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Posted by: Boson Feb 24 2009, 06:53 PM

Hi Uncleskillet and my fellow mentees.

Just wanted to say that I am really pleased that you are going to be my mentor. I have watched what you have been doing with Skennington and like the fact that you dont let him get away with much! lol I need a mentor to keep me focused as I tend to jump aound from one lesson to another!

I guess the time zone gap between us might slow things a little but Im sure that we can get round that.

By the way my real name is Tony.

Looking forward to getting started.

Posted by: UncleSkillet Feb 24 2009, 10:26 PM

Hi Tony Glad to have you here and I'm looking forward to working with you. Please look at my "Role Call" thread and if you have any questions let me know.

You can call me Jeff.

Posted by: Boson Feb 24 2009, 10:50 PM

Hi

About me, I am 48 (an oficial old git!), British but live in Spain, I am a teacher of Physics. I like most music andwithin the last year have tried to learn how to surf, ski, learn Spanish and play the guitar. So yes I like a challenge and like to keep busy.

How long have I been playing kind of has two answers.

Firstly "forever"! as I first picked up a guitar something like 33 years ago and learned a few chords. But then I went into the navy and guitar was forgotten about. When I left the navy and became a student I again picked up the guitar. Couldn't afford lessons, so tried to learn from records and sheet music. Sheet music then was awful but I became reasonable at 3 chord strums, mostly Beatles songs. After a couple of years of this I was sort of frustrated with the guitar and marriage, career and child came along so guitar didn't get much of a chance! However I kept an acoustic in the corner of the bedroom and would pick it up every now and again! My love of guitar music never went away! It was always an itch wanting to be scratched!

Last year I moved from the UK to Spain and in my career gave up a lot of responsibility. My daughter was older, my wife was glad to see me less stressed about work and suddenly I had a lot more time on my hands. So the guitar itch came to the fore and I bought a strat copy from ebay. I soon realised that three chords wernt enough anymore and discovered GMC and found that there was now much more help and resources around to help learning guitar. I now have a house full of guitars again and a real determination to learn properly.

So secondly and in short I am again a beginner, probably with a few bad habits to break.

My strong points.
Well I know and am comfortable with most basic open and barre chords. Muris's arpegio and chords lesson wasn,t bad for me. I can do the barre F which a lot struggle with. My only other strong points would probably be my enthusiasm and determination to do well. I am really starting at the beginning with solo and lead playing. Lessons that are graded at 2 or 3 or 4 are about where I am at.

What I want to learn./Weak points?
I want to learn everything! I'm not really impressed by speed or shredding for the sake of it! I like melody and my heart lies in 70's rock (you like what you grow up with I guess). I need to learn more theory, improve with rythym playing, learn more scales, licks etc etc etc. My aim really is to be able to pick up a guitar and jam with others who say "yeah he can play a bit". Blues and rock would be the areas I would lean towards.

I have set myself the target of wowing the kids at school next christmas with this http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/solo-guitar/o-holy-night-adolphe-adam/



Yes I have a webcam, just need to work it better! I dont really have a practice routine, hopefully that is where you can help the most by keeping me focussed on small incremental improvements.

Timewise, I have to keep a balance between time with guitar and my wife and daughter and my work but I aim to practice at least an hour a day and hopefully more on most days.

Sorry this is a long post.


Thanks.
I will post a couple of links to give you and idea of my current playing ability shortly!

Posted by: UncleSkillet Feb 25 2009, 01:39 AM

Thanks Tony for the great introduction and information. I can tell you’re very anxious to get started and so am I.

I want to wait for samples of your current playing before we move on. This will help in building a lesson plain.

Marcus’s “O-Holy Night” is a great recording and if we work hard together we should be able to get you there by x-mas.

By the way, what are some of your favorite bands and music you enjoy?

Jeff

Posted by: Boson Feb 25 2009, 03:05 PM

Hi Jeff

Two recent recordings that show my current level of playing

 Lomand.mp3 ( 1.25MB ) : 243


 Apache1.mp3 ( 4.15MB ) : 252


Its hard to say who are my favourite bands as I like all music. But I'm mostly into 70s rock (Deep Purple, Free, Bad Company, Frampton, The Stones etc etc) I really like Santana and even like the odd bit of country. U2, Springsteen you name it I probably like it. I try to have an open mind and will listen to anything. Heavy metal wouldnt be my favourate.

What about you what are you into?

I will try to record takes with the webcam while we do this so that you can better judge how I am doing.

Posted by: UncleSkillet Feb 26 2009, 12:55 AM

After looking over your information I have picked out 2 lesson I would like you to take a look at. I would like you to work on both at the same time if possible. Since you say you can practice at least 1 hour a day lets do this.

30 minutes with http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/rhythm-guitar/blues-groove-library-part-1/

30 minutes with http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/solo-guitar/blues-soloing-beginner/

If you have extra time to spend then split it up however you would like between the 2

Let me know what you think.

Posted by: Boson Feb 26 2009, 07:36 AM

QUOTE (UncleSkillet @ Feb 26 2009, 01:55 AM)

Posted by: UncleSkillet Feb 27 2009, 12:23 AM

I am glad you like the lessons Tony

I would like at minimum of 1 upload a week for each lesson. Of course more is better if your having problems or need a question answered. Sound do able?

About the metronome. Yes playing with one is a good idea but for this lesson I'm not sure it is nessecary. If you want to just practice with the backing tracks that should be fine. Blues is based a lot on feel and you need to train your ear as well to find the blues grove.

Posted by: Boson Mar 1 2009, 07:47 PM

Hi Jeff

Just to let you kno how things are going.

With the Blues grooves lesson I think I am ok with the first two patterns at about 90 or 100bpm not quite there yet at 120 with the endings. But will get there! Not tried the others yet.

With the blues solo lesson I am up to speed on the first 6 bars. Bar 7 is tricky for me so am slowing it down in a bid to master it.

I had hoped to upload a couple of progress vids for you but I have mucked up all my settings and nothing works! So will have to sort them out. Hopefully will have something for you in a couple of days.


Cheers!

Posted by: UncleSkillet Mar 1 2009, 08:32 PM

Thanks for the update and checking in. I hope you get things worked out. Post your progress when you can.

I have already picked out a few others things for you so we'll decide whats best for you once we get finished with these.

Cheerio's

Posted by: Boson Mar 5 2009, 08:21 PM

Hi Jeff

I'm sorry not to have uploaded yet. I'm really frustrated and cheesed off at the moment! Can't get my cam software to record any sound at the moment!

I could send you a "Silent Movie" and you can imagine how brilliant my playing is! :lol

Seriously though I will sort it out one way or another even if I have to throw some cash at it to get a new cam. I'm supposed to be good with computers!!!!

Because of this I dont feel I have made much progress this week. Im finding the second half of the solo difficult to get the phrasing and timing right. I play the notes but it sounds nothing like Ivan.

The grooves still about the same the basic shuffles ok but difficult to tag on the turnarounds smoothly. I think it will take a while to master them all! I'm old and slow

Hopefully back soon with something for you to look at and comment on.

Posted by: UncleSkillet Mar 6 2009, 01:56 AM

Sorry to hear that your having problems. I am really good with computers so let me know if you need some help. I just got my web cam setup correct last night. First install last week got messed up from an auto update and screwed up the audio settings.

Another thing you could do is record your audio into a DAW like Reaper while capturing video with the camera. Then you just sync the two files in Windows Movie Maker. Not sure what equipment you have but it's a thought.

Hope you can get it fixed some. I am looking forward to your uploads.

Let me know if I can help.

Jeff

Posted by: Boson Mar 7 2009, 09:54 AM

Hi Jeff

Will try to upload video later (I am going to try recording video and audio seperately as you suggest but never done that before so fingers crossed!).

Anyway here is an mp3 to show where I am up to with the solo lesson.


 BluesSolotake1.mp3 ( 879.44K ) : 306



Any comments suggestions greatly appreciated. Im still working on the last few bars.

Posted by: UncleSkillet Mar 8 2009, 05:15 AM

QUOTE (Boson @ Mar 7 2009, 03:54 AM)

Hi Jeff

Will try to upload video later (I am going to try recording video and audio seperately as you suggest but never done that before so fingers crossed!).

Anyway here is an mp3 to show where I am up to with the solo lesson.


 BluesSolotake1.mp3 ( 879.44K ) : 306



Any comments suggestions greatly appreciated. Im still working on the last few bars.

Posted by: Boson Mar 8 2009, 12:13 PM

QUOTE (UncleSkillet @ Mar 8 2009, 05:15 AM)

This sounds good for a first take Tony!!

Your tone is really nice for playing the blues and this lesson.

Just a few things I noticed where the bends weren't quite there, the vibrato could be better and the timing felt a little off beat. With the blues your timing is everything. You have to be right on the beat because everything usually is at a slower tempo. This all can be fixed with more time practicing this so it's not a big deal. Just a few things to think about while you finish the lesson.

It also sounds like your having a problem with your right hand moving up and down. Are you using mostly down strokes where the timing is off?

Thanks for the take! You sound like your on the way to becomming a great blues man!

Posted by: UncleSkillet Mar 14 2009, 02:24 AM

Hi Tony, everything will improve with practice and that is why we are all here.

How are things going? Are your computer issues fixed? I haven't seen you around and just wanted to see how things are going with your practicing and other stuff

Maybe I am giving you the little kick in the butt you asked me to do as well.

Looking forward to your upload.

Posted by: Boson Mar 14 2009, 08:13 AM

QUOTE (UncleSkillet @ Mar 14 2009, 02:24 AM)

Hi Tony, everything will improve with practice and that is why we are all here.

How are things going? Are your computer issues fixed? I haven't seen you around and just wanted to see how things are going with your practicing and other stuff

Maybe I am giving you the little kick in the butt you asked me to do as well.

Looking forward to your upload.

Posted by: UncleSkillet Mar 16 2009, 03:17 AM

QUOTE (Boson @ Mar 14 2009, 03:13 AM)

Cheers Jeff

Had a busy week at work this week and am in the process of buying a new car, for the last year or so I have been using my British car in Spain and its not easy driving as the steering wheel is on the wrong side of the car so its time to splash out on a Spanish car. However I have been practicing guitar hard as much as I can.

I have done at least an hour a day and focussed mainly on the solo lesson. I have to admit that it has not been easy for me but I am getting there. Video 7 in the lesson is proving difficult to get up to anywhere near top speed! But dont worry I will get there! Beginning to think I am a very slow learner with guitar but I keep telling myself that this isnt a race. I just need to keep on making little steps. I have to say though that the MTP thing is great as you have kept me focussed as without it I would probably moved on to something else when the going got tough. So thanks for being there you are keeping me focussed on developing properly.

Not had time to sort out the computer yet but thats my job for today so fingers crossed and hopefully will have video for you this weekend. Bound to be a shocker! I think it was SKenny who said that the record button should say suck, thats the way it works for me too!

Hopefully I will be ready for the next lesson by the end of the weekend.

How is your stuff with Muris going?

Posted by: Boson Mar 25 2009, 08:37 PM

Hi Jeff

I'm sorry, I feel useless that I haven't uploaded a video for you yet! I feel useless!

Its not that I lack enthusiasm or dedication, quite the opposite, just having a bad computer time at the moment.
I think my computer is telling me that it is tired and I have too much stuff on it and it needs a rest.

After everything crashed I have worked hard to get stuff up and running again. I can now take videos with my guitar sound but no backing! NOt a lot of use to you if you want to judge timing.

I can record guitar and backing using reaper, as long as I have the mp3 BT.

I have tried to merge the two using moviemaker but I keep on getting an error and it wont work!

I will get there eventually!

Anyway with regard to the solo lesson I think I am hitting a brick wall at the moment. I find the second to last video in the lesson very difficult and just cannot get the second part of that anywhere near right or up to speed.

Maybe I need to leeve this alone for a while and come back to it in a while. What do you think?

Thanks

Posted by: UncleSkillet Mar 26 2009, 12:11 AM

Posted by: Boson Mar 26 2009, 11:29 PM

Hi Jeff

Thanks for your understanding.

With regard to "rhythm with lessons and uploads" I feel you are absolutely right that we need some sort of pattern to this. With regard to uploads I feel that least one upload per week would be do-able. These will be mp3 based untill I sort out the video problem. Hopefully this wont be too long. With regard to lessons i feel that the rate of change should be dictated by my progress. For example I geel that I have worked really hard at the present solo lesson but the final lick at the speed required is just beyond me at the moment. So better to try something else and come back to it afresh later. I'm not a quitter just I sometimes need a new stimulus I will master it one day!!

I hope the above makes some kind of sense to you!

The lesson I think I would like to work on now is http://http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/solo-guitar/blue-note-in-a/
I have chosen this for several reasons. Mostly because I love the sound! Secondly I think that it is slow enough for me to master but also contains enough to stretch me and allow me to progress. For example in terms of timing, phrasing, bends and vibrato I think I will learn a lot. Tell me what you think.

Cheers

Tony

Posted by: UncleSkillet Mar 27 2009, 02:13 AM

Tony, thanks for taking the time to pick a great lesson for use to work on. Mp3 recordings are fine so no worries. I have the back track I think so I can post it for you.

Not only can we explore the blues feel and rhythm, this will give use an opportunity to start learning theory as well.
We can talk about the 5 pentatonic box shapes. Once you learn them in one key you will be able to move these anywhere on the neck and jam with your friends in know time.

Be careful with this lesson though and pay attention to the flow, vibrato, bends and the picking dynamics that Muris uses. It looks and sounds easier then you may first think. These are the things that created the atmosphere and sound that made you like this lesson.

One other thing Tony. Uploads don't need to be perfect for you to upload. I want and upload no later then next Thursday with your best effort ok.

I will also post back soon with some box shapes and ideas that I want you to think about.

If you have a question just ask.

Posted by: UncleSkillet Mar 27 2009, 02:42 AM

Here is the backing track for the lesson. It was posted for a collab Muris did so there shouldn't be a problem with me posting it.

 Blue_Note_in_A__Collab_BT.mp3 ( 1.39MB ) : 189


Cheers

Posted by: Boson Mar 27 2009, 07:41 AM

QUOTE (UncleSkillet @ Mar 27 2009, 02:42 AM)

Here is the backing track for the lesson. It was posted for a collab Muris did so there shouldn't be a problem with me posting it.

 Blue_Note_in_A__Collab_BT.mp3 ( 1.39MB ) : 189


Cheers

Posted by: Boson Apr 1 2009, 06:07 AM

Hi Jeff

I will be out of touch for the next two weeks as I will be away from home visiting the folks back in England.

speak to you on my return

Take care.

Posted by: UncleSkillet Apr 2 2009, 03:35 PM

Have a safe and fun trip.

Posted by: Boson Apr 16 2009, 05:53 PM

Hi Jeff

Just to let you know I am back from holiday.

Hope yopu had a good easter. Hopefully I will be able to upload something for you over the weekend.

Speak to you soon.

Posted by: Boson Apr 19 2009, 06:50 PM

Hi Jeff

Here is my second take (after muuch practice) at Ivans beginner blues solo. The end rff has taken a while for me to get anywhere near. Still not perfect but I hope you agree getting better. Bends still a bit off!

Your comments and advice will be appreciated. Where do you think I should go now?

Cheers

 bluessolotake2.mp3 ( 906.99K ) : 172

Posted by: UncleSkillet Apr 19 2009, 09:56 PM

Hey Tony, my Easter was really nice. Thanks! Hope your Holiday was fun.

I feel like your progress is going along fine. This upload sounds nice! No big problems to get worried about. Just work on the bends like you said and one other thing is add some vibrato here and there. I didn't really hear much of that with your upload. About the ending lick your having problems with, what you played there fit and sounded fine but it wasn't Ivans lick. It seems like in every lesson I have worked on there is a least one lick that gives me problems. What I find helpful and would like you to try is just practicing that one section. Do it slow and play it correct without the backing track. You will find that things will start to click and you'll get it in know time.

Lets pratice that one lick and also start working on Muris's Blues in A lesson. Sound good?

FYI, it is Ivan Milenkovic week. Some contests, collabs and everyday he is posting a new blues lick that he says are essentail for every blues player to know. Bread and butter lick is what I would call it. Here is a link http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/guitar_forum/index.php?showtopic=26748

Other information can be found here http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/guitar_forum/index.php?showforum=7

Good to have you back

Posted by: Boson Apr 20 2009, 10:34 PM

QUOTE (UncleSkillet @ Apr 19 2009, 10:56 PM)

Posted by: UncleSkillet Apr 20 2009, 11:28 PM

Hey Tony, we are talking about lick# 7 right. Sounds like your getting there man just keep at it. Go back and take another look at the video, I think you are missing a few notes. Also, he is using a little bit of Alternate Picking with that lick. Is that giving you problems? I can't tell for sure but it sounded like you where trying to use a lot of down strokes with your picking and that could be causing you to feel rushed.

Definitly slow it down for now. His slowest backing is 70bpm so lets work with that. This will give you time to play with vibrato. Go back and examine the vibrato he uses for each lick. Listen to him play it slow, pause the video and train you fingers and ear to make it sound like what he just played. You should also experiment with out the backing track with different types of vibrato. Use your wrist, find something that's comfortable and it needs to be in tempo with whatever you end up playing along with.

Posted by: UncleSkillet Jul 3 2009, 05:40 PM

Hi Tony.
You still with use man?

Warm regards,

Skillet

Posted by: Boson Jul 13 2009, 07:33 PM

QUOTE (UncleSkillet @ Jul 3 2009, 06:40 PM)

Hi Tony.
You still with use man?

Warm regards,

Skillet

Posted by: Boson Aug 28 2009, 10:13 PM

Hi Jeff

Hope you haven't given up on me!

My Hols are now over and back to work next Tuesday!!

I continue to practice guitar every chance I get. I realise that I am a slow learner! I need to work on the tone I get as a good tone makes it all so much more motivating. I currently don' have an amp. I rely on gearbox. Dont know whether I should buy an amp or a better guitar such as a tele or strat?

My biggest problem remains capturing my efforts on video! You better watch out once I have solved this!

I am still following your advice and working on the blues.

Speak to you soon hope you are well.

Boson

Posted by: UncleSkillet Aug 29 2009, 01:29 AM

QUOTE (Boson @ Aug 28 2009, 05:13 PM)

Posted by: Boson Sep 7 2009, 10:01 PM

Hi Jeff,

Hope you are well.

Just to let you know that I percevered with the Beginner Blues Solo and the attached file is about where I am at with it.


 Beginner_Blues_solo_Sept_09.mp3 ( 884.35K ) : 171



Still a long way from perfect but some progress maybe!

I have been practicing the pentatonic scale boxes mainly in Am. I think I know the boxes pretty well now and am beginning to link them but I am needing some advice/help on the next step. I would like to learn some blues licks and find a way of putting them together but am unsure where to go with this.

Hope this makes some sense.

Cheers

Tony

Posted by: UncleSkillet Sep 8 2009, 11:58 PM

Hey Tony, that really sounds pretty good. You have made some progress with this. There are some things that we can improve but we will get to that. Also I notice that you have a really good feel for the Blues style.

Thanks for the upload.

I think its a great idea you have about working on some licks and how the 5 boxes connect. I need to find a few things for use so just give me some time to find it and I'll post back with our next task soon.

By the way, how much time do you get to practice each week now? I want to keep this fun and not give you to much to work on.

Posted by: Boson Sep 9 2009, 09:33 PM

Hi,

Thanks for the comments.

I practice for at least an hour every day, but it isnt often very oganised or methodical. I am th worlds best at jumping from one lesson to another and never completing something. However I recognise that a more disciplined approach will pay dividends and so hopefully you can keep me focussed!

I am happy to concentrate on the blues as I recognise that this is the basis for lots of the music I like (70s rock, santana etc)

Just found this lesson http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/solo-guitar/blues-licks1/ which I like and thought I might try. I dont think it is easy for me at this stage but it should be useful. What do you think?

By the way had a listen to your take on the Feeling Inc. Collaboration, thought it was really cool, if I could play like that I would be a happy guy!. The tone you used was also excellent and fitted the backing really well.

Tony

Posted by: UncleSkillet Sep 10 2009, 03:01 AM

Thanks for the kind comments on my collab upload. I really appreciate it Tony.

Its funny you picked that lesson to work on because I was looking at that last night and was wondering what you would think about it. If you want to work on this then go for it. Your right, I don't think you should pick lessons you can play or that are easy. I want you to pick things that are challenging and have content that you feel will help you. This lesson has some nice licks that you can incorporate into your playing. Good choice!

I would like use to look at the 5 Am pentatonic boxes, how we can link them together and get you fingers moving around a little smoother (all over the neck). In you last mp3 upload it seemed like you started to have a few problems with the faster licks and the lesson (really it is an exercise) below will help use fix this. Also it will help free your mind and keep you from being stuck playing in just 1 or 2 boxes. The lesson is a level 6. I just want you to get to the point where you can just play it at 80 - 90bpm with a metronome (don't worry about full speed right now) this will make a huge difference in your playing and how you look at creating your own licks.

I understand that you don't have much time to practice. We need to make the practice time you have count right! If you only have an hour to practice then for right now I want you to spend at least 30 minutes (half of what ever time you have to practice) to memorize this lesson and practicing it at a slow speed to get your fingers lose and moving. Gradually increase your speed but make sure you are picking everything clean. If you have trouble with the metronome or getting the timing down please just let me know and we will get things taken care of. I would be more than happy to upload a short video to address any questions or problems you may have if you feel it will help, but you have to let me know whats going on. Deal?

Here is your exercise. Enjoy!.
http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/ls/pentatonic-patterns-in-five-positions/

Posted by: Boson Sep 10 2009, 06:35 AM

QUOTE (UncleSkillet @ Sep 10 2009, 04:01 AM)

Thanks for the kind comments on my collab upload. I really appreciate it Tony.

Its funny you picked that lesson to work on because I was looking at that last night and was wondering what you would think about it. If you want to work on this then go for it. Your right, I don't think you should pick lessons you can play or that are easy. I want you to pick things that are challenging and have content that you feel will help you. This lesson has some nice licks that you can incorporate into your playing. Good choice!

I would like use to look at the 5 Am pentatonic boxes, how we can link them together and get you fingers moving around a little smoother (all over the neck). In you last mp3 upload it seemed like you started to have a few problems with the faster licks and the lesson (really it is an exercise) below will help use fix this. Also it will help free your mind and keep you from being stuck playing in just 1 or 2 boxes. The lesson is a level 6. I just want you to get to the point where you can just play it at 80 - 90bpm with a metronome (don't worry about full speed right now) this will make a huge difference in your playing and how you look at creating your own licks.

I understand that you don't have much time to practice. We need to make the practice time you have count right! If you only have an hour to practice then for right now I want you to spend at least 30 minutes (half of what ever time you have to practice) to memorize this lesson and practicing it at a slow speed to get your fingers lose and moving. Gradually increase your speed but make sure you are picking everything clean. If you have trouble with the metronome or getting the timing down please just let me know and we will get things taken care of. I would be more than happy to upload a short video to address any questions or problems you may have if you feel it will help, but you have to let me know whats going on. Deal?

Here is your exercise. Enjoy!.
http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/ls/pentatonic-patterns-in-five-positions/

Posted by: UncleSkillet Sep 11 2009, 01:52 AM

Glad you like it.

It's a great exercise no matter what speed you play it at. Relax and be patient with it.

Cheers and ask if you have a question, big or small! The only stupid question is the one that wasn't asked Now I sound like a fortune cookie.

Posted by: Boson Sep 12 2009, 07:52 AM

QUOTE (UncleSkillet @ Sep 11 2009, 02:52 AM)

Relax and be patient with it.

Posted by: Boson Sep 16 2009, 09:07 PM

Hi Jeff

Just to let you know where I am up to.

First vid - run through of pentatonic shapes - no real problem- except when I press the red button!

Vids 2 and 3 got at about 60bpm. Not cleanly yet but getting better. I started at 30 bpm and have been using the speed trainer in GP5, first time I have used this.

Still working on the rest.

I think this is going to be a long drawn out effort to get anywhere near Emirs speed, but thats cool#!

Thanks for picking out this lesson even though I am miles away from mastering it I do feel that it is helping already and I am beginning to find that I am more confident with pentatonic licks.

Just for fun I have been playing Wipeout by the Ventures, you are nearly as old as me so might remember it

Hopefully something for you to listen to at the weekend.

Posted by: UncleSkillet Sep 18 2009, 01:20 AM

QUOTE (Boson @ Sep 16 2009, 04:07 PM)

Hi Jeff

Just to let you know where I am up to.

First vid - run through of pentatonic shapes - no real problem- except when I press the red button!

Vids 2 and 3 got at about 60bpm. Not cleanly yet but getting better. I started at 30 bpm and have been using the speed trainer in GP5, first time I have used this.

Still working on the rest.

I think this is going to be a long drawn out effort to get anywhere near Emirs speed, but thats cool#!

Thanks for picking out this lesson even though I am miles away from mastering it I do feel that it is helping already and I am beginning to find that I am more confident with pentatonic licks.

Just for fun I have been playing Wipeout by the Ventures, you are nearly as old as me so might remember it

Hopefully something for you to listen to at the weekend.

Posted by: Boson Sep 22 2009, 10:10 PM

Hi Jeff,

Hope you are well.

I have bought a new webcam (Logitech 9000 pro as recommended by lots of GMCers)

So its now much easier to make and upload. So here are the firts two (they aint pretty!! ) Still experimenting with the cam and sound etc. These were recorded just with the cam mic so hope thats ok for our purpose

I have decided to learn the run shown in each of Emirs videos before I try to speed up.

Posted by: UncleSkillet Sep 24 2009, 12:57 AM

This is great Tony!! Congrats, the Quickcam 9000 Pro is a nice one and your going to love it!

Your video/audio quality is fine for what we're doing so don't worry man, just keep it the same. We can tweak things later no problem.

Your playing is good so far. You have the pentatonic boxes memorized and your using the correct fingers to play each note. The last scale box you played in the first video you hit a few sour notes so watch that. You probably already new this though. Just something to mention.

I don't see any big problems with the 2nd one either. One thing I want you to think about though is your pull-off at the end of each lick. Right now they sound weak but this is probably because you just need to play the lesson more. Everything looks like it is coming together really nice so keep up the good work!

Assignment for next week:

Work on at least the next 2 videos in the lesson (videos 3 and 4). Upload 2 videos. One playing the boxes again, the other of you playing videos 2 - 4. I want you to play along with a metronome track in the background using quarter notes (one note per click) so find a comfortable tempo you can play at and still keep it clean. Pick a goal and challenge yourself some.

Here is a link where you can download mp3 metronome tracks to play along with if you don't have anything already.
http://www.reztronics.com/prod01.htm

Looking forward to your next upload and ask if you have a question!

Posted by: Boson Sep 24 2009, 06:43 AM

QUOTE (UncleSkillet @ Sep 24 2009, 01:57 AM)

This is great Tony!! Congrats, the Quickcam 9000 Pro is a nice one and your going to love it!

Your video/audio quality is fine for what we're doing so don't worry man, just keep it the same. We can tweak things later no problem.

Your playing is good so far. You have the pentatonic boxes memorized and your using the correct fingers to play each note. The last scale box you played in the first video you hit a few sour notes so watch that. You probably already new this though. Just something to mention.

I don't see any big problems with the 2nd one either. One thing I want you to think about though is your pull-off at the end of each lick. Right now they sound weak but this is probably because you just need to play the lesson more. Everything looks like it is coming together really nice so keep up the good work!

Assignment for next week:

Work on at least the next 2 videos in the lesson (videos 3 and 4). Upload 2 videos. One playing the boxes again, the other of you playing videos 2 - 4. I want you to play along with a metronome track in the background using quarter notes (one note per click) so find a comfortable tempo you can play at and still keep it clean. Pick a goal and challenge yourself some.

Here is a link where you can download mp3 metronome tracks to play along with if you don't have anything already.
http://www.reztronics.com/prod01.htm

Looking forward to your next upload and ask if you have a question!

Posted by: UncleSkillet Sep 27 2009, 12:15 AM

Hey Tony,

Go get the POD Farm VST FREE!

http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/guitar_forum/index.php?showtopic=30799&hl=

Regards to you and your family

Posted by: Boson Sep 30 2009, 06:01 PM

QUOTE (UncleSkillet @ Sep 27 2009, 01:15 AM)

Hey Tony,

Go get the POD Farm VST FREE!

http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/guitar_forum/index.php?showtopic=30799&hl=

Regards to you and your family

Posted by: UncleSkillet Sep 30 2009, 06:29 PM

I will comment when I get home tonight from work. I can't listen right now.

Posted by: Boson Sep 30 2009, 06:36 PM

QUOTE (UncleSkillet @ Sep 30 2009, 07:29 PM)

I will comment when I get home tonight from work. I can't listen right now.

Posted by: UncleSkillet Sep 30 2009, 06:57 PM

QUOTE (Boson @ Sep 30 2009, 01:36 PM)

Thats OK no prob.

I've done my days work and am here with the guitar and a well deserved glass of wine

Posted by: UncleSkillet Oct 1 2009, 11:02 PM

Your making some real good progress with this. Tempo was good, not really to much else to say. Well there was one thing that bothered me. From 0:00 - 0:25 (your clock in the bottom left) you used the correct fingering (used your pinky). But from 0:25 till the end you didn't. You just started to use your first 3 fingers and no pinky. From the 9th fret all the way to the end.

I would say always use your pinky like in the lesson. That's how I do it. Some players never use there pinky when playing these shapes and it works for them fine like Yngwie, Marcus Lavendell just to name a few. But I have never seen anyone use one style up high and the other down low. It's seems like you would be counter acting what your trying to train your fingers muscles to do. Just train them to play one way or the other seems easier. Think about it and ask if you have a question.

How is the other upload coming along? It would help if I could at least see the problem your having with video 4 so I can help you fix this. Do you think it may have something to do with the different fingerings I mentioned above?

Posted by: Boson Oct 1 2009, 11:22 PM

HI Jeff

Thanks for the feedback.


You make and interesting point about the pinky thing. I was aware that I did that but had never given it any thought, or identified it as a potential problem. I am conscious of trying to make sure I use the pinky but it does not come naturally. Dont think it happens on the upload but sometimes my left pinky's natural position is to hide behind the neck!! I know this is bad so I am trying to correct it.

I will get you an upload in the next few days, sorry its taking a while. Been busy but this is my priority for the next few days.

In Emirs videos he runs through each section slowly (correct me if I am wrong but I think he is at 60 bpm) he then goes into mega fast mode. How do you make the transition from one to the other? They sound so different!

Posted by: UncleSkillet Oct 2 2009, 11:29 PM

QUOTE (Boson @ Oct 1 2009, 06:22 PM)

Posted by: Boson Oct 4 2009, 02:08 PM

Thanks Jeff

I have thought about what you have said and of course you are absolutely right. You have made me realise that I was developing bad habits!

I therefore am going to try to remedy this with your help! I think time spent now improving my technique will pay dividends in the future. Dont let me get sloppy!

I am in this for the long haul and so am going to have to learn to be patient as you have said.

So my practice agenda for the forseable future is as follows:

Ivans Petatonic Workshop Lessons 1 & 2

http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/solo-guitar/pentatonic-workshop-level1-caged-format-timing-exercises/

http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/solo-guitar/pentatonic-workshop-level2-advanced-caged-patterns/

Target: To play both lessons through at 90bpm using correct fingering

Emirs Pentatonic Paterns

http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/ls/pentatonic-patterns-in-five-positions/

Target: To play full lesson through at 60bpm using correct fingering

And for fun, to keep the interest going, I like this lesson from Marcus

http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/solo-guitar/pentatonic-solo/

Target: To submit to REC and achieve at lease a pass of 80%


I also found these exercises for warmups and improving technique which I plan to use'






Do you think this is a suitable prectice agenda, please feel free to add to it or ammend it.


Cheers!

Posted by: UncleSkillet Oct 6 2009, 01:09 AM

This looks like a good plan but I am concerned about you getting bored because of all these finger exercises. We are both in this for the long hale and we’ll get things rocking for you sooner than you think. If your going to put in this effort then it’s important for us to monitor your progress in small chunks. Plus we need to have some more fun mixed in so you can apply what you’re learning in a musical sense. We will cover all of the lesson you have picked but I have a few suggestions.

1.) Start with Ivan’s CAGED Pentatonic workshop Level 1. We won’t start the level 2 CAGED lessons till we’re finished with the first ones. There are 5 video lessons one for each CAGED position. Start with video 2 (1st one is just the Introduction). Each week I want you to upload your progress for the video section we are working on at that time. Goal is at 90bpm and if you struggle with the 16th note triplets we’ll work it out.

2.) Lets keep working on Emir’s lesson. Since you have had weeks to work with this on already, I want you to play it all the way through at a slow speed with a metronome. For each week that follows we’ll speed it up till you can play at full speed.

3.) For Marcus Siepen’s lesson are goal is 120bpm to start. That’s the slowest backing available. Pick 1 or 2 video sections each week and upload your progress playing along with the backing track. Each week (depending on your progress) we will add another section or 2 and then you will upload the whole lessons progress (from beginning to where your currently at). We’ll keep doing this till you can play the whole lesson at 120bpm. Then we will work towards 160bpm full speed.

As far as the other exercises you found on Youtube I’ll leave that up to you if you want to try those. I think with everything I suggested above you have plenty to keep you busy. We can always add these in later as exercises. Let me know if I missed something or if you have suggestions of your own on how you want to accomplish the goal you listed. If I feel like your getting bored at some point I'll throw something small and fun in to snap you out of it and keep you on track so don't have any worries.

Posted by: Boson Oct 6 2009, 06:44 AM

Looks like we have a plan!

I'm onto it!

Speak to you soon

Posted by: Boson Oct 10 2009, 07:24 AM

Quick update as I am away for a few days.

I have been practicing the shapes ensuring that I use correct fingering.

Just about ready to send you a very very slow run through of Emirs lesson though the pulloffs still cause me lots of problems.

Video will be uploaded on Mon eve,

Take care

Posted by: UncleSkillet Oct 10 2009, 05:24 PM

Sound good man. Looking forward to your video. I'll focus on your pull-offs if there giving you problems and we'll get it fixed.

Posted by: Boson Oct 13 2009, 10:54 PM

QUOTE (UncleSkillet @ Oct 10 2009, 06:24 PM)

Posted by: UncleSkillet Oct 16 2009, 01:15 AM

So when are you going to upload your assignments?
It doesn't need to be perfect Tony, just your best effort is all I expect.

Posted by: Boson Oct 16 2009, 10:13 PM

Thanks for the kick up the backside!

No probs with that!

Here is first video, still just working throughthe pentatonic shapes but I have worked quite hard at making sure I embed the correct fingering, using the pinky! So this week has been about unlearning bad habits. Hopefully you agree I am getting there, despite a couple of bum notes. For some reason I keep doing that whenever vid is running.




I am trying to get into the habit of leaving the video running a lot when I practice so hopefully uploads will start to come quicker now.

Tomorrow I hope to give you a slow run through of Emirs lesson, parts of it are really shocking!

With regard to Ivans workshop what exactly do you want me to record, the first parts are really slow and no probs is it ok if I jump in a little way in?

The Marcus lesson I have first two videos down quite well and working slowly on the rest.

Im not so busy this weekend so hopefully will give you pleanty too look at.

Cheers.

Posted by: UncleSkillet Oct 16 2009, 10:17 PM

Hehe... perfect timing. I just got home from work, grabbed a seat, hit refresh, BAM! There your upload was.

Give me a moment to look things over and I'll comment soon.

EDIT:

That looks great Tony! Awesome job with that! I know how hard it can be to break bad habits. It may still feel weird right now, but your left hand looks like it should and you seem comfortable from what I can tell.

Posted by: Boson Oct 17 2009, 09:50 PM

HI Jeff

Here is a vid of the first couple od videos fron Marcus's pentatonic solo lesson at 120bpm.

I can play it better but was a little reticent due to the fact that the neighbours complained about constantly hearing my guitar today! Its hard to play rock quietly!! I wasnt actually loud, amp was on 2. I wouldn't mind them complaining except that they have a baby which keeps me awake all night, they have four dogs which yap all day and crap everywhere in the street!! Oh well such is life



Shouldnt be long before I send you the whole thing, all that practice with the pentatonic shapes makes this one not too difficult.

Will send you something tomorrow on Ivans stuff.


What are you playing through at the mo?

Posted by: Boson Oct 18 2009, 04:12 PM

Hi Jeff

Here is my first upload for Ivans pentatonic workshop.

I mistakenly set the metronome at 90 instead of the 80 which I think he used in his lesson. I think I am nearly there at that speed but not quite.

The last but 16th triplets are still beyond me.

Posted by: UncleSkillet Oct 18 2009, 05:47 PM

Nice job getting your assinments uploaded. I will look them over closer an comment later this evening. See if you can get an upload of Emirs lesson up today as well. That would be great!

Sorry for not having the time to comment now. It is Football Sunday and my team is 4 and 1. I'm going to a game day party. We're in 1st place for the 1st time in ***??? years lol.

Cheers

Posted by: Boson Oct 18 2009, 05:49 PM

Enjoy!!

Posted by: Boson Oct 20 2009, 09:12 PM

Hi Jeff

Just done a quick take of Emirs lesson, still not all the way through but I am working hard at it. Progress is very slow on this one! Still finding pull offs difficult.

I know this is rubbish so no need to pull any punches!

Posted by: UncleSkillet Oct 22 2009, 03:26 AM

Hey Tony I’m really sorry for the delay with your comments. I have had a fever (flu) for the past several days. Anyway, nice job getting all your assignments done!

Comments:

Video1 - Marcus's pentatonic solo lesson at 120bpm.
It was difficult to hear what was going on rhythm wise because the backing track was to low. That said, it sounds like your making good progress with it so lets add another video section or 2 and then upload a take from the beginning of the lesson including the new sections. If you could record into a DAW (maybe use headphones so you won’t bother your neighbors) or get a better mix with backtrack and guitar that would be great.

Video 2 - Ivans pentatonic workshop.
Ok, lets forget about uploading the Half notes section from here on out. You got that. Quarter notes (one note per click) you nailed also but I still want this included with furture uploads. As for the rest of the video I want you to go back and look at how many notes are being played per beat and bar. Also I want you to drop the metronome speed down for some of these so you really get a feel for it. Lets keep working with this CAGED position so we can focus on the tempo and note values. Once we get it right for this one then the others will be a piece of cake. Use the tips below and see if this helps. You need to either count the beats in your head or out load when your playing to get the right feel. Trust me! Also practicing these exercises without being plugged up to your amp and just sitting on you couch if you don’t want to bother anyone is cool. This will help your picking accuracy as well.
Tips:
1st watch Ivans 1st video where he explains the note values. Use my counting tips and for your next upload try using the slower metronome speeds I suggeusted. If they feel to quick then you can adjust them. The point is to play the note values correctly and clean.
Quarter notes – one note per beat (4 per each bar) played at 80bpm
Count 1, 2, 3, 4 when you play will help
Eighth notes – 2 notes per beat (8 per each bar) played at 80bpm
Count 1 and 2 and 3 and 4 when you play will help
Eighth note Triplets – 3 notes per beat (12 per each bar) at 70bpm or 60bpm to start
Count 1 e and 2 e and 3 e and 4 e and
16th notes – 4 notes per beat (16 per each bar) at 50bpm or 60bpm
Count 1 e and a 2 e and a 3 e and a 4 e and a
16th note triplets – 6 notes per beat (24 per each bar) at 40bpm
Not sure how this would be counted but just think of it as to groups of 3 played per beat quick. Like an eight note feel but twice as many notes.

Video 3 - Emirs lesson,
You’re making some good progress with this. Please continue to work on it at the same speed your practicing in the video. The pull offs will come with some more practice so don’t worry. I have an exercise, which will help, and I’ll make a video and upload it by this weekend. I’ll explain more with the video. Only thing I am concerned about is towards the end of your video where you started to play around the 9th fret. Your pinky gave out and you tried to finish with just your first 3 fingers. That’s when things really feel apart. It’s just a matter of a little more finger strength and muscle memory.

Your truly doing a wonderful job so lets just keep it up and move forward.


EDIT:
Oh, sorry you asked what I was working on. It's cool that your interested and thanks for asking. Right now as far as lessons go there are 4 that I hope to upload to the REC over the next few months. I'm working on some bit and pieces of each one to get them just right. I want things to be as perfect as possible so I'm practicing patients also.

http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/ls/80s-Hard-Rock/

http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/ls/Steve-Lukather-Soloing-Style/

http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/ls/Joe_Satriani_The_Forgotten_part_2/

http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/ls/joe_satriani_always_with_me_always_with_you/

Posted by: Boson Oct 22 2009, 06:30 AM

Hi Jeff,

Sorry you been feeling poorly, hope you are on the mend!

Thanks for the great and detailed comments, I do appreciate them and the time you give to this.

Will do my best to follow your advice, I really want to do this the right way, for 20 years I noodled around and strummed a few chords. I have made more progress in the last 6 months than the previous 20 years!

With regard to recording videos I think you are right it is better to record into a DAW (I use reaper). Will give that a try this weekend.

I must quizz you about pod farm vst soon as I havent really tried it yet. I use gearbox with my UX2.

Good luck with your REC uploads I will look out for them!

Cheers!

Posted by: Boson Oct 22 2009, 06:29 PM

Just looked closely at Emir and how he does the pulloffs. Got one or two ides to try but still puzzled as to how he keeps it so clean.???

Posted by: UncleSkillet Oct 22 2009, 06:57 PM

QUOTE (Boson @ Oct 22 2009, 01:29 PM)

Posted by: Boson Oct 22 2009, 09:31 PM

QUOTE (UncleSkillet @ Oct 22 2009, 07:57 PM)

Posted by: UncleSkillet Oct 22 2009, 09:42 PM

Your string action isn't to low is it. That could cause fret buzz and kill the sustain of the the note ring out right. Just a thought. Have you tried adding a little drive to your sound. That could help but don't use something over the top (metal sound).

Posted by: Boson Oct 22 2009, 10:11 PM

Quick video that i hope will show you what I am doing



Sorry about poor quality (not sure that I am that impressed with this cam so far!)

Am I using correct technique for pulloffs?

Thanks

Posted by: Boson Oct 27 2009, 07:56 PM

Hi Jeff

Hope you are well, I am practicing hard but might not manage videos this week as I am on a tights schedule work wise and acting as a taxi to my daughter!! (She has a much better social life than I do ) Also I am off to England at the weekend for my parents 50th wedding aniversary get together so vids next week!

I'm really pleased with my progress with the pentatonic scale, and the timing thing is I think coming along nicely. Still not great with the Emir pulloffs but I will keep at it. I am determined to master it!! Pinky is almost blistered with practicing it so having to take it a little carefully.

Posted by: UncleSkillet Oct 28 2009, 01:38 AM

QUOTE (Boson @ Oct 27 2009, 02:56 PM)

Hi Jeff

Hope you are well, I am practicing hard but might not manage videos this week as I am on a tights schedule work wise and acting as a taxi to my daughter!! (She has a much better social life than I do ) Also I am off to England at the weekend for my parents 50th wedding aniversary get together so vids next week!

I'm really pleased with my progress with the pentatonic scale, and the timing thing is I think coming along nicely. Still not great with the Emir pulloffs but I will keep at it. I am determined to master it!! Pinky is almost blistered with practicing it so having to take it a little carefully.

Posted by: UncleSkillet Nov 8 2009, 05:10 PM

Hope you had a nice trip.

How are things going with your playing? Anything you need from me at this point?

Posted by: Boson Nov 8 2009, 05:24 PM

QUOTE (UncleSkillet @ Nov 8 2009, 05:10 PM)

Posted by: Boson Nov 11 2009, 09:12 PM

Hi

Latest video of the timing exercise.

I think I am ok with everything up to the 16 notes, hope this comes over in the vid.

I didn't record the 16th note triplets because although I can play along with Ivans video fine, on my own with the metronome I get lost because Im not sure how to count it.

For example

With eighths I have got into the habbit of counting one and two and three and four and one and ......

With the eighth triplets I count one and a two and a three and a ..........

With 16ths Im counting one ay and a two ay and a three ay and a .......

But with the 16th triplets at the end I am lost as to how to count it and therefore keep in time

Any Ideas how to do this?





By the way can I just check that you are ok still to continue with this. I realise that the MTP thing has morphed into something other than we started out on. Much more formal and pressured now from what I can see.

For me, what we are doing is great and perfect for what I want in terms of improvement as there is no pressure with regard to pace etc., and I do really appreciate your time and comments and help. But I do realise that it takes time and effort on your part.

It might not show to you but your direction has improved my playing greatly. I have gone from someone who could strum a few chords but didnt have a clue about any aspect of lead playing to being reasonably comfotable to noodling around in Am pentatonics with a much improved left hand technique.

Anyway what I am trying to say is thanks for your help I appreciate it and I hope we can continue.

Now its back to Emirs lesson and those damm pulloffs!! Vids coming soon!.

Posted by: UncleSkillet Nov 11 2009, 09:40 PM

Well sure we can continue with our MTP! No reason to stop and our pace is fine. As long as it works for you and I then thats all that matters, right?

I'm at work so I'll comment on the other stuff later when I watch the video.

Posted by: UncleSkillet Nov 12 2009, 07:54 PM

Hell yeah man! You have made amazing progress with the metronome. Your getting it! Their were a few ruff spots but they will fix themselves soon.

Lets move on to the next CAGE pattern or two depending one what you feel you can handle. Practice and upload clips when you can. Just skip the 16th trips if your having problems for now. We will come back to thoses.

How is the other stuff coming along?
Your doning great Tony!! Keep it up!

PS: I want to see (hear) that new guitar you ordered

Posted by: Boson Nov 25 2009, 07:57 AM

QUOTE (UncleSkillet @ Nov 12 2009, 07:54 PM)

Hell yeah man! You have made amazing progress with the metronome. Your getting it! Their were a few ruff spots but they will fix themselves soon.

Lets move on to the next CAGE pattern or two depending one what you feel you can handle. Practice and upload clips when you can. Just skip the 16th trips if your having problems for now. We will come back to thoses.

How is the other stuff coming along?
Your doning great Tony!! Keep it up!

PS: I want to see (hear) that new guitar you ordered