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Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Aug 3 2014, 07:32 PM

Hey mate!

Welcome to your personal thread!

How about sharing here your first impressions on the lessons we decided to work upon, to begin with?

Cosmin

Posted by: Phil66 Aug 4 2014, 09:03 PM

OK, most of my problems from the weekend are sorted. Been having a practise on the two lessons
Rhythm: http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/ls/Beginn..._1_Open_Chords/
Lead: http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/ls/Beginn...-C-Major-Scale/

Learnt the first two sections of the solo but am struggling to control it, I keep adding extra notes in without thinking, for instance on this section
|---------------------|---------------------|
|---------------------|---------------------|
|---------------------|---------------------|
|---------------------|--3----5----7------|
|--3----5----7------|---------------------|
|---------------------|---------------------|


Q Q H Q Q H
---------------------|---------------------|
---------------------|---------------------|
--5----4------------|--5----7----7--------|
------------7-------|---------------------|
---------------------|---------------------|
---------------------|---------------------|

On that last C before the two D's I sometimes pick it three times (down, up, down) before the first D, it sounds ok but it just happens

Must try harder.



Re-training my fingers for the C chord, never liked it

Cheers

Phil

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Aug 5 2014, 06:53 AM

Hey Phill

The whole idea here is to take it easy - I bet you are trying to gain some time, but you are actually losing that time

I used to do the same some 13-14 years ago - 'Ah, how does that go? Oh, like that... Let's see now... uh oh... I can't do it yet... but why, why!!??'

I didn't want to accept the fact that I needed to slow down and first understand and assimilate what I should be playing, before actually playing it. You will see that if you play slow enough, you will be able to pick the exact number of times, because you have CONTROL

The whole idea is to watch the slow vids and then rehearse each phrase slow enough so that you can play it without any effort - that goes both for the phrases and for the C chord shape

Now, to nail ANY chord shape, you can try the following exercise:

- set a metronome to 60 BPM in a 4/4 time signature - it'll sound like 1, 2, 3, 4, 1, 2, 3, 4... etc
- play the chord you need to master on each first beat in each bar, by raising your fingers off the fretboard on beat 3 and placing them back on on beat 1
- take care on landing with ALL the fingers at once in the necessary positions
- once you are comfy doing that at the 60 BPM, raise the speed

Please let me know what you think on the matters at hand, ok?

Posted by: Phil66 Aug 5 2014, 08:27 PM

Hello Cosmin,

Yeah thanks for that. Regarding the three note thing that I do, I can play it as the video says BUT, after a few times the extra notes come in, I don't think that they aren't musical, they fit with the beat ok, it's basically a triplet if I remember correctly but what annoys me is that it isn't what I am told to do in the video, it's breaking away from my instruction.

Regards the chords, I learnt early on that we should NEVER "walk the chord", you have re-emphasised that by saying that all fingers should land at once, and that way of practising is awesome thank you.

I haven't had a good start as today once again, life has taken over and I have had to sort some shit out for most of this evening I didn't get home until 18:30 from 06:00 this morning, had some food, sorted the crap out and want to spend some time with my wife from 21:00.

Sorry, please don't give up on me and feel you are wasting your time, things will improve, I just started at the same time a load of shit rolled my way.

Cheers

Phil

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Aug 6 2014, 07:21 AM

Hey man

No worries, no one is going anywhere! Just take your time and we'll take everything step by step, ok?

About those triplets - you need to stay focused. You are playing extra notes because after a few times you are losing focus most likely. Try to rehearse the specific phrase for let's say, 3 times in a row in perfect shape at a slow tempo. If you get past that, try 5 times and then 10 times. If you make a mistake, start over

Once you make it past 10 times in a row without any mistake, raise the tempo. Once you get the phrase at the original recording tempo, implement it in the context and you are good to go!

Do we have a deal, Sir?

Posted by: Phil66 Aug 6 2014, 08:33 PM

Yes we have a deal The triplet thing seems to be some expression from within, I don't want to sound pretentious but it just happens. I know I must control it or it will control me

Cheers

Onwards and upwards

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Aug 7 2014, 09:14 AM

Hah!

Nice description man! I have a little exercise for ya, which will help you understand and assimilate pretty much any type of rhythmic subdivision.

- set a metronome at 60BPM and 4/4 time signature

- tap your foot to the metronome click

- clap your hands in triplets - that goes like 3 even claps over each beat of the metronome

1, 2, 3, 1, 2, 3, 1, 2, 3, 1, 2, 3

Above, each '1' represents the beat performed by the foot over the metronome and the 1,2,3 are the hand claps

Once you get this exercise even, you will feel triplets pretty well, I think Let me know how it goes, ok?

Posted by: Phil66 Aug 7 2014, 09:00 PM

Hello Cosmin,

Ok this is a test for video quality as well as to show you something. I have realised that on that lick I am not playing a triplet, it's more 3 quarter notes within the beat, correct me if I am wrong, which I probably am but you will get what I mean when you see it. I know the timing is a little off but I'd had a stressful day which I think shows in both videos.

Anyway, rip me apart man This is the first time anyone other than teachers and my wife have seen me "play"

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7DgYVFpqsCY

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MOk9VyFqW3o

Let me know how the video quality is for you please.

Cheers

Phil

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Aug 8 2014, 07:46 AM

Hey there!

Mate, the quality of the vids is very good - the image is clear and the sound as well! I had absolutely no trouble hearing what you are doing

About the playing - indeed it's not a triplet, it's two 16th notes and an 8th note if I am not mistaken As for the other video, the picking seems ok and the notes are clear - as in the lick video, you are playing very clean, which is a great asset!

The only thing I'd focus on would be the right hand movements - your picking hand is moving a bit too much - work slower with the metronome and focus on moving as little as possible

Otherwise, about the video, if you could set the camera so that both your hands could be visible, that would be even nicer

Let's see a full version of the lessons with the slower backings, if you are ready, if not and there are more questions, please do go ahead and ask, deal?

Posted by: Phil66 Aug 8 2014, 12:24 PM

Thanks, I just wanted to show you those things to see if you could pick up on anything. I am away this weekend (life gets in the way again) so it may be Sunday evening when i post something. I am doing my best with my limited time

Cheers

Phil

P.S I am not getting email notifications about replies again.

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Aug 9 2014, 03:11 PM

Hey mate - no worries, write back when you are ready and back in action

You should definitely PM Bogdan about this, as it's a tech issue which he can help out with for certain

See you when you get back!

Posted by: Phil66 Aug 10 2014, 09:27 PM

Ok, here's a video for you, I know it's crap but at least you will know I am trying. Any pointers about anything at all greatly appreciated. I do find it harder to play slower for some reason.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PxJURN1YDWc&feature=youtu.be


Cheers

Phil

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Aug 10 2014, 11:05 PM

Hey man

The playing is not bad at all - the only issue would be that you are playing different from what Bear is playing. So basically you are playing another formula in your video Please watch videos 6 and 7 where bear plays the formula which is the same throughout the whole lesson - You will notice that if you count 4 beats for every chord change you will have 4 beats for every chord.

Now, the easiest thing will be to tap your foot and play the formula over the tapping - I'll make a little recording for you tomorrow as it's A LOT easier to understand in that way Stay tuned

Posted by: Phil66 Aug 11 2014, 08:31 AM

Thanks Cosmin,

I'll do it again tonight. I had a pretty crazy weekend partying, not good at my age and I wanted to get something to you so you could see what I'm doing.
I'll pay along with Bear a few times to see where I'm going wrong. I also feel that I am not relaxed enough when playing. When I watch you, Ben and Bear you look a lot looser in your strumming hand and your fretting hand looks very gentle on the strings. Does this come with time or is there something that can be done?
Cheers
Phil

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Aug 11 2014, 03:39 PM

Hey mate! Take it easy on the partying

Well, in respect to your question - it comes with time indeed, the more you play, the more you'll know how to dose your powers

Now, here's the recording I did so please listen to the formula against the metronome in order to hear how Bear's formula sounds at a very slow tempo Please let me know if it's clear, so far, ok?

Posted by: Phil66 Aug 11 2014, 08:15 PM

OK, thanks, at the moment it feels a little alien to me. If I am correct the second strum is on the offbeat of beat 2. I am used to strumming down at the 1, 2, 3, 4 and up on the &, &, &, &.

I've just given it a little go and my foot goes down with my hand and I lose it

I'll carry on though.

Cheers

Phil

Posted by: Phil66 Aug 11 2014, 10:16 PM

\Ok, I pulled the acoustic out tonight, I don't like to stick to one guitar, my hands seem to get locked to one neck and if I change I struggle to get used to it Someone told me, how true it was I don't know, that never playing the same guitar two days in a row helps your fretting hand flexibility

Anyway, please watch tonight's effort, it starts off a bit shaky but does get better, (I think).

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Jyj_hx1BDg&feature=youtu.be

Cheers


Phil

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Aug 12 2014, 07:34 AM

Hey mate!

True statement I always like to practice the same things on another guitar from a day to another - it feels different on the standard tuning and at the other extreme, on the baritone, because of the neck shape and fret size and because of the string tension, of course.

Now, the take is clearly something else! Good work here! You only need to lay back a little as now you are rushing things and you are a bit in font of the drum track. Please practice it focusing on playing more with the drums and not rushing in front of them.

Otherwise, your chords are clean, strumming looks and sounds healthy - right now, it's all about relaxing a bit Deal?

Posted by: Phil66 Aug 12 2014, 08:35 AM

Cheers Cosmin,

What I found myself doing in that video was concentrating so much on the strumming pattern, (because that offbeat down strum throws me so much) that the drum beat was way back in the background.
Am I correct in thinking that the timing of the strumming on its own is ok (if you isolate it) but it isn't in sync with the drum?
I hope you understand what I'm trying to say.
I haven't played too much with backing tracks and have only used a metronome for scales.
Cheers
Phil

Posted by: Phil66 Aug 12 2014, 07:51 PM

Cosmin,

Something isn't clicking, I have watched my video quite a few times but I can't fathom out the bad timing. I have sat here and watched Bear's video tapping my foot on the floor, finger on the desk, nodding my head, you name it, and then done the same with my video and I can't see the timing error. I'm currently trying to watch both videos at once to isolate it.

I may be a couple of days getting back to you but I'll try my best.

Phil

P.S I've tried tapping my foot when i play but it wants to follow my hand

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Aug 13 2014, 07:47 AM

You are very correct mate - but this is something that comes with time and practice - the more you do it and the more you learn to pay attention to:

- your hands
- the backing track
- listening to what you are playing and making it sound groovy

.. the better things will become. It's not easy and I know EXACTLY what you mean, by saying that the foot wants to follow your hand - this is one of the first steps in educating your body to perform separate tasks.

Please tap your foot to the metronome and to the backing track, until it's a natural movement - by that, I meant that you stop thinking about it and it's just a reflex. Play along with Bear as well, in order to become more natural with the track - record over his take and listen to the differences - what do you notice?

It will take a bit of time simply because you need to learn how to divide your attention in a lot of places - as with everything you haven;t done before, it seems difficult at first Take your time and let's go for the recording over Bear's take first Do we have a deal?

Take your time

Posted by: Phil66 Aug 14 2014, 09:23 PM

Hello Cosmin,

Sorry it's taken so long but I couldn't practice on Tuesday, I smashed my elbow (left arm) and it was too painful to play, last night I went for a meal with my wife and tonight I worked late so have only had about 30 minutes including recording this. Please don't think I don't try.

Ok this take is over Bear's playing, I can do a better one if you need but time was limited tonight. I must learn how to record audio on my DAW and then mix it into the video

I have to admit, I have created a Word document with the chord progression on (the tab doesn't fit on my screen) because I keep forgetting the change for the last two bars

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5EkFeyoKnX4&feature=youtu.be

Rip it up

Phil

Posted by: Phil66 Aug 15 2014, 08:22 PM

Hello Cosmin,

Here is my latest without Bear. Some of the chord changes are a bit off, my elbow flared up today after that bang I gave it the other day and it is painful. How's the tempo though?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QImwzc6XWZo&feature=youtu.be

Cheers

Phil

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Aug 16 2014, 08:11 AM

Hey matey

I think you are progressing well and I understand the little troubles life throws in Let's be glad for what we have and work hard to achieve what we wish for - that would be my approach!

I think you are very close with this one, as I also said in the REC Zone, but please wait for your elbow to heal and give yourself a little time to:

- memorize all the piece so you can be attentive at your playing and at what your body tells you, not at the tab
- focus on the balance of the piece so that you can make it groove just like Bear does - more on that, in the REC Zone comments
- focus on playing the clean chord shapes

About the video editing - have I showed you this video before? I think not, but it will definitely help!



What do you think?

Posted by: Phil66 Aug 16 2014, 09:45 AM

Cheers Cosmin,
Currently in my way to London. Should be back this evening. I do feel like I am improving ok given the limited time I have had.
I'll have a look at the video editing this weekend.
Cheers
Phil

Cheers Cosmin,
Currently in my way to London. Should be back this evening. I do feel like I am improving ok given the limited time I have had.
I'll have a look at the video editing this weekend.
Cheers
Phil

Posted by: Phil66 Aug 16 2014, 09:44 PM

That video was interesting Cosmin, I will adapt it to suit my Cakewalk V-Studio 20 and my camera, I can record using my still camera as I have been but not recording sound with it. I'm sure I will be able to sort it out but it make take a while as I need to practice guitar more I think and the time I spend sorting out recording is time that my fingers could be on the fretboard

Cheers

Phil

P.S Only just got back from London so no practice tonight, I is knackered

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Aug 17 2014, 11:16 AM

No worries man, I too got back home this very early morning after some serious touring and I feel beat even tho I slept..

Anyway, taking the right time to record properly what you already play properly is pretty much the way to do it You aren't forced by any upcoming major event, such as a live show or a recording session for sorting out a material, so the only deadline which you have, is the realistic one dictated by your life It's important to set one though, otherwise, you will lose the sense of progress if you linger too much on a piece.

Please, do keep me updated after you have had your proper rest

Posted by: Phil66 Aug 17 2014, 12:59 PM

Thanks Cosmin,

I just don't want you to think I'm not putting the effort in if it takes me a week to get back to you with something that I would probably get right pretty quickly if I had a few hours a day spare. I don't want you to think I'm wasting your time

Phil

Posted by: Phil66 Aug 17 2014, 08:58 PM

Cosmin,

I cannot connect my stills camera to my PC directly whilst recording so I will need to record the sound track through my Studio VS 20 at the same time as I record with my camera BUT, I will then need to join the audio and video and sync it. I'll have a go but it might take a long time. What video camera do you use? Your image quality is very good and also your sound, is it an expensive setup?

Cheers

Phil

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Aug 18 2014, 07:53 AM

Hey mate Don't worry, each of us has a different life - I can tell about someone who gives a damn and practices and wants to evolve, even if his/her time is scarce The idea is not to post quickly, but to practice and get good results at YOUR pace. In time, the pace can be quickened of course, but that comes with experience.

In respect to the cam, I usually film with DSLR cams belonging to my friends, or my DSLR - a Nikon D3100 - not the greatest but with a good lens, you can do the job decently.

What sort of a budget would you have? It's important to know but in the same time, you can achieve great results with a digital cam as well - Todd Simpson could tell you more about a digital cam, as he uses one with great results.

You can also have a look at these two links for more info:

http://www.pocket-lint.com/news/122777-best-dslr-cameras-2014-the-best-interchangeable-lens-cameras-available-to-buy-today
http://www.ezvid.com/toptenwebcams

Posted by: Phil66 Aug 18 2014, 10:50 AM

Hello mate,

It's not so much the budget that's an issue exactly, it's just that I already have a decent digital camera and don't want to buy another, it's a compact but it is very good, Sony RX100 MkI, I am please with the image quality, it's what I have recorded everything on so far. I just have to learn how to sync the audio recorded from my DAW with the video. That's why I thought maybe a web cam would be better as you can view the image being recorded in the movie maker software in real time.

I'll have a look at those links this evening.

Thanks for your help.

Cheers

Phil

Posted by: Phil66 Aug 18 2014, 09:15 PM

Ok Cosmin,

I've been doing some tests this evening, (at the expense of practice). I've managed to record a video on my Sony RX100 while I was playing through my DAW. I then put them both into Windows Movie Maker Live and managed to sync the sound and the video.It took a couple of minutes to sync it but it kinda looks weird, like when you see those fake videos of top guitarists playing really badly because someone has overdubbed it. The sound doesn't seem to belong on the film. Maybe it's because there is no background noises that makes it appear false, maybe it's just because I'm not used to it .

I've just download the backing track of Bear's lesson. Tomorrow I'll try to play the chords over it while filming it and then mix the backing and my playing and then sync with the video.

Any tips greatly appreciated.

Cheers

Phil

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Aug 19 2014, 08:03 AM

Hey mate I knew that a little tinkering would make things work

It's usually like that - I am NO fan of tinkering and I hate stuff that takes my time for playing, but BUT alas, we must go through that in order to get a nice vid up.

Now, I usually have the 4-8 beats provided by the backing track to use as guide when syncing the video with the audio and it never failed - I would be curious to see your take on putting sound and video together and we'll take it from there, ok? Until I see it I can't really tell much

Just start by making sure that the beats in the audio are synced with the ones in the video - I mean the beginning beats from the backing track, the ones that set the tempo, ok?

Posted by: Phil66 Aug 19 2014, 08:33 AM

IGNORE THIS MESSAGE

Hello Cosmin,
I only have beats on the backing trek in my daw. I recorded just guitar into the desk so no beats to match just trying to pick the moment the hands hit the string. There may be something so simple that I am missing.
Cheers
Phil

Posted by: Phil66 Aug 19 2014, 09:05 PM

Hello Cosmin,

Can you check this out please. The sync is a little bit off but I know where I went wrong. I really needed to re-record it but ran out of time.

I think it's much better.

It's been a struggle learning how to record and sync with my Cakewalk, I've only ever recorded myself playing scales and then played them back in the software, this is a whole new ball game and I'm light years behind



Cheers

Phil

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Aug 20 2014, 07:21 AM

Hey bro! The sync looks great to me

I think you nailed it and now you can focus on recording as close to perfection as you can, at this moment in time Please be careful on the following:

- tune your guitar before recording
- rehearse properly so that you will feel as relaxed as possible when recording
- keep a steady groove
- grab the chord positions as clean as possible

Let's see the take now

Posted by: Phil66 Aug 20 2014, 09:18 AM

Hello Cosmin,
Thanks. I did tune before I played BUT even though my ear isn't brilliant I did notice it sounding out of tune when I was playing. I'll have to check the tuners, maybe one is not holding tune.
I had no practice since the last video other than tapping my foot or my hand on my machine at work and getting it in my head then I did that take right off the bat. I might get another in tonight but out for a meal first with wife
Cheers
Phil

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Aug 21 2014, 07:46 AM

Hey mate!

Well, your ear is better than you think in most cases - people tend to neglect it, out of the irrational urge to 'have tabs' or stuff like that. Visual stimulus usually, rather then hearing what they have to play. Of course, this comes with experience, but the more you work on this skill from the early stages, the faster you will get to the point in which you hear something and you can almost immediately figure it out, because of your trained ear and your theoretical knowledge.

Take the time to focus on the recording and let's see the new video

Posted by: Phil66 Aug 21 2014, 09:28 PM

Last video this week unless I can cram one in tomorrow before the party Then I'm away until Tuesday. Sorry, I will get much more time in the winter.

You know I have had trouble with this rhythm for some odd reason well I have noticed something on Bear's video that shows it must be a little odd, unless I'm totally blowin outta my ass

Watch Bear's knee as he strum the second chord in each bar, it kinda "stutters" a little, a friend of mine is a drummer and he is just starting out on guitar and he listened to this lesson and said that he would find it a little tricky so maybe it's not just me. I think I do think about it too much though rather than just getting down.

Rip me apart

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Aug 22 2014, 07:18 AM

It's in all the beginner's blood to think too much instead of doing

It's not good and it's not bad either - as I see it, you should be thinking about WHAT you have to do, understanding the concepts and techniques and then getting to it without too much fuss

The take is good if you ask me - timing and chord wise, but I'd take down the gain, as it doesn't do justice to those chords - they sound too muddy because of the amount of gain you have placed. Also, check the tuning a bit, please - it sounds just a bit off Maybe it's just me, but I think it does.

Otherwise, guess what I think we can move on to the next one - what do you think?

Posted by: Phil66 Aug 22 2014, 08:11 AM

Thanks, it would be good to go to the next, I can still work on this as a warm up each time I practice. That guitar has Paf Pro pickups on it which i find a little muddy and a Schaller floating trem, it is a total ball ache to tune, I always have to tune the bass E sharp, then the A a little less sharp and so on so that when I have got the high E right the others are right. I haven't played it for a long long time and some of the strings were ever so slightly flat but still showing the correct note on the digital tuner, just showing slightly flat. I just couldn't get them all bang on, I'll get it checked out at my friends guitar shop, he sells lovely Carvin guitars £££££££.

I've put the video on REC, see what everyone says.

Cheers Cosmin

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Aug 22 2014, 10:59 AM

Hey mate Taking your guitar to a luthier, is pretty much the best thing out there. I experienced this today, with my baritone I took it to a new gun in town, an old friend who became a very respected luthier in Bucharest - he is young, always striving to develop and doing an amazingly elaborate job. My baritone had the following issues:

- dried out ebony fretboard
- needed fret leveling
- neck issues
- intonation issues
- nut slots too small

Well, needless to say, he did an AMAZING job and my axe is something else! Totally I recommend a visit to your luthier and I also recommend you to have a good communication with him so that he may know how to help out best

For the next assignment, I would like to suggest this one: http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/ls/Staccato-Power-Chords/

It'll be a good encounter with riffage, having the following elements:

- clean power chord separation
- rhythmic development

What do you think?

Posted by: Phil66 Aug 22 2014, 11:03 AM

Thanks Cosmin,

I'll get onto that tonight.

Cheers

Phil

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Aug 22 2014, 11:06 AM

Perfect! Godspeed, mate

Posted by: Phil66 Aug 22 2014, 01:23 PM

Hello Cosmin,

I've been pondering I ALWAYS tune up before I play. Does the guitar sound slightly sharp or slightly flat to you?

Phil

Posted by: Phil66 Aug 22 2014, 08:51 PM

Ok, got the first six bars of Ben's lesson under my fingers (loosely), I know I'm going to struggle when it comes to the offbeat strumming but I'm away from tomorrow until Monday so no practice

I still have to get Bears C major scale lesson sorted out too. I said to myself "I'm going to spend ten minutes on Bears open chord lesson to get that mastered, then half of my remaining time on the C major lesson and half on my new lesson" but I went straight into Ben's lesson and an hour had gone before I knew it

I'll try to get more structure when I get back.

Is there a nice simple song where the melody uses the C Major scale that we could work on as a side line so I have something to play to my wife that she will recognise?

Thanks for your help Cosmin.

Cheers

Phil

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Aug 23 2014, 07:43 AM

Hey mate

I say do it like this: begin with Ben's new lesson and spend 30 minutes on it and then 10 minutes on Bear's chords and 10-15 on the C major - by the way, how is that one faring? Almost forgot about it and I'd be curious to see it recorded as well

A song you can learn would be 'Let it be' from The Beatles - it's a chord based one, in C major I bet you know, it right? If you like it you can start looking into the chord progression and I would be VERY curious to see recordings

Posted by: Phil66 Aug 23 2014, 05:08 PM

Thanks Cosmin,
The Bear C scale thing isn't coming along really as I've been concentrating on the open cos thing.
Regarding Let It Be I was meaning more playing the melody that is being sung rather than the chords. I'll see if I can find something in the lessons when I get home on Monday.
Cheers buddy
Phil

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Aug 24 2014, 11:03 AM

Uh oh, then let's rework things

Focus on the C major thing and then, if you wish to see the scale at work, focus on figuring out the vocal lines in 'Let it be' and record the guitar played vocal line over the original to see how you are faring with:

- note length
- dynamics - how hard or soft do you hit the notes
- bends, slides and vibrato - try to mimic the vocal line as best as possible

So, let's first get rid of the C major lesson - please tell me if you encounter any difficulties with this one, ok?

Posted by: Phil66 Aug 24 2014, 02:41 PM

Thanks Cosmin I'll give it a go but my ear ain't too good
Cheers

Posted by: Phil66 Aug 24 2014, 04:07 PM

Thanks Cosmin I'll give it a go but my ear ain't too good
Cheers

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Aug 25 2014, 11:14 AM

Hey mate - there's a beginning for EVERYTHING I mean, you have to start somewhere with ear training too - sorting out vocal lines is pretty much the most engaging and fun/easygoing way to do it Sorting out chords and solos is much more difficult, so that's why it'll come up a little bit later, when your ears are already accustomed to sorting out single note lines, such as vocal lines

Please let me know how things are going with each task, ok?

Posted by: Phil66 Sep 1 2014, 10:24 AM

Hello Cosmin,

Struggling with Let It Be, I can't be completely tone deaf as I always know when I've hit a wrong note when playing Bear's C major melody even if it's only one fret BUT I'm struggling to get the first notes. Maybe it's because it's a voice and not a guitar I'm listening to? I'll plug away.
I have a big issue and it's destroying me. I tune my guitar using a Boss tuner before EVERY recording but I'm always told my guitar is out of tune when I post to REC. I tune the open strings and check at the twelfth fret and it's always showing correct on the tuner so it must be me. If the fretted notes sound sharp to your ears Cosmin then maybe I am fretting too hard.
Be nice read your thoughts on this as I am pulling my hair out
Cheers
Phil

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Sep 1 2014, 12:06 PM

Hey Phill!

No worries mate Just shoot a recording of that vocal line over the original vocal recording and then you can analyze it and you will see if there's something wrong - remember - the recording is your mirror Use it accordingly and it will always help you! Have you recorded the piece in this way so far? If not, I am inviting you to try it and let me know how it feels.

In respect to the tuning issue, as I have already written in the REC zone, there are two possible causes:

- the guitar needs to be set up by a luthier
- you are fretting too hard

Both are possibilities, so please try to record another take in which you are focusing on fretting lighter and place it here so that we may discuss it Easy does it and we'll take care of every detail, ok?

Posted by: Phil66 Sep 1 2014, 12:56 PM

Shoot a recording over the vocal line????? I can't even decide on the first note
Now I also have finger pressure to address I need more hours in the day
Cheers
Phil

Posted by: Phil66 Sep 1 2014, 08:14 PM

One thing after another

I've been trying for the last hour to make a video of the tuning/finger pressure test but for some reason Windows Live Movie Maker is rejecting the sound file, I have done nothing any different to any of my other videos. The way it's going I'll just have to use the camera's built in microphones It's saying "The file might be corrupted or in a format that Movie Maker doesn't recognise" it's a .WAV file like all of the others!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Clear one hurdle up jumps another

I've even tried just using a picture instead of true video and attaching the sound file to that but it just isn't happenning

I think maybe the PC will be going through the window in a minute, more practise lost

Posted by: Phil66 Sep 1 2014, 09:02 PM

Ok, it just won't work for some reason so I've done one straight from the camera. I didn't point it at me but towards the amp to try to get better sound

I play the open strings, then the harmonics on the 12th fret, the 1st twelve notes of the C major thing and then the chords from the open chord lesson.

Let me know what you think, you may sense the tension from struggling to sort a proper video out for an hour and a half and losing all that precious practise

Cheers

Phil

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Sep 2 2014, 10:56 AM

Hey Phil - yeah, shoot a video with the vocal line - if you will make mistakes it's only natural - it's the first time you are doing this, right? But if you will wait for it to be perfect, you will most likely send me a video in a few months and we don't want that, right again? The idea is to make mistakes so that I may tell you how to correct them



I understand you, oh yes I do Technology seems to be hindering more than helping us at times

Just take a minute to cool down and don't throw the PC away as you might just need it afterwards I have nothing against you sending me vids that have the sound from the camera, while we discuss things in here - you can only work with separately recorded sound in the REC zone as a rule, but while we debate various tasks in here, I have nothing against the cam recorded sound. When we'll discuss tone, that will be another matter Deal?






Hey again mate - this sounds much better to me I think we should go for recording a new video while keeping a very calm and relaxed state of mind and trying not to apply too much pressure that would alter the pitch when playing the chords - deal? If the problem persists after this, then I think you should take her to the luthier.

Posted by: Phil66 Sep 2 2014, 12:27 PM

Thanks

If that sounds better to you maybe it's because I was more relaxed at not having to show you my skills or lack of them? Maybe I tense up with REC button syndrome?

I can't send you a recording of Let It Be just yet, it will sound more like Humpty Dumpty and I'd be so embarrassed

Cheers

Phil

Posted by: Phil66 Sep 2 2014, 04:35 PM

Hello Cosmin,

Been thinking as I've been toiling away producing blood, sweat and tears ; as I don't have perfect pitch at all, maybe we could start with relative pitch by you giving me the notes for "When", "self" and "trouble" just to give me something to work with?

What are your thoughts on this?

Cheers

Phil

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Sep 3 2014, 07:29 AM

Do you know what empty mind is?

One definition could emphasize the idea in which you stop thinking about the something you have to do and you just get to it and let yourself be immersed in it. Do it slowly and observe yourself - are you tense? De-tense Are you afraid? You have no reason to be afraid - it's not an exam, you are not preparing for a fight and your fate will not be decided on the outcome of the result. Stop thinking and enjoy what you are doing - that's the first step to emptying your mind when playing.

When you have an empty mind, you are relaxed and immersed in the activity you are pursuing - thus better results will come. With exercise and the right state of mind and attitude, the results will become better and better. I tend to think you are overthinking things When the REC button goes, record several versions without expectations - just focus on the music and not on the idea of recording.

That's when the magic will occur About the vocal line - I believe you have to try it in order to see if it's good or not. I am not insisting, but you will never know otherwise, so - as the famous Alice in Chains song says: It's youuuuuur decision

About relative pitch - that's exactly what we are doing Sorting out notes which are already there in respect to a given harmony, as a plus.

If it feels difficult - we can always go to an easier task at first, which involves your voice as well. Most people leave their voice aside, because they think they have no voice - WRONG We all have a voice, but our hearing is more or less trained.

- make sure your guitar is tuned
- play a not with your guitar
- stick a mic in a guitar tuner
- play that note again and sing it in the mic in the same time
- does the tuner indicate the note you played with the guitar? If not, look at where you are - higher or lower - and try to lower or raise the pitch of your voice until you reach that note.
- repeat the process until you get the note right with your voice

I'm sure you're gonna tell me - but I can't sing. It's not about singing - at this point - it's about training your ear to recognize tones in respect to a given landmark - relative pitch training, it is called

What do you think?

Posted by: Phil66 Sep 7 2014, 09:15 PM

I'll give it a go Cosmin, thanks, I just find that when I am recording stuff for you time disappears which is why I am only going to record at weekends from now on. This weekend has been a mad one, I've made a recording of the C major lesson but I had a lot of problems with Movie Maker rejecting sound files again, I downloaded Lightworks which looks very good but isn't as easy as Movie Maker, I managed to get this one done through Movie Maker but I don't know how, it just worked after a few attempts, I didn't want to just upload the camera shot as the sound wasn't too good. I did a double loop. I find it odd that it never ever sounds as good when you play it back as it did when you are playing it, it's as though your mind hears what it wants when you are playing but hears it as it is when you are listening.
This was rushed but I wanted to put something up. I will record tomorrow, even though I said I wouldn't as I did promise to get two videos to you today. Sorry I didn't but time just vanished

I've just bought Let It Be so I'll give it a try this week.

Thanks for your patience

Phil

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Sep 8 2014, 07:20 AM

Hey Phil - technology getting in the way again eh? I totally get you man! I've been struggling to work in the GoPro studio as I wanted to put this Friday's gig with my band in a big mix with all sorts of funny vids we shot on the way home in our van, but somehow... SOMEHOW it doesn't want to export a working version.. Anyway, back to the C major

I think you have progressed a lot, mate! I can also see and hear the vibrato which is much wider and defined since last time, but I noticed three spots which would require your attention:

0:22. 0:36 - you have some hesitations which lead to a bit of delay

01:16 - there's a little mistake there

Otherwise, I think it's good, Phil!

How about preparing it for the REC zone now?

Posted by: Phil66 Sep 8 2014, 08:39 PM

Hello Cosmin,

Should this go to the REC zone? I still got some REC button nerves

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Sep 9 2014, 07:34 AM

Hey Phil!

Your vibrato is getting better and better! I think there are parts where the playing is a bit, just a bit rushed - minute 0:07 for instance, but you know what, let's take it to the REC and see what the guys have to say. It's a lot better than before, so I'd take it there for testing the waters as they say

Posted by: Phil66 Sep 9 2014, 07:54 AM

I noticed the rushing on playback, there were a few takes before where I made small mistakes but there wasn't any rushing, maybe subconsciously I was trying to get it over and done with

Cheers

Phil

Posted by: Phil66 Sep 9 2014, 07:40 PM

Cosmin,

I had forgotten that I got a pass on the open chord lesson http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/guitar_forum/index.php?showtopic=52852 the lesson after this I didn't pass but as I have passed once can I move on now? I'll still play that to warm up until it is nailed right down.

Cheers

Phil

Posted by: Phil66 Sep 9 2014, 08:43 PM

Hello Cosmin,

Ok, I've given it a go, it took me ages to get this and I still can't tell if it is right. I had to go outside of the shapes used in Bear's C Major lesson to make the fingering easier but I kept to C Major.
I've only managed to get "When I Find Myself", I can honestly say that this is the hardest thing I have ever tried to do. I really struggle to listen and find the notes, I seem to forget what I've just heard as soon as I hit the stop button. I'm the same when I am doing calculations in my head, I lose track of where I am, I am very good a maths but not in my head, (terrible when I play darts ). I guess it's like anything, some skills take longer for some people to develop.
Please have a listen and give me a nudge in the right direction.
Cheers
Phil

[attachment=38754:When_I_Find_Myself.wav]

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Sep 10 2014, 09:02 AM

Hey Phil,

Since you have passed this, you can leave it aside for the time being and maybe practice it later on, if you want to see if you can still remember it. You will most likely play it better, because your senses and technique would have evolved at that point

When the Red light is on, we always tend to rush towards the end like there's a pitbull chasing us With time, you will learn to enjoy the process and become more and more relaxed. It's just a button, not an executioner with a guillotine ready for action - in the worst, worst of the worst cases, you will have to record again... and by that, become better and better

Posted by: Phil66 Sep 10 2014, 09:10 AM

Thanks Cosmin
Should I pick another open chord lesson or what do you recommend? Also what do you recommend to replace the C major lesson? I'm hoping I'll pass this time
Cheers
Phil

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Sep 10 2014, 09:15 AM

Ha! Not bad mate! You added two extra notes, but they are from the key and they sound like a nice embellishment to the theme

You played E F G G A and the notes are only G G G G A - good going! Don't stop here! You had a great start, so keep going and send me the snippets along If I were to quote two of the most revered Asian figures in history - Lao Tzu and Miyamoto Musashi - I'd say:

'The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step' - you took it Now, take the next
'Everything is difficult at first' - but step by step, it won't be that difficult anymore

Trust me, your ears will thank you!

Cosmin

Got the things for ya mate

http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/ls/Beginners-Corner-4-Open-Chords/ - the more strumming patterns you go through, the more versatile you will become!

http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/ls/Beginners-Corner-14-Minor-Pentatonic-Scale/ - the basic rock/blues/metal building brick It's pretty similar to the C major lesson, in terms of structure, so you should tackle nicely.

Posted by: Phil66 Sep 10 2014, 09:17 AM

Thanks Cosmin,

Hmm, I wonder why the notes sound different to me or could it be that I was expecting them to be so I convinced myself that they are different. Strange.
Thanks I feel a little bit more confident now.
Cheers
Phil

Posted by: Phil66 Sep 10 2014, 08:56 PM

Ello Cosmin,

Ahh, I may have realised something theory wise. All of the notes in A minor pentatonic are from C major from the previous lesson, would that make A minor pentatonic the same as C Major pentatonic or am I blowing outta my ass??

This lesson is great but the little 3 note licks in bars 11, 14 and 15 are a bit tricky

Will look at the Chord one tomorrow, run out of time now.

Thanks Cosmin.

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Sep 11 2014, 08:28 AM

Hehe! As I said, easy does it Ear training is not something that takes effect overnight - have patience and just work and explore as much as possible The more you do it and the more you post your tries here, the better things will get. No worries, ok?

Hey Phil!

That's a very smart observation I will give you some stuff to read, about the major scale and its chords as well - in respect to the question you asked about the A2 chord - normally we call it Asus2 (the 2nd suspends the major 3rd)

The idea here is:

Any major scale is formed like this: 1 w 2 w 3 h 4 w 5 w 6 w 7 h 8

w = whole step (the notes have one space on the guitar to )
h = half step (the notes are adjacent on the fretboard)

if we apply that from the C note - we consider C = 1

Then we have, according to the formula: C D E F G A B C

Now, if we think about the A minor scale - we can build it by using this formula - 1 2 b3 4 5 b6 b7 - that means that we apply this formula to the A major scale, in order to obtain the A minor scale. The A major scale can be obtained with the formula I first described

Now, the A major scale looks like this: A B C# D E F# G# A

When you see a 'b' in front of any scale degree in any formula, you must lower that degree with one half step, so the result that we get by applying the A minor scale formula to the notes in the A major scale is:

A B C D E F G A - exactly what you discovered the notes in the A minor scale are the exact notes from the C major scale, but you begin the scale with A and end it with A - this is actually a MODE of the C major scale.

Now going further, if we get rid of the 2nd and b6th in the A minor scale, we get the A minor pentatonic scale:

A C D E G - 5 notes, right? That's what pentatonic stands for

I hope this made sense, mate Theory is an amazing tool which will sort out A LOT of situations for any musician

Please read more here:

http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/guitar_forum/index.php?showtopic=47641
http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/guitar_forum/index.php?showtopic=48859 - triads are chords that have 3 different sounds/notes - they represent the most basic chord form

Please let me know what your thoughts are, ok?

Posted by: Phil66 Sep 11 2014, 08:01 PM

Thanks Cosmin,
It all made sense, it's remembering it that's the hard bit

Cheers

Phil

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Sep 12 2014, 07:40 AM

Glad to hear it clicked

Step by step, it will settle in I for one, am always thinking about WHAT is happening in a musical context I am learning, in order to cement the theoretical notions I know and juggle with them easier and easier. But first things first, read through the topics I sent and start asking me questions

Posted by: Phil66 Sep 12 2014, 08:07 AM

You may regret telling me to start asking questions

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Sep 13 2014, 03:23 PM

I noticed you understand things pretty quickly, so I am not afraid The hard work goes to you - under the form of practicing So, how are you faring, mate?

Posted by: Phil66 Sep 13 2014, 08:53 PM

Been a hard week, work has taken a lot out of my practice time BUT I have been getting on pretty well with the A Minor pentatonic lesson, got it memorised, struggling with the timing a little on the second half with the quick triple note bits but it's coming.

The chord lesson is a bit different, I have neglected it a bit due to the limited time this week, and not really liking the chords, the main problem is muting the bass strings on the B chord, (I have been putting a loose bar behind it with my index finger to mute the high E and the A and bass E) and also muting the bass strings in the C#m I am finding particularly hard as I can't get my thumb around because of where my other fingers are I'm worried that I am pressing too hard due to the difficulty of it, and then I will be sharpening the notes again

I'll plug away, hopefully I'll be able to shoot something to you tomorrow, even if it's only a sound file of the pentatonic lesson. I'm really enjoying that lesson, can't say the same for the open chord one, my left hand needs to do some yoga for flexibility I think, never played those chords before, not in that way anyway.

Thanks Cosmin.

Phil

Posted by: Phil66 Sep 14 2014, 08:42 PM

I'm afraid I only managed to get this done today, we had family visitors for most of the day I managed to get 15 minutes listening to "Let It Be". Here is my latest. I hope it's ok doing what I'm doing, I have Bear's C major lesson open showing the fretboard just to help me a little bit, obviously I'm hoping I won't need to do that if I improve but for now I think it is helping me and not really cheating.
Can I ask a favour please. Tell me which notes are wrong (maybe using the word that is sung will be the easiest) but don't tell me what the note should be, then I can go back and try to find the correct one. So for instance if the note for the second syllable of Mary is incorrect maybe you could type Mary. I hope this is handy for you or you may have a better idea

I know the execution is very plink plonk plink plonk but, it's an ear training thing and hopefully once I've eventually got the notes up to and including the first chorus then I can look at embellishing it with slides and bends, eeek

[attachment=38833:Let_it_be.wav]

Thanks for your help Cosmin

Cheers

Phil

I'll try to get something to you tomorrow, probably just a WAV but something, fingers crossed. I am going on holiday on Friday for a week so work might take over again trying to get ahead with everything before I go.

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Sep 15 2014, 10:31 AM

Hey Phil

Glad to hear you like the pentatonic lesson! About the chords - make sure you master each position as best as possible in terms of:

- muting the unnecessary strings
- not pressing to hard
- placing all your fingers at once in the position of the chord and muting the unwanted strings
- making each note sound crystal clear

I can imagine you don't like some chords because they are difficult - but as we have discussed, there's no such thing as a difficult thing It's only something you haven't done... YET Are you with me, good Sir?

Hey Phil Listening to it and as you requested, here are the syllables which need to have other notes on them - the ones who are bold:

When I find myself in times of trouble

Mother Mary comes to me

Speaking words of wisdom

Let it be-e

The ones who are not in bold, are correct - now, try to play and record over the original recording - you will surely notice the differences. Easy does it, ok?

Remember, it's something new, not something like speaking which you have been doing for all your existence

Posted by: Phil66 Sep 15 2014, 12:19 PM

Hello Cosmin,

I was hoping it would be better than that .
I tried to put the iTunes file of Let It Be into my DAW but it wouldn't accept it, any ideas on that?
I'm thinking that the human voice is hard to match for a beginner because it is basically a continuous tone that is infinitely variable. The singer effectively slides up and down to notes, it's not like they are singing in a staccatto (I think the term is) form, maybe this is why it is harder for the beginner. I think it would be easier (though I don't want it that way), if it was played with one finger on a keyboard, then all you hear is the target note rather than the "slide" up or down to the target note.
Some of the notes I thought didn't sound quite right but the note above or below in the scale sounded too high or too low. Any suggestions about this without giving answers?

Thanks Cosmin.

Cheers

Phil

Posted by: Phil66 Sep 15 2014, 09:21 PM

Hello Cosmin,

I am extreeeeemly frustrated. To my ears "IN" sounds lower than "self", if "self" is an A then the note down in the scale is G which is what I played and you said it was wrong, if I play an F it sounds too low, I really don't think I'll ever manage to get my ear trained. I really can't find the note, I've spent an hour listening, playing, listening, playing and G sounds the closest to me even though it doesn't sound bang on I can't find a closer one in the scale.
And if all of this is wrong,

in times of trouble

Mother Mary comes to me

Speaking words of wisdom

Then I'm at a loss. There's 18 syllables there and I can't even get one with only 8 notes to choose from I managed to put the track into my DAW, (there's a way to convert within iTunes ) and try to get the "IN" note, I nearly sent my guitar to the Epiphone graveyard via the window

A whole practise session down the pan

I kept waking up last night "singing" Let It Be" I ain't gonna sleep at all tonight

Back to the pentatonic lesson and open chord lesson tomorrow, put this away for a bit and get the proper lessons worked on

Sorry for the rant Cosmin but my head is about to pop

Cheers buddy

Phil (wax on, wax off, wax on, wax off, wax on, wax off)







Hello Cosmin,

I am extreeeeemly frustrated. To my ears "IN" sounds lower than "self", if "self" is an A then the note down in the scale is G which is what I played and you said it was wrong, if I play an F it sounds too low, I really don't think I'll ever manage to get my ear trained. I really can't find the note, I've spent an hour listening, playing, listening, playing and G sounds the closest to me even though it doesn't sound bang on I can't find a closer one in the scale.
And if all of this is wrong,

in times of trouble

Mother Mary comes to me

Speaking words of wisdom

Then I'm at a loss. There's 18 syllables there and I can't even get one with only 8 notes to choose from I managed to put the track into my DAW, (there's a way to convert within iTunes ) and try to get the "IN" note, I nearly sent my guitar to the Epiphone graveyard via the window

A whole practise session down the pan

I kept waking up last night "singing" Let It Be" I ain't gonna sleep at all tonight

Back to the pentatonic lesson and open chord lesson tomorrow, put this away for a bit and get the proper lessons worked on

Sorry for the rant Cosmin but my head is about to pop

Cheers buddy

Phil (wax on, wax off, wax on, wax off, wax on, wax off)

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Sep 16 2014, 09:56 AM

Hey Phil 'Another practice session down the drain' - That's why it's called practicing - don't think that if you don't get instant gratification, you are not practicing. This is the wrong approach. Ear training is a LENGTHY process. You need to be patient and approach things in the following manner:

- use a software that slows tracks down such as The Amazing Slowdowner - you can download it for free here: http://www.ronimusic.com/amsldowin.htm
- place the track in the software and slow it down until it's comfy for you to play along with it
- start the camera and record
- listen to the recording and compare: are the notes spot on? If not, which ones aren't and where are they - lower, or higher?

A preliminary step in your ear training, as I mentioned in the past is the one in which you connect a microphone to the tuner, play a not on the guitar and then try to imitate it with your voice. The tuner will tell you if you are lower or higher and you can adjust the voice lower or higher till you hit that note. In time, your ear will pick notes up almost instantaneously.

You need to dedicate 15-20 minutes daily to this process in order to see results. Don't get frustrated - there's no reason to it You are on the right path, but it takes time and practice.

Don't try to tackle ALL the verse part in one shot - take just 'Mother Mary comes to me' try to tackle JUST this part - deal?

Cosmin

Posted by: Phil66 Sep 16 2014, 10:00 AM

Thanks Cosmin,

I guess being an engineer is the cross I have to bear, I need my ears, mind and fingers to be CNC machines My patience is not good when I don't see or feel even the slightest improvement.

I'll try again tonight but will cap it to 20 minutes to save my guitar from going to the great gig in the sky

Cheers

Phil

Posted by: Phil66 Sep 16 2014, 08:39 PM

WOW

That was one of the strangest things I've ever heard!!! Sir Paul McCartney at 33% with no pitch change it's like something out of The Exorcist. I couldn't get along with it so I went back to full speed, it's so odd and the vibrato in the voice is just scarey definitely needs a visit from a priest

Anyway here is tonight's go. The F still doesn't sound right to me but it's the only option I've got in the scale, I think .

[attachment=38849:Let_it_be_2.wav]

Rip it

Cheers Cosmin

Phil

Posted by: Phil66 Sep 16 2014, 09:13 PM

Hello Cosmin,

Ok, this was first take, I was running out of time as I'd just set up Reaper and had to have a self taught crash course so lets hope all is ok

Now I know this is no where near perfect, I just wanted to show you I'm bashing away.

[attachment=38851:Bear_14_...ntatonic.wav]

I'll do the chord lesson tomorrow and just play one chord at the beginning of each bar as I'm struggling with two of them.

Is this ok putting just sound files up mid week if I feel I need to? It's so much quicker than video.

Cheers

Phil

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Sep 17 2014, 09:31 AM

Hey Phil I am glad you are practicing guitar combined with paranormal activities Sounds uber exciting

Now, you tackled - When I find myself in times of trouble - right?

Here are the words that need different notes:

When I find myself in times of trouble

In - is lower than your recording and trou -ble - this one is higher Have you tried to record over the original? As I mentioned before - this will shine a very powerful comparative light on things Also, have you tried the method for recognizing single notes, that I mentioned as well?



Hey Phil!

Things sound good with the A minor lesson! I'd be curious to hear it against the backing track though, as in this moment it doesn't have a rhythmic landmark that will help me see if there are any issues. I have nothing against just audio recordings at all So, shall we go for a recording with the backing as well?

Mate, I am also an engineer So, no worries, I understand exactly what you mean and what you are going through. But patience. determination and hard work are your best friends here - an engineer has those inoculated in his education, out of what I know Correct?

Posted by: Phil66 Sep 17 2014, 09:40 AM

Hello Cosmin,

I did record over the original but that note "IN" is so quick. The other notes don't sound exact to me but I ran out of time and couldn't find the right ones.
I have tried the single note method with a tuner but fitting ear training, open chords, A minor pentatonic and polishing up the other open chord and C major scale lessons is hard to fit into 90minutes max.

As far as patience goes regarding being an engineer, one job I do, the customer gives me a +/-.003mm tolerance, now that takes patience in a component that is only 2.5mm thick in places and made from aluminium but my patience isn't strong when the returns don't quantify the time/effort put in, so if I don't see/feel at least a microscopic increase in development/skill/precision then I get savage.


Cheers

Phil

Posted by: Phil66 Sep 17 2014, 09:33 PM

Ok Cosmin,

Very limited time tonight, took wife out for the evening so dived in and did this take, as you will hear I am still struggling with the triple notes on the high strings and the timing on them is a little off but I am enjoying this one Picking dynamics isn't very good either.

[attachment=38877:Beginner...ntatonic.mp3]

No ear training tonight, sorry

No open chords tonight, sorry

Cheers

Phil

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Sep 18 2014, 09:22 AM

Hey Phil Two things:

1) don't try to cram up everything everyday - I know it's hard to accept this, but instead of leaving something unfinished just to practice 'everything', I'd focus on getting something done correctly and understanding it and then practicing in order to correct form and execution rather then leaving it to get to the next thing and mark everything with 'went through in that day'

2) slow it down if it's too fast and try to emulate the note while listening to the slowed down recording I know it's tedious, but hopefully you will thank yourself for taking the time, later on

Hey again mate let's see whatchagot'ere...

hmmm - all I hear is an empty backing track Please check if you sent the right file

Thank you!

Cosmin

Posted by: Phil66 Sep 18 2014, 08:10 PM

Ooooops,

Here is last night's take [attachment=38894:Bear_14_...ntatonic.wav]

As I said not brilliant but just so you can see I am having a go.

I'm enjoying this lesson so much it's stopping me doing the other stuff, there's something I like about bars 9-19, don't know what but they're great.

Cheers Cosmin.

Posted by: Phil66 Sep 18 2014, 09:19 PM

Here's tonight's take. Managed to slot this in in between packing for my holiday, after a morning at work tomorrow I'm of to the airport hotel, that's where the party starts then flying out on Saturday morning and returning Sunday 28th afternoon so you will get a bit of peace for a week.

Cheers buddy.

[attachment=38896:Bear_14_...18092014.wav]

Be interested to read your thoughts on the two takes with a day between them.

Cheers buddy.

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Sep 19 2014, 09:30 PM

Hey Phil!

I have listened to both takes and they would still need just a bit more playing to be there in great shape - it's all about making things sound natural Now, the only technical nature issues I spotted are the two similar licks occurring at 0:25 and 0:33 in the last take. You need to make those notes sound clean and in good timing - deal?

Otherwise, I have nothing to complain about Let's rock after you come back, ok?

Cosmin

Posted by: Phil66 Sep 20 2014, 06:48 AM

Thanks Cosmin,
I love that piece, I know the takes aren't brilliant but something happens when the second half starts, I seem to suddenly relax and my head starts nodding to the beat and even my foot starts tapping. I find it hard to consciously tap my foot but this piece makes it happen.
I'll have a listen to the links you pointed out when I get to the destination.
Cheers
Phil

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Sep 20 2014, 03:16 PM

Hey Phil! It's all about feeling something It seems this piece has that effect on you, correct?

Now, please focus on those two little licks I've told you about in my previous message after coming back from the holiday, ok?

Posted by: Phil66 Sep 28 2014, 08:52 PM

Back onto it tomorrow Cosmin. Yeah, those two phrases are a little tricky rolling from the high E to B string so quickly. I'll get there, got to try and get motivated for those chords too, and Let It Be

Be in touch soon.

Cheers

Phil

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Sep 29 2014, 04:05 PM

Hey Phil!!

Welcome back! How was your vacation, man? I myself am in an airport in Frankfurt,Germany right now as I went to visit my girlfriend in Aberdeen, Scotland. God bless the Internet for letting me work whenever, wherever So, as before, take things slowly and let's see some intermediary takes, so that we can discuss on the development of the playing as it occurs, ok?

Posted by: Phil66 Sep 29 2014, 09:18 PM

WOW Does your girlfriend live in Aberdeen??? Or is she just there for a while? That's long distance lovin if she lives there mate

Ok take 666

[attachment=39041:Bear_14_...29092014.wav]

Tomorrow will be spent getting those chords down and starting again with Let It Be, I've forgotten what bits I worked out

Cheers

Phil

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Sep 30 2014, 01:41 PM

Well, yeah, distance it is But, when you know what you want, it's nothing actually

Coming back to the recording - I can already say - good work so far - I'd give it just a bit more time to work on the vibrato, as it's a bit too weak still. Please try to emphasize it more in the playing and I think we're good for the REC zone.

Remember - use the wrist and try to mimic Bear's vibrato as much as possible - okai? Wide, in pitch and rounded, are the key words here

Posted by: Phil66 Sep 30 2014, 01:43 PM

Thanks Cosmin,

My vibrato does seem to have slipped a little over my holiday, not that it was brilliant but it does seem to have gone back a couple of steps.

Cheers

Phil

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Oct 1 2014, 09:22 AM

Hey Phil - just focus on it while playing and it will come back - it's like riding the bike Once you've done it, it's pretty easy to remember

Keep me updated and let's see the technique at work in a new take - deal?

Posted by: Phil66 Oct 1 2014, 09:41 PM

Been concentrating on the Bear open chord 4 lesson tonight, I have bought Guitar Pro 6 and find that a great help, very very regimented and synthetic but it helps me to focus as you can just loop it for infinity Been finding new and better ways for my hands to play the C#m and the B in the way Bear plays them.
Practiced vibrato too much last night, got a blister on my third finger , I heard that white spirits helps to harden the fingertips?
I understand the riding a bike analogy, I hadn't forgot how to ride the bike but I was wobbling all over the place for the first few miles
Should get some sound files to you tomorrow, did a twelve hour stint at work today and also took wife out for a meal so not much time for me before I need my cot

Cheers Cosmin

Phil

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Oct 2 2014, 08:52 AM

Hey Phil

You sound like a man who is WORKING to achieve something - that's VERY good!

Keep things up and send me whatever you have ready first, so that we may take it from there. I can barely wait to start working on my own stuff, as the last two days since I came back from Scotland were hectic with work and all sorts of silly things that had to be taken care of.

Anyway, if you stay focused on a certain thing, even if you aren't physically practicing it for a period, you will find it far easier to get back in line. The only thing is to keep your mind and senses oriented there Hope it makes sense?

Posted by: Phil66 Oct 2 2014, 09:00 PM

Hello Cosmin,
Ok, been hammering those chords again tonight using GP6 (great tool!) but when I decided to listen/watch to Bear's video it sounds as though he is doing much more strumming than in the GP5 file and also in his TAB. Am I hearing things? Is the backing track confusing my ears?

This blister on my third finger may be a great training tool, in the A minor pentatonic exercise all the vibrato is done when the third finger frets the long note, hence the blister I've been playing it again tonight and it has forced my middle finger to come in to help the third, I have to say, it does give more control Just got to make a habit of it. There is blood on my fretboard now, don't know if I'll be able to do anything tomorrow, maybe read that theory stuff you gave me to read

I'm still struggling with Let It Be, I think the problem I have personally is the instruments aren't the same, ie, vocal and guitar making it hard for me, at the moment, to find the notes, I read this today http://www.easyeartraining.com/faqs/how-can-i-use-a-digital-tuner-to-practice-singing-in-tune/ and I also think my audiation needs a lot of work as I struggle to get the sound in my head, I have ordered one of these hoping it will help as I only have a 6 string tuner at the moment. http://www.amazon.co.uk/Korg-TM-50BK-Tuner-Metronome-Detection/dp/B00923H7MA

What do you think?

Cheers

Phil

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Oct 3 2014, 02:16 PM

Hey Phil - about the tuner thing It's pretty much the same thing I suggested above in the ear training exercise It just doesn't involve the guitar Choose which one you like, they are both similar - but it's far better to have your ears acquainted to the tuner.

About Bear's lesson - let's see a recording first so that I can compare what's going on in there - usually, it's best to stick to what the video shows. That's why the slowed down videos always come in handy and the tabs are more confusing I have a theory about tabs, but I think I am the only one I think tabs only help out with positions and that's that, as they don't show you anything about when and for how long a note, chord or phrase is played.

So, it's best to see how you are playing it so far and in comparison to the vids I can see what modifications should be done, ok?

About the middle finger Well, that little dude is ALWAYS helpful - it's very well that you discovered this on your own and that you are slowly starting to use it. You will see that when you are bending, the middle finger will come in extremely handy and increase the power already generated by your wrist. Check out the video below:



Have I shown you this one before? I can't remember exactly, but since I think it emphasizes the idea very well, I'll stick it here one more time

Posted by: Phil66 Oct 3 2014, 09:20 PM

Hello Cosmin,

I guess I am used to TAB but the ones I have used in the past have shown the strumming pattern using symbols like this.


Maybe this would help students but I guess working it out for yourself is better in the long run

I do like to use GP6 to learn the chords to start off, that does help me as I'm only concentrating on one thing, ie, getting the chord shape into my fingers and playing it on the first beat of the bar, this eventually builds and you can play along with the GP6 file and then you start to relax and somehow your fingers automatically find "easier" positions. Then I switch to the video.

Need to rest my finger tonight, it's very very tender on the blister which has now burst, hopefully by tomorrow night I will be able to record something, I might even put some super glue over the area to get me through a couple of takes.

Need to reformat my hard drive and re-install Win7 so might as well take this opportunity.

Cheers Cosmin.

Phil

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Oct 4 2014, 07:54 AM

Hey Phil Most people want instant gratification - that's a known fact. Nowadays, everyone wants things to occur NOW, not later and they don't really care for true development. They all say they want to be great, but they never take the time to really do what they need to do in order to achieve that. Tabs are useful but they shouldn't become a crutch - that's my opinion at least.

When you are a beginner and your senses aren't that well developed, it's only normal to look out for support all the time, but when you have gathered enough experience and you are still using tabs out of commodity, well, that's when the real issue appears.

The symbols can be used in the tab, but usually when you have a guy in front of you showing you slowly how it's done, you can just watch him do it until you understand the hand motions. Imagine that it's something that you have to mimic - when you use tabs, you have to figure out strumming and positions based on numbers. When you are looking at a person you only have to do what that person does. The thing which would help here indeed - in the video I mean - would be a metronome click behind the strumming pattern when Bear plays slowly, so that you would have a rhythmic landmark.

Now, let's see a recording and we'll take it form there - deal? Trust me, when you will have developed an ear to pick up these strumming patterns, you will be MUCH stronger and confident in general!

Posted by: Phil66 Oct 5 2014, 10:56 PM

I understand what you are saying, BUT, I still think GP6 is good to get the chords under your fingers, before you attempt the rhythm, I hope you understand.

Cheers

Phil

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Oct 6 2014, 07:58 AM

If you are referring at learning the positions, yes, it is useful, but not for what the right hand does. For me at least, it's natural to split the left hand and right hand actions and then put them back together like this:

- left hand - learn the positions and the amount of time that a chord lasts (i.e. each chord change occurs on beat 1 and 3)
- practice with a metronome by counting the beats and executing the chord changes as clean and in good timing as possible. Mark the changes with one right hand strum.
- right hand - mute the strings with your left hand and practice the strumming patterns with your right hand without focusing on the changes. Learn the groove and start feeling it, by practicing as described above against the metronome. Tap your foot to the beat and focus on understanding where beat 1 occurs all the time.
- both hands: put left and right together after you have become acquainted and used to each drill above - you will feel much more confident for certain. Hope this makes sense

Posted by: Phil66 Oct 6 2014, 12:23 PM

Yes Cosmin,

That's usually what I do, learn the left hand, then get the rhythm in my right then try to combine the two.

Cheers

Phil

Posted by: Phil66 Oct 6 2014, 08:03 PM

Ok, this is painful to watch and is my first real try at matching notes with my voice, I will do this using A minor full scale next time.
I know it's terrible but any pointers will help.
Thanks Cosmin





Cheers

Phil

Posted by: Phil66 Oct 6 2014, 08:44 PM

Hello Cosmin,

Another go at the A Minor lesson. Finger is almost healed now, little bit of pain but I wanted to have a go

Bought a guitar stool which I have found much better than my leather office chair, I got one of these http://www.jhs.co.uk/New%20Products/kinsmandualstool.html

[attachment=39150:Bear_A_M...06102014.wav]

Personally I think the vibrato still needs work, particularly on the pitch but I wanted to get something to you

Cheers

Phil

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Oct 7 2014, 03:51 PM

VERY GOOD!

Dude, it's amazing that you started doing this! It will make you hear ants speaking

You see, when you are in low pitch, it's a bit harder to nail the notes, but once you go higher there were moments when you got close from the first time The one pointer that I can give you is not to give up - you are on the right path and if you keep doing this drill 10 minutes each day, you will definitely see progress! Congratulations once again for this choice!

Thanks for the recording, matey! Ithink that chair is very good for you - an office chair is too comfy in the bad way and this one will teach you how to sit with your back straight - please check yourself from 5 to 5 minutes - posture is very important for your health!

I have listened to the recording and the vibrato is much more present than before, but it needs to be closer to the intended pitch, so please try to focus on this aspect, deal? Playing along with the original recording will help you a lot and you can stay focused on the vibrato as otherwise I see no other issues.

Keep rocking and keep me updated!!

Posted by: Phil66 Oct 12 2014, 09:11 PM

Hello Cosmin,

Video tomorrow for sure, don't seem to have had a minute to myself this past week, maximum of one hour in total for ear training and guitar. Everything should be back to normal now though. Still struggling to get motivated with the current chord lesson for some reason, it just isn't floating my boat . Ear training; given the time I've spent, is getting better, I am hitting the notes more regularly and currently finding the lower notes easier. One thing I do find odd, I only know it is correct because the tuner tells me it is correct, not because my brain tells me.

Feeling that my guitar playing ambitions are a bit of a lost cause at the moment with life/work taking over but I'm looking at it as a long pit stop and it's time to get back on track.

I'm pretty confident that I'll get a pass in REC with the A Minor thing, just so long as i don't get rec button syndrome

Cheers

Phil

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Oct 13 2014, 08:46 AM

Hey Phil!

Yeah mate, I know how life is usually laughing at our plans, but indeed, you mustn't back off, by all means, go ahead and surpass the difficult period so that you can get back to your regular practicing routine

About the ears, well, your brain isn't yet familiar with the notes and the pitches so it will take some time until you feel that the notes ring in your head and you can reproduce them at will, with your voice even. That would actually be a great achievement, even if it will take some time to reach.

For instance, I was in the railstation in Budapest last evening and I was pretty bored. At one point, there was that silly theme sound that you can hear in every railway station and I learned to sing it and then tried to figure out the intervals. It was D# G# A# G# - I had this cool app on my phone - G Strings - which is actually a tuner and it told me what notes they were, but using theory I came to realise the connection between them and I was happy and my boredom flew away. You can play around with music without a guitar at any time, but all you have to do is go past your pre-conceptions and not care if it doesn't come out perfect. It will eventually, if you work hard enough

Keep me updated on the progress mate!

Cosmin

Posted by: Phil66 Oct 13 2014, 09:21 PM

Hello Cosmin,

As promised here is a video, I have noticed that my vibrato isn't brilliant, I think some of the reason is my new stool, it is almost like standing as i can't rest the guitar on my knee, not that I want to but I have noticed the guitar moves a lot and counteracts the movement of my hand. More practice I guess, it is much better when I sit in my comfy office chair as the guitar is locked into my body.

Anyway let me know your thoughts please.

Cheers

Phil

P.S I need a kick up the arse with the chord lesson, it's just not drawing me in for some reason I'll get back to it tomorrow evening. I am currently starting every session with ear training for 10-15 minutes, just the A Minor scale at the moment.

For some reason the video image is distorted on this forum but if you click the youtube link on the player it looks better in there, maybe just my computer?

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Oct 14 2014, 03:19 PM

Hey Phil!

This take sounds good to me, man! Aside a little muffled note, around 0:27, I think this can go in the REC zone What do you think? The timing is good, you played clean and the vibrato is nice as well - large and rounded.

About the chair - I think a stool that would allow you to sit with your legs bent at 90 degrees would be perfect - the office chair sounds like it's a bit too comfy If it has handles, even nastier For my taste at least

Now, if you don't fancy the chord lesson, we can find another one, which exercises the same aspects but which seems appealing to you, musically - let me know if you would like that and we can go for it, deal?

Good progress here!! Let's keep rocking, ok?

Cosmin

Posted by: Phil66 Oct 14 2014, 03:29 PM

Thanks Cosmin,

I'll put it on REC. Every take I do has a small error somewhere so I pick the best, hey mate, I even seen the mighty Satch make a mistake

Maybe we could try a different chord lesson, I can always come back to this one, I really can't put my finger on what it is that isn't grabbing me.

As that is going on REC tonight, can you give me my next scale related challenge please, if the REC fails I can still go back to it but sometimes it can take a week to get the votes in

Cheers buddy

Phil

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Oct 14 2014, 07:31 PM

Howdy Phil, since you are asking so nicely Let's try this chord lesson for a change - it has a different approach and a few open chords which sound amazingly nice: http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/ls/Acoustic-Down-Strumming/

Le me know if you like it and about the lead oriented one, let's try this one here:

http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/ls/Beginners-Corner-20-Beginner-Solo/

... it deals with vibrato and some bends which will will take things to the next level for ya In the mean time I'll go grade ya!

What do you think?

Cosmin

Posted by: Phil66 Oct 14 2014, 08:00 PM

Thanks Cosmin,

Yes, I like them both, thank you. The chord one will present a challenge but it does pull me in a lot more than the last one. I know, as a musician we should be able to put our hands to anything but, sometimes it's difficult when you are learning if it's a piece that doesn't sit well with you.

I'll get on them right away. For some reason, the lead lessons always have a greater pull than the chord ones

Thanks Cosmin.

Phil

Hello Cosmin,

Back to the drawing board then. I don't really get what Ben is saying because the first two notes of each part aren't the same length I must be misunderstanding him.

You said to record myself over Bear, how can I download his part so I can hear where I am out? It's hard to concentrate on everything when playing.

Thanks Cosmin

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Oct 15 2014, 07:43 AM

Hey Phil! Glad you like the new lessons I know you are attracted towards the lead lessons more - that's what guitar playing seems to be all about at this point Doesn't it?

About using Bear's recording - try the following approach - record a video with your camera, while the original is being played in the background and then listen to the note length differences. You don't need to download the original recording, as this is only for your personal learning purposes - it doesn't need to have a great quality or so

So, start your camera making sure the recording volumes are set in such a way that you can distinguish both bear's guitar and yours (run a few tests), then record a vid and post it here so that we may discuss it, ok? And by the way, congrats on a nice modification of the lesson As Ben spotted, it came out nicely

Posted by: Phil66 Oct 15 2014, 08:09 AM

Thanks Cosmin,

I was a bit deflated last night after being buzzing all day about laying that one to rest, so to speak, so didn't do much other than adjust the truss rod and intonation on my newest Epiphone ES 339 P90.

I'll get back on it tonight.

I think it would be superb to be able to download the lesson's guitar track so you can put it into your DAW, you could pan it hard left and your own take hard right and really listen to the two and easily hear the difference. Is it worth suggesting this to the admin? It may not be possible with everything on there but maybe it could be a new feature?

Cheers

Phil

Posted by: Phil66 Oct 15 2014, 09:46 PM

Hello Cosmin,

I can play along with Bear, I don't even need to look at the left or right hand on my guitar, my picking timing is the same as Bear's BUT, when I do it on my own I get this, the same as before, I can't seem to listen to the beat and play at the same time, maybe this is all too advanced for me at the moment, maybe I should go back to "Row Row Row Your Your Boat"

Anyway this is tonight's, same as before but just to show you I have had a go.



I'll try again tomorrow, I'll be on this until 2015 at this rate

Cheers

Phil

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Oct 16 2014, 08:44 AM

Hey Phil!

Why not? Any suggestion is worth discussing, so by all means, why not posting this in the Practice room? Did I understand correctly - you have a new guitar?

Hey again Phil!

This recording shows that you can mimic, but if you do not understand, you will not be able to reproduce on your own It's not as bad as you think because it's easily fixable, as those dotted 8th notes are the only ones keeping you from nailing this to perfection. Try Ben's method of counting while tapping the foot and listening to the original - if you tap 1, 2, 3, 4, you will notice that the first two notes fall in between the 1 and 2 and 3

-> 1 ta 2 ta 3 ... please try this count WITHOUT playing the guitar, in order to understand where the notes fall into place, ok? Let me know if you have trouble with this one and we'll take it from there

Posted by: Phil66 Oct 16 2014, 11:33 AM

Thanks Cosmin,
Yes I do have a new guitar It's the one in the video. I'm a classic case of "All the gear, no idea"
Out of interest, in milliseconds how long is a 16th nothe at 120bpm?
I'm getting a little worried that if dotted notes are giving me problems at level 2 lessons how am I ever going to get to level 4 or 5? I wasn't really expecting such things at this early stage
You comment "This recording shows you can mimic......." confused me a little bit, that recording is just me by myself not listening to Bear's recording.
Cheers
Phil

Posted by: Phil66 Oct 16 2014, 09:33 PM

Hello Cosmin,

Well I am totally confused. I have sat here for nearly an hour tapping my fingers to the beat, I still can't hear that the first note goes past beat 2, I ended up putting it through GP6 and I can still hear the metronome beat slightly after the second note starts. Is my brain completely made of potato?????

I am just not getting this at all. I just can't hear that the first note goes past beat two no matter how long I listen

I must have a musical dyslexia

Cheers

Phil

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Oct 17 2014, 08:35 AM

Cheers! What I meant was that once you got comfortable with the ensemble, you didn't pay attention to the details and you slipped those notes That's why I want you to play along with Bear and record the take over the original.

About dotted 8ths, they aren't the easiest thing to nail, so don't worry - it's a matter of feeling, so it'll come in time. You worry too much about not getting things at a first glance, so as I said before Relax, enjoy the ride and they will come to you when you least expect - deal?

Ugh - sorry, my bad - I wrote that wrong and I mislead you - the first note falls on 1 and then the second one is the 'ta' between 1 and 2 - your feeling is right! I was writing and somehow I was thinking that it was understood that the first note falls on 1 - my brain buzzes me a lot lately - all work and too little rest, but as I said, you felt things right and I am curious if you can send me recording at normal speed featuring only the first two bars in the piece, so that we may both agree on the fact that you clearly understood things - deal?

Posted by: Phil66 Oct 17 2014, 09:20 AM

Thanks Cosmin,

I'm not fully sure, I'll try to get a recording over Bear just two bars.

I need to de-confuse myself regarding what you are saying, how I am interpreting it and what I am hearing because it's three different things at the moment.

Cheers

Phil

Posted by: Phil66 Oct 17 2014, 09:22 PM

Hello Cosmin,

Ok here we go.

[attachment=39359:Bear_A_M...r_2_bars.wav]

I can't read music but one thing I noticed in the GP5 music notation is that the first two notes of each phrase have the same symbol with a dot after them, logic tells me that they should be of the same length but, to my ears Bear doesn't play them like that. In my humble opinion this should be addressed because some people, like myself will like to use GP when having timing issue or some other reason because it is pure guitar and metronome and you can vary the speed. If the notation doesn't match the piece it can be an added distraction because GP plays it as it is notated.

I'll get a track of me playing along with Bear sometime this evening

Cheers

Phil

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Oct 18 2014, 02:26 PM

Cheers Phil!

I got the recording and I'll listen to it, but in the mean time, I want to talk to you about something important - listening. When you want to get something REALLY imbued into your system, you need to listen to it a lot. And when I say listening, I mean not doing anything but listening - there are a lot of things you can learn by simply listening It is of course something which you will discover in time while practicing it, because listening is like any other activity, the more you do it, while focusing on it, of course, it will reveal some things which weren't there before. So, if I were in your stead, I would listen to the lesson actively for a few times each day, just to make sure it got in my mind and as you said wheen you told me that you don't need to look at the hands, which by the way, is a very, very good thing - practically playing it will not involve that feeling that smells like 'what's next in the following measure??'

You might've noticed that I have a pretty philosophic way of talking about things and I hope you dig it and it helps

I'll see what can be done with the GP file About the recording you sent - the third note should be a wee longer, but I am sure you will feel it when playing alongside Bear's recording.

In the mean time, I am looking forward to hearing your new take - you're THIS close to nailing this piece, so, let's get it done, deal?

Cosmin

Posted by: Phil66 Oct 18 2014, 06:45 PM

Thanks Cosmin,
I wasn't going to say anything as it seems like I'm always making up excuses for not practising but I've had a bad case of bursitis in my neck, it was very debilitating causing a lot of pain through my neck, head, both shoulders and nagging pain through both arms including tingling in fingers. It got so bad at one point I nearly passed out. I do get it occasionally from an old weight training incident which took 12 months of physiotherapy, three steroid injections and a manipulation under anaesthetic to get me to do normal activities without pain. No weight training ever again Anyway its been hard to play guitar as you can imagine but I did try during times when the agony subsided a little.
It's 90% fixed now so I'll give it a go tonight.
Thanks for your patience Cosmin, I know it seems like I am always making excuses but since joining GMC I've more bad luck than I have in ages with many of life's problems appearing one after the other. Let's hope this neck thing is the last of it all.
Cheers
Phil

Posted by: Phil66 Oct 18 2014, 09:01 PM

Hello Cosmin,

Ok here is my recording along with Bear. Bear is panned hard left and I am panned hard right. I know I come in slightly ahead of Bear in a couple of places but i couldn't do any more as my neck has flared up again. Need to go to a physio on Monday £££££

[attachment=39378:Bear_A_M...18102014.wav]

Sorry I can't give you more Cosmin, I feel bad not putting in enough.

Cheers

Phil

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Oct 19 2014, 10:06 AM

Hey there Phil!

Don't worry man, I told you - life usually laughs at our plans, but we can laugh back by being persistent in the things we love doing and regardless of what life throws, continue. We sometimes can put more in and sometimes less, but the basic idea is .... DON'T STOP!

I hope you will be well soon and in the mean time, I have listened to the recording and here are my thoughts:

- you have played very nicely and you have had good timing and 99% exact phrasing
- the only thing which I think that you can do to improve this, would be to pay attention to the way in which the phrases end - see 0:19 - 0:20 for instance - you let the note ring, while Bear stops it

For a man with a neck issue, you did pretty darn well, Sir!

Keep it up and lemme know how it went at the doc!

Cosmin

Posted by: Phil66 Oct 19 2014, 10:17 AM

Thanks Cosmin.
Would you believe it? Woke up this morning totally pain free. Need to be careful for a few days because it can return so easily, its probably just off touching the nerve so one slightly bad move could fire it up again.
Speak soon.
Cheers
Phil

Posted by: Phil66 Oct 19 2014, 07:07 PM

Hello Cosmin,

Neck has flared up again, only on the left side now, affecting left shoulder and arm. Too uncomfortable to "play" my guitar .
I've tried doing some ear training with my tuner. My tuner (Korg TM50) can sound out the note for you to hear so i don't have to pick the string on the guitar and I can do it lying down. BIG BIG problem. Why do I find it much easier to match a guitar note than I do an electronic tone?

Cheers Cosmin.

Phil

Out of interest, would that last take of the A minor lesson have gotten a pass in REC?

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Oct 20 2014, 11:16 AM

Hey Phil - give it a rest, man It seems like it's something that won't leave you alone that easily - tell me, do you exercise usually? I mean, sports or something related?

About the tones - it's simply something that your ear needs to become used to Keep in mind that you have started doing this very recently and you aren't able to discern a pitch regardless of the thing that produces it. In time you will be able to recognize intervals even if they are sung by a bird or a train station signal Just give it time and work on it

About the recording - most likely that we would've observed the ends of the phrases which weren't executed as Bear did them and most likely we would've downgraded that, so I think that there would've been even chances for both events If that may be said like that But now that you know what you have to do, just wait for the neck to leave you in peace and then get to work

Posted by: Phil66 Oct 20 2014, 07:24 PM

Hello Cosmin,
I don't get much time to exercise in the true sense. I start work at 06:30 and finish at 17:00 with one 15min break and one 30 min break. I am moderately active during this time being on my feet operating machinery and walking from workshop to workshop which I am still struggling along with as it isn't heavy industry. I do a fair bit of walking at the weekends (weather permitting). I used to be seriously into weight training but had an accident that put a stop to it all. I was doing what is called a "drop set" where you work to positive (pushing) and then negative (lowering) failure then two helpers remove a weight from each end of the bar and you go again, right away, then keep doing this until you can't even lower the bar without weight on it, effectively exhausting the muscle group to total (both positive and negative) failure. When you can't push the weight you can still lower it as you are stronger in this portion than the positive aspect (pushing).
Anyway, I was bench pressing 170kg, I'd done around 6 repetitions and I signaled for my two "helpers" to remove a weight from each end, one did, one didn't, (he was looking out of the window), the consequence was I lost balance, all of the weight slipped off one end (you can't use collars when doing this as it gives the muscles time to recover too much) and then suddenly all of the weight on the other end took over and that side went down too. This caused damage in my neck and should which comes back to haunt me once in a while, such as now.
I used to love weight training, (I'm an explosive type of person) I used to love sprinting but not anything over 200metres, I had the school record in the discuss and this was not beaten until over ten years after I left (I bumped into my old games teacher), I had the longest schoolboy throw in the UK in the javelin but I just couldn't get the technique to make the javelin quite land front end first so it didn't count, but the power was there. I enjoyed weight training so much I trained on Christmas day if it fell on a training day, the local gym was used by pro bodybuilders so the owner opened for them. I haven't found another form of exercise I enjoy as much, I do enjoy walking in the countryside and coastal areas but it's not the walking (I hate treadmills) it's the scenery and wildlife. I enjoy badminton with my wife in the summer months, albeit in the garden for 30-45 minutes but this causes a reduction in guitar practice time.
My neck pain is currently peaking at 11 (on the Spinal Tap volume scale) early evening (practice time) and it's just too painful to sit or stand with a guitar in my lap or around my neck on a strap, it stays at 11 until I wake up the following morning and it is around 4.
Sorry about this essay but I hope it will give you an insight into my personality.
Cheers
Phil

Posted by: Phil66 Oct 20 2014, 09:13 PM

Hello Cosmin,
Again not perfect but I'm a beginner don't forget there has to be a tiny bit of compassion for a little old beginner, you surely can't judge me as tough as someone on level 6 lessons
One thing that is bugging me is the tone, it's lifeless. Also when Bear cuts a note it isn't "on/off" like mine, it's almost as though he has extremely quickly turned the volume down for that note, how can I put it? it sort of does an extremely quick fade out whereas as mine is more like a kill switch. Hope this makes sense and I hope it is something that develops rather than something that can be taught because how would that be taught on here
Anyway, here is tonight's, I managed to have a period where the pain reduced down to about 4 as I'm doing this though, it's creeping back up again.

[attachment=39435:Bear_14_...20102014.wav]

I didn't go to the physio because after thinking about it, he said the last twice that it is not easy to manipulate it as it is, without making me scream in agony so he gave me some progressive exercises to do which I have been doing anyway, I'm not going to pay ££££ to get told the same and be asked to go back so it's on with the anti inflammatory pills and the exercises every half hour

Cheers buddy.

Phil

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Oct 21 2014, 07:54 PM

Hey Phil!

I listened to the track and I must say that the one before sounded much better in respect to note lengths. Please focus on the feeling you had in the previous one, but just play the staccato notes as indicated in the GP file - remember that in the previous take I was speaking about stopping those notes Well, that was what I was referring to - so please try to mimic your previous take and just take care of the notes that need the staccato.

Now, about stopping the notes smoothly - it's of course something that is related to feeling - the more you do it and the more experienced you are, the better it will sound. The impulse has to be gentle but decided. Not rough, because otherwise the killswitch comes in, as you very well noticed.

Try to exercise on one simple phrase and mild up your staccato technique until it reaches a desired level of control - deal? It's all in the finesse and pressure control!

About heavy lifting... man.. I know you had quite some luck to get away with just that... I too love weight lifting and I kept doing it since the 10th grade I just recently stopped, in order to fully dedicate my time to bodyweight training - it develops my flexibility, reflexes and strength - more, much more fitting to sustain my martial arts training sessions

Please take it easy with the neck, until you feel comfortable enough to practice without hurting yourself - ok? Also, please focus on the aspects I mentioned above, in respect to the staccato technique and the note lengths.

Posted by: Phil66 Oct 21 2014, 08:21 PM

Sorry, I've just listened to that and it's awful, it's not the one I recorded and I can't find the one I recorded The file name is correct (last digits are date) but I must've somehow renamed an older file. This neck pain is messing with my head, it feels like I have a Katana through my neck at times.
I'll try again when my neck is good. It's just not happening at the moment.
Sorry
Phil

Posted by: Phil66 Oct 21 2014, 09:18 PM

[attachment=39448:Bear_A_M...21102014.wav]

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Oct 22 2014, 08:39 AM

You mean ... like this?



I NEVER get tired of watching this one Can't wait to receive my shinken (true/sharp sword) to start exercising my cutting techniques!

On the other hand, listening to the new new take, I would ask you to raise the volume of the guitar a bit, since it's too low in the mix and it's pretty hard to distinguish what's happening... but out of what I can hear, the note lengths are ok so far Please re-post after raising the volume so that I can see other details Thank you, kind Sir!

Posted by: Phil66 Oct 22 2014, 03:58 PM

Well my neck is more like the Katana has been inserted through the neck and left there with a crow dancing on each end

Not as bad today, but I have the drive home which can set it off again due to the poor condition of many UK roads

Cheers

Phil

Posted by: Phil66 Oct 22 2014, 08:56 PM

Neck flared up again before I had chance to get anything down which I needed to as I have not saved the last one that is posted. I've just listened and it is still rubbish. I think I may have found my limit Every time I record it there is something wrong, the things that were wrong last time may be right this time but something else will be wrong. I'll never play it like Bear, that's why he's the teacher and I'm the student.
Feeling like the mountain is too high for me to climb.
Cheers buddy.

Phil

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Oct 23 2014, 08:05 AM

Hey Phil I know how it feels man, but then again, if this particular one was too easy, most likely there would've been something else that would've set up issues for you - some other technique or lesson, anyway, something

It's all the same at every level of proficiency - as I say - don't look into the neighbor's garden, but tend to your own and it will grow beautiful and healthy! Having this in mind, take care of yourself, mend the neck and let's getto work! Deal, Sir?

Posted by: Phil66 Oct 23 2014, 08:27 PM

Sorry Cosmin,
I had the blues, my neck is getting me down and my playing is frustrating me and the two together are giving me the blues.
I've noticed a bad habit, when I want to stop a note I don't only mute the string with my right hand I touch it with my pic, I've noticed that if I just remove my fretting finger and then almost immediately mute with my right hand, the staccato effect is much less "kill switch" so I need to practice that for a while until it becomes habit, don't forget I've been noodling for years and old habits die hard.
I won't put anything on here until Saturday or Sunday unless I have a breakthrough with my neck/shoulders. At the moment the neck pain is at number 3 but the shoulders are throbbing like they've been hit by a freight train, I can ignore the throbbing, it's the sharp stabbing pains that really get me and they make my arms twitch, not good when trying to record for you So, I will do a bit of isolated practice for a couple of sessions and see how it goes.
For now I thought you might like to see my man cave:

http://s353.photobucket.com/user/PhilDY6/media/DSC04373_zps4c269dbf.jpg.html

Cheers buddy and thanks for your encouraging words
Phil

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Oct 24 2014, 09:32 AM

WOW! That place looks heavenly So many axes and amps - that Blackstar could look great in my studio as well

I am glad you managed to discover a method of smoothening up the staccato technique Phil After your neck and shoulders will give you some peace, please send me a recording with just a short phrase in the first place in which you can showcase the new habit and after we will confirm everything is ok, then you can take it all on the complete take Deal? And no worries, I'm here for ya, mate!

Posted by: Phil66 Oct 25 2014, 09:04 PM

Thanks Cosmin,
I'm about to order another Blackstar 4x8 cab, just for the looks of the mini stack I'll post another pic when it comes. The Vox Lil Night Train will then look lonesome on the cabinet so I'll find a nice little low watt combo to complete the show All the gear no idea

Anyway, neck/shoulders are 90% ready, I'll get something to you tomorrow, feel I need to practice the A Minor thing all over again. Could have tried tonight but don't want to risk setting it off again.

Cheers buddy.

Phil

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Oct 26 2014, 08:50 AM

Hey Phil Glad to hear things are getting better, but just take care and don't push yourself too hard, for now That new cab sounds nice - and yeah, I totally get the need to see symetry by having two cabs, so that the VOX won't feel lonely Now, kidding aside, tell me, do you regularly use all this gear?

Posted by: Phil66 Oct 26 2014, 10:15 AM

Hello Cosmin,
I do use most of the guitars purely so my hands don't get used to one. I use the Blackstar practically every time I play, it's only 1watt so perfect for my room. It's my newest addition and replaced my Peavey Bandit Transtube which was lovely but overkill. It was one of the original transtube models that I bought twenty years ago. I don't use the Vox much but its so cute I don't want to let it go. Along with the Peavey I sold a Tanglewood bass and a Roland bass Cube 30.
The one guitar I don't use much is the Peavey "telecaster". Its the cheapest one there but has one of the best neck profiles I've ever laid my left hand on . The reason I don't use it is one of the screws on the high E saddle keeps coming loose. Its one of those little jobs that I never get around to doing I also need to set the intonation.
The Squire HMIII Strat (the multi coloured one) was my first guitar and I ordered it mail order, no picture, never having seen one and expected it, due to the name, to be a Squire Strat with humbuckers. It was a lovely surprise when I opened the box I soon swapped the stock pickups for those coloured Di Marzio Paf Pro ones to add a bit of Vai to it I also fitted a Schaller trem that I bought off my teacher at the time. I've just fitted a Tremol-no to it as I have the Ibanez Prestige RG1570 if I ever get good enough to use a floating trem
My next aim is to swap the red Squire Strat for a USA one and the Peavey for a Fender Classic Player Baja '60s Telecaster. I won't be changing any of the Epiphones though, they are OK.
Out of interest, why did you ask if I use it all?
Cheers
Phil

Posted by: Phil66 Oct 26 2014, 10:28 PM

Sorry Cosmin,
I cleaned my car this morning, very carefully, all seemed fine with my neck/shoulders. I went out to a country pub for a pint and roast dinner, all still fine. Come evening time my neck, BUT, only my neck and only on one side (the left) has flared up. As far as I'm concerned this is still an improvement as my shoulders are 99% pain free and the other side of my neck is 99% pain free too. I don't know if it was washing the car but I also cleaned the windows inside and the back is a nightmare to do as I cannot remove the back seat head rests
I'll try to get a track of some staccato notes tomorrow, I really think I'll need to practice the A minor piece before I submit anything, let's hope 10 hours of manual work doesn't make my neck worse again tomorrow .
Cheers and apologies mate. I will most definitely be back, this is the longest I have had these issues for, they usually only last a few days so hopefully they are well on their way now.
Phil

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Oct 27 2014, 01:03 PM

Hey Phil!

I was curious because you seem to have a lot of gear and I was curious if you really need it or you just like having many guitars - nothing wrong with that, but I for one am the minimalist type. I never keep more than I actually use for my exact purposes. I own 4 electric guitars and two acoustic ones. I am looking forward to selling my Ibanez JEM as I am no longer using it and it only gathers dust.

The other three PRS axes, are used heavily onstage and offstage and the acoustics as well. Otherwise, I never buy anything else then what I really need as I am trying to declutter or actually stay decluttered all the time

Do not worry mate - I am not going anywhere, just take the appropriate time to mend yourself completely and then we can go on!

Cosmin

Posted by: Phil66 Oct 27 2014, 08:47 PM

Hello Cosmin,
OK, I'm kind of back, I can manage to "play" my guitar with only a little pain in the neck. It was doing fine until I drove home. I think I need to wear one of my support collars from previous issues just when I drive.
Ok, in answer to your question, I don't need all that gear but I do want it Needs and desires are totally different eh? The guitars are my art pieces, sort of a shrine to rock n roll. That's why I've got guitars that try to represent the classics through time.

The Epiphone ES 339: Ok the Gibson ES339 hasn't been around all that long but the looks of it harp back to to the 60's and the ES335, I didn't like the size of the 335 so went for this instead. The Pelham blue was chosen by my wife, in fact it was enforced by her because she loves Dave Grohl's signature DG335

The Peavey "telecaster": Simple, classic guitar. I want a proper Fender version soon.

Squire Strat: Legendary guitar: I want a proper Fender version soon.

Epiphone Les Paul in Heritage Cherry Sunburst: Classic Jimmy Page guitar and I've made this Slash like with the pick ups and removal of the scratch plate. I won't be paying for the Gibson version.

Epiphone Les Paul 56 Gold Top: Another classic. I won't be paying for the Gibson version.

Ibanez Prestige RG1570: The RG is just a modern classic used by many virtuoso guitarists.

Yamaha FG-411C electro acoustic: Don't know why I went for the electro version but you have to have an acoustic eh?

Kohala ukulele: Bought it on a whim in my friend's guitar shop while drinking a cup of tea

Anyway, here is a "soft" staccato file. Let me know what you think. I turned the reverb off so apart from the gain it's a pretty dry signal.

[attachment=39548:Staccato_27102014.wav]
Ok, I'm going to practice the A minor lesson, I'm pretty rusty

I'm also going to make a start on the two new lessons until my neck complains then I'll have to stop

Cheers buddy.

Phil

Posted by: Phil66 Oct 27 2014, 09:56 PM

Hello Cosmin,

Here is a quick rec of Bear 20 D major solo first few bars, no backing, I was running out of time so just quickly put this down for you. This is the first time I've tried this piece. Tomorrow I will record another A minor lesson for you, I may even video it just in case it's right because if I don't video it and it is right, I can guarantee it will be wrong the next time when I do video it I'll also make a start on the new chord lesson.

[attachment=39549:Bear_20_...27102014.wav]
Cheers

Phil

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Oct 28 2014, 08:43 AM

I see, I see, so you're a player and a collector as well I liked collecting stuff when I was a kid, but since I got into martial arts, I become even more a minimalist then I was before. I only keep what I need, to make things simple I understand her liking for Dave - I'm a HUGE fan as well and I can barely wait to go see them in Germany next year!

I have listened to the staccato recording and it's not bad at all - the thing I would focus now, would be to keep the smooth feeling and stop the note faster, as each one kind of lingers too long. It's a very delicate detail so please let me know if you understand, ok?

About the major solo - I love the tone! And the playing sounds smooth so far, but in terms of timing, it's really difficult for me to say anything, because I don't have any rhythmic landmark. Also, the bend around 0:25 sounds a bit quirky

Please record against the backing so that I may be able to hear everything

All the best and keep me in the loop, mate!

Posted by: Phil66 Oct 28 2014, 09:52 AM

Hey Cosmin Lupu,
Are you likening me to a "kid" with my collecting of things??? only joking

I understand about the note length on the staccato ex, I was focused so much on how I ended the note I forgot the staccato bit

One thing you said has made my day . You said you love the tone. That's amazing coming from someone of your calibre saying that about my little rig. It was the HMIII, into Boss ME80 (in manual mode but can't remember the settings, I'll look when I get home tonight), into my Blackstar set fairly clean, then the Blackstar emulated output into the DAW.

What do you mean when you say the bend is quirky? I know I probably haven't got it right but I'm sure that is a funny two stage bend in Bear's piece.

Cheers buddy

Speak soon

Phil

Posted by: Phil66 Oct 28 2014, 08:32 PM

Well I did it and I don't think the Vox looks all that lonesome on its own on that rack so I won't be getting another micro stack....just yet
http://s353.photobucket.com/user/PhilDY6/media/Wallofrock_zps13e36715-1.jpg.html

Here's the staccato ex again.
[attachment=39566:Staccato_28102014.wav]

Here's the A minor ex. The old kill switch habit still happens sometimes but as well as that I've been trying to take on board Gab's comment about attacking the string harder with the pic. It does seem to pull more life out of the sound. Still needs some work but I'm back on it.
[attachment=39567:Bear_A_M...28102014.wav]

I know I said I was going to video it but I worked late. Sorry.

On section 2 of the chord lesson (http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/ls/Acoustic-Down-Strumming/#) how can I mute the middle two strings on the first G chord as suggested in the TAB? It doesn't actually sound different to the second G to me but the tab shows it, the GP5 file shows it and the PDF.

Cheers

Phil

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Oct 29 2014, 03:55 PM

Howdy Phil!

Well, the tone was good, so why not tell it to ya? I usually say everything there is to say - about the good things and about the things that need focus and attention in order to become better It's honesty that helps us develop, right?

Please focus on the staccato technique having in mind the lenght of the note as well, as it will pay off A LOT in this lesson and the ones to come! When I was referring to the quirky bend, I meant that the bend is a little bit unsure, in comparison to the orignal one - please try to get it as close as the one in the original recording, deal?

And don't mind the collecting and kid stuff I am a bit obsessed with minimalism

Hey Phil!

Well, it's your cash mate Spend it as yer heart yearns! I am going to get me a matched set of Oktava russian mics for recording acoustic guitar and a Shure SM7B - pretty much one of the greatest vocal/guitar mics in the world. I want to start recording a set of acoustic/vocal vids on songs that I like, which I re-orchestrated in acoustic versions. And in order to get myself moving, I organized a charity event on December 12 in a club here in Bucharest, in which I will perform acoustic - guitar and vocals, alongside guest musicians, from the local industry and we will raise money for poor children. I wanted to do this a long time and why not start now and like this?

About the recordings - the staccato still needs a bit of work, but you can try and apply the technique in the context, as it will prove a lot more useful to become aware of the note length as well. Since you don't have a rhythmic landmark, it's pretty difficult to perceive the note length like this, without the backing or a metronome, I mean

The recording itself sounds good to my ears and the timing issues have gone away as well! The ONE thing that stands out is the missed/ low volume note around 0:26

No worries about vids - it's good like this and now, you can start recording the vids having in mind the elements discussed here today About the G chord - it sounds like a full chord to me as well, so I don't think that the tab is accurate. It's a plain ol' G chord Play it accordingly, if you ask me!

All the best and looking forward to your feedback!

Cosmin

Posted by: Phil66 Oct 29 2014, 09:36 PM

Hello Cosmin,

It wasn't the fact you told me the tone was good that made my day, it was the actual fact that you really THOUGHT it was good. I was chuffed to bits that my little rig made a tone that someone at your level likes

I'm a little upset to have found another error in a tab/GP5/PDF, I spent an hour doing finger yoga trying to find a way to mute those strings

Nothing tonight I'm afraid, sorting out some legal shit

Sorry buddy.

Phil

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Oct 30 2014, 09:08 AM

GOD, I hate paperwork! I can totally feel you Phil!

No worries, now that we know that G chord is a plain G chord, just execute it accordingly and about the tone - hey, if it's good, it's good! I am glad I could make your day a good one!

Looking forward to your next results, deal, good Sir?

Posted by: Phil66 Oct 30 2014, 09:42 AM

Deal! But sorry Cosmin, no takes tonight, off to see the mighty Black Stone Cherry in Birmingham
Cheers
Phil

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Oct 30 2014, 10:02 AM

No hurry I want you totake your time and work relaxed and focused, more than anything - remember, we're not racing here

Posted by: Phil66 Nov 1 2014, 10:24 PM

Just the one quick one tonight, took my 5 year old nephew out for the day on a big Halloween monster hunt around the grounds of a large stately home ( http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/croome/) didn't get home until quite late then had to eat so didn't get much time but thought I'd throw this in. Should get some good time in tomorrow all being well.
I have a question. How do you get a sweet tone on the unwound strings? I am finding them to be a little lifeless compared to the wound strings and the high E seems a little harsh too.

[attachment=39625:Bear_14_...01112014.wav]

Cheers

Phil

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Nov 2 2014, 10:38 AM

Howdy Phil!

Great to hear you spent quality time with the little dude

To be frank, you should record a take for the REC zone with this lesson - I think you are pretty much in the zone and the only thing that can make this sound more and more natural, would be more practice, although as I said, it's very good and it can go in there with heads up

About the question - well, as they say, tone is in the hands, but here are all the elements that matter in my opinion:

- amp
- pickups
- a smooth reverb maybe
- the lightness of your touch and the dynamics in your hands
- the strings and their level of usage (older strings tend to sound lifeless)
- the pick you are using

It's all a matter of experimenting and getting to understand how all these things affect the voice of your instrument, so all I can say, is that you should experiment in the following fashion:

- choose a phrase you can play well
- change the approach on playing it based on changing various elements from the ones mentioned above, one at a time or in different combinations

What do you think, mate?

Posted by: Phil66 Nov 2 2014, 03:30 PM

Ok it's in the REC, still had some REC button syndrome though

Guitar was the HMIII, Di-Marzio Paf Pro pickups, new Daddario strings, Dunlop Ultex Jazz III pick, guitar into Boss ME80 on the Cosmin patch, fed into Blackstar HT1 valve head, out of the emulated output into my DAW.

I'll get working on the other stuff now, lets hope I get a pass this time.

Cheers

Phil

Posted by: Phil66 Nov 3 2014, 12:04 AM

.

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Nov 3 2014, 09:15 AM

Hey mate

Gabi was right - I gave you a 7 as well, because you played better in some takes that you sent previously. It would not be fair to allow you to wallow in mediocrity, when I know that you can do better!! And I KNOW you can, because you have proved it to me

Now, let's focus on the aspects:

- intention behnd your playing - listen to Bear's take - where is he soft and where is he aggressive? Write down the parts as you would write down the places where you breathe on a text that you need to learn how to sing

- note length - see, you were uncertain about some note lengths such as the one around 0:30 - that's what Gabi was referring to

Let's rock, shall we?

Cosmin

Posted by: Phil66 Nov 3 2014, 09:27 AM

Hello Cosmin,
I removed my moaning in previous comment as it was unjust, it's just frustrating that the REC button screws it all up
I don't mind so much failing now as I have other lessons to learn. I've "learnt" this A Minor one, I've just got to polish it. It was more frustrating when I only had that to work on so I don't mind so much now, I can relax.
I actually did 12 takes of that and that was the best, the others always had a note muted somewhere or other.
I am amazed how difficult this is for me. Could it be all the years of just noodling around has messed with my head in regards to the guitar? Bad physical and mental habits maybe?
Gab mentioned my picking direction doesn't match Bear's but Bear seems to pick in an unusual way that doesn't feel natural to me, is it critical that I mimic his picking? I don't actually think much about picking but I think I do a combination of alternate and economy.
I actually think that when I get a pass in this lesson that I could do another take and it would fail. I don't seem to be able to be consistent.
Cheers
Phil

Posted by: Phil66 Nov 3 2014, 10:10 PM

Hello Cosmin,
Sorry if you're getting fed up with me I can imagine every time you listen to the latest recording you are ripping your hair out and thinking "Aaaaaargh, will he ever get this right?????????"
Ok, the only way I'm going to overcome REC button syndrome is by keep recording videos. This was take 8 tonight When I watch it, it all sounds a bit rushed to me.
I think I have identified a problem, I think I'm playing more from memory than listening to the backing. I seem to struggle concentrating on two things at once so once I've got the first note down, I'm concentrating on playing what I can remember rather than zoning in with the backing. How I will overcome that I haven't got a clue
Anyway, I'm posting the video just for the hell of it. It's all I've done tonight along with ten minutes of ear training.
I sat in a different position so I can't see the monitor.
I've started playing this with headphones on, it must be like a Chinese water torture for my wife, she must have heard it a thousand times
Cheers and apologies, you must be getting tired of it now
Phil

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Nov 5 2014, 09:10 AM

Hey Phil!

Indeed, zoning in with the backing is something that must be done in order to make the piece sound in perfect harmony with the other things in the musical landscape that you are painting Imagine that you would paint something and at this point, you are going over the edges of the canvas, when you should be staying only on the canvas.

This take has issues in terms of note length - see 0:05 and 0:12, 0:21 and 0:27 and in respect to Gabi's observation regarding Bear's picking direction - it's good to notice what Bear does and emulate it accordingly, as the purpose of the REC Zone is mainly based on this aspect - emulating a lesson as close to the original as possible, in order to develop proper technique, groove, timing or anything else which that particular lesson is based on.

Try to listen to the backing without playing and imagine what you are playing in your head only. What accents are the notes falling on in the backing? How long do they last? The backing should help you, it's not something that is there only to play some notes against Have you tried this approach so far?

Posted by: Phil66 Nov 5 2014, 09:17 AM

Hello Cosmin,
I had a go last night, I worked late yesterday so only had about half an hour, BUT, I don't know what, but something in Bogdan's REC post helped. I already knew about the kick drum etc but when I was playing last night I could hear the kick drum stand out more. I felt more relaxed and, to me at least it felt more in time. I'll shoot a video tonight but just send the video with the video sound rather than spend time syncing the DAW sound file. I will have the DAW sound file should the video be good enough for REC.

Thank you.

Phil

Posted by: Phil66 Nov 5 2014, 10:27 PM

Here's another one. Personally I feel it is much better, still not perfect but now having to think about the picking directions so more and more to think about 00:24-00:25 is too fast I think. Didn't notice until I played it back on here

Like the new sig?





Thank you for your patience Cosmin

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Nov 6 2014, 08:57 AM

Hey Phil!

I have listened and yes, it is indeed better, but I think that the timing is a bit shifty after sec 0:18 - please focus on the note lengths as they are the biggest issue right now. Bogdan mentioned the kick drum - it's one of those elements I was talking about in my post, in which I suggested you need to listen to the backing track so that you can observe the elements which stand out and that can help you as landmarks

Please focus on the sections appearing after second 0:18 by trying to follow the next set of steps:

- listen to the original recording in respect to note length and the moments in the backing track where these notes occur
- break down that part into little licks and play them along the original recording
- use the slow baking tracks to play EACH little lick separately - by that I mean, can you play each little phrase without playing anything else before it? Can you begin each lick where it's supposed to be, without playing anything else but that lick?

This will prove to yourself that you know where everything is played and that you master the length of each note - do we have an accord, Phil?

Posted by: Phil66 Nov 6 2014, 09:18 AM

Hello Cosmin,

I have actually recorded this along with Bear and note length was pretty darn close, it's when I do it on my own, some little thing like the guitar moving throws me.
Glad this isn't at school, I'd have been kicked out by now
Oh well, onward and upward.
Back tonight
Phil

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Nov 6 2014, 03:51 PM

Hehe, no worries Phil - this ain't school, man, but still, try to focus on getting the same feeling and note length that you get when playing alongside Bear. Focus especially on the parts occuring after second 0:18 as we discussed in the previous post, deal? And also, try the above mentioned method of learning how to play each lick individually - it'll grant you enormous control.

Posted by: Phil66 Nov 6 2014, 04:06 PM

I guess I'm still struggling to control my impatience Breaking it down lick by lick seems labourious and not very inviting.
The sound of this lesson is in my head all day long, it's driving me insane

Cheers buddy.

Posted by: Phil66 Nov 6 2014, 09:20 PM

One question Mr Miyagi sir,

Why don't I hear my mistakes until I am playing the track back? I do hear bad notes but not timing errors.

Cheers buddy

Phil

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Nov 7 2014, 09:19 AM

It is laborious indeed, but hey - that's what I did when I had to learn a whole playlist of Pantera songs for my tribute band - it will be GREAT for you, on the long run, trust me It's a great habit that will always be handy for building control over everything you have to play, in any context given.

Posted by: Phil66 Nov 7 2014, 09:36 AM

Thanks Cosmin,
I'll get a recording to you in six weeks
Any thoughts on the last question regarding hearing timing errors?
Cheers
Phil

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Nov 7 2014, 09:50 AM

Phil, it's something normal There are certain things that can't be easily heard in real time. It takes a lot of practice and experience to be able to listen to yourself while playing. That involves playing and stepping outside of yourself. It's a state in which you stop paying attention at how you play and you actually just listen to yourself. It's something like stepping outside of your body and you become a spectator. It's a lengthy process and you need to stop thinking about what you are doing, in order to become able to listen to yourself with full focus. It will come in time though, as usual, with work and practice and learning how to project your focus power. A lot of metaphorical mumbo jumbo, as it might seem, but it's really not Let me know what your thoughts are, mate!

Posted by: Phil66 Nov 7 2014, 11:48 AM

Hello Cosmin,

I fully understand what you are saying, I think that may be where my problem lies. I have always struggled to focus on more than one thing. For instance, if I am typing an email and my wife comes in and says "would you like a cup of tea?", that is what gets typed into the email
I guess it needs to be like walking and driving, second nature.

I need to find some mind training exercises.

Thanks

Phil

Posted by: Phil66 Nov 7 2014, 10:10 PM

Need to practice Astral Projection then?

Ok Cosmin,

This is another one that is harder than it first appears Playing the offbeat using a down strum is out of the ball park for me. I know the rhythm guitarist in UB40 does this but it feels odd to me. Anyway I've recorded up to the first fiddly bit. I can play along with Ben ok, (timing wise) up to this point, the chords aren't all clear and there are some extra noises in there but we might as well start pulling it apart now rather than wait until I have "learnt" it all.

[attachment=39689:Ben_Stac...07112014.wav]

I'm going on an overnighter tomorrow so won't be able to practice tomorrow but I'll be back on Sunday sometime. Hopefully early enough to get something done. I'll be able to view the site and any replies though.

I'm going to start my practices for a while with breaking down the A Minor Bear lesson. I'll spend 20 minutes on that, 10 minutes ear training, and then an hour on Ben's lesson and the next day an hour on Bear's beginner solo. Does this sound ok? (Need to set an alarm because I know I'll over run trying just one more time

Cheers Cosmin

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Nov 8 2014, 05:47 PM

Hey Phil! I got the thing for you There's this meditation exercise that I am doing each morning - it's used for emptying the mind and enhacning focus power:

- close your eyes and stand straight but relaxed
- inhale by breathing the air through your nose only and do it slowly, thinking about the number 1 - about 3 seconds
- hold your breath thinking of number 1 for 3 seconds
- exhale for 3 seconds thinking about number 1
- repeat the above sequence for all the numbers from 2 ->10
- focus on breathing the air into your stomach and when exhaling, do it in a controlled manner - don't let the air out immediately, but push it slowly by contracting your abdomen.
- if ANY thought aside the number you are focusing on, will come into your mind, you have to be honest with yourself and start over from 1
- how far can you count?



This sounds like a pretty ok schedule for now - let's see how it works first things first, ok?

I have listened to the recording and I think you are on the right path! Nothing to comment yet, aside of the fact that the note length could be a bit longer, just a TINY bit longer, in order to sound natural yet tight Let's see the continuation, havingthis in mind, deal?

Posted by: Phil66 Nov 9 2014, 08:34 PM

Hello Cosmin,
Back from my short break. I tried the meditation thing, I got up to six but I'm not sure I'm doing it right. All I did was kept on saying the number over and over in my head, the only reason I didn't get past 6 was that I sneezed I can't visualise the number, I've never been able to "see" with my mind's eye other than when I am dreaming

Now for some more bad news. A night in a hotel bed has started my neck misalignment again. I was only getting occasional pain so it was 99.9% re-aligned. I reckon it's about 75% now, so a knock back of 25% As always I'll do my best. Let's hope a night back in my bed with my pillow will help. If I can't play I'll just do ear training

Cheers buddy

Phil

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Nov 10 2014, 08:24 AM

Hey Phil - it's not really compulsory to visualize the number, though it helps on bringing the visual focus on the ONE thing (counting that is) alongside with the mental focus. Just think of the number and say it in your mind as well - it also helps. So, do I understand that you have managed to count to 6 without ANY thought disturbing the cycle? You are one focused dude if it worked!

Take the time, mate - let the neck come back into place and then you can resume practice - I'm not going anywhere, so feel free to write me when you are back in action, deal?

Posted by: Phil66 Nov 11 2014, 10:35 PM

Hello Cosmin,

I can focus on one thing with no external distractions but it's when I try to focus on two things like playing and listening to the backing, but I know that will come with time and as I don't get much time it will take longer but that's the way it is, so, it is what it is and I can't change that.
Anyway, today I decided that when life throws you lemons, make lemonade I thought of a good way to ear train without having to decipher the electronic tone of my Korg TM-50. Use GP6 One whole note per bar with a blank bar after it to use the time to try to match it. One of life's hurdles, once again came along to put the kibosh on that plan. Today I did many manipulation exercises, 3 times per hour and my neck was much much better, (I've had a lot of practice over the years ) I was still not going to play the guitar tonight as that position aggravates it so I was looking forward to my experiment with the TM-50 BUT, I think I am jinxed as I said in my PM yesterday. I got a call from my wife this afternoon, there was a leak from the radiator in the bedroom. I came straight home, the radiator has some weird and wonderful modern two stage dual thread valve design that had come apart internally . There is no isolation valve which is what my wife had been looking for. Been on it for four hours, up and down the attic to shut off the water supply to the heating and drain the system (due to there not being an isolation valve) trying different things but it turns out the valve has a design fault . On top of that going in and out of the attic banging my head and shoulders on the rafters has done my neck no good at all, so on top of a damaged carpet my neck is bloody sore Oh well what doesn't kill us makes us stronger eh?

So, no guitar words for you tonight but be assured I will be back trying, trying and trying again and I don't care how many times you tell me there is something wrong I'll go back to the studio and try again, so long as I have something else to work on to prevent boredom settling in I'll be happy.

Cheers buddy.

Phil

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Nov 12 2014, 09:12 AM

Hey Philster!

This is definitely a bold step forward towards having the right atittude - life and lemonade go together well

using guitar pro like that is a pretty great option and you can slowly build your relative ear training drill like that - one good example, would be to isolate a certain type of interval and focus on it, in various keys.

- select your aimed type of interval - major third for instance
- write down all the notes and their major thirds in a GP file - make the note durations lengthy, so that you may work without fearing time constraints at this point - for instance, a whole bar of C and a whole bar of E (C = root, E = major third) at a slow tempo.
- listen to them closely for a few minutes
- next, listen to the root note and sing the third for each example you have written down

This will get the intervals in your mind like nothing else!

Posted by: Phil66 Nov 12 2014, 10:17 PM

Thanks Cosmin,

Should be playing full time again tomorrow all being well, had a little go tonight without too much pain (see below).

Do you mean something like this?

[attachment=39775:Major_thirds.gp5]

I don't know why bars 19-24 are showing as small bars, I changed it in design view (GP6) saved it as GPX and then exported it as GP5 so anyone without GP6 can read it. It doesn't really matter but it messes with my head

Also listened to Bear's A Minor pentatonic track 10 times at 50% in GP6, I'm amazed how many notes aren't on the beat and many don't evern seem to be on the & as in 1&2&3&4. It seems very complicated to me to have to actually think about that on the fly. I managed to play along with the 50% GP6 file without watching the screen for clues when to come in. When I tried with the backing track it completely threw me. It's a shame the metronome can't be switched on on the main lesson just as a guide to start with

Cheers

Phil

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Nov 13 2014, 04:04 PM

Hey Phil!

You actually tried seconds, in the GP right? Let's take the first two bars for instance - 0 = A and 2 = B B is a second in relationship to A. If you would've wanted to play the third of A, you would've tried C# - that meaning 4 Please let me know if you are with me on this, ok?

Posted by: Phil66 Nov 13 2014, 04:15 PM

Hello Cosmin,

I am with you 100%, I was being a total numpty and using the root as the 1st Pure brain dead moment mate, sorry. Don't forget Wednesday is my midweek food and beer night

Cheers, I'll rectify and re-post later.

Phil

Posted by: Phil66 Nov 13 2014, 09:53 PM

Alo Cosmin,

OK, more shit tonight, remember that legal stuff I had to do a while back, well I had another 90 minutes of legal paperwork to do, not for work but me taking on a very large company for mis-selling goods

Anyway, I managed to redo the GP5 file, it's below but i am wondering, what do you reckon putting a blank bar in-between each to allow me to match the note on my own after matching it along with the played note (using the tuner to help). Do you think this would be better or not?

[attachment=39782:Major_thirds.gp5]

Cele mai bune urări

Phil

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Nov 14 2014, 11:14 AM

Heyyyy! Phil I'm wondering, who's doing the great job on teaching you romanian?

It's a good idea and I think that it raises a bar a bit - I would leave the root note as it is and add the empty bar after the interval - so that you can focus on the interval

It's a pattern you can use for each interval type How's the neck feeling, mate?

Posted by: Phil66 Nov 14 2014, 09:22 PM

Mulțumesc Cosmin,

De ajutorul dumneavoastră este foarte apreciat

I have done the GP5 and will get using it. I have also made one for A Minor pentatonic scale in one octave with a blank bar after each note bar to practice perfect pitch. I've put them in here but do you think it would help if I put it in the practice section of the forum for others to use?

[attachment=39788:Major_thirds.gp5]

[attachment=39827:A_minor_Pent_1_oct.gp5]

The neck is still giving me grief, it's the longest and most painful case I've had. I can play the guitar for short periods of time so will now start climbing the mountain again. Currently back at base camp

Mă întorc

Pace pentru tine

Phil

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Nov 15 2014, 07:35 PM

Salut Phil!

Ma bucur tare mult ca imi scrii in Romana

Figure this one out, mate

Well, I think it would be a nice idea and the community would surely appreciate it! So yes, go ahead and post them there as well Moving to the A minor penta scale, eh? I would be curious to see a session of ear training with these files, recorded by you - what do you think?

Cosmin

Posted by: Phil66 Nov 15 2014, 08:30 PM

Alo Cosmin,

Mă testează ca întotdeauna Vă rugăm să nu scrie prea mult , eu sunt un începător și elev lent

I will record me trying out this A Minor ear training but maybe later in the week if that is ok with you

For now I am going to get my fingers on the fretboard to see how I can stand the pain

Do you like my cartoon?

Stare bună de sănătate pentru tine Cosmin

Posted by: Phil66 Nov 15 2014, 10:13 PM

Alo Cosmin,

OK, I've done all my neck can stand for tonight It's so close to being 100% I don't want to push it.

I've just recorded the old A Minor thing again, as you know I haven't played for quite a while but I thought I'd give it to you so we can get back on track. I played this track along with Bear's lesson and to my ears it doesn't sound a million miles away with regards timing but it still lacks vibrancy but I guess that is the kind of thing that comes in time as you start to become one with the instrument.

Rupe -l în afară

[attachment=39817:Bear_A_M...15112014.wav]

Mulțumiri

Phil

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Nov 16 2014, 09:19 AM

Buna dimineata Phil!

Your cartoon ROCKS ... and Jason hunted you down without mercy Now for the recording of the ear training drill - by all means, when you feel ready, send it over and we'll discuss the recording together.

Now, for the Bear lesson - it sounds good to me as well, aside a few things which could benefit from your focus a bit more:

- the vibrato should be wider
- in the second part - the timing and staccato of the phrases around 0:19 and 0:27 would need more practice

I think that if you take care of these aspects and play as natural as possible, we can take it to the REC zone Do we have an accord, Sir?

Posted by: Phil66 Nov 17 2014, 09:38 PM

Bună seara Cosmin, sau dimineata cum va fi cand vei citi aceasta,

I've just given 10 minutes to the A Minor ear training. Is it ok, at this stage to match the note with my voice while it is playing and then holding it? It tell you, it is harder to do than I thought regarding the breathing Singing must be very difficult

Tonight's try, treble is a bit harsh, need to tame it a bit

[attachment=39852:Bear_A_M...17112014.wav]

gândurile dumneavoastră, vă rugăm Cosmin

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Nov 18 2014, 11:47 AM

Howdy Phil!

That's perfectly ok, matey Just remember to slowly breathe in before singing the note - a short relaxed breath will do just fine I will tell you more on breathing once we go further.

About Bear's lesson - I have a hunch that if you pull it off like this for the REC Zone, you will have a nice surprise The tone, intonation and timing and expression are good - I would give you a 9, because there were some very slight moments of hesitation in the second part, but nothing that could flunk you - in my opinion

Let's go for the REC Zone!

Posted by: Phil66 Nov 18 2014, 09:52 PM

Alo Cosmin,

I felt great when I recorded that last track, something clicked inside me and I just relaxed and went for it. Came to do this tonight, same guitar etc and I just wasn't feeling it the same I find when the rec button is pressed I think too much about getting it right. In that last .wav file I wasn't worried about getting it wrong. In this video I was constantly thinking about the next bit and what to do next etc. Weird eh?

Here it is anyway. The link is there too as I've found that some tablets (in case you are using one) don't like the embedded YouTube videos.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PZefVnvYYjE&feature=youtu.be



Thanks

Pace pentru tine.

Phil

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Nov 19 2014, 10:37 AM

Hey Phil - no, I am not using a tablet...yet Thinking of maybe getting one if it proves worthy in the long run. Anyway, indeed, the audio recording you provided yesterday was having a nicer feeling, but this one is not bad at all. Maybe a little less balanced, but still, let's take it to the REC and see what the other guys have to say

I know that maybe the camera is giving you a hard time, but hey, with time, you will learn to ditch this feeling and make things sound natural almost all the time. You know, recordings reflect our state of mind a lot of times Life doesn't make it easy on us, but hey.. you know the old saying - when life gives you lemons, have a tequilla Let's go for the REC, ok?

Posted by: Phil66 Nov 19 2014, 03:32 PM

Mulțumiri Cosmin,

Fingers crossed.

Stare de sănătate bună

Phil

Posted by: Phil66 Nov 19 2014, 10:04 PM

Alo Cosmin,

This is not a moan at all one little bit, merely an observation I clicked on the "Difficulty 2" icon by the player in the Bear lesson lesson and it showed this below. It just makes me wonder if I am marked down for my vibrato by you and the others?

Just curious

Difficulty Levels


1 - Absolute Beginner
The lowest level lesson. Fingering is simple, tempo is slow and rhythms are regular. Explanations are very in depth and assume little or no prior knowledge. These lessons are aimed at beginners in the first weeks of playing guitar.

2 - Beginner
Slightly more advanced fingerings, rhythms are still easy, and no advanced techniques are evident. Simple chords appear. Proper playing by the student should show fluency, but at this level, instructor phrasings such as vibrato are not integral to the lesson.

Puterea de a te

Phil

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Nov 20 2014, 02:43 PM

Hey Phil - when the vbrato was problematic, of course it was a reason for a downgrade, but not otherwise Just like with everything else - but now, moaning aside, don't think about levels and grades - focus on playing the lesson as best as possible.

This is the thing that should stick to your mind. In the past, they weren't training with weapons to receive good grades or attract attention - they did it to stay alive and become good at what they did. Focus on the playing and not on anything else around it - deal?

Posted by: Phil66 Nov 20 2014, 04:23 PM

Cheers,

I was only wondering because it says in the guide that vibrato etc shouldn't be considered but then it was being considered in my REC takes. I do think about grades etc because they do tend to motivate you when you pass. I am over the moon that I have finally passed this one andcan move on but I will try to improve it.

I did send the .WAV file to Gab just so he could see how much REC affects me

Cheers

Pace pentru tine.

Phil

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Nov 21 2014, 03:28 PM

Well, I don't know about the others but I am sure that I will always, BUT ALWAYS downgrade bad vibrato - I think I can speak on behalf Gabi and Ben as well here They both have great articulation skills and know the importance of seeing it progress nicely in students

So, Phil - now that you got this one out for a while - what is there left to work on? Is there any lesson on the list, or should we aim for something new?

Posted by: Phil66 Nov 21 2014, 03:39 PM

Alo Cosmin,

I have Bens's Staccatto Power chords, The down stroke chord thing for acoustic and the Bear solo to work on as well as polishing the A Minor thing.

Pace pentru tine.

Phil

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Nov 22 2014, 09:53 AM

Oo - almost forgot about those Let's get them down one by one - please tell me, which one do you feel is closest to being finished?

Posted by: Phil66 Nov 22 2014, 06:29 PM

To be honest they are all at he starting stage. I was so focused on trying to put the A Minor thing to rest that I kept on that

I'll knuckle down on them.

Noroc

Phil

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Nov 23 2014, 08:45 AM

Ok then

Let's first aim for Ben's staccato power chords - I think that one would take the staccato technique you have used in Bear's lesson in the rhythm zone and it will be very useful for you in learning how to play tight when it comes down to riffing.

What do you think, mate?

Posted by: Phil66 Nov 24 2014, 09:26 PM

Salutări Cosmin,

I am still here, sorry I haven't been posting during the weekend, it's been pretty hectic with things, including a family birthday for 79 years old.


OK, I'm back, I am learning the progression for the staccato power chord lesson, it does confuse me in the quick changes but I'm learning it at 50%. Also it throws me when I have to do the second round playing the off beat with the upstrokes, for me, upstrokes on the offbeat feels natural BUT, after doing a round of them on the down stroke and then switching to the upstroke my brain gets tangled I also don't like the sound of the power chords on the upstroke, yuk

I'll try to get something to you at 50% tomorrow but I am working late so it may be on Wednesday.

Noroc

Phil

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Nov 25 2014, 01:22 PM

Hey Phil

Glad to see you back in action Mate, let's see the recording and we'll take it from there, ok? I know there are a lot of new things - especially after seeing how you describe your experience But hey, that's the only way in which one can evolve!

Looking forward to your video Keep the chord shape with the right amount of pressure and shape and the upstroke will sound good as well! Focus on that please, deal?

Posted by: Phil66 Nov 25 2014, 10:17 PM

Alo Cosmin,

Ok, only had a short amount of time tonight but I have nearly learned the order of the chords, I am playing through it with random timing only looking at the TAB when I have forgotten the next chord. I find it best for me to do it this way so that I know what comes next for each bar. I then go on to learn the real playing of the first four bars, then add a bar at a time. I hope this makes sense, it's like learning the words of a song before trying to sing it, it makes sense to me anyway

I may get a .WAV to you tomorrow up to the first tricky bit, possibly a video, I'll do my best.

Noroc.

Phil

Posted by: Phil66 Nov 26 2014, 09:32 PM

Alo Cosmin,

Sortare din nou rahat legal , va primi ceva la tine mâine sigur.

Noroc

Phil

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Nov 27 2014, 08:40 AM

Hey Phil, no rush here, mate I think I have already mentioned this aspect at some point in our discussions - the main idea is to start remembering the chords, without looking at the tab. It will only distract you and instead of building your anticipation power, you will only get distracted by having to focus on a third aspect - the screen. When you are learning the words in a song, you usually learn its parts, but mind you - reading is something which comes natural to you - right? You have been doing it since you were VERY young

I think that you should try to anticipate more by following the next procedure:

1) take a set of 4 bars
2) learn it well and make sure you ALWAYS know what's next and how it sounds
3) play it without looking at the tab
4) see where you have issues
5) focus on that part
6) play again and repeat the above procedure until you can play your 4 bars with flow and anticipation
7) take the next 4 and apply the same steps

What do you think?

Cosmin

Posted by: Phil66 Nov 27 2014, 08:47 AM

Alo Cosmin,

I know we have spoken about "no rush" but I like to explain why I haven't been active, it only seems fair when you put the time in to help me that I should give an explanation as to why things aren't happening sometimes
Yes, I agree, with a short chord based piece like this though, I find it easier to learn the chord progression until I can fumble through it without looking at the tab, then I build accuracy bar by bar.
With a note/scale based peace I find it easier to learn whole bars one at a time. I don't know why but it's how it works for me.

Hope this makes sense to you.

Noroc

Phil

Posted by: Phil66 Nov 27 2014, 09:38 PM

Alo Cosmin,

Ok, I've had a good old bash at this tonight, bars 7 & 8 are killing me With the metronome it seems ok (probably not) but with the backing track I completely lose it It's that rumbling bass line that throws me

I'll stick at it and get something to you once it is ok for the first half, and I mean "OK" not good. This is another simple sounding killer

Noroc

Phil

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Nov 28 2014, 08:43 AM

Hey Phil

The more you tell me about your experiences when practicing, the more I can help out - let's have the recording and we'll see what goes on in there. The idea here is that out of what I am noticing in time, you have some issues on focusing on multiple things you hear around you - that is a skill which will have to be developed in time, as it helps you ENORMOUSLY in orienting yourself when playing.

You have two things which you have to focus on and understand at this moment in time:

- your guitar
- the backing track/metronome

Understand what each of them does in the given context and listen for the landmarks - it will help you more than you can imagine

Looking forward to your recording

Posted by: Phil66 Dec 1 2014, 10:05 PM

Alo Cosmin,

Ok, here is the first half negi și toate

I haven't been practicing much the last week or so, been hectic at work with the end of the month and also doing end of month paperwork at home

Anyway, no excuses, I played this tonight until I got cramp in my left forearm It's a total mess but I had to get you something. Bar's 7 and 8 are the real killer for me. I also tried to get back to start the upstroke strumming for the second half but WOW, that's hard and the right hand muting is even harder when upstroke strumming

Voi ajunge acolo cu un pas la un moment dat . Încet, dar sigur marele stejar crește de la o ghindă de un copac puternic.

[attachment=40035:Ben_Stac...01122014.wav]

Any guidelines on how to practice to get this better are greatly appreciated Mr Lupu Sir

Noroc

Phil

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Dec 2 2014, 10:45 AM

Hey Phill Please check the file, as you have sent me an empty backing

About practicing the upstroke - you can very well take each chord shape, start a metronome click and work ONLY on a specific shape each time, for 2-3 minutes in a row, playing that shape with upstrokes against the metronome click, by following the formula involved in Ben's lesson. Once you get a hang of the movement in a static fashion (in respect to the left hand) you will be able to move around The right hand will work on its own - at least that's the purpose here

Have you tried this so far, by any chance?

Posted by: Phil66 Dec 2 2014, 09:41 PM

Scuze Cosmin,

Let's try again

[attachment=40043:Ben_Stac...01122014.wav]

Noroc

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Dec 3 2014, 04:37 PM

Hehe! Hey Phil!

Not bad at all, good Sir! Just a little bit more polishing to make the transitions cleaner when changing the chords and the synch with the drum track could be a tad more precise, but you are almost there! Congrats! Let's make this baby shine!

Posted by: Phil66 Dec 3 2014, 09:42 PM

Mulțumiri Cosmin,

Still trying to link into the second half but keep missing the beat

What do you think of the tone?

Noroc

Phil

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Dec 4 2014, 08:57 AM

Sounds pretty good to me, Phil - let's focus on nailing things right and if the tone can be tweaked in any way when you will have the lesson under your thumb, we'll see it then.

Take a little break from playing and count against the backing in respect to understanding where the moment in which the next chord occurs so that you can link the second half - it'll help out greatly Have you tried that? Play the riff in your mind against the track and count, paying attention to where beat one occurs - out of what I know, the second half begins on beat one in the following bar, correct?

Posted by: Phil66 Dec 5 2014, 10:24 PM

Alo Cosmin,

I answered this yesterday but it hasn't appeared

I managed to play the whole thing at 50% speed with GP5, I don't know why but GP5 really helps me The ending was tricky but I will get there, I feel good about this one. Can't play tonight, been out for food beer and wine with my good lady so fingers aren't working that well

Should get something to you tomorrow, if not it wil be Monday as I'm out all day from 6:30am on Sunday

Noroc

Rei Cosmin

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Dec 6 2014, 04:39 PM

Haha! Combining a little Japanese with Romanian and English, are we? Phil San?

You have progressed a lot since you are here, even if you may not notice it But my ever watchful eyes and ears know it all

Keep pushing mate! The GP is helping you because it's acting like a pair of helping wheels on a bike You can hear what you have to play - but pay attention to the one nasty thing that may occur - don't end up using this crutch all the time, because it will prove itself very toxic for your sense of confidence as a player. It's ok to use it until you memorize the lines in the piece you are practicing, but that's that! Once you gottem, have the guts to throw the crutch away - deal?

Cosmin

Posted by: Phil66 Dec 6 2014, 09:57 PM

Alo Cosmin sama,

I was combining Japanese with Romanian, yes, but I got it wrong, one Bushido code I looked at said that "rei" was "respect" but I have since found out that it is "politeness"

Anyway, I've been seriously time restricted this week but I have been practicing mentally while I've been doing other things. I have learnt something about myself by doing that. I try to play a tune too soon. I don't get it into my head enough before I get my fingers on the fretboard, it's that old devil called impatience I was trying to recall the power chord lesson in my head whilst working and I couldn't remember some of it so I guess I need to listen more before I try to play. I do learn it as I'm learning to play it but I usually try to play along with the teacher after only listening once, I need to internalise it more. Maybe not 100% but definitely more than I do now.

I agree with you 100% about the GP5 thing, I do only use it to learn the sequence at slow speeds until I have the sequence in my head then I speed it up and when I get to full speed I play along with the teacher without looking at the fretboard too much.

I haven't progressed enough to make a recording for today and I'm out from 6:30am tomorrow, I don't know what time I'll get back but life has to to be lived whilst we are able to live it, so I'm going to Matlock victorian Christmas market, then off for a three course turkey lunch, then a steam train ride through the peak district with mulled wine and mince pies then return journey home. Should be a good day

I'll get back on it as soon as time allows, hopefully tomorrow .

Noroc

Phil

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Dec 7 2014, 10:05 AM

Hey Phil!!

You stated a VERY important thing which is 120% true Internalizing ANY musical piece should be done prior to playing it. Usually, we have to learn anything we first have to lsiten to it extensively and observe all the details. When you can sing it loud or in your head revising all the parts and knowing exactly what's next, you will have a much easier time learning how to connect the hands and the fretboard to the sounds you are hearing in your head

Enjoy your day, mate! Let me know when you have something for me and about Rei - it means respect as well - it's one of the 7 virtues of the samurai warriors as they are written in the Bushido code and it resides as a tattoo on the back of my left shoulder

Patience is very important as I mentioned a lot of times so far, so please take the time to listen and internalize, prior to trying to reproduce. Deal?

Posted by: Phil66 Dec 7 2014, 10:19 PM

Alo Cosmin sama,

Ok, I've basically got the whole sequence down now. I am struggling with muting the upstrokes on the E5 with my right hand, I'm ok on the other power chords as I can release the pressure on all strings in the chord. This is because I managed to do the muting with my right hand when doing the down strokes but the muting with the right hand is awkward for me on the upstrokes. I am now training my left hand little and ring finger to come onto the strings to mute them but what happens then is I start to play downstrokes It's just a matter of slowing it all down and focusing on one hand at a time, I know that but my subconscious impatience is a very powerful monster

I'll keep on plugging away at it, hopefully I will get a little more time this week. It's a struggle as we close at work for the Christmas period and all of the customers want there stuff before Christmas, they won't do anything with it it's just an odd mindset over here. There are so many adverts on the TV that say "Order now and get it before Christmas" even for stuff that wouldn't matter. It's mental conditioning of the worst level and puts everyone in the "I want it before Christmas" mindset But we do try our best to keep them happy

Stare bună de sănătate pentru tine,

Phil

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Dec 8 2014, 12:05 PM

Hey Phil

I am also dealing with an extremely hectic schedule here, but I am plugging my way through everything slowly

Anyway, I think I understood where the little problem resides, technique wise and if you understood it too, it's only a matter of slow practice, seasoned with a little patience Don't rush - as I told you, the last recording sounds confident and well played. It's only a matter of polishing now, but I would be pretty curious to see a recording with the full take at the current state - if it would be a video, it would be even greater, as I can tell you a lot more about what's going on - if it's the case

About the holidays rush - I feel like I want to run away in the woods, man :| Folks are going crazy with everything in this period..

Posted by: Phil66 Dec 8 2014, 10:25 PM

Alo Cosmin sama,

Yeah, there's something about Christmas time. I know that the people that are chasing their components for delivery before Christmas just will not be building their engine during the Christmas break but they still want them

Not having much success hooking the second half together tonight, I think it's because I am uber tired, eyes practically closing while I play, then when I get into bed I will be wide awake

I'll try to shoot a video to you tomorrow, even with sequence mistakes you will be able to see where my muting problem lies.

I have to tell where some of my impatience comes from. I had a friend a few years ago, not seen him for quite a while now. He was an awesome guitarist, and I mean awesome, he had an awesome ear too. He came to my house once and we were talking about guitarists, he was old school, Black Sabbath, Thin Lizzy, Montrose, Boston etc I asked him if he know Joe Satriani and Steve Vai, he said he had heard of them but not heard any of their music. We went into my music room and I put "For The Love Of God" on the hi-fi, listened for a minute or so and said "Pass me your guitar", he restarted the track and listened to the first bar, then, while the second bar was playing he was playing the first bar, while the third bar was playing he was playing the second bar etc etc etc, he did this for about the first minute to the point where Vai dips the whammy slightly on a note, (He was a Les Paul player) and he said, "I'd need to practice from here, it starts getting tricky", but that blew me away, Then I put Surfin With The Alien on, he had a listen, played the intro and said "I have to go now but can I borrow the disc please?" He called me the next evening and I asked him jokingly if he had learnt Surfin yet, he played the whole track through on his Les Paul, in the whammy bar bits he just played the notes as best he could but that astounded me, he was so humble about it all too . I think seeing him do all of this made want to be able to do it as easy as he appeared to do it, impatience is also part of my genetic make up so his demonstration seemed to emphasize my impatience if you know what I mean. I hope you understand this little insight into my psyche

As an off topic thing, look at the name of the steam train we went on yesterday

http://s353.photobucket.com/user/PhilDY6/media/2014-12-07133640_zps09f243a1.jpg.html

Noroc

Phil

Posted by: Phil66 Dec 9 2014, 10:24 PM

Alo Cosmin sama,

Sorry, it's just not happening mate. Not sure if I'm coming down with something, I feel extremely tired physically and mentally. I just can't hook this staccato thing together at all at the moment.

You may not hear from me for a couple of days but rest assured I will be back ASAP, hopefully it's just some 24 hour thing, there's no point me plugging away on the geetar because I'm just getting frustrated at my lack of concentration.

Sănătate și armonie to you my friend.

Noroc

Phil

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Dec 11 2014, 10:40 AM

Hey Phil!

As we discussed, life has to be tended to as well, so take your time, finish your work and leave the mind empty for practicing I'll be here and we can resume when you are ready All the best ... si sa ai spor!

Cosmin

Posted by: Phil66 Dec 11 2014, 09:41 PM

Mulțumiri Cosmin,

I am back Got a bit of a cold but that's nothing. The aches and fatigue have virtually gone. I'll get practicing again.

What did you think about my friend's talent? That's part of why I'm impatient with the guitar, I think "why can't I do what he did?". I have to let that go

Noroc

Phil

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Dec 12 2014, 04:51 PM

Hey Phil Welcome back - well, I am happy to inform you that your impatience, in respect to the story, has no foundation. Your friend has three things you are currently building from scratch:

- a great ear
- experience
- A LOT of practicing and playing behind him

So, you have nothing to be impatient about - imagine that this guy was once where you are now. It's not like someone snapped their fingers and he suddenly knew how to play the guitar

Having this in mind, please do carry on

Posted by: Phil66 Dec 12 2014, 10:13 PM

Alo Cosmin,

I agree with what you say but he must also have a lot of natural talent, what is so tragic is that he worked in the gas board offices and hadn't gigged in over twenty years . I play darts and have done since I was about 10, I hit my first and only 180 a couple of years ago, best thing about it, I got in from work, wife said dinner was a little late so I went into my man cave, pick up the darts, casually threw them and the first three went into the treble 20. Wayne Mardle, a top pro, started when he was a lad and hit his first 180 after two weeks Natural talent is a big big bonus eh?

Out of interest, how far do you think the average person can go playing guitar given limited practice time. What song would they be able to achieve? I once managed to learn and play (though I don't know what would happen in the REC zone ) Rock The Nation by Montrose including the basic solo.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=loaxDYWPZ54



I've just been using Ben's lesson about dealing with distortion as I'm still struggling to control the noise on the upstroke section of the staccato power chord lesson so please bear with me. I'll post something when I'm half happy with it.

Noroc

Pace și liniște

Phil

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Dec 13 2014, 08:51 AM

Phil, have I told you the story of the fencing master and the apprentice?

One day, an apprentice came to the fencing master and asked him - If I practice daily, how long will it take me to become REALLY good? The master said: 10 years. The apprentice asked again - what if I practice, 8 hours a day - the master said - 20 years. The apprentice was becoming desperate - what if I practice all day long?? The master said - a lifetime!

The conclusion is that the more you will practice, the more you will want - there's no stopping and no end game here and the better you become the better you will want to be. Please, stop placing all these futile hurdles in your path and enjoy the journey We are all VERY different and what feels easy for someone might seem very difficult for someone else. Who am I to tell how long it takes for one to become proficient? It's all up to that person I'd be curious to hear the solo in your rendition - from the tune you shared, I mean What do you say?

Posted by: Phil66 Dec 13 2014, 09:43 AM

Alo Cosmin,

Sorry for being a pain with my hurdles That story makes sense.

I don't think I can remember the solo but I'll try to find the tab out. My teacher at the time tabbed the whole song out for me.

Noroc Cosmin sama

There is no destination, only an eternal journey!

Phil

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Dec 14 2014, 01:37 PM

Good to know that I have managed to cool you down - hopefully enough to manage to focus on playing rather then wanting to jump a flick flack over a 10 story building without the proper training beforehand - let's see a recording and we'll take it from there Deal?

Posted by: Phil66 Dec 14 2014, 10:21 PM

Deal Cosmin sama,

I don't know where the time is going lately, it's nearly time to retire to my bed and I haven't had chance to lay my hands on my guitar today or yesterday

Let's hope the new comes with 26 hours a day

Noroc

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Dec 15 2014, 04:11 PM

Tell me about it... I have NO UTTER IDEA about what happened to this day I'll be looking forward to see your recordings, as usual! I'd be so greedy as to ask for 32 hrs/day

Posted by: Phil66 Dec 15 2014, 10:04 PM

Alo Cosmin,

Ok, slight distraction today. I have been practicing the power chord lesson tonight and then I remembered that you wanted to hear a recording of me playing the Rock The Nation solo. Well I found my folder that I had when I was being taught by a local man years ago. I found the tab to the solo, I've had a quick go but I need to re-learn it, there are a couple of fiddly bits in it. Anyway, I was browsing through all the stuff in there and I came across some tab of a little rhythm I made up. I've just done a quick take of it for you to listen to. It's not very clean (it's the first time I've played it in years and I only recorded the first take) and it's real basic but I still kinda like it. It's called "Nora's Walk". It's named after a character called Nora Batty in a British comedy series. She was what we call a "battleaxe" and she had an admirer called Compo. This rhythm was inspired by her marching down the street, broom in hand to bash Compo with
http://s353.photobucket.com/user/PhilDY6/media/NoraBatty_zpsa12a26cb.jpg.html

I don't know what key it's in but I thought you may like to have a listen to see if you think I got the menacing march feel in the rhythm

[attachment=40191:Nora_s_Walk.wav]

No practice tomorrow, got the work's Christmas party. Sorry.

Anyway, I'd be interested in your thoughts on that little rhythm, it is very very basic so don't expect much, I just like it for some reason

Noroc

Phil

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Dec 16 2014, 08:42 PM

Hey Phil!

It definitely feels like marching It is definitely a pentatonic based riff and it reminds me of Free's 'Alright Now' That's clearly something good and it proves the fact that once we put our mind to re-enacting something which surrounds us in the environment, by reproducing it in a musical form, regardless of how simple or complicated it is, it will actually be a genuine representation of our imagination at that point. I remember a little piece I wrote when I was in the 9th grade - it had three chords and 4 notes over them - I WAS SO UTTERLY amazed with the sounds and with the idea that I immediately called my mom and dad to show them.

I totally understand why you like it and I think you should get back to doing these things Share them with me - record all your ideas, regardless of how you think they sound now You will very much enjoy them later

Posted by: Phil66 Dec 19 2014, 08:57 PM

Alo Cosmin,

Sorry for being absent, been dead on my feet that past few days.

I can't believe 42 people have downloaded Nora's Walk. I've tabbed it out in case anyone can't work it out.

[attachment=40215:Nora_s_Walk_TAB.txt]

I'm assuming I could use A Minor pentatonic to improvise over the track, am I correct? I personally think it's a good little rhythm to have as backing to come up with little licks etc, it's uncluttered and basic. I'm pretty useless at improvising though but maybe others can use it.
By the way, the bend at the end of represents dear old Nora waving her broom in the air like a tribal war spear when she spots Compo trying to hide

I'm back on track for the weekend at least, then the hectic Christmas week begins. Bring on 2015

Got another idea called "The Chase", it's a lot longer than Nora's Walk but I'll try to get it down for you. It's all power chord based.

Need to brush up on Ben's Staccato Power Chords now, lost some of what I had through not playing. I took a stop off at the Lazy Guitar Bar for far too long

Speak soon buddy.

Noroc

Phil

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Dec 20 2014, 10:06 AM

Hey Phil, no worries mate - I had a killer week myself visiting my clients with presents and invoices

Well, I told you that presenting your ideas will pay off When will you start believing me, good Sir? Indeed, you can use the A minor pentatonic and the A minor blues scale to improvise over it - why not try to drop off a few improv ideas of your own over the track? You can always steal a few lines from Bear's lesson and modiffy them a bit to make them your own Everthought about this?

Looking forward to hear the next recording from Ben's lesson - what do you say, will we finish it before the new year begins?

Posted by: Phil66 Dec 20 2014, 04:12 PM

All Cosmin,

I do believe you mate, my biggest problem is my impatience and my lack of time compounds it
I'll do my best to rise to your challenge to get it done before 2015, I like that kind of challenge, it gives me a target. I've got lots on during this period and am going away for a few days at the end of December/beginning of January but I'll do my best. In a strange way I get comfort knowing that Rhida too struggled with the Ben lesson; I know I'm not alone and somehow that makes me feel better. I can do it OK with all down strokes but the upstrokes are still hard on the E when muting. I'm going to try a different left hand technique this evening
Noroc
Phil

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Dec 21 2014, 09:00 AM

Cheers Philster!

I got one more day of doing things (tomorrow) and today, I must clean up my loft for Christmas and then it's all guitar playing and reading and spending quality time with milady, for me as well

Now, as before, don't let the impatience ruin your good time, ok? Rhida is struggling with lessons as well, but you should be only looking at your path - you are you and he is himself. You should take comfort in your own strength and in your abilities, not in the fact that someone else is struggling too. Be strong and walk your path, matey! I'm here to watch you take the steps - but you are the one taking them!

Posted by: Rhida Dec 21 2014, 09:40 AM

Guys are you talking about me?

Frankly I know that I struggle with some lessons and as I already said I 'm here to improve so it doesn't bother me at all. I want to know where the problem is to get rid of it. I know I have a lot of weaknesses but I work on them. They won't win!!!
Everytime I post something at Rec I see it as an opportunity to get valuable insights from the instructors. They know better than most of us here! Grades are really really not important at my stage of development.
Please Phil, I already told you don't compare yourself to others. You are only hurting yourself in the long run.
When I see someone pass a lesson here I 'm happy for him or her and it inspires me to do the same and it makes me believe that everything is possible with motivation hard work and constant practice. I don't care at all how many times it took him or her to succeed.
Work on your mindset to make this process fun!
There 's only one you!
Be the best you can be!
This community is not a competition it's a family!

Take care play have fun and improve even at baby step!

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Dec 21 2014, 10:06 AM

Rhida, thanks for the input and good thoughts!

There ya go Phil - the man has spoken and truth he has uttered - ya know, when two people tell you that you are drunk, you should go to sleep, as they say in my country So, be patient and enjoy the ride

Posted by: Phil66 Dec 21 2014, 11:56 AM

Thank you gentlemen,

I just want to clarify, I don't take pleasure in the fact that Rhida is/was struggling with this lesson, I want him to do well and I did congratulate him and was happy for him when he passed the Ben Staccato lesson. It was just one of those things where I felt better that it wasn't only me struggling. I'm always hard on myself for underachieving and when someone else is struggling it makes me realise that maybe I'm not underachieving, maybe I am the same as most people. We can't all learn at the speed that Vai did, Satriani said that he was teaching Vai whilst he himself was learning and it forced him to learn faster because Vai was so gifted he was learning everything he gave him so quickly he was struggling to keep ahead . Plus the fact that Vai had marathon practice sessions of up to 15 hours per day during school holidays and even 8 hours on school days I don't get that a week

So once again, thanks Cosmin and Rhida and rest assured I don't take pleasure in the fact that someone else is struggling it is just comforting to know that I'm not the only one. I hope you know what I mean

Right I'm off outside in the cold to wash my car then off down the local for a nice roast dinner and a few pints of ale.

Cheers gentlemen.

Phil

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Dec 22 2014, 11:25 AM

Hey Phil!

Being a fighter is all that it's all about I had absolutely no intention of suggesting that you would enjoy the fact that others are struggling, but underlining the fact that you should only look ahead and walk your path as you are already doing

Looking forward to your vids and impressions! Take it easy on the feasting, good Sir

Cosmin

Hey Phil!

Being a fighter is all that it's all about I had absolutely no intention of suggesting that you would enjoy the fact that others are struggling, but underlining the fact that you should only look ahead and walk your path as you are already doing

Looking forward to your vids and impressions! Take it easy on the feasting, good Sir

Cosmin

Posted by: Phil66 Dec 22 2014, 09:09 PM

Alo Cosmin,

Ok seconds out, round 50. Here is my take from tonight. I am managing to stumble through it to the end, the problem now is that the first half (down stroke rounds) is suffering because I am thinking ahead to the upstroke rounds I't trying to plan ahead for what is to come which is stopping getting the first half clean.

I'll try to get a video tomorrow, I let somebody borrow my camera for a while and should get it back tomorrow. You may be able to see some tension or technique issue in it.

For now please have a listen to this messy piece of work.

[attachment=40275:Ben_Stac...22122014.wav]

Pace

Phil

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Dec 23 2014, 06:39 PM

Hey Phil!

Listened and here are my suggestions:

- up to 0:15 when the pice becomes a bit more crowded, you have a tendency to rush ahead of the beat a little - please stay as laid back as necessary in order to play as tight as possible with the drums.
- in both ending parts - the one around 0:15 and the one around 0:29 until the end, you need to focus on cleaning up the unwanted noises, produced when shifting the positions.

I look forward to see the video, as I think that one will tell me more on the noises

Let's rock, then!

Cosmin

Posted by: Phil66 Dec 23 2014, 08:06 PM

Alo Cosmin,

Rest assured I'll be working on it. Hopefully I will be more focused now than of late. Had a lot going on during all waking hours. I have entered the Christmas colab too so I'll need to work on that.

Noroc buddy

Phil

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Dec 24 2014, 12:05 PM

Hey Phil!

One step at a time, mate I hope to breathe a little these days, as I had a very busy year, so just some acoustic playing - I prepared a nice present for milady - an acoustic rendition of her favorite tune which I will video record in the exact moment when I perform it for her I'm so darn thrilled!

So - you have to focus points from a musical perspective The collab and finishing the lesson. Relaxing can make those crowded parts shift a lot easier - so try not to put any tension and raise the left hand fingers just that little enough, so that they don't leave the strings but they won't produce noises as well.

Looking forward to see yer vid, mate!

Cosmin

Posted by: Phil66 Dec 25 2014, 12:10 AM

Allo Cosmin,
OK, I have to apologise, I haven't practised Ben's lesson tonight but I have been tuning up the Christmas collab. I seem to enjoy making my own stuff rather than following lessons BUT I understand that the lessons are required to improve technique.

Cheers buddy; gotta finish this bottle of Jack

Noroc

Phil

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Dec 26 2014, 04:32 PM

Hey Phil

Merry Chrismas to you, mate!

It is indeed a combination between training the technique and exercising your creative senses, so if you ask me, working on lessons in parallel with getting involved in collabs, is pretty much a very good thing.

The lessons teach you a certain princple/applyed theory/technique/vocabulary wise, which can later on be applied in a collab, in creative way.

For instance, you have tackled the pentatonic lesson so far - you can always take things out of it, simply by adapting the ideas to the collab key - what notes make up the original lesson key? What notes make up the collab key? This is a good starting point for seeing what ideas you can take from the lessons and make your own by adapting to the collab context.

Have you thought about this?

Posted by: Phil66 Dec 26 2014, 08:35 PM

Alo Cosmin,

Yes I have thought about that but for some reason I struggle to adapt other parts of another lesson into my music, maybe it doesn't feel purely natural to me.

Here are some of the nice things that have been said about my little piece. I know you are on holiday but if you find time to give me any advice it would be great, it's Kristopher's second comment that I don't fully understand. mulțumesc.

The reason I am so happy with the comments is that I know you guys don't give false praise

Kristopher said:
Hi Phil, thanks so much for submitting your take. Everyone will make it to the final product.

This is a very nice, static/dreamy kind of solo. You do everything by the book with the way you build this solo, without forgetting the ever so important breathing rooms. This immediately helps elevate your take, musically.

The beginning phrases are pretty much by the book as I said, so the next step is to start thinking about those subtle details which can turn - apparently simple - phrases into heart melting music.

Kristopher said:
Hey Phil - great to know Your that much engaged to make it best as possible. I think we still have much spacer for adding even more goods in the take. Let's think about the atriculation. L:istening carefuly I find alot of hidden, important details. You have a very beautiful beggining with gentle vibrato, prebend and right picking dynamics - it's been playd with pasion for sure

What I would think to replace is the lick around 0:23. It does not feet the all other part of the solo. It sound a bit too raw, to "practicing sort of", to square for what You have presented in the previous part I would suggest to find a bit less "pentatonic" feel in that particular moment, to fit the beautiful things You did in the first part of Your take

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Dec 27 2014, 10:32 AM

Hey Phil,

I think that what Kris is trying to say, is that the part that he suggests you to replace is one that is out of context with the general mindstate of your take. The take is purely musical and this part came in just so that it may fill in some space - I think he means that you should adapt that part, so that it may fit the musical scenery you have already created

So, take that phrase and maybe substract some notes, add some vibrato or bend or add some rests, in order to make it sound musical and not like an exercise.

About managing to 'steal' from lessons - hey, that's a trick of the trade that is developed in time - but it has to start somewhere. I do believe that each lesson has to have something you like - name your favorite passage out of Bear's lesson - it can be a little, teeny weeny phrase, or just the clash of a note against a certain chord.. you name it

Posted by: Phil66 Jan 4 2015, 09:01 PM

Alo Cosmin,

Ok, this is not to do with our lessons but I put it here for you to see anyway, hope you like it.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A8XIG723MRQ&feature=youtu.be



Noroc

Phil

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Jan 6 2015, 11:30 AM

Howdy Phil!

This is very nice, mate! I think that using a repetitive melody which turns into a theme is a great idea and the articulation elements sprinkled such as pre bends, vibrato and slides are very nicely executed.

The only thing that sounds a bit mechanical to me would be the little lick around 0:23 - but hey, it's the first thing of this kind that you have done and I am certain that the more you will do it and the more focused on details you will be, the better it will become

How's the lesson coming along?

Posted by: Phil66 Jan 7 2015, 09:26 PM

Alo Cosmin,

Thank you for your kind words. I answered this post yesterday but for some reason it didn't appear. Weird. I should get a video to you tomorrow, the staccato lesson isn't coming along too well to be honest. I was struggling to improve and then the colab came along and gave me an escape route The the hectic holidays/celebrations with much ale/wine/Jack Daniels etc which was a major distraction. Back on track now.

Noroc

Phil

Posted by: Phil66 Jan 8 2015, 10:24 PM

Alo Cosmin,

As promised here is the video. It's probably worse than the last sound file because it's a video and that darn REC button affects me

Any pointers gratefully received. Sorry but the sync isn't bang on as I was running out of time.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LB1Vzya6wV8&feature=youtu.be




Noroc


Phil

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Jan 9 2015, 09:36 AM

Hey mate!

This is not bad If you are to ask me, I suggest the following:

- relax the right hand - you are trying to use the wrist only and in this sort of playing you need to strum, which involves a bit of forearm as well, while using the wrist. Look at Ben - he shows it well

- the left hand needs to be more dead on when it comes to differentiating chords from muted strings, not somewhere in between. It's either chord, either mute - be very precise on it

- the chord changes need to be a bit more accurate

Slow it down and focus on the details above and I am sure you will nail it properly

Cosmin

Posted by: Phil66 Jan 10 2015, 09:38 AM

Thanks Cosmin,

What do you mean "more dead" with my left hand?

Ben doesn't seem to have much forearm movement in the first half (down strokes) but in upstroke section he has a funny twisting action similar to using a spoon if you know what I mean. I've tried to do that but my hand lands hard on the bridge.

Hopefully get another video to you tonight.

Have a good weekend.

Noroc

Phil

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Jan 11 2015, 09:44 AM

Hey Phil!

I was talking about 'dead on' as in precise By that, I mean that you should focus on separating the chords from the mutem strings as tightly as possible and also shift the position as precise as possible. That of course, is done at a slow tempo wth full focus on the idea itself.

About the right hand - try to execute the motion you observed at Ben, at a slow tempo on one chord only, against the metronome, so that you will be able to focus on the movement itself and not on anything else. Once it starts feeling comfy, you can move on to implementing it in the context

Do we have a deal?

Cosmin

Posted by: Phil66 Jan 11 2015, 09:54 AM

Thank you Cosmin,

That one little word, "on" makes a big difference when added to the word "dead" eh?
Didn't pick up my guitar at all yesterday, couldnt get motivated. Hopefully I'll manage to today sometime. I also want to get my little rhythm piece called "The Chase" to you before you go just to see what you think.

Thanks buddy

Noroc

Phil

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Jan 11 2015, 10:11 AM

Sure thing, mate, let's see the piece and yes, the little word has a huge impact What's going on? I mean why didn't you feel like picking it up?

Posted by: Phil66 Jan 11 2015, 10:36 AM

Yesterday's news about you leaving knocked the wind out of my sails so I was thinking that I would end up how I used to be, noodling away on the fretboard getting nowhere. I've asked Gab if he will take me on as he too is a daily visitor to GMC.

I'm OK now, I've turned a corner and the scenery has changed but the song remains the same.

Noroc

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Jan 12 2015, 10:51 AM

You don't need me to stay on the road All you need is yourself - you already know what your mindset should be, so don't stray, whatever comes your way

Contacting Gabi was a good idea, but I will still be here till the end of January, so let's keep working together till then, deal?

Cosmin

Posted by: Phil66 Jan 13 2015, 09:43 PM

Alo Cosmin,

I'm still here, just had a tough few days.

You said "You don't need me to stay on the road", you were my Himalayan guide, I was worried that I would get lost in the foothills without my guide by my side.

I'll get another recording to you very very soon and, hopefully, The Chase.

Noroc

Phil

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Jan 14 2015, 08:25 AM

Hey Phil,

I'm around, mate - don't worry about it just yet Take the time to adjust the details I suggested in the previous message and you'll be just fine - you know, staying focused on the job at hand will get things done a lot quicker, so instead of thinking about all sorts of bad things, use the guitar playing as a gettaway It's your little corner of paradise and you should treat it as such Deal?

Posted by: Phil66 Jan 14 2015, 09:22 PM

Alo Cosmin,

I made it in the mix. Thank you, without you I would never ever ever have had the confidence to post my "music" to such a public place.

Noroc prietenul meu.

https://soundcloud.com/dariuswave/kris-must-charm-gmc-students-and-instructors-collaboration

Phil

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Jan 16 2015, 09:23 AM

My sincere congratulations, good Sir! The collab came out amazing! Now, this is living proof of your abilities put to work - imagine what will happen with hard work and dedication in one year from now! Having this in mind, get busy with practicing AND creating! Deal?

Posted by: Phil66 Jan 16 2015, 09:33 AM

Deal sir,

Got to say I've lost some practice time trying to set up Amplitude as a plugin to my Daw, Bogdan and Todd have been helping me out. Still haven't got it sorted but will leave it until the weekend and have a practice bash tonight.
Noroc
Phil

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Jan 17 2015, 12:33 PM

Hey mate,

It's a good thing you are learning how to work with Amplitube - it is not wasted time I meant to tell you - learning how to use the tools of your trade is most certainly NOT wasted time. It's better to practice 1 focused hour rather then spending 2 hours of noodling because you think that having the guitar for 2 hours in your hands will be better then one hour I guess you already knew that, but I felt like I should re-enforce it

How's practicing, by the way?

Cosmin

Posted by: Phil66 Jan 19 2015, 10:08 PM

Hello Cosmin,

OK, practice not been good, Amplitube took over (http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/guitar_forum/index.php?showtopic=53711&st=0) then the weekend problems that you know about which are still on my mind making it a bit harder to concentrate when playing. Sorry.
Here is a video, the left hand has gone bad but the main thing I posted this for is for you to see what you think of my right hand on teh upstroke section. Only had about half an hour with fingers on the fretboard since the last video

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7E5C5KJ5pNY&feature=youtu.be



Noroc

Phil

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Jan 20 2015, 08:51 AM

Hey Phil,

I hope that things are ok and that you will have nothing to worry about soon enough! Analyzing the video, I can see that your right hand is doing the right movements, but the issues are in the left hand now, as it's not defining the chords from the staccato 100% - chords vs left hand mutted strings - and the shifting of the positions is not 100% on time. These are the aspects you should focus on, in order to get rid of this one and make it sounds as close to perfection as possible!

Do we have a deal, Sir?

Cosmin

Posted by: Phil66 Jan 21 2015, 11:06 PM

Alo Cosmin,

Sorry but I was getting frustrated with the stacatto power chord lesson and it was becoming counter productive so, for a break I have recorded The Chase. I came up with this manic rhythm whilst thinking about someone being chased through a forest, up to 00:10 they are darting between the trees, 00:10-00:15 I imaging the chaser catching the other person and them both rolling down a bank fighting, at the bottom the person being chased gets away and so it starts again

Your thoughts/advice as always are very welcome, it would be nice if you could explain what I am doing in a musical context as I haven't got a clue Thank you.

I'll be back on the staccato lesson tomorrow

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3vJuBFbHZCA&feature=youtu.be



Noroc

Phil

Posted by: Phil66 Jan 22 2015, 11:12 PM

Alo Cosmin,

OK, another take, I'm doing more video than just sound now, I am gradually becoming more comfortable with the REC button. Slowly, slowly catchee monkey

Still some unwanted noise and some fluffed chords but I think it is better.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j1WGiNb7g8Y&feature=youtu.be



Noroc

Phil

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Jan 23 2015, 08:57 AM

Hey Phil!

I think you cleaned it up pretty nicely, man! No more unwanted sounds, but I think you should definitely work on the timing now - some of the chord changes are not dead on and you have a tendency to rush some strokes of the right hand, thus creating the impression that the playing i a bit ahead of the beat. Please try to stay as dead on the beat as possible - that's pretty much what you need to cover, in order to get this one done!

Keep it up!

Cosmin

Hey again, mate!

Your tune sounds pretty manic and descriptive to me As for what you are doing, it sounds like a riff built around the B minor pentatonic scale out of what I can figure out. Let's dissect it together a little, shall we? What chords are you using in there?

Posted by: Phil66 Jan 23 2015, 09:12 AM

Alo Cosmin,

I'll sort the chords out this evening. I think sometimes it is good for an instructor to see someone playing things of their own making, not just to see any level of creativity but sometimes skills show through that aren't apparent when trying to play someone else's piece. Hope that makes sense.

Noroc

Phil

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Jan 23 2015, 09:20 AM

That actually makes A LOT of sense We can never 100% imitate one's style, simply because we are ourselves and not that other person! You have made a great assumption, Phil Looking forward to see what your conclusions are, on the chords!

Posted by: Phil66 Jan 23 2015, 10:13 PM

Alo Cosmin,

So can you see anything that I am doing that you didn't think I could do? I think my right hand looks much more relaxed than when I have don'e anything else.

Anyway, the chords are:

B C# B C# A B C# E C# B C# E D# D (All 6th string root)

E D E B (All 5th string root)

I know I could have played it all with 6th string root chords but I didn't realise that until I wrote the chords down this evening

Ok I have noted that the C# and D# are not in the B minor pentatonic but the C# IS in the normal minor scale.

Is it ok to have this D# chord in the piece? I like it in there but it isn't correct as far as I can tell with my very limited knowledge of theory.

When I came up with this piece I fiddled around until I found what I wanted, I didn't think of any theory as I don't know much, how much does it matter that things "fit" into a certain scale?

Thanks

Noroc

Phil

Posted by: Phil66 Jan 25 2015, 10:06 PM

Alo Cosmin,

I just noticed that in the last video I had left the video sound on from the camera mic lol, oooops.

Ok here's another, I'm gradually getting more comfortable with the REC button

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o_kSPmu3chU&feature=youtu.be



I'm hoping I can put this to bed this before you leave, it's a big big struggle for some reason .

I have to build a new PC tomorrow too.

Noroc

Phil

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Jan 26 2015, 09:43 AM

Hey Phil!

I have checked out the video and I can still note some timing and unwanted noises

See 0:05, 0:17 - 0:19, 0:21, 0:24 - 0:27 (you're going a bit ahead of the beat here), 0:30 - 0:36 still rushing a tiny bit.

As I said, you need to take care on being very precise with the chord shifts and with the groove of the piece - have you tried to play along with Ben? It will surely work on the groove and you will just need to pay attention to playing as clean as possible

About your piece - I noticed that the first phrase has A and B not B and C# - am I right? The B minor pentatonic has the B D E F# A and B minor scale has the C# and the G but the D# is a major third which you probably used as a passing tone. Theory should be used to understand what you are doing and to communicate with others or to chisel a creation, but the creation itself, should be something that comes from the soul and it should be heard in the mind first So, your course of action is the right one, if you ask me

IF you like how that D# sounds there, it's all good!

Posted by: Phil66 Jan 26 2015, 09:29 PM

Alo Cosmin,

Ok, the new bits for my PC haven't arrived so I'm here, mind you it took me an hour to get this one working, bloody corrupt hal.dll file then once that was fixed I had some other major issues so basically wasted an hour grrrrrrrrrrrrr

You are right I must have been dyslexicolated , the chords are:

A B A B G A B D B A B D C# C (All 6th string root)

E D E B (All 5th string root)

For some crazy spaced out reason (too much JD?? ) I was taking note of where my third finger was so even though I was playing power chords rooted on the 6th string I was naming them from the 5th string position but with the 6th string note at the fret where my finger was on the 5th string . I'll never understand why I did that so I'm not going to try

My apologies if I confused you.

Another video below. I have played along with Ben and I have also recorded along with Ben, I think it's one of those pieces that sets the panic in my head so I rush to get to the next bit so I don't miss it. I seem to have a tendency to do that for some reason. It's also one of those pieces that I have to concentrate hard on and then I don't relax, I also find it hard to listen to the backing track for reference points, basically I don't think I'm feeling the groove if you know what I mean.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WFC12Wa0y14&feature=youtu.be



Noroc

Phil

Posted by: Phil66 Jan 27 2015, 10:05 PM

Alo Cosmin,

And another one from tonight.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fVPsDMDVIUw&feature=youtu.be



Noroc

Phil

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Jan 28 2015, 10:57 PM

Hey Phil!

You got on the other side now You are rushing a bit and you are raising your hands too quickly off the positions so it sounds like someone is chasing you when playing. It's cleaner tho, but, lay back a little and try to feel the groove, mate. Playing alongside Ben a little bit more should be a good way to solve things. In the recording that you did before this one - I guess that one you did with Ben's recording, right? - things feel a lot more groovy, so try to nail that feeling - as I said, the more you play it with Ben's recording, the more you will get it in your system Deal?

Posted by: Phil66 Jan 28 2015, 11:39 PM

Deal mate

One thing i want to ask though. Is there anything you see/hear in "The Chase" that reveals something you thought was beyond my current ability?

I'll try to get another video to you before you leave, this is a tricky one for me, I do seem I struggle with timing on chords.

Noroc

Phil

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Jan 29 2015, 08:19 AM

Hey Phil,

About the Chase - it sounds more natural than anything you have played so far - just like in the acse of the collab take, most likely because it's yours. That doesn't mean you should stop working on lessons, it just means you should dedicate time to creating music and implementing the things you learn in the lesson in your creations Time usually solves a lot of problems, if spent right

Posted by: Phil66 Jan 29 2015, 09:49 PM

Thanks Cosmin,

I have watched it a couple of times and I notice how relaxed my right hand is, chugging away. There are a couple of choked strums in there at the 0:06 mark, this was what I did on purpose but wasn't thinking about it, I do it every time I play it, what I think though is that if they were in a lesson and I had to analyse it I would probably struggle, I would probably struggle with the strumming pattern too. This is why I think it is good for a teacher to see this kind of thing.

Anyway, I'm going to spend a lot of time just playing along with Ben, hopefully I'll get a video to you before you stop mentoring, if not Gab may take over from where you left off.

Noroc

Phil

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Jan 30 2015, 08:16 AM

Hey Phil - once again, it's all about what feels instinctively natural to us The bad part about it, is that if we do not strive to learn other things and make them sound natural, we will become redundant.

You haven't reached that point yet, but for instance, when you would only know 4-5 licks and repeat those in all your solos on a 12 songs album, it would be pretty obvious. That's one reason for which you are training, by practicing things which push you further and further, so that you won't become redundant at some point

Posted by: Phil66 Jan 30 2015, 11:56 AM

Alo Cosmin,

I fully understand and there's no way I will give up lessons, they give you skills and ideas. I have also put a first take into the AC/DC collab, it's pretty bad but I put it in there

I enjoy the lessons but it's more difficult when they don't feel at all natural, I know this is one of the hurdles to overcome that's why I keep plugging away even though I moan about it

Noroc

Phil

Posted by: Phil66 Jan 31 2015, 02:00 PM

Alo Cosmin,

Unfortunately I have had computer issues, I haven't been able to record. I was going to do a new build earlier in the week but put it off until you stopped mentoring but now I am forced to do the build today. So I'm sorry that I didn't manage to get the power chord lesson to the REC zone before today but these things happen eh?
I think I've realised something regarding my impatience, it's possibly down to the fact that you guys make everything look so simple . its the old thing about watching anyone who is proficient, you often think "I could do that" watch a potter throw clay onto the spinning wheel and create a tall shapely vase, it looks so easy, then you try and it ends up in a heap I can't believe it's took me so long for the penny to drop with guitar. I apologise if my impatience has offended you. Read Bens thread "How long until I can play like you?". I remember being offended once by a young upstart, I had been doing a certain job for around fifteen years working to +\- .005mm and I I was having to work late one day to get a job done as I was going on holiday the next day. This young lad who was a trainee said to me, "if you want me to stay with you for twenty minutes after work, you can quickly show me the ropes and I can do the job while you're on holiday", I said " its OK thanks" but I was thinking "who the f*** does he think he is, it took me years to get to this level!".
Anyway, I wish you well on your new path, don't be a stranger. Will you still be judging in the REC zone ?
All the best mate. Thanks for everything you helped me with for guitar and beyond.
Noroc
Phil

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Feb 1 2015, 08:51 AM

Hey Phil,

Well, that's surely one very good perspective on things I for one have learned on my own skin that if you want to be good at something, you have to practice and stay hungry for that thing. Be consistent and things will come your way when the time is right - I know it sounds like a big mumbo jumbo esotherical heap of thingies, but that's how it is. The great Musashi said that one needs about 11000 days of practice (tanren) in order to become a master in his Way.

I leave you with this book: http://www.bookoffiverings.com/ - read it from the beginning from time to time and strive on perceiving the abundence of wisdom it shares each time. It can act as a guide that keeps you on your Way

See you around, Phil!

Cosmin

PS: Yes, I will still be around the REC