Hey mate! Check this out: here is your spot! We can discuss anything you like about your development as a player and musician!
I can help you out and I will also help you post recordings of yourself please tell me what sort of music are you listening to and I will go ahead and suggest a practice routine. Now, if I could see you play, that would help a whole lot! So let me know when you would like to send a vid or recording of some sort
Ask anything and I'll do my best to help out!
Cosmin
Hi Cosmin, sorry for the late reply, i posted yesterday too but it didnt seem to make it
Thanks for being my mentor
I love thrash metal, melodic metal, heavy metal, a bit of nu metal and hard rock.
My favorite guitarists and what i like about them
- Dave Mustaine - overall the best guitarist for me, great at riffing, does great solos, and he is a great songwriter, lyricist and a good vocalist too. My biggest influence
- Alexi Laiho - a great shredder.
- Kirk Hammett and James Hetfield - a great team, i like kirk's use of wah, but sometimes he overdoes it
- Eddie Van Halen - Love his tapping and tone
- Randy Rhodes
- Marty Friedman - Love his vibrato and note selection, gives his solos an exotic, chinese or arabic kinda like an eastern feel
- Jimmy Page
- Slash - not one of my favs, but definitely like him
- Jeff Hanneman and Kerry King
- Bullet For My Valentine's Matt Tuck & Michael Padget
thats it probably......
here's a vid of my playing, I've been playing for about one year, but could play for the past 3-4 months due to studies, so I am a bit off.
Here are the things I would like to work on
- Lead Playing
- Technique Development
- Theory (right from scratch, all i know is the note names, whole steps & half steps, and minor pentatonic scale ( just how to play it)
Thanks & reply soon
Yash
Hey there Yash!
we can start right away but I would like to ask you to send the video again, as there's no link here
Theory
We shall begin with the major scale and I'd like you to take a look over these links here - we shall start our discussion based on them:
http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/wiki/index.php/Major_Scales_101_%28lesson%29
http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/ls/Beginners-Corner-13-C-Major-Scale/
Technique
I would start with alternate picking and legato and tackle other techniques later on!
A very important idea is to manage to play consciously through various rhythmic subdivisions, thus I am recommending this lesson:
http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/ls/Picking-Hand-Basics/
Please take a look over these and let me know on your thoughts, k?
Cosmin
Here's the vid of my playing
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cQX0p-EfEyw
OK, but we're talking about a $80 guitar.It has no tone, but you're right, if that happens, I am gonna lose whatever tone i have, so I'll hold on, but if you think that it wont have much effect on such a cheap guitar, I'll shave it
Mate, we can use this at this point, but of course, if you have big plans and a budget, I can help out on choosing a new guitar what do you think?
Cosmin
Yeah, I'll be buying new gear this June or July..... Budget will be anywhere from US$4,000 - $10,000, it depends.And I need to buy everything from scratch, as if I never had anything
Here are the most probable stuff
- A Jackson King V (probably an old KV1 or KV Pro, or even custom shop)
- Jackson Soloist or Dean Michael Angelo Batio MAB1 Armorflame (looks awesome)
- An acoustic (ovation, 12 string maybe)
- A Marshall head (JVM 410HCF or the great 50th anniversary head they bring out, like they did on 30th anniversary)
OR
- Mesa Boogie Dual Rectifier Road King or Mark IIC+
- Marshall 1960DM Dave Mustaine sig. cab
- An FX processor, like Fractal Axe FX II or Boss GT-10 (dont have much idea for a processor)
- Accessories and foot controller
- Power Attenuator
- If I still have money left after this, Dunlop Crybaby Rack Wah
What do you think of the list ?????? Anything you'd like to add or delete or modify ?????
Yess SIR! You let me know when you are ready!
Cosmin
Sorry Cosmin, I had been unwell for a few days and my high E-string broke, so couldnt play.
I'll have the vid within three days
Hey Yash! Hope you get well soon man no stress, k? Do it when you feel good, so that you may come up with an awesome take
finally, done with major scale, now onto alternate picking
Hey Yash very good man! Looking forward to seeing that vid
Cant find the cam, so cant record it now....... please check pm big bro, I am waiting for you at the chat,its very important
Hey Yash,
as we decided together I will guide you through the world of rhythm, advancing together towards the intricate world of metal riffing
For starting off, we will get a good grasp on timing with Bear's lessons, k?
They may seem easy, but they are the perfect brick for your solid rhythmic foundation
http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/ls/Beginners_Corner_1_Open_Chords/
http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/ls/Beginner-s-Corner-2-Open-Chords/
http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/ls/Beginners-Corner-Open-Chords-3/
Regarding the recording - you need to set the guitar volume low high enough to be heard just a but over the backing track, but not too loud and set the camera on the tripod in front of you focusing on your hands - take a pic first to see if you focused right and then once you're settled, push the rec button try a few tests until you get it right and let me know if it worked
see you around and let me know what you think man
Cosmin
Switching Chords is such a pain for me, right since the beginning, any tips Cosmin ????
Yes of course
You have to isolate each part of the lesson and work on it at a slow tempo, once you get it to the original tempo tou can use the same process for each part and then try to link them together at a slow speed. Work your way up until you reach the desired speed. Take care on focusing on timing, tightness and accuracy send me anything you got. We are going from the bottom up, so don't be afraid, k?
Cosmin
K, but these three lessons are gonna take time....
Yes they are! Yash, your journey will not happen over night give yourself time as you are not in a competition with anyone but yourself piece by piece, get things flowing. And when you will start feeling you are losing patience, that's when the true battle with yourself will be taking place
And I always tend to lose that true battle, ALWAYS... I'll try my best, but changing open chords is such a pain, Power chords are much better....
Relax little friend it's not difficult, it's just new for you - give it time and it will settle!
Regarding the Youtube upload - you can upload it like that and Youtube will take care of the compression out of what I know - give it a try and let me know how it went
Cosmin
Here's the C Major Scale
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e6mJ5WVbkmk&feature=youtu.be
I've posted the take at lesson page too, a rec thread was created. Vote and review and grade me
Hey Yash, good morning to you - if it's morning over there it is over here and I am enjoying a big mug of coffee with lots of milk.
As I already told you - your timing seems to be almost perfect - with a bit more practice, you'll be better and better
I think you got what it takes to develop yourself, but you have to work hard little bro
About vibrato, I got something for you which will show you a bit of focused bending and vibrato mechanics - would you please take some time and analyze this little video?
After watching carefully and seeing the movements and positioning of my hands, choose some notes, whichever you like and try to bend and vibrate like I am doing it in the video then, record yourself and let's discuss over your take after that we can go on to Ben's more advanced stuff but I am very keen on getting you to understand the basics - wrist not fingers, k?
Cosmin
Got it, and yes its morning over here... just turned afternoon.... I'll be back after some hours...... with the vid and playing...
gotta go back to study now..... see ya later in the day.... and Cosmin could you pre-pone your chat session today by at least 3 or 4 hours, if thats convenient, so that I can attend....
Hey Cosmin, was just wondering, but what gear have you got....
I mean the guitars, the amps etc. etc.
You seem to have a lot of PRS
Hey there little bro
Alright, as guitars, I got a PRS Paul Allender, a PRS Custom 24 (this one is not entirely mine - but I am allowed to use it by the PRS dealer), an Ibanez JEM 777SK, a Gibson acoustic copy made in Romania back in 1976 (it's wonderful instrument) and the Ibanez MMM baritone.
I got a Crate Blue Voodoo 120 Amp head and cabinet - 4x12 Celestion V30 speakers, a Marshal AVT 50 combo and an AMT SS20 preamp
As pedalboard, I am using the PS55 from SKB and a few pedals from MXR, Hardwire, Suhr, Korg and ISP.
As strings I am using Elixir
that's about it, I guess
Cosmin
PS: I am dreaming of a Mesa Boogie
Nice, thanks for the gear list, and what about the chat ?
and what amp you'd suggest me to get. budget I already told you. anywhere between $3000 - $10000
I am dreaming of a Mesa Road King and/or a IIC+ (if I am lucky enough) or a JVM 410H
Guitar wise, a Jackson King V, a soloist, PRS are too expensive, but their quilts are KILLER.
Effects and pedals, too confused.
And what about Vid chat session, is it worth it ? I mean I dont know theory at all..... So, is it worth it for me at this stage.
Hey Yash, the video chat session is focusing on modes at this point, so I think that you would not benefit too much of the content, as long as we are focusing on a different matter and you have to work on the theoretical basics. So, don't worry about missing it... yet
Regarding the amp - don't go spending too much money yet I think a good old tube Marshall can work extraordinarily and it won't cost a fortune. If you are willing to spend 10000 bucks on an amp, PRS guitars are far less expensive than that
But anyway, I think a good guitar and a decent amp would make justice at this point - A PRS SE, if you like PRS guitars, can go up to 1000 dollars and a good combo amp can take you to the same 1000 dollars - especially that your dad doesn't like big fat guitar sounds
What do you think?
Cosmin
Hey Cosmin, I am back big brother.
I am still working on that open chords lesson, still a pain to switch chords.
And my budget's gonna go down, coz value of Rupee is declining (Damn the RBI), its making me poor.
And I am not eyeing on a PRS yet, gotta get a Jackson King V first
And dont worry about my dad, I am gonna get a seperate room for playing,
Hey little bro, everything alright? You know, it would be great if you could record the lesson at this stage so that we can analyze it together
Cosmin
Um, ok, as you say.
Edit: Sorry won't be able to record, something's wrong with the camera.
Can it be fixed? If not, just record audio straight into the PC if you can it is good also
I dont think anythings much wrong with the camera, the SD card is full Dad'll first empty it then I can use it. I'll do it as soon as possible.
On recording on PC, no, last time I attempted, I got a kinda mild shock when I touched a string (some problem with earth or leakage maybe, gotta get it fixed soon, thanks for reminding).
Oh my...Yash, I don't wanna get you killed man.. ok, record the vid then
Why would I be killed man ?????
Its gonna be late, oz I have the main exam on 1st and dad probably wont let me record, but I can do almost anything starting 1st June, next Friday, I am very excited.
I was wondering can you make me riff along Megadeth tunes like Holy Wars, In My Darkest Hour, Hangar 18 etc. etc. by October, if I'll be able to give over 6 hours of in June and probably July too, or may be even more.
I am gonna ask Gabriel the same about my lead playing....
And can I get lifetime GMC membership ???? You guys have made me so much better and I am looking to play lead guitar in Hangar 18 by the end of the year, will I be able to do that ???? Thanks guys.
Oh and yeah, I am gonna start a thread about my guitar time management soon, be sure to check and reply and help me out(I know you will bro ). I need to get organized.
Hey Yash! Check this out man:
http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/guitar_forum/index.php?showtopic=44384
use this and your practice schedule will be the mirror of what you put in - I'll be around assisting you anyway I wasn't online yesterday, so now I got your message
Great to hear you got a lot of time on your hands to practice
That sort of riffing is a bit to advanced at this point - I suggest you tackle the chord shifting ideas first and gradually move up the ladder. I don't want any frustration cutting down your flight man
let's rock!
Cosmin
K, got it. I am looking to get this guitar. Check it out, I am getting it modded, I'll tell you abut that in the chat (if you can come now, I hope you're online now, if yes come on).
Here's the link
http://www.cmcguitars.com/Jackson-USA-KV2-King-V-Silver-Black-Dragon-Guitar-p/jackson-usa-king-v-kv2-sbd.htm
What do you think. And I am very sad to tell that the budget I had has gone down to probably $3000, coz the value of rupee has gone down. DAMN
Wow man, it's got JAPANESE motifs on it! Gotta love that! I am a very big admirer of the Japanese culture and I think I would get it just for that Joking, well, one thing which I want to ask is: is there any place where you can test such an axe? I mean, it's gonna cost a lot of money so, you might want to have a pretty clear idea if it is what you REALLY need
This is how I would think before buying an instrument
let's share some thoughts shall we?
Cosmin
Hmmm, right. I don't think I can actually test any USA made Jackson, but there are some other Jacksons in India, like the X series and some other lower ends.
The main concern for me is the neck. It must be thin enough for me to shred. I've tried a very low-end Jackson some months ago, and it felt excellent. It was thin, just the right width, and I even played the clean parts of In My Darkest Hour which I've not done on my current guitar right to this day.
Next, it used to be Dave Mustaine's signature axe back in the day, during 1988-2000. He had a KV-1, but when he left they took his KV-1, changed the bridge to Floyd Rose, and changed the name to KV-2.
It looks cool, has a good tone from what I've heard from live recordings and other Jackson players. I really like the JB-4 pickup. Its got nice treble and mid range to it it, and kinda lacks some bass, which I love. (That's what my idea of a lead tone. Bass - 4, Mid - 7, Treble - 8 or 9).
I've made a seperate thread for this, so let's discuss it there.
http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/guitar_forum/index.php?showtopic=44580
Hey mate I'll write my thoughts there
As you wish
Hey Cosmin, I am done with all my exams and now I'll give all my time and energy to my guitar playing. (Don't ask how it went, just pray that I get selected into the college I was born in )
Now, I am recording my hammer on lesson, it will be imperfect, and can I record with Bear playing with me ? I tend to forget the progression.
And I'll be at today's chat , although it'll be 3:30 AM here, but I got the permission from mom, yay
Hey Yash no problem man, it doesn't matter that it's imperfect. Just send it over and we'll discuss together so that you will make it perfect in the end
I want to integrate this and GMC stuff into my routine.
http://picksnlicks.com/Guitar%20Lessons/Exercises/30_hr_workout/30_hr_workout_1.html
But, man, I want to confess something.
I cant stop my creativity. Most of the times during my playing, I tend to get bored with something after sometime and then I start toying around., playing riffs, random soloing etc.
How do I stop it ?
Hey Yash it's called discipline You know, accomplishing something will require focus and discipline when studying. But if you love what you are learning and you are having fun along this journey, it's gonna feel good. Creativity is a VERY good thing and I can't stress enough on how much I bug people with this
Here's what I would suggest. First, tell me how much REAL time will you be able to spend for music/ guitar related activities so that I may think a schedule for you.
As soon as you let me know, I'll cook up a routine for ya.
Cosmin
Real Time, as much as you want man, I really want to be shredding soon. At least 6 or 7 hours, maybe even more. I want to progress, FAST. I want to cook up a routine today.
Oh yes, I forgot to tell you about my little shopping trip.
In a word - HORRIBLE
Ooh those wretched salesmen in India, always looking to sell the stuff, and show even a $130 acoustic guitar as a great, having mahogany body and rosewood back, can you believe it Cosmin ?
And they won't let me play an electric with a pick, coz a $300 is very expensive and high end, its made in India.
And no fx processor in stock. How do I know if its got a good tone ?
But there was one good news. I can get a little 20 watt speaker with two inputs (1 for guitar, 1 for vocals) for just $50-60. And I had a spring roll along the way
And just in case I forgot to tell you my gear buying changes, I have a $1000-1500 budget. I am buying intermediate stuff, and saving those 4000$ for later, as FD, so that when I get better, I have better gear.
Okie dokie
Let's divide time like this:
Technique - I am thinking of alternate picking, legato and sweeping for starting out - 2 hrs
Rhythm - riffing/ chord shifting/ groove - 1.30 hrs
Theory - scales/ intervals/ chords - 1 hrs
Ear training - 30 minutes
At your level if you would keep up with this constantly for 5-6 months, it'll only be for the best
What do you think? if you like this, I'll leave assignments - you got 2 weeks to solve and record the assignments
Cosmin
OK, this is cool.
And I am really gonna start learning to sweep, WOW.
Thanks mate.
Hey, I was just wondering, you are a lead vocalist too ? I got that info from the other site, you know.
Update : 6/2/12, 19:55 - The vids are on their way.
Mornin' man! Let's see the vids In the mean time I am selecting stuff for your tasks! See you around!
Sorry man, the chord shifting vid couldnt be uploaded because the electricity went out while I was uploading. Right now, I am out, so I'll re-upload tomorrow and hope nothing goes wrong this time.
Till then, enjoy this one.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4sBM0yw0t58
Hey lil bro!
I have prepared your assignments you have until the 17th of June to prepare them and record Analyze them closely and then let me know if there's anything you'd like to ask about these:
1) Alternate Picking -> http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/ls/Picking-Hand-Basics/
Legato -> http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/ls/Beginners-Corner-23-Pull-Offs/ BUT only after taking care of the one you are working on, k?
Sweeping -> http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/ls/Sweeps_Major_and_Minor/ I want you to try to grasp the idea with these first, so please focus only on Part 1 of this lesson ok?
2) You already have a lesson you are working on at this chapter and I know you love it
3) As for this task, I would like you to try the following exercise look at the neck of your guitar and spot all the C notes everywhere. Try to memorize their places on the neck. Do something else for 5 minutes. Start a metronome at 70 BPM let's say and try to play one C note per beat this will keep you focused and you will learn the places of the notes on the neck. You can try this exercise with every note you like
The sweeping seems very difficult, am I ready for it
Here's covered of my favorite lesson
http://youtu.be/gr0je1sJDuE
Playing a C note every beat is so tough. They are located so far apart.
Hey Yash, just checked out the vid you are almost there man! the idea is to try and work on the lesson at a slower tempo where you can get al the chord shift in good timing and then raise the tempo until you will get to the original one. There are a few shifts which have bad timing, but with a bit more practice, you'll get this one perfectly
About the C notes hehe, well, you are a tough little guitarist right? Don't run away from playing the C notes
Hmm, OK. Thanks for the comments man.
At a speed of 70 bpm and hitting a different C note every time is tough.
But I'll try my best
Problem Spotted - I am unable to use my pinky effectively on the lower strings (E & A mostly).
How do I overcome it.
The notes don't ring out well.
Hey Yash well, lower the tempo and focus on applying enough pressure on the strings using the pinkie - also, take care on pressing in the middle of the space between the frets so that the note will sound as full as possible. It's all about patience and taking things slow mate
Okie Dokie, Got it.
I have the alternate picking lesson 95% done. Sweeps are tough though.
And you didnt answer one of my questions, are you your band's lead vocalist too ?
Hehe sorry to have slipped this one, but yes I am the lead vocalist in Aria.
Then, can you possibly help me with my singing and playing simultaneously I have been struggling a bit doing both at the same time lately. I seem to have lost it.
I will certainly help you, but it's a bit too early to start thinking about this matter chord shifting first and then singing while chord shifting challenging enough?
Good Mornin Cosmin
Playing a different C note per beat still seems tough. I need to literally dance all over the fingerboard.
Can I do some patterns to get a little breathing time in between.
And Can I get something easier with Sweep picking, if possible.
Hey Yash! Well, the dancing occurs only when the tempo is to high lower it accordingly until you are relaxed and comfortable with playing the C notes. You already have a pattern based exercise in the AP oriented task this one has its purpose, so treat it accordingly
(Yes, yes, I can see you starting to hate me already )
Regarding the sweep picking.... hmmm... try this one for size:
e----------4--1-----------
B-------3--------2---------
G----2-------------3-------
D--1-----------------4----
A--------------------------
E--------------------------
I advise starting at a tempo of 70BPM - play one note per beat, while having the metronome set to quarter notes. Watch out for perfectly syncing your right and left hands, ok? let me know how it goes and you can increase 5 units each time you are able to repeat the exercise 4 times in a row WITHOUT ANY MISTAKE
Cosmin
Hey Yash! Looking forward to see your takes Regarding the jump - record it as you are playing it at this level and we'll look over the matter. But I am sure it's just a matter of slowing down, gaining confidence and then speeding up
Sorry Cosmin, for the lack of posts and not uploading the vids.
I've been having a lot of trouble with internet, ESPECIALLY youtube, videos won't load and it hasnt been allowing me to upload.
I'lll upload as soon as I can.
One vid (Alternate Picking) is on its way, if there's no power failure or internet failure.
And I forgot, the deadline's 17th. But I won't be able to perfect pull-off by then Neither Chord Shifting
But surprisingly, I am spotting notes faster, while playing scales. Thanks Cosmin
Hey Yash! Glad to hear that you're on your way with some materials and that you're better at spotting notes! That's a very important skill you know - listen mate, the takes don't have to be perfect, but it's important for you to go through them and try to get the best out of each one till the deadline so we can comment and discuss around them!
Let me know when you are ready, k?
Cosmin
So, the takes need to be the best I can play, not perfect, I should just post them as they are ??
And then we'll discuss.
OK then, here you go.
Any comments Cosmin ?
Howdy Yash! Good afternoon to you my friend
I like the vid - great quality and your right hand seems to move in a very nice way - wrist wise you have a strong and determined attack, which is wonderful!
Here's what I can spot:
1) The volume of the backing track is a bit low
2) You are rushing when playing the triplets and thus losing the tempo and groove and you go out of sync with the track.
would you be into recording a video where you would use the track provided at the slowest tempo available - since you are recording just by using the sound from the video cam, that is possible.
let me know on your thoughts bro
Cosmin
Hey Cosmin, I need some help.
I've been learning For Whom The Bell Tolls by Metallica, for over 1 year, and I can't play the Lead part in the beginning. Its all 8th note triplets played at 120 BPM (studio) and 130-135 BPM (live).
Here's the GP file I created to teach myself. You'll find my name in the first track and that's the parts I've chosen for my self. I have problems in these parts
- Intro C
- Intro D
- Singing and Playing during the Chorus. I can do them perfectly separately, but not simultaneously. I lose the rhythm.
- Bridge - I can't remember the notes.
For_Whom_the_Bell_Tolls.gp5 ( 92.79K )
: 96
I can do everything else very well.
Howdy Yash mate, I want to ask you if you internalized those parts - here's what I think you should do:
1) Listen to the parts until you can remember them very very well in your head
2) Tap your foot against the beat while listening so you can understand where all the subdivisions and beats are being played
3) Use software such as 'The amazing slowdowner' to slow down the original track and listen with even more focus - this software is a lifesaver
4) Try to play slowly with the track, once you slowed it down in the software
5) gradually raise speed till you reach the 120 BPM limit
Sounds fair enough, right?
Cosmin
Mate, if stamina is your problem, slow practice will build it up I think what you need here is... patience
About tapping the foot - tap it against the drum element which keeps the BPM in quarter notes - most probably the hi-hats the idea is to be able to follow an element which is almost always constant and on which the whole groove relies upon for the tempo - it's usually the hi-hats
Do you know what hi-hats are?
Cosmin
Sorry for the lack of posts
I was having real internet problems and my family didn't let me play much at all the whole week
Now, I am back.
Regarding your previous post, Yes I know what hi-hats are now. And I can do the tapping foot part. The only thing that remains is... Singing during the chorus. I lose the rhythm sometimes. Can you please help me with that ???
You mean singing using your voice? Man this is tricky business When I rehearse for Aria - I write down the words parted into sylables under the notes where they are being played. It's a bit of a tedious work but as soon as you understand where the words come into play, it's gonna be easier.
Anyway, singing while playing, especially more complex things is an art in itself I'm learning too
ready when you are...but, why aren't your folks letting you play?
Cosmin
Sorry for the lack of posts again (I am doing this too often. Extremely sorry Master ) I'll get back with the tasks reorganized and vids soon
You can ask me anything you want man This Thursday I will develop the subject explaining note grouping in some specific licks
Thought I'd bump the thread
Bittersweet Memories.
It was 1 AM when I shot this, so I don't look good And my biological clock was disturbed due to the power loss and blackouts here, so, I couldn't sleep well and stuff.
And, I am nervous in front of the camera. so, you know, I don't know how to explain this. I'll try talking to you with videos more, so I can develop my confidence on the camera too I don't know, something happens when I face the camera. I tried to talk in the video, but I don't know. I just shot it and done. No more words. Check it out and then we'll talk about both the things.
I salute your initiative little bro! It is a great idea
First - you can sing and I like the way your voice could sound if used at it's full potential, but you have to develop confidence in your voice and get acquainted with the way it sounds in various contexts and dynamic ranges.
Now my technique is the following:
1) Write down a Guitar Pro file containing two parallel tracks - one featuring the guitar part and one featuring the voice part.
2) When you are finished - look at the way in which they go one against the other and slow the tracks down at the level where you can comfortably sing and play against the GP tracks.
3) After understanding where each note goes where, take each bar at a time and try to sing and play at the slowest tempo available.
4) Once you become confident and you understand the metric relationship between the guitar parts and your voice, things will become easier.
I am doing the same thing with the chorus on Aria's song called Meta - the second part is featuring a guitar formula which is pretty difficult to play while also singing.
I will post a GP file here with it, so you can have an example at hand
What say you, Yash?
Cosmin
Patience will solve everything Sometimes, it takes time to solve ONE BAR ONLY
I will send th GP file and you let me know if you can play what's there and also sing - you have Meta on the FB page, right?
Sing and play what man ? Meta or Bittersweet Memories ? I dont think the chorus of Meta is too complicated. Just a little gallop or triplet. Maybe I could do it I didn't find it too complicated. Not more than Bittersweet Memories
I'll give it a try too Give me the file and lyircs.
And, what's up with my voice ? I wanted to discuss that too. Maybe, if you like, in today's chat
If you can sing this I will resign the post and let you become Aria's singer!
As I promised, the G# Major scale, harmonized.
G# Major scale has these notes - G# A# C C# D# F G
so, the scale harmonized as chords is
- G# Major - G# (root) C (Major 3rd) D#(5th)
- A# Minor - A# (root) C# (Minor 3rd) F (5th)
- C Minor - C (root) D# (Minor 3rd) G(5th)
- C# Major - C# (root) F(Major 3rd) G# (5th)
- D# Major - D#(root) G (Major 3rd) A# (5th)
- F Minor - F (root) G#(Minor 3rd) G(5th)
- G Minor - G (root) A# (minor 3rd) C(5th)
Hope this was OK. I tried my best
G# Major scale has these notes - G# A# C C# D# F G
so, the scale harmonized as chords is
- G# Major - G# (root) C (Major 3rd) D#(5th)
- A# Minor - A# (root) C# (Minor 3rd) F (5th)
- C Minor - C (root) D# (Minor 3rd) G(5th) or B# - B#, D#, G
- C# Major - C# (root) F(Major 3rd) G# (5th)
- D# Major - D#(root) G (Major 3rd) A# (5th)
- F Minor - F (root) G#(Minor 3rd) C(5th) - the 5th is C here not G and this could be E# minor, having E#, G#(Minor 3rd) and C(5th)
- G diminished - G (root) A# (minor 3rd) C#(5th)
You were correct in 95% of the cases and you should know that this scale is pretty much not used under this name The idea is that I wanted to see if you would use enharmonic relationships between C and B# or F and E#, which are basically the same notes, but for the sake of keeping a homogeneous notation, they can be named like that. B# and E# rarely appear in common western music. They are more of a convention
Hope I didn't confuse you or something little bro
Hey Yash : ) B# and E# are more like conventional notations and G# is VERY little encountered as a scale but, it was a good exercise, right?
Yes it was What's next ?
Hehe Got another one for you
Take G# major and transform it into Ab major (G# = Ab - they are in an enharmonic relationship) and harmonize it in the same manner as you did with G# major
Let's go!
Cosmin
What is enharmonic ?
Hey Cosmin I know its been long, but I got extremely busy and couldn't take care of my guitar and musical duties in general. But, now I am back And hopefully, I am here to stay. Too bad, I don't know if I can record or not. I'll try. and, I'll probably much more, MUCH MORE active now.
So, here I am. Let's start. Guitar and Vocals
Hey Yash! Welcome back once again
I will lay down a little movie for you, in which I will tell you about the experience I have gathered in the last 8 months or so, regarding playing the guitar and singing in the same time - I do it almost daily, for about 1 hr or so. Stay tuned today, eh?
About my hair, the damage has been done. They're.... CUT
But then again, I couldn't do a thing. Everyone was after me, including mom, dad and my girl as well. I was a lone metal soldier who tried to do his best
Next. I don't know if my pitches are correct and the same as that on guitar. I have a bad ear probably. So, I don't even know my comfort zone. I'll do a cover of Tears Don't Fall (acoustic) Let's see
Pffff, man, you'll grow up and you'll get to do whatever you wish
No worries - now, that recording would be an excellent starting point and, to make things even better, why not record a version against a backing track - where you will focus on the vocals and another one in which you play the guitar as well - can you do that?
Cosmin, a vid coming up for you in a few hours I am gonna be performing the song you've heard enough times to hate it. Hear it a few more times now
I have a gig. Check the thread in Practice room
There you go
Hey mate!
I have listened and here are my conclusions:
- first and foremost, your voice is a bit off most of the times, either under or above pitch
- your vocal dynamics are shifting very much - it's cool to phrase louder or softer in respect to the mood you want to set, but don't create a huge discrepancy - there are times when I can't hear you at all..
- try a backing track without vocals and just sing over it in order to get all the vocal embelishments done as well as the correct vocal line
- after that, focus on playing all the guitar parts in perfect timing - you got the guitar parts out of what I can see which is good!
- third, put them all together - guitars and vocals!
Please focus on the above aspects, in order to get the best out of things and keep me updated!
Hey mate
I listened to your recording - it's a good start, but it seems like a difficult song and there are a lot of things you need to master before tackling this sort of stuff.
When you want to learn a song - both vocal and guitar wise, you should first consider learning the chord progressions for each part of the song and the vocal lines. Don't think in terms of riffs and complex formulas, but in terms of chords and strumming that can go along nicely with the vocals.
So, here's how I suggest you to start learning this:
- learn the vocal line note for note - is it too high for you or to low? If it is, try to adapt the key of the song to your comfort zone - have you discovered what your comfort zone is yet, as a vocalist? If not - a tuner could help a lot Just sing into the microphone plugged into a tuner and go as low as you can. If you feel you can sing there and feel comfortable, go lower. When you will feel you can't sing properly at a certain pitch, that means you are very close to your limits. It goes the same with height. These can be trained in some limits
- record the vocal lead line over the original recording and compare your interpretation with the original. What do you like and what do dislike?
This would be the starting point, if you ask me, so please let me know what you think and I would be glad to hear such a recording from you. No guitars at first
Should I still be a vocalist or... just give up ? I think my voice sucks and so does my ear. I am tone deaf I don't know weather I am in pitch or not, and, I am too old for everything, I am 20.
OK. I tried singing into the tuner. I see, I go a bit sharp mostly. My range. I can go high till almost 5D. According to the tuner, and 3rd and 4th octave are my comfort zones. The lowest the tuner tells me is that I can go till 2A. I'd like to expand this range. Any ideas Cos. And, I am singing into the tuner with headphones on for the backing track. Is that correct. What's next ?
How do I know if I hit the correct note though ? I just know if the note I hit is flat or sharp. And the note Also, I think I can do a cover of Trivium's Dying In Your Arms as I have an instrumental backing track. What song would you suggest to get started at vocals ?
Hey buddy
Well, you can start with the low E string on the guitar and see how it feels - if it's too low, go up a whole step - to F# (second fret on the low e string) and try it from there and if it's still too low, try going up a whole step again and so on until you feel comfortable.
If the low E doesn't feel low enough for you, try to de-tune the lowest guitar string a whole step down - to D, see how that feels and start from there.
You know, it's all a matter of experimenting, so try all of the above to see how low you can go and then start going higher and higher from that point until you can go no higher because of your current abilities.
Let it be is a great tune Start with the easy ones, in order to be able to tackle the difficult ones Let me know how it feels, ok?
Mate, you are thinking TOO much and that usually cuts your wings too short, too soon
Work with what you have so far and when you will be able to sing in tune in your range, we will discuss about expanding range See how you fare with the Beatles song first. Screaming is not an easy technique and I certainly don't recommend doing that before learning how to:
- breathe
- sing at speech level
- use glotal onsets = making vowels sounds powerful
- use the muscles in your body to help you sing
First question - are you comfortable with the key in which 'Let it be' is? Let me know if you tried it so far
Let me try Let me be again. I'll let you know as soon as I myself know. And, I won't have access to a guitar for a little while. I left mine in Russia and I'm looking to buy a 12 string acoustic. Any tips bro ?
Hey Yash - after a little research on the internet, I think that it will not be such an easy task. Since you told me that you want to try it first, the only option is to find one in a shop in India. Then the budget is pretty small for a 12 string, to be honest. The cheapest versions I found in the internet are slightly more expensive than your budget allows and there's no cutaway.
In my opinion, you should re-consider the whole thing, by seeing how you can raise your budget, even if this means waiting a while. It's better to acquire a good quality instrument, rather then getting something cheap, for the sake of getting it.
That's my philosophy anyway, but I don't know if it applies to your context since you are probably depending on your folks for the cash. What are your thoughts on this, mate?
Mate, my suggestion would be the following:
Don't rush into a custom shop For 800 EUR you can get a VERY nice electric guitar and with around 300 EUR, you can get a decent 12 string. I took a little time to make a search on thomann.de - which is the largest music shop in Europe. In the link below, you can find a lot of 12 string suggestions which can fit the 300 EUR budget and they also have the cutaway. Maybe you can talk with your local dealer about a model which you think you like from the list below
http://www.thomann.de/gb/cat.html?gf=12_string_westernguitars&oa=pra
What do you think?
Cheers mate
As I see it, the most efficient and realistic solution to your problem right now would be to take your current axe to the local guitar shop and ask them to set it up as comfortable as possible - low action and intonation setup and new strings.
Do you have any available place in your city where you can do that?
Sounds like a VERY EXTENSIVE experience, Yash!
Well, now I very well know the feeling of visiting a music instruments shop and tinkering around with all the nice axes and amps and then .. 'SNAP' - reality check No money to get what I want...
You need to be patient and see how you can get a guitar that could fit a realistic budget. I know it's tough because you are relying on your parents for now, so maybe having a serious talk with them in which you will approach the matter in a mature manner, will convince them about the fact that they need to help you in order to contribute to your cause.
Some parents are easier than others, but I think once they will understand you want to finish your studies and in the mean time, practice an instrument to fulfill your spiritual needs and feed your soul, maybe they will re-consider their attitude give it a try, deal?
Mate... you have 1200 EUR and you don't have a guitar I would go get one ASAP. Waiting on another year... that's not a good option at all if you ask me. Instead of having a great guitar, you are growing your frustration ... plus... who knows what will happen next year? Life is filled with unexpected things Yash Take what's being offered and work with it
In that sum... sweet Lord you could get an AWSOME axe, but you also need an amp and maybe a few pedals - let me know what you think
Sensei... I have decided to take the risk and order that guitar. Pay first then get it. I don't know. I think it will work for sure. It's a Jackson King V Pro. I'll have money left after that. Which I'll use to buy an Epiphone Prophecy Les Paul Custom Plus with Gibson pickups Though I'll have to save a little bit of money from my own money to get that baby.
The reason I chose this combination is - Variety is the essence of life
The Jackson is V-shaped, super sharp, alder body, maple neck, ebony fingerboard, Floyd Rose, EMG actives (81 and 89, which gives me a single coil and humbucker in the neck)
The Epi Les Paul is Single cut, has 24 frets (the main reason I chose this LP instead of anything else), Mahogany body and neck, rosewood fingerboard, and a locking tone-pros kind of bridge with nice tuners and Gibson USA pickups which are passive.
The two guitars are opposites and will probably complement well and you know, I'll have variety. And, I think the necks will be kinda similar to play, because, the Jackson has a compound 12-16'' radius, and the LP has a sweet 14" radius. So, I am hoping I won't be having much troubles switching between them. It'll just be a matter of tonal choice and the tremolo usage What say you about my decision ?
Wise or not ?
And, since you're an expert on PRS guitars, I was considering the Mikael Akerfeldt model as well, instead of the Epiphone. But, the neck radius threw me off It's 10''. And, given my tiny hands, I'd be better off with over 12" if I want to shred, right ? Help me with this one please mate But, since I currently play on a thick one, I don't think I'll have many problems ? I don't know. I was considering the Akerfeldt model because Opeth goes from Jazz to Death Metal Maybe that guitar does too ?
Oh, by the way, if I end up buying both of them (a single cut and a Jackson) I'll have to save up from my own money to buy the acoustic and the 12 string
Considering about amp and pedals, I think an amp would be WAAAY too loud for the hostel. And people will get me kicked out. I think I am better off with my laptop and TH2 If I need to gig, I'll take my laptop and hook it up to some speakers or something That's what I thought. Or, use the amp that's available. Because, they'd throw me out of the hostel if I play on an amp People
Oh, and I have this for you
Sorry for the bad quality My webcam sucks. So does my tone. And so do I
Hey Yash It's nice to see that you are tackling singing and playing the guitar in the same time! It's one of the most rewarding things a musician can launch himself into, if you ask me.
Now, the recording quality does not allow me to distinguish things too well, but as I said before, you need to start exercising pitch control in order to become a better singer. Playing with distortion and difficult phrases on the guitar doesn't quite help with that, so if you want to become better at this idea, I would recommend you to play easier songs in their acoustic versions. Learn the art of strumming and chord changing while singing first things first.
Let's try things like this:
- choose a song which is played using chords - one that you like, of course
- learn the guitar parts on a clean tone or on an acoustic guitar in the most simplified version possible - you can even just play the chord changes with one strum and that's it
- learn the vocal parts
- sing it
- play the chord changes and sing
That should get you started. Singing over a distorted tone, without control over your voice and the right experience, will confuse you because you have to focus on WAY too many elements, instead of being able to sing in pitch to begin with. Let me know what your thoughts are
Hey buddy as I mentioned in the PM - having 2 electric guitars at this moment in time, would be overkill. Get the King V - I know you've been wanting it for a long time and the acoustic. In this way, you have two instruments with which you can play pretty much whatever you want And I also agree about using the TH and laptop in the hostel. When you aren't in your own place, it's pretty darn difficult to play loud and have a lot of gear because there's simply too many people around.
Sticking to a compact rig is a better idea instead Todd can tell you a lot of things about gigging with your laptop! He is experienced with this sort of thing and I totally recommend asking him a thing or two about how to set things up for the live context
About the PRS Akerfeldt - that's one weird axe, mate It's pretty heavy on the hands and it has a dark tone, pretty different from its other PRS cousins, sisters and brothers. I didn't like it too much, but it definitely has a personality there!
The neck is thick and it fills your hand but the satin finish feels incredibly smooth, so if you are willing to work a bit on getting used to a heavy neck and you like a more closed/dark tone, this one can do the job. Plus, it's STUNNINGLY beautiful!
Hi man You're right. Two electrics together is overkill. Agreed. So, I'll get the King V. Now, about the acoustic. I wanna get a decent one but not too pricey. Co I wanna save up for a single cut. And then I get the 12 string. I can have as many guitars I want, just no amps And, I wanna know how to buy an acoustic. I always get lost and go fat neck fat neck all the time. Moreover, I don't know what am I looking for. What tone... What material. No idea at all. I kw what acoustic guitar sounds I liked. The one in fade to black, and the one in led zeppelin' cover of babe I'm gonna leave you. Jimmy Page is a legend About the PRS. We'll talk when I save up for the single cut. We'll have choices And any tips for better recording? I have a good phone (Sony Xperia ZL) But I don't know how am I gonna be able to record using that.
What say you?
hey mate
A good acoustic is one who sounds rich, big and sparkling. My advice would be to try and test as many as you can before buying one. As I asked in the PM, if you have 400-500 euro left after buying that King V, you can get a good acoustic. I'd seek tone, first things first - a comfy neck on an acoustic is not so crucially important.
About recording - maybe you can spare some cash for some recording device Is that movie you sent last time shot with your phone? If so, I think you'll need a better device than that. Let me know if you can have some budget put aside for this as well and we'll see what solutions we can find, ok?
Hey Yash As I said, the best guitar you can buy is the one YOU like the most, out of a bunch that you will pick it up from. If:
- it fits the budget
- feels good when you play it
- you like its sound - both plugged and unplugged - if it can be plugged, of course
- stays in tune
... then, that's pretty much what you need Don't make things more complicated than they should be, otherwise, you will end up searching for a guitar forever.
About making videos and recording audio at a good quality, I recommend this video here, which pretty much tells you everything you have to do.
Now, for the phone, you will need a stand - something like this:http://www.aliexpress.com/item/Case-Star-Gray-and-Black-Octopus-Style-Portable-and-adjustable-Tripod-Stand-Holder-for-Iphone-Cell/1487524489.html - it will help you keep the phone into a position which is suitable for various filming situations And it's almost 7 bucks with free shipping.
Please take a look at the video, experiment and then, send some samples my way Deal?
Hey mate - go for one that can be plugged if possible, as it offers more possibilities when you will want to record Otherwise you will need to use a guitar mic and that will complicate things a lot. Looking forward to your feedback after trying things on Monday
OK Plugged it is then
Perfect
Sorry Cosmin I couldn't record the video. My roommate is having his exam on Wednesday so I can't play Till Wednesday. I'll try it out on Wednesday or Thursday. I wanted to do the Beatles vocal cover but He needs my help. Oh well. Gotta wait till Wednesday
Hey matey - no rush here I'd rather you take the necessary time to record without any stress at all, rather than at gun point - if you get my meaning
Anyway, let me know how it goes, alright?
OK. I'll do it when I can. At the earlist and when I have the gear. Though, singing related problem. My ear sucks ? I can't seem to hit the correct note with my voice which I want. I listen to it, have it in my head, try to hit it, The tuner tells me its a different note I don't know what to do. HELP ME COS !! I went to the vocal coach in the academy, and, she said that I don't hit the correct notes and... it's in the nature :| I don't know what to do ! Yes, I am worried and freaked out, because I see it as my life depends on it ? Half of my life.
Hey Yash How much ear training have you done beforehand to out discussion or your discussion with the coach? Answer me honestly and I'll tell you what to do
Hey mate being honest with me and yourself is a great and important step Now, call that gentleman and see what he has to say. It's clear that your ears need a lot of training, but I don't think it's impossible. Please let me know what the gentleman said, ok?
I'd be curious to hear you sing it against the original In that way, we will have a reference - we will see if you can pick up which notes are higher or lower than the intended pitch, as an ear training exercise. The idea is that you need to begin with the tuner exercise - that is the fundamental thing that you need to begin with. Pitch recognition in its basic form, as we may look at it. How about recording the exercise - let;s try with the C major scale - C D E F G A B C. What do you think? I want you to record each note with the guitar and with the voice doubling it then. Let me know how that sounds to you, matey
Perform multiple tries, by lowering it and raising it accordingly When you hit the A not DIRECTLY - you have a winning try. Can you hit the A note directly 3 times in a row? Try this approach and let me know how it goes, ok?
Mate, the more you do it, the better and more natural you will become. You should be able to sing the A note instantaneously even when you are woken up from your sleep Work on it and don't think about how much it is, but enjoy the fruits and the journey, ok? C'mon, I want to hear you do it on the recording
Hey mate, tomorrow it is then Looking forward to it
I need a little bit more time Sorry. Still working. I can do it chromatically. but, I need to get better. It's still random-ish.
EDIT: I am still aiming for perfection at something that I suck at Cosmin.. kill me. I am starting to enjoy the ride but, my throat gives up after a while ! (by the way that rhymed?) And yes, I am drinking water.
Hey mate - drinking water is the best thing when practicing with your voice, but take care, don't push the vocal chords too much on this one - you aren't aiming for volume here, but for pitch. So, try to sing the notes at the same volume you are speaking at That's pretty much the best approach here, so please try it and let me know how it feels. I hope you are not screaming or singing loud, eh?
Hey matey Remember - volume is not the aim here. Pitch matching is. Deal? I want you to sing as softly as possible, ok? Don't go up and down the scale in order to reach I don't know what pitches, but just stay in one octave where you are most comfortable and aim to reach the correct pitches in that octave. Once again, choose an octave which is comfy for you and in which you don't feel any effort when singing, ok?
I am looking forward to see a recording and we can comment on that one, deal?
Hehe, how's it going so far? Can you sing C, D, E, F, G, A, B, C having a little break in between each one? I mean, sing a note, pause a bit to check and then if you are correct with the tuner and the guitar in the same time, go forward to the next one This is one approach. What have you discovered so far, while exploring this exercise?
Hey mate I'll tell you a little story about patience:
There was a period of civil war in medieval Japan called Sengoku Jidai (1467-1600)
There were three primary leaders of this movement: Oda Nobunaga (1534-1582), Toyotomi Hideyoshi (1536-1598), and Tokugawa Ieyasu
(1543-1616), which are largely regarded as thee three leaders responsible for unifying Japan.
Every Japanese schoolchild learns the following poem that illustrates the different leadership styles of these leaders - one day, they were all three watching a bird in a tree and each said: What would you do if the bird does not sing?
Oda Nobunaga said "Kill it if it does not sing."
Toyotomi Hideyoshi said "Make it want to sing."
Tokugawa Ieyasu said "Wait until it sings."
.... the last one lived to unify all of Japan and his family came to rule Japan until the late 19th century - he had PATIENCE That's what you need to have, if you want to achieve a high level in anything you endeavor in this life. Do we have a deal, Yash?
We do Cosmin I'll be patient and keep trying until I DO it right. Until I achieve it. But, when to give up ? Or never to give up ?
I am in love with this song. I think it's in my range ? Both vocally and acoustic guitar-ally ?
PS - It's a G-D-C and my rhythm sucks. Let's get to work on this too ? I noticed, I did hit the write notes with Robert Plant. I had the tuner by the speaker, it detected the note, I paused to video, tried to match it, and voila.. just a few cents difference most of the times. Is this the kind of the song you were talking of Cosmin ? Just chords and strumming ?
I am on this drill right now ! So, no aim for perfection, just record ?
No, I am not there at the point yet. I played an A on guitar. My voice sang an F or an F# or an A# -__- I seemed to do everything but an A
EDIT: This is much more difficult than I imagined.
I am quick.
Hey mate! At 0:56 - you managed to achieve a bit more consistency
You forced things a bit, by singing on each beat - I mentioned singing the note with the length of 2 beats, so instead of having 4 notes in each bar, you would only have one
Like this:
1, 2 - sing the A note
3, 4 - breathe in
1, 2 - sing the A note
3, 4 - breathe in
Try it like this and aim to be as relaxed as possible, ok? Try it with the E note this time as it will be easier - the E below the A, ok?
When you breathe, don't pull the air suddenly, but keep an open throat and inhale with the sensation of surprise - just like that redhead would've entered your room right then in that moment Deal? This thing will tilt your larnyx up and you will inhale a lot more air than usual. Pull the air in to your stomach not in your chest. Try this drill without the guitar at first - the air inhaling, ok? Then apply it in the E note drill described above. These vids are VERY useful because they are showing me what you are doing - keep'em coming!
No. I'll go with the A ? OK ? I really need to push myself. I must be uber comfortable in the 3rd and 4th octave. Must push myself to be better I'll start working on the exercise today I was screwed up yesterday. I'll get to work on it already. I need to prepare Tears Don't Fall's acoustic version in a month's time. With vocals. Can we achieve that Cos ?
Yash take it easy on yourself man - I don't want to demotivate you or anything, but I want you to keep your overdriven impatience a bit at bay. You are currently working on being able to sing single notes in correct pitches and such a deadline is far from being realistic. I don't want you to end up heartbroken and thinking that you can't sing. You will sing and you will do it well, if you have patience. It might take a lot longer than you think though and that's what I want you to understand and accept.
Let's work things in stages:
1) Being able to sing any note as close to perfection as possible at any time - not with a particular vocal technique, but singing it in pitch.
I know you want to sing but I want you to become a good singer in an organic way and that takes time, practice and dedication.
Try to use the E note for the drill we spoke about and then push your voice up one half step at a time If you do these crazy bounces up, you will only hurt yourself. Do we have an accord?
Oh God This is difficult. I want to perform. We have a performance on 24th and a friend and I decided to do tears don't fall. I can do a cover for you! I don't think I am that bad I really can't wait. Why do I suck big time at this ? Robert Plant was 20 and he recorded Led Zeppelin I. I just hate waiting. It's too slow And fine, E note it will be God I hate myself and my vocal chords.
Interesting thing - Yesterday, I was singing along to a Vocal track of Maiden's Dance of Death. And, I was doing everything with a tuner, the tuner listening to the recording then I singing. And, I was close ^^ I hit most notes correctly. Even the 5D ones, without the falsetto ! Why does it happen easily with the songs and not without any song ?
PS - check Facebook messages
Hey mate I checked the FB messages and it's great that you are going for the audition! See what it feels like and try it before saying no
A band experience will always help - in the worst case, you will learn about what you don't like - see it like that and things will be ok
Now, about singing....as I said, impatience will lead to certain disaster - you have two choices here:
- follow my suggestions and take the long but surefooted road
- go berserk and get burned - this will also be useful, because you will learn the hard way. These lessons are the ones that stick with you for the rest of your life but you risk injuring your soul and recovering from this is very difficult for some of us.
It's a good idea to try and sing various songs, but at this point, you should do it for yourself only, in order to see what you like and to see where you stand. I wouldn't go out there and try performing just yet. Let's get past step 1 - deal? BTW, can I hear the Maiden song in your interpretation?
I didn't practice seriously for 3 days and all my ear training goes away I hate myself Cosmin... I hate my musical brain. Really.. This is embarrassing, and annoying. Is this supposed to happen ? And, YouTube is taking FOREVER to get my videos up ! It's the 5th attempt already. I recorded on Tuesday ! It won't upload !
Hey little buddy, I thought we had a deal about rushing and impatience?
3 days without practicing on something that you haven't done before and feeling like you lost it, is pretty normal. If you have beeen doing it for 10 years and after 3 days of not practicing, you would've had this feeling, well, that's the moment in which you should ask yourself what's really going on
Now, heads up, get back to practicing and please be patient with yourself. Please tell me when you have managed to upload the vid on Youtube, ok?
Dance of Death is up. Tell me what you think. I recorded all three straight up. One after the other. First one has a vocal track in the backing, the next one has all instruments and vocals, and the last one is an instrumental with me singing over it. I think I was a little worn out by that time, Should have taken a break. And, please excuse my stupid video antics. I couldn't headbang because my neck wasn't in its best shape.
Hey there Yash - mate i listened to the recording and I think that there's a lot to work here. You are trying to climb a mountain which is very steep at this point. I don't want to lie to you or make you feel like you are on a roll when you actually have a lot of timee and work to put in. Listen - you said you wanted to learn Tangerine from Led Zeppelin. Here's what I suggest - please learn the first verse from the song. These are the lyrics:
(B Mea-su-ring a su-mmer's day,
(B I only find it slips a-way to grey,
(B The hours, they bring me pain.
Please try to focus ONLY on reaching the pitches and breathing - breathing is VERY important. Breathe before each line in the verses - notice the little (B there - that's where the breathing should occur. You should stick to learning short parts and perfect them, before rushing into singing and getting tired. Notice how I sepparated the words with little lines? Please pay attention to what note fits with each group of letters in every word - notice how in the first line, we have 5 different notes? What notes are those? Learn to hum the line without the words in order to have a clear grasp on the note pitches and after knowing the actual melodic line, apply it on the lyrics.
What do you think?
Hmm.. Breathing. OK. I've heard a lot, but I still don't know the right method to breath. Is it by breathing in with your nose and filling up ONLY your abdomen ? But, still, a bit of chest gets filled up to if I do a full inhalation. I think I should really work on the physiology and things involved with voice production, it might help And, can I use the tuner to identify the notes, or use my ears and challenge myself ? And, sorry, couldn't do that exercise yet I've been finding it difficult to find time in the past few days. Maybe because of the constant tiredness and insomnia and sleep-depriveness.
Hey Yash - you know how I always tell you to take your time Yes, you need to breathe the air inside your abdomen - but, try to breathe while opening your mouth and exercising the sensation of surprise - imagine that someone just enters your room and you don't expect - breathe in like you are surprised You will actually draw in A LOT more air, than in the situation in which you would normally breathe, simply because the esophagus is relaxed. Draw the air into the abdomen and push it out slowly when singing - it's something that you learn naturally and you will slowly understand how to dose it when singing But, as usual, needless to say, I want you to be patient Ok?
Use the tuner if you wish to nail the notes, but as I said, focus on that little verse 1 in the song to begin with - so, nail the correct pitches and breathe where my indications say so, ok?
This breathing is taking time to get used to. I have to do it very consciously and uses a lot of my brain to breath this way, to inhale all of it into the abdomen. Hopefully, It'll be second nature sooner or later. And to think I'll have to breathe this way while playing guitar, I am in for a hell of a ride Cosmin, how much time did it take you to do this kind of breathing into your system, as in, unconsciously ? Or was it natural for you for a long time ?
Hey Yash I learned it gradually and I exercise breathing each morning as a form of meditation. I will give you an exercise which will help you with breathing:
- 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?
It's a very useful focusing and breathing exercise used in Zen meditation as a mind clearing exercise. It will work wonders on your focus power and it will allow you to also focus on your breathing technique. Do it in the morning when you wake up Set a goal on how many numbers you can get to - I think 3 is a doable one, at this particular point.
What do yout think?
Hi Cosmin Sorry for yet another late reply. I was trying to figure out how to breathe, and, I guess, after two days, I am finally able to control myself a bit better. I am allowed to inhale with my mouth while singing, right ? I earlier thought I may ONLY exhale.. breathe in with nose, then let it out with mouth. But, I didn't find that very comfortable. So, I try inhaling while singing Is that alright ?
And, one more thing - so many things ! What order am I supposed to do everything in ?
I want to play this
Myles Part ! I've been digging that man a whole lot more during the time I was discovering how to sing. His high notes are amazing I wonder how do you increase the low end of your voice. Is it natural ? Or, can you increase it. Because, I can't go lower than 2A or 2G# If only I could go down to E Is that achievable or should I accept that as the lowest I'll go.
I wanna work out the solos he plays. I think that will be a good ear exercise. Like, trying to sound like him with my guitar. I did work out a few notes. Any tips on how to do this ? I really wanna do it myself to develop as a musician. But, I really don't know where to start.
Hey Yash, take it easy matey
One step at a time - inhale the air using the mouth of course and exhale while singing - that's why you inhale right? In order to have enough air stored for singing, which you will push out using your stomach (diaphragm)
Now, developing high or low end can be done, but to a certain limit, as each one of us is built differently - I for one don't have that much low end naturally, so I am trying to define my low end abilities as they are, by using the techniques I know in a correct and healthy and defined manner in that specific range.
How about what we discussed on learning simple songs and singing? I noticed you didn't say anything about the Led Zeppelin song - how is that verse part coming along? You know, jumping from one thing to another like a bee from flower to flower won't really get you anytwhere. I am looking forward to hearing your thougths
I started inhaling when singing.. is that wrong.. like.. in tangerine.. I inhale on the first tangerine, and exhale on the second. Is that OK ? And, I don't know. What all things are we supposed to do. Can you please make a list ? I get confused.. Sorry
Uh oh - nah, mate, you inhale when you breather the air and you use the air for singing - don't inhale while singing, ok?
The idea here is like this:
- try the breathing exercises described here, for 5 minutes - but the idea is not to think of time, but of how much you can focus on the exercise: http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/guitar_forum/index.php?s=&showtopic=43809&view=findpost&p=699111
- work on this idea: http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/guitar_forum/index.php?s=&showtopic=43809&view=findpost&p=698315
.. for about 30 minutes each day.
At the current moment, working on your vocal technique for 30 minutes each day is enough and you should be concerned on focusing on getting all the details straight and slowly learning how to apply the breathing and having a correct pitch on the notes in the vocal line - deal?
OK Cosmin. I will be on it from tomorrow. I got my new guitar today Check the thread in Gear Sub-Forum Pics coming tomorrow.
It's not as easy as it seemed. I go too low or too high. Approximately 2 half steps
Of course I wish to, Cosmin! I give around 2 hours to guitar playing and 30 minutes to vocals, as you told me to
That sounds very good to me - but I would like to see more organized results, so let's focus on the Tangerine drill for your vocal exercises and the beginner metal rhythm lesson, for your guitar playing - do we have a deal? It will keep you focused on achieving results a lot better. Please take into account the observations that I suggested in the other thread, where you posted that video and let's see some recordings Deal?
Deal !! I was singing creeping death a while ago. But, I don't really get it where do I go wrong Just singing one song kinda bores me so I take a break. I'll get to work with that rhythm lesson tonight, and I'll do the tangerine drill again now
I do know On short - you are impatient and you aren't finishing what you begin, always wanting to jump here and there
Can you sing the Tangerine drill correctly on a recording? When you will be able to, we will move to something else and so on. Maybe you will notice that one is not too easy for you, then, we will try something simpler. You don't need to dive into all sorts of complicated things in order to leave them unfinished, or worse, end up frustrating not even knowing why - trust me on this one.
In the beginning you need simple achievements, otherwise, you will not move forward - so, try to focus on one thing in respect to singing, in those 30 minutes - the Tangerine drill, for instance and record it so that we may see how it goes - ok?
Ok. But I'm still going all over the place? Want me place a recording?
Yes sir. I'll record today. But, my voice is kinda sore from the concert last night. More on that in a chill out thread
Hey Yash Take your time - by all means, you should first follow the steps I described in the thread where we first discussed about the metal lesson and make sure you can play it without effort - focus on timing, clean playing and nailing the details.
If you will be able to play it thoroughly at a slow tempo, you won't have any trouble when you will be dealing with the original speed Let me know how it goes and also, if you want to share a slow tempo video with one of the slow backings, please do - that will make things easier for you, as we can spot the potential issues before they become more difficult to fix. Post it here and we'll take it from there
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