast, but I have problems with faster parts of lessons I otherwise learned, such as the fast passage in the http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/solo-guitar/blind-guardian-style-lesson/.
Because of that I practiced this fast passage bit more with the metronome. I also started learning http://Modal%20Madness for speed and stamina. I haven't learned all the notes, as repeating same few bars is also a good exercise, and I would have less notes to remember. I think I can play it at half speed, so 6 notes per beat in 60bpm. It is demanding for my right hand in this speed, my hand tenses, but not so much that it would hurt (I will check how long I can play it in that tempo, how much You think would be long enough, 10-15 minutes?).
3. I wanted to polish and record some older lessons I learned... First one was http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/rhythm-guitar/george-lynch-style-lesson/http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/rhythm-guitar/george-lynch-style-lesson/. I learned it some time ago, and after checking the video I have to say that I play something very different than Daniel... Each lick starts and ends in places that doesn't feel right for me.
Another one was http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/rhythm-guitar/power-metal-rhythm-guitar/ - I tried to record it today, but was unsatisfied with the results. I blame the tone for it, but don't know if thats right. When Gabriel plays this lesson, his guitar sounds tight, metal, but makes very little noise. I can't find a preset that would sound similar, and everything produces much more noise. I don't think that my muting is the only reason:/ Now I would like to try record http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/rhythm-guitar/basic-metal-rhythm/ I have some tone problems with this as well.. Oh I also practice downpicking, at higher speed my hand tense up, but that I suppose is normal.

So the conclusion of point three is --> I learned lessons without checking the main video, so they sound quite different than the lesson, AND - I am unsatisfied with my tones when it comes to rhythm playing.

4. well the three above are most important, but there are also some other things like: I play only with my Toneport GX because of the backing tracks and multiple preset options. I suspect that I should play more with my amp (Roland Cube 15, so nothing catchy). Another thing, that can be very important, is that I just can't play standing. When I play sitting, I have quite classical posture, so left leg on a stool, and guitar on it. Now the strap on my older guitar had very little regulation, and it felt bad. My new strap has normal regulation, but I yet have to find a way how it would work for me. For now playing standing is highly uncomfortable for me.



All in all, there are so many problems that I encounter, and I have very small idea how to organize myself. I know that with a limited practice time (although for the last few days I practiced much) I just can't do all things at the same time.

Now I like solo lessons, I don't have big problems with learning slower ones, and I like learning them, but that way I won't be able to play anything else anytime soon. My strongest(not strong anyway) technique is AP, but my speed isn't good enough still for my not so high needs. Tapping/legato/sweeps are all on beginner level(sweeps are almost 0 level), I think that legato(hammer ons and pulloffs) is the technique that needs to be improved soonest, from those three, as simply it is used most often.

What You think I should concentrate on? I am sorry that this post is so long, but it is easier to say what I mean in many words;)

Posted by: Marek Rojewski Apr 22 2009, 11:33 AM

Here are some lessons that I like, and could be good for my legato:

1. http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/ls/hammer_on_dude/ - I don't know it for sure, but I think that I hammering is "the bigger half" when it comes to my hammeroffs-pulloffs. What is good in this lesson also, is that I would have to hammer on notes with my pinky, and well that's the weakest of all the fingers, works worst.

2. http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/solo-guitar/rock-solo-beginner/ - lesson I would love to finish finally, of course I would practice only the last, legato lick.

3. http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/rhythm-guitar/left-hand-only-exercise/ - I think that lesson is the simplest way of "getting what I need". The drawback is that pinky isn't used.

4. http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/solo-guitar/black-sabbath-style-lesson/ - well not necessary practicing whole lesson(although I like it very much), but there are many trills, I think than practicing trills is practicing legato, but maybe I am wrong! If I am wrong, than it couldn't be used in the "legato practice regime".

Tell me what You think about those lessons, I would write more but have to go to university.

BTW juicy playing in the video:) \m/

Posted by: Marek Rojewski Apr 22 2009, 07:28 PM

Hmmm I must say that playing the "Left Hand Only Exercise" up to speed and rhythm isn't hard, but playing it cleanly is 100% impossible without muting the bordering strings with my right hand fingers. I suspect that playing it as cleanly as Dejan does should be my goal?

Posted by: lcsdds Apr 22 2009, 07:46 PM

I like your plan Marek.....get to work on it and let me know if you need any help. If you have problems with any sections just isolate that section and work on it until you get it down. Time and practice is the key.

Posted by: Marek Rojewski Apr 23 2009, 08:51 PM

I have found two more lessons that I like, and are strict legato stuff:
http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/solo-guitar/pull-offs-lesson/
http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/solo-guitar/pentatonic-legato-workout/

But I won't practice all those lessons at once, two at the same time is enough I think, so after learning it and recording for REC, will move to another one:) Muris lesson seems easier than some of the previous listed, so maybe it will be a better "starting point", but I will have that worked out with practice:)

I have one question about legato. I think that it is easier when I have my thumb lower, more in the middle of the neck, You know what I mean for sure.. Now is it the right thing to do? From feedback on my takes I know that having my thumb wrapped around the neck vibrato and bending is easier, but what about legato?

Posted by: lcsdds Apr 23 2009, 09:09 PM

QUOTE (Marek Rojewski @ Apr 23 2009, 08:51 PM)

Posted by: Marek Rojewski Apr 23 2009, 09:25 PM

Yeah I was talking more about the 3 per string patterns, especially those in which I use my pinky.

Posted by: Marek Rojewski May 6 2009, 08:12 PM

Hi there Monte! I just want to let You know that I am practicing and slowly I think there is some progress.

I uploaded mp3 take on Muris Pull Off lesson, it isn't perfect for sure, but I wasn't able to play it up to tempo few days ago. Pinky finger is heavily used in this lesson, and this is my weakness, so it really is good for me:)

 pull.mp3 ( 570.4K ) : 140


I hope that few more days, maybe a weak or two and I will be ready to record a take for REC:)

Posted by: lcsdds May 6 2009, 09:00 PM

QUOTE (Marek Rojewski @ May 6 2009, 08:12 PM)

Hi there Monte! I just want to let You know that I am practicing and slowly I think there is some progress.

I uploaded mp3 take on Muris Pull Off lesson, it isn't perfect for sure, but I wasn't able to play it up to tempo few days ago. Pinky finger is heavily used in this lesson, and this is my weakness, so it really is good for me:)

 pull.mp3 ( 570.4K ) : 140


I hope that few more days, maybe a weak or two and I will be ready to record a take for REC:)

Posted by: Marek Rojewski May 14 2009, 06:43 PM

Hi again Monte! I had some problems and couldn't practice to much, so my REC take on the Pull off lesson isn't ready yet. But I did as much as I could, and here are two other mp3 I did recently.

First is my take for new Joe's collaboration, I made it very quickly as I don't know if I will have time later to do something, I am not 100% happy with it, but when was I 100% happy about anything?

 joe2.mp3 ( 356.52K ) : 129


There are some buzzing there, don't know why, something had to work not right in Reaper while rendering, as I haven't heard anything like that before rendering.


Second mp3 is new take on Trond's Rock Solo lesson that I struggle with for so long, it is second take in a row, so there are mistakes/wrong notes/not good enough bends, but as You already know, I don't torture myself with 1000 recordings when I just want to show that I am doing something. 1000 recordings shall come when this will be ready for REC

 tsolo.mp3 ( 1.1MB ) : 121


Maybe not great, but considering the effort I presented some time ago when we started with MTP progress is still visible(I think).

I still work on Pull off lesson, but to play it my little finger has to be pushed beyond his limits a little, so it may take some extra time

Rock on \m/\m/


PS: oh, recently I listened to Black Label Society/Pride & Glory/Black Stone Cheery more than ever, than Gabriels lesson came out, than his collab AND SO ---> I am to slow and have no shred pentatonic licks to take part in Gabriels collab But well maybe one day.

Posted by: lcsdds May 14 2009, 08:52 PM

They both sound good Marek. On Joe's take just try and clean it up a little....I like your ideas though......just the timing in a few spots need some work. Good job on that.

On Trond's solo there are a few timing issues as well. You also need to work on getting your bends to pitch and your vibrato. Some of the faster parts you should isolate and work on them with the metronome as well. You sound like you have improved a lot though Marek.....Good job!!!

You should work on a take for Gabriels lesso anyways. Even if you write something that you can't play up to speed it is good practice for you composition skills and it gives you some good licks to practice. The best licks to practice are those you made up yourself. Nobody can teach you to play like yourself except you......good job dude!!!

Posted by: Marek Rojewski May 17 2009, 04:23 PM

Hi there Monte! I recorded my take of Trond's lesson for REC.



The "recording syndrome" attacked at full force, I couldn't play few notes without messing something After that I noticed the THING... Trond plays the last legato lick differently than on the tab, and how I tried to learn this.. He plays hammer on --> pull off --> slide.. So he can use only two fingers while playing this lick. In the tab it is hammer on pull off pull off, so I learned to play it with three fingers, which was much more difficult. Well I will have to take it for granted, after all practice is practice. But the amount of frustration when learning this thing was bit to high..

Anyway, we shall see will I pass REC with this video, if so than I shall move to Hammer-On-Dude lesson, while practicing Muris pull off lesson for recording also(I think that I could record it already, but I practiced some pentatonic licks lessons of Pablo Vazquez also two days ago, and now have to give my little finger a break from heavy practicing).

Posted by: Marek Rojewski May 18 2009, 09:12 PM

I practiced the pull off lesson today, but didn't want to tire my little finger to much, so I refreshed my memory about very simple lesson - melodic tapping, it has only 2 difficulty, yet I still have to learn the last faster lick with the metronome, as now I have some timing issues with it. I recorded two raw takes on it few minutes ago, just to show what the lesson is about, hope to get that lick down in 1-2 days, and record the lesson in the weekend:)

 melo.mp3 ( 819.78K ) : 119

 melo2.mp3 ( 819.78K ) : 125


EDIT: argh, on my headphones the backingtrack was much louder, or the guitar not as loud as here.

Posted by: lcsdds May 18 2009, 09:16 PM

Good Job Marek. Just need to work on getting your bend up to pitch and then just isolate that last lick and play it with the metronome. Shoot for being able to play it 10-20 bpm faster than the tempo of the song. That way when you go to play it you will be very comfortable with it. Good job......\m/\m/

Posted by: Marek Rojewski May 24 2009, 10:09 PM

Hail Monte!

The dread exam session on the university has befallen once again on me, consuming my free time and my very sanity!...
Still true believers of metal shall not yield! And so I recorded takes for both Ivan's and Joe's collabs.

http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/guitar_forum/index.php?act=attach&type=post&id=15841

http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/guitar_forum/index.php?act=attach&type=post&id=15839

Unfortunately my main weapon, the mighty Devil Axe is in the hands of a skillful blacksmith that shall enhance it abilities, leaving me with only one option - the old trusty Ibanez RG. First time when I become an owner of the Devil Axe I couldn't tell a difference between these two, but now I can

I hope that what I have done isn't below average

PS: talking like a 10 year old metalhead is so refreshing


EDIT: arrrr, I improvised over the Black Stone Cherry collab a bit, here is the rushed result:
 bsch.mp3 ( 891.21K ) : 146

 bsch2.mp3 ( 891.21K ) : 151

Posted by: lcsdds May 25 2009, 03:27 PM

Good work Marek.....the biggest issues I hear are timing issues. You have good ideas just need to keep working on your timing with the metronome. I hope you get you beloved Axe back as well.....I love my RG's but I understand about your favorite axe!! Keep working Marek.....you've made a lot of progress!!!......\m/\m/

Posted by: Marek Rojewski Jun 4 2009, 10:06 PM

David started a new collab today, so instead of going to sleep, I recorded something
Here is the http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/guitar_forum/index.php?s=&showtopic=27959&view=findpost&p=388431, as there are 2 different takes, one where I used a phaser effect, and one without it. Don't know which one is better, maybe You can tell me

I also have some little more concerns/info:

1. my practicing is going relatively well, I more less mastered the pull-off lesson, and still learning the hammer on dude one (the legato parts are learned, but there are some fast[for me] AP licks, and I want to learn them).

2. I bought a new, cool guitar belt, and that finally made me to practice more while standing I need to have the guitar quite "high", but I think it is normal for beginner standers?

3. I got my Devil from set-up, and now it is tuned half step down. I don't know what to do with my Ibanez. Should I also tune it half step down, or have one guitar in lower tuning and one in standard? The only really problem arise when there is need of playing open strings in the normal tuning, it is often difficult to play those notes at first fret.
But I could use a capo on my Devil to have the first fret working instead of open string. Don't know which solution is better. On one side, playing in different tunings can teach much, but on the other side if I am going to play 90% time in tuned down one, what is the point of adjusting from time to time to normal one...

Posted by: lcsdds Jun 7 2009, 12:48 AM

QUOTE (Marek Rojewski @ Jun 4 2009, 10:06 PM)

David started a new collab today, so instead of going to sleep, I recorded something
Here is the http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/guitar_forum/index.php?s=&showtopic=27959&view=findpost&p=388431, as there are 2 different takes, one where I used a phaser effect, and one without it. Don't know which one is better, maybe You can tell me

I also have some little more concerns/info:

1. my practicing is going relatively well, I more less mastered the pull-off lesson, and still learning the hammer on dude one (the legato parts are learned, but there are some fast[for me] AP licks, and I want to learn them).

2. I bought a new, cool guitar belt, and that finally made me to practice more while standing I need to have the guitar quite "high", but I think it is normal for beginner standers?

3. I got my Devil from set-up, and now it is tuned half step down. I don't know what to do with my Ibanez. Should I also tune it half step down, or have one guitar in lower tuning and one in standard? The only really problem arise when there is need of playing open strings in the normal tuning, it is often difficult to play those notes at first fret.
But I could use a capo on my Devil to have the first fret working instead of open string. Don't know which solution is better. On one side, playing in different tunings can teach much, but on the other side if I am going to play 90% time in tuned down one, what is the point of adjusting from time to time to normal one...

Posted by: Marek Rojewski Jun 7 2009, 09:23 AM

Well sorry about wrong word using, here in Poland we call guitar straps - belts, so that's the problem:P
This is my mighty strap, the guitar isn't mine;)



The Devil guitar is fixed bridge, and Ibanez has a floating (not to good I suppose) bridge.

You are right about maintaining other techniques, I spent to much time on legato, and my AP is now bit slower than it was, before I started "legato training". So the only good way of solving the problem is rising the amount of practicing time a bit

PS: I wanted to record a mp3 take on hammer on dude yesterday, but after one hour of recording worse and worse takes I gave up Lets hope my brain worked, and now my fingers will remember the patterns better.

Posted by: Marek Rojewski Jun 7 2009, 02:25 PM

I recorded take for REC with Pull-offs lesson, it isn't perfect but I don't think it is very bad also:)


My position seems bit odd, but I recorded so many takes, that I started to stand in different ways, just to see will it work.

Posted by: Marek Rojewski Jun 21 2009, 09:39 PM

Hi there Monte! I recorded two takes of hammer on dude today, I can't nail the lesson, and the more I play the more frustrated I am and more mistakes I make

One take is more even, another one shows that I can play the more difficult parts correct also, but in this take I make mistakes in the easier parts

 dude2.mp3 ( 889.17K ) : 125

 dude3.mp3 ( 889.17K ) : 139


I wanted to take part in Minor Scale and Funky collab, but the amount of studying I am passing through still is so big, that I basically have no heart to do anything. I practice hammer on lesson, and do some other practicing, but the backing tracks just don't inspire me enough to do something:(

My summer seems to be a terrible and lonely time, so most probably I will practice much and record many lessons I practiced in the past for REC...

Posted by: lcsdds Jun 21 2009, 10:05 PM

QUOTE (Marek Rojewski @ Jun 21 2009, 09:39 PM)

Hi there Monte! I recorded two takes of hammer on dude today, I can't nail the lesson, and the more I play the more frustrated I am and more mistakes I make

One take is more even, another one shows that I can play the more difficult parts correct also, but in this take I make mistakes in the easier parts

 dude2.mp3 ( 889.17K ) : 125

 dude3.mp3 ( 889.17K ) : 139


I wanted to take part in Minor Scale and Funky collab, but the amount of studying I am passing through still is so big, that I basically have no heart to do anything. I practice hammer on lesson, and do some other practicing, but the backing tracks just don't inspire me enough to do something:(

My summer seems to be a terrible and lonely time, so most probably I will practice much and record many lessons I practiced in the past for REC...

Posted by: Marek Rojewski Jun 21 2009, 10:11 PM

Eh I wanted to record this lesson finally, but as You can see the speed level is my border and control issues arise.. I hope that the takes I recorded don't sound to bad, do they?? I had a plan to record a better take for petruccifever 30 june, as it is the day of my last exam, so I will have 1,5 half a day before the deadline I think.....

Posted by: lcsdds Jun 21 2009, 10:16 PM

QUOTE (Marek Rojewski @ Jun 21 2009, 10:11 PM)

Eh I wanted to record this lesson finally, but as You can see the speed level is my border and control issues arise.. I hope that the takes I recorded don't sound to bad, do they?? I had a plan to record a better take for petruccifever 30 june, as it is the day of my last exam, so I will have 1,5 half a day before the deadline I think.....

Posted by: Marek Rojewski Jun 24 2009, 09:01 AM

Yesterday evening I recorded a video take of the PetrucciFever contest, unfortunately the quality of the video without daylight is terrible. I hope to record a better take, but I will have time on 30 June, I don't know if I can submit for the contest 1 July also, or is it forbidden in the "deadline day".

Here is the Youtube video:


Most probably playing would be also better on another video, as there are some pinch harmonics that I tried to play, but failed

From time to time I am trying to learn few notes from Jose's "Songwriting Metal" lesson, here is a practice take I recorded also yesterday, I changed the pinch of the backing with a program, as it is in D tuning, and I have Eb tuning.
 josee2.mp3 ( 1.52MB ) : 133


So for the rest of this month I will most probably play the contest solo/Jose's lesson/Hammer on lesson for most of the time (which won't be very long, but more than an 1 hour I suppose, as I rarely learn late in the night).

What I am happy about, but still need to work on it, is that I am able to hit pinch harmonics most of the time. It is far from good, but much nearer than not so long ago:)

Posted by: lcsdds Jun 25 2009, 01:45 AM

QUOTE (Marek Rojewski @ Jun 24 2009, 09:01 AM)

Yesterday evening I recorded a video take of the PetrucciFever contest, unfortunately the quality of the video without daylight is terrible. I hope to record a better take, but I will have time on 30 June, I don't know if I can submit for the contest 1 July also, or is it forbidden in the "deadline day".

Here is the Youtube video:


Most probably playing would be also better on another video, as there are some pinch harmonics that I tried to play, but failed

From time to time I am trying to learn few notes from Jose's "Songwriting Metal" lesson, here is a practice take I recorded also yesterday, I changed the pinch of the backing with a program, as it is in D tuning, and I have Eb tuning.
 josee2.mp3 ( 1.52MB ) : 133


So for the rest of this month I will most probably play the contest solo/Jose's lesson/Hammer on lesson for most of the time (which won't be very long, but more than an 1 hour I suppose, as I rarely learn late in the night).

What I am happy about, but still need to work on it, is that I am able to hit pinch harmonics most of the time. It is far from good, but much nearer than not so long ago:)

Posted by: Marek Rojewski Jun 26 2009, 09:18 PM

As always with exciting collabs, I made a take the same day it is announced.
I have much time to think of something cooler, but recording this take won't make things harder I guess

 ajon.mp3 ( 772.03K ) : 134

This is very much work in progress.

I am thinking that the "legato" part at the end could be shorter, I mean there could be something between sliding part and legato part. But in the time I had for my practicing today, I couldn't think of a good way of connecting those parts with something nice.

It would be great to here Your take also Sensei!

 ajon2.mp3 ( 772.03K ) : 126

Posted by: lcsdds Jun 28 2009, 06:51 PM

QUOTE (Marek Rojewski @ Jun 26 2009, 09:18 PM)

As always with exciting collabs, I made a take the same day it is announced.
I have much time to think of something cooler, but recording this take won't make things harder I guess

 ajon.mp3 ( 772.03K ) : 134

This is very much work in progress.

I am thinking that the "legato" part at the end could be shorter, I mean there could be something between sliding part and legato part. But in the time I had for my practicing today, I couldn't think of a good way of connecting those parts with something nice.

It would be great to here Your take also Sensei!

 ajon2.mp3 ( 772.03K ) : 126

Posted by: Marek Rojewski Jun 28 2009, 07:20 PM

Hi there Monte! Very huge thanks for Your kind words:)

Actually I first uploaded only the first take, and edited the post yesterday with another take to show someone else
Now I upload a third take, it isn't clean as I just record ideas, and will have enough time before the deadline to clean things up.

This take is similar to the second one, but I replaced half of the "sliding climbing lick" with a similar but bit different lick. It is quite new idea for me, so it sounds unclean at first, but I think after cleaning it will be better that way, than playing the same "sliding stuff" for a longer time.

 ajon3.mp3 ( 772.03K ) : 129


Hmm another take with the new thing played faster.

 ajon4.mp3 ( 772.03K ) : 125

Posted by: Marek Rojewski Jul 10 2009, 06:12 PM

Hi there Monte! Don't know if You saw it in the Iron Maiden thread, so I post it here also, the video take for the collab. Need to add video of the second guitar somewhere in the corner of the main one, but I need to learn it first.



I have some hard times recently, as I stay at work for whole nights lately. I don't have much to do there, so I practice quite much, but my mind is ultra tired and so I don't think that this practicing is of much effect. Anyway I hope to record some takes for REC in the nearest future. To bad that I haven't find enough motivation to try harder on the "your own song" competition, but I am to tired most of the time to focus on learning so much new things at once. I am also looking forward to trying to come up with some solo for the Dream Theater collab, although I listened only one album of theirs, so solo won't be to DT I bet

Take care \m/

EDIT: oh my, saw my own video again now, gods such an embarrassment:P