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Posted by: Todd Simpson Apr 29 2019, 11:53 PM

Welcome to SHRED BOOTCAMP! I'll be your Drill Instructor! And I do mean DRILL! As in a large power tool used in slasher films and Paul Gilbert concerts. Here is were you EARN THE LIVING DEATH out of your fingers and break through any speed bumps/barriers to become a MASTER CHIEF of Shred!
QUICK TIPS TO PREPARE YOU FOR BATTLE
*Make sure you get both hands in the shot when shooting your video*Make sure you use a metronome for the first several Missions and that the metronome can be heard.*After you complete a mission, shoot me a PM and let me know it's ready and I'll give you a debrief! These are pass / fail, so if you pass you BADGE UP and if not, I'll give you some feedback and you head in to the breach once again.
*The first several missions are VERY simple. They are just to get you used to the bootcamp process.
*Most importantly, there is NEVER a speed requirement in bootcamp. I want you to push yourself to play as brisk as you can, but NEVER at the expense of precision. If you find you are missing a note here and there, slow down a bit. Speed is just a byproduct of precision so my goal is to make you a very precise player. At that point, speed just happens.

THE MISSION

1.)Your mission is to go all the way back to the very start. The base of the mountain.

LESSON 1. http://bitly.com/gmclesson1

Which you will play SUPER PERFECT!. Speed it up bit by bit until you feel your ready to take it to WAR (Any speed, it's up to you, no points for speed, only points for playing in a precise manner as speed is simply a byproduct of precision) Shoot a video and post it as a reply to this post. Make sure to EMBED the video by clicking on INSERT SPECIAL ITEM above the smiley face and then you'll get a drop down menu. Click on INSERT YOUTUBE VIDEO and follow the instructions in the Pop Up Menu. I'll then offer a constructive and brutally honest critique.

THE AFTERMATH

Upon nailing the crap out of lesson one at a speed you didn't think possible, and playing it a clean as a freshly waxed floor, you will be given your first insignia of Rank in BOOTCAMP! You will then proceed to Lesson #2 and so forth. Here is the link to the entire 400 plus Lesson Library. https://www.guitarmasterclass.net/wiki/index.php/Portal:Techniques

Here is the link to your own PRIVATE HOUSE OF PAIN!...Er I mean.. SHRED!

http://%20http://bit.ly/carlosbootcamphttp://bit.ly/adamsbootcamp
Practice!
Sarge

Posted by: MisterM May 4 2019, 11:33 AM

Hi Sarge

First mission 180 BPM
I'm sorry, I don't record warmup.
I work on my thumb posiition but at full speed it is less flexible.

Next I will record warmup

Posted by: Todd Simpson May 4 2019, 09:40 PM

WELCOME TO SHRED BOOTCAMP!!!!! Well fought here on your first Mission. You are clearly well advanced in technique. These first few are just to get the ball rolling and get you familiar with the process. The video looks great!! I can hear the metronome and everything. Your guitar could be a pinch louder if possible, but if not it will work as is. Let's Debrief!!
MEDALS OF HONOR

*MUTE: Well Done on your mute technique. Yo Your palm remains planted and your articulating the pick with the thumb and first finger.
*SYNCH: The point of this Mission is to test your hand synch and let me know if there are issues wit it. The Good News is that I don't see any issues!
*PACE: Another aspect of this mission is pace. I want to see if you can play without rushing or lagging, you are spot on and tight with the metronome. Nice!
In other words, you KRUSHED it and got your first Mission badge, you just

LEVELED UP!!!!

Super Congrats Soldier!! You are on your way!!! Plenty of speed on this one as well without it falling apart! Precision is always more important than speed here at bootcamp as speed is just a by product of precision and repetition. I do encourage people to push their limits and find out where the edge of their ability is and try to play on that edge while keeping things clean and tight!
Look forward to your next Mission!!
Sarge


Hi Sarge

First mission 180 BPM
I'm sorry, I don't record warmup.
I work on my thumb posiition but at full speed it is less flexible.

Next I will record warmup


[/quote]

Posted by: MisterM May 12 2019, 05:14 PM

Hello Sarge
Thank you for your envouragements

This afternoon, Big Sunday SHRED

I played my DV MARK MULTIAMP.
The tone is much more organic, I love it.

I did the next three missions.
I also posted my current work regarding the aternate picking
AC/DC thuderstruck and a Cosmin LUPU's lesson Vivaldi winter arpeggios.

I’ve been working on my thumb position every day for the last two months.
It’s not visible on the video but I feel some progress, exercises are easier day after day









On this one I add "Guitar pro" partition track

Posted by: Todd Simpson May 13 2019, 06:28 AM

Well Fought Soldier!!! Some great examples of progress here. Especially on your NO COMBAT vids. That ACDC tune is a clinic in open string technique and muting. Also a lot of bits like good hand positions and timing, etc. go in to playing that kind of lick. The Winter arps are also a great combo of techiques on display. I can see a lot of forward momentum in your playing Soldier! Let's Debrief!!..

MEDALS OF HONOR

*FORM: You are displaying solid technique here Soldier. keep it up! Muting, hand synch, clean strikes. These first few missions are about getting the basics down and you are!
*TEMPO: Not rushing or lagging, which is key.

*AGGRESSION: Jumping in with aggressive style!! Being aggressive on these will serve you well Soldier!Nicely Done! Keep it up Soldier! I'll Debrief one of these per day as that's the Badge Rate. You can keep shooting vids and I'll keep up the debrief!BTW that DV Mark unit sounds killer! I've always been impressed by those units. They have a very organic/tube vibe to them.

LEVELED UP!!!!

Sarge

Posted by: Todd Simpson May 14 2019, 08:44 AM

Nice!!!!

I must say I'm impressed Soldier. The lesson started off as expected then BAM! You jumped in to the deep end of BPM and held it together!!! You are well prepared for bootcamp and since you get out what you bring to it and put it, you are set to get a LOT out of it. You may find these first few Missions don't challenge you. They are meant to be able to work for folks that have just picked up the guitar as well. You clearly have a leg up. Let's Debrief!
MEDALS OF HONOR

*PICKING TECHNIQUE: The picking is really the core of everything we are going to be doing so it's great to see you have a good handle on it. You keep it clean even when you speed up which is great to see. Not missing strikes during traverse at speed is something people really struggle with.

*MUTING: Your palm mute is spot on and no string noise is escaping. Id' say try to start focusing on a center strategy where your palm stays in one place and you can reach for the low E or High E by just tilting your hand a bit. Even when you are not muting, try to keep your hand just a few millimeters out / above the bridge so that you can get back to the mute in under a beat. You'll need to as we go

*SYNCH: You've got very solid hand synch and you are ready for what's next. More than ready.

In other words you just.....
LEVELED UP!!!!

Sarge
[/quote]

Posted by: MisterM May 21 2019, 11:01 AM

Hi Sarge

You did not say anything about Mission 4, it's in previous posts
I think 160 bpm is too fast for me because timing issue

Today Mission 5
I allowed myself to adapt the exercise to the first vivaldi sequence



Here my Work on Vivaldi to 120 BPM
I feel little progress

Posted by: Todd Simpson May 22 2019, 07:39 PM

Sorry for the lag Soldier!! I Think you did an amazing job on 4. You are not tensing up and not picking from the elbow and your playing it quite clean and smooth. This is a great drill to work with a metronome to improve speed an precision. Once mistake and you have to start over. You play it without any mistakes and at quite a brisk speed. I'm impressed that you are able to traverse and pick this fast without stumbling. This is a tricky bit, but you killed it. Let's Debrief!!

MEDALS OF HONOR

*PALM MUTE STEADY ON: You have a good and centered technique here. Very nice work. You keep your pick hand planted near the bridge this is crucial for being able to play what's coming.
*PICKING STEADY ON: If your picking rushes or drags, it will ruin your ability to play briskly with precision. No problem here, you tempo is spot on.
*ENDURANCE: This Mission is one that can burn your arm off if you are not doing it correctly which is sorta the point of Mission 4. if one tries this mission using the STIFF ARM picking technique, for example, it won't last long.You have a very relaxed technique which is perfect for these long looping traverse licks.

I would agree that 160 is a pinch to brisk but that's easily fixed with some repetition. Make smaller bumps in BPM go one or two at a time, you can work up to any speed you like. Also I noticed you didn't run this one up the neck per drill instructions but your playing is so good here that I'm not gonna let that get in the way.
In short you just.....LEVELED UP!!!

Posted by: Todd Simpson May 23 2019, 08:23 PM

Very impressive work Soldier!! You are picking with the wrist and not the elbow, you never lose the beat, hand synch is spot on, it's all in there! Let's Debrief!
MEDALS OF HONOR

*TRAVERSE: String Traverse can be a challenge. It's easy to stumble on it. You play it clean and confident. No gaps, no missed strikes. Score!
*PACE:You play very evenly which is what I like to see. It's easy to rush or lag without even realizing it but you stay locked to the metronome which is great. Double Score!
*ARTICULATION: It's easy to stiffen the entire arm and elbow pick which is a bad habit and hard to break. You are articulating the pick very well. The smaller the pick motion, the better, especially on fast bits like this.
You killed this one, you just...... LEVELED UP!!!

Posted by: MisterM May 29 2019, 03:07 PM

Hi Sarge

Mission 6

Not easy to play with metronome
This take is without metronome

I've started the mission 7, it's very interesting, I like it more.

Posted by: Todd Simpson May 29 2019, 07:55 PM

Well Fought Soldier!! This one is tricky to play with a metronome as the lick doesn't match up to 4/4 time on a metronome very well. However, your timing is quite good and you don't seem to need the metronome. If you put the metronome on 3/4 time it should match better, but as long as you can play without rushing or lagging, you can skip the metronome. It's just for reference after all. Le's Debrief!!!

MEDALS OF HONOR

ALT PICKING: Your Alternate Picking is consistent and that's what I'm looking for. Nice!!
MUTE: Very solid work on the palm mute. Also critical. If you can't mute, you will get string noise. Not here, your mute is solid!

SYNCH: If your synch is off, the entire thing will fall apart. Again, not a problem here! Your synch is spot on!

This one also requires a good stretch. You have very good reach and are using your pinky which is great!!! YOU KRUSHED IT!!! In short you just..


LEVELED UP!!!!!

Sarge

Posted by: MisterM May 30 2019, 07:21 PM

Hi Sarge

Thank you

What do you think about Mission 7 ?

Posted by: Todd Simpson May 30 2019, 10:24 PM

Impressive Work Soldier!!! Very well played. From slow to fast, each one is spot on. let's Debrief!!!
MEDALS OF HONOR
ALTERNATE PICKING MADNESS - If your alternate picking is weak, this will show it. Good news is your alt picking is quite strong. At each BPM your picking is clean and clear.

TRAVERSE IN STYLE - This one has non stop traverse. Each time you switch strings, you risk missing the strike, or catching the pick on the string and missing a beat. Not you!! Smooth as glass!

SILENT AS DEATH - With string traverse, string noise can be an issue. Any gaps in the mute and string noise raises it's ugly head. Not here!! Quiet as a mouse!!
Very well done. Your technique is on point!!!! You are bringing your A Game!!!You just..

LEVELED UP!!!!

Fight on Soldier!!
Sarge

Posted by: MisterM Jun 5 2019, 08:48 AM

Thank you Sarge

I watch my videos and I do not really see any progress on the work of my thumb.
It's been 3 months that I focus on it and I think it will be very long to see progress.

When I play slowly my thumb is very mobile
When I play fast it becomes almost motionless

Here Mission 8
Sorry, the track volume is a lot low on this one
I used "native nstrument Guitar Rig", I wanted to add the rec track, but I failed to sync with the metronome



Here mission 9 with my amp, it's better



Here Mission 10
Scales inversion have never been an easy exercise for me

Posted by: Todd Simpson Jun 5 2019, 10:58 PM

Before I debrief these vids (they look great btw) I want to share this explanation of Picking with the THUMB. I made this video just for you to explain it and fix your issue quickly. If you want to re try these videos using this technique, please let me know. If not, I"ll grade them as they are and you can try it on the next Mission. either way is ok



Soldier, I am about to fix your thumb articulation issue in under a minute. It's a simple drill on one string using one note. Forget about the left hand. Focus on the right hand.

#Don't allow your palm to move AT ALL from the bridge.
#Focus on using the thumb and finger only
# Ignore the left hand
# use one note on one string, or an open string if you like. No traverse.
#watch this vid carefully.

Posted by: MisterM Jun 6 2019, 05:04 AM

Hi Sarge

Thank you for your vid.

On my take "Triple Etude" the instructors noticed an error in the position of my thumb.
This criticism affected me morally. For 4 years, no instructor had mentioned a problem about my thumb.

Kristopher offered me this exercise a few months ago.



I’ve been practicing slowly for three months. It’s very difficult because it’s not natural for me.
It's been 7 years since I got back on the guitar and I have to fight 7 years of bad practice.

On the mission 11, I will make a slow take to show you that I understood

Posted by: Todd Simpson Jun 6 2019, 09:30 PM

I apologize if I've had any negative impact on your playing or morale. I certainly did not intend any negativity. You have GREAT technique and your vids so far have been great! The thumb articulation is just another way of picking. Some folks NEVER use this method which is fine too. One can just pick from the wrist. The thumb method is not required at all. It's just another way to control the pick. That's all, nothing more That vid from Kris is great! He's got a very good thumb articulation technique. It's a bit similar to the vid I made. Notice how his palm is planted and never moves and only his thumb/first finger are addressing the string. He's got a very evolved articulation technique. Please don't beat yourself up over this. Like I said, it's just another way to pick. If it's not working for you, you can just set it aside. Your picking technique is well developed and your not picking from the elbow or doing anything wrong at all. I was just offering a vid to help explain things. It seems you already had a good explantion from Kris. Please don't let this stuff get in your way. Your playing is GREAT. Keep it up!!Todd

Posted by: Todd Simpson Jun 6 2019, 11:05 PM

Posted by: MisterM Jun 7 2019, 10:19 AM

Hi Sarge

thank you for your encouragements
I keep focusing on the thumb work because I think it will give me progress.

The next mission helps me on this point

Have a nice day

Posted by: Todd Simpson Jun 8 2019, 01:53 AM

I understand. I'm glad that you are trying to work on it. It can be a very good way to expand on a players ability to control the Guitar Pick! When I started getting thumb/finger articulation under control, it really helped my playing especially my Lead Playing. [quote name='MisterM' date='Jun 7 2019, 05:19 AM' post='76890
Hi Sarge

thank you for your encouragements
I keep focusing on the thumb work because I think it will give me progress.

The next mission helps me on this point

Have a nice day
[/quote]

Sarge

Posted by: MisterM Jun 9 2019, 04:40 PM

Hi Sarge

Thank you

Here misiion 11 and 12
On M#11 I try to move my thumb
Sometimes, it move sometimes it freeze, step by step day by day

Posted by: Todd Simpson Jun 10 2019, 03:44 AM

Posted by: MisterM Jun 10 2019, 05:59 PM

Hi Sarge

Thank you

Here the mission 13

I’ve a trouble with double alternate picking. I think the problem came from my elbow.
On 100 and 110 BPM, the amplitude of my right hand is too large and my elbow is mobile.
I'll work to this point slowly to fix the problem

Posted by: Todd Simpson Jun 11 2019, 03:00 AM

You are playing this quite well. It's VERY tricky. You dont' miss a note/strike. Just from a quick view this one will be a badge up for sure. You are still playing very well with wrist control and are barely using any forearm movement at all. There is always room for improvement on picking, but I must say you have very solid technique. Best of all your pick hand is not tensing up. That's Key to good foundational technique.

Posted by: Todd Simpson Jun 11 2019, 03:27 AM

MEDALS OF HONOR
LOOPY: I use lots of "Looping licks" when I teach. The goal of this is to make you a CONSISTENT player. Part of what I'm trying to teach you is Playing like a Robot in order to Shred Like a God.
NON STOP TRAVERSE: This lick traverses strings and frets non stop. Partially to build endurance, partially to get your hands accustomed to playing long sequences of notes. This will serve you well when we start doing very long scale runs.
ARTICULATION: You are doing a very good job of articulating the pick keep that up!! As you continue to improve your finger articulation you will notice that you use less and less of the elbow and even less wrist. Eventually, you will be able to use just your thumb/finger for any speed up to your full SHRED speed limit at which point you will add some wrist

You are doing GREAT soldier. You are starting out with some of the best playing I've ever seen here in bootcamp. Every student starts at a different level. The course is built so that anyone can start and finish it. Those who are further along can get more out of it as they can focus on technique. You are bringing a LOT to it which is great.

You've got this down pat Soldier!! You just...
LEVELED UP!!!!
Sarge

Posted by: Todd Simpson Jun 12 2019, 08:34 AM

Posted by: Todd Simpson Jun 14 2019, 03:24 AM

Posted by: MisterM Jun 26 2019, 06:01 PM

Hi Sarge

I'm starting to work last guido's lesson : https://www.guitarmasterclass.net/ls/11-Spicy-Repeating-Rock-Licks/
162 BPM will be a challenge for me.

Several licks are very difficult, I will take my time.

Mission 14 after 1rst July,
I 'm in Holiday.... No gear to make a video, I took just my guitar and THR10C amp

Posted by: Todd Simpson Jun 26 2019, 09:23 PM

No worries Soldier!!!! Enjoy your vacation!! A bit of Sun is good for the soul! Bootcamp will be here when you get back!
Sarge

Posted by: MisterM Jul 12 2019, 04:12 PM

Hi Sarge

I work this one since few weeks.
I'm not proud but I can't make better for a moment.
Palm muting like you is hard

Posted by: Todd Simpson Jul 13 2019, 12:29 AM

IMPRESSIVE WORK SOLDIER!! This is much harder than it look as I'm sure you found out. It's all about learning to keep a solid palm mute (the open string licks all require full bridge mutes as they take the left hand out of the equation during open string strikes). You do a fine job here of keeping your mute while keeping good hand synch and keeping a smooth flowing pace.
This is a LOT of stuff to put together at one time. Well done on getting it to work! This lick works on every string and you can use any scale you like with a root note on one of the six open strings. I can see you have put in the time to be able to play this with skill and confidence. The more you put in, the more you will get out

Let's Debrief!!
MEDALS OF HONOR

*PICKING-This is all about single string picking technique. So firstly I'm looking at your picking. Good news is your picking is improving with each Mission. Keep going and try to adapt along the way. Take the left hand off the guitar and focus on the picking hand only to work on isolating the pick strikes. Keep the wrist as loose as possible. Keep it up!

*TIMING-Timing is crucial in this lick. It's the second thing I look for on this one. If the timing is bad, the lick does not work. It's got to be played with solid timing and your timing is very good!

*DIFFERENT STRINGS-Traverse is the third thing I look for here and you traversed very well. You showed you can play this on any string and keep the mute.

In short, your work has paid off. You've added to your guitar skills in a big way. Keep it up!!!
You just.. LEVELED UP!!!

Sarge

Posted by: MisterM Jul 14 2019, 04:02 PM

Hi Sarge

Thank you

I work on Mission 15
Also, I put this lesson on REC Section

I hope that you love it

Posted by: Todd Simpson Jul 14 2019, 07:04 PM

Impressive take on that REC! I'll pop over and give some feedback. Please do continue to share your rec takes in this thread so I don't miss them!! This is really well played. You have very much improved your right hand picking/muting technique. You are picking from the wrist, as is appropriate, NOT from the elbow, so you are able to keep a good mute and keep picking. This has string skipping in it, so keeping a good mute is key. Poor right hand technique would make this impossible to play.
Sarge

Posted by: MisterM Jul 19 2019, 07:40 PM

Hi sarge

Thank you for grade and comment

Here M#15 & 16

Posted by: Todd Simpson Jul 20 2019, 06:20 AM

IMPRESSIVE!!!! Let's look at 15. I can see control and movement in your wrist that I didn't see when you started these. The good thing about many of these is that they almost force you to learn to play with the wrist so that you can keep your palm mute. That's why I start throwing in open strings and traverse. Left hand mute won't save any Soldier this deep in the woods. You are kicking butt and taking names Soldier! Let's Debrief!

[size=4]LEVELED UP!!
Sarge

Posted by: Todd Simpson Jul 21 2019, 04:40 AM

MEDALS OF HONOR
*SOLID MUTE: Lots of string traverse so I'm looking at the palm mute. You have a great mute. It's getting better each time.

*SYNCH OR SWIM: Each note has a pick strike. If you miss one strike, it falls apart. Good news is you never miss! Not even when DOUBLE PICKING! Nice.

*ARTICULATION: Well done on your pick articulation. Also getting better each time. Very clean and using the wrist more than the elbow! YOU JUST LEVELED UP!!!!Sarge

Posted by: MisterM Jul 28 2019, 04:45 PM

Hi Sarge

Here Mission 17
Difficult to understand the beat on your video because your playing is more speed
I made a tab "triplet 70 BPM", you can upload on mission 17 for help other guitarist

https://ahp.li/bc81232df29b5b3b3172.gpx

Posted by: Todd Simpson Jul 29 2019, 01:49 AM

WELL DONE!! This is a full on SHRED lick. I didn't expect you to be able to play it this fast and this clean! I'm adding a Guitar Pro 5 Version and picture for compatibility and will add it as PART III to the Mission 17 page. Thanks very much for creating this. I used the fast vid to try to motivate people to work toward speed. I think I need to put a slow version on there as well.

 mission_17_part3.gp5 ( 2.24K ) : 393




Let's Debrief!
MEDALS OF HONOR

*SOLID MUTE: Without a good palm mute, this just sounds like sloppy noise. Good news is you have a great palm mute and it's all very distinct!!
*SYNCH OR SWIM: Playing at this speed requires tight hand synch. Lose your synch and it falls apart. Your synch is tight as a drum!!
*ARTICULATION: Moving the pick with control and confidence. Well done. Using the wrist and not picking from the elbow. Some folks actually encourage picking from the elbow. I'm not one of those folks. The elbow picking just lacks the precision that wrist/finger articulation can provide imho. It's like trying to paint or draw with a brush thats as long as your arm and holding it as far away from the tip as possible. It's just not as precise as using a smaller brush.
You just. LEVELED UP!!!

Sarge

Posted by: MisterM Aug 2 2019, 03:35 PM

Hi Todd

for this one I wanted to work on a form of composition.
I respected the chord bar, I hope that you will find it fun.

you will surely recognize a great movie theme

Posted by: Todd Simpson Aug 3 2019, 04:26 AM

Well played Soldier!!! You clearly have no problem composing and soloing over a composition. That is what this Mission is all about. I provide a backing just in case folks don't want to create their own. I'm glad to see that you are able to build a backing from scratch and then compose a lead over top of it. Beyond that, you display really good technique the entire time. Let's Debrief!!
MEDALS OF HONOR
This debrief is less about bullet points than about a discussion. Each solo is quite different so there isn't any one thing in particular I'm looking for other than the ability to play a musical sounding solo over a backing. You KRUSHED IT!!!! The backing itself is very well produced and very well composed and played. As for the lead, I enjoy your tone differences that you used and I really am impressed with the quality of your vibrato. Vibrato is the one thing that separates the men from the boys IMHO. If one has weak vibrato, one is simply limited to being a weaker player. Vibrato is one of the most expressive things about playing guitar and being able to bend to pitch and then use vibrato in a tasteful way is key to being a well rounded player. Your bends to pitch were spot on and your vibrato is killer. Also, well done on not picking from the elbow, your pick articulation improves with each mission. I've seen some great progress from you Soldier!! keep it up!!!
You just..
LEVELED UP!!!

Well fought!! I look forward to seeing your next Missions. You are about to badge up to the Next Chevron Level!
Sarge

Posted by: MisterM Aug 4 2019, 06:14 PM

Thank you Sarge

Here Mission 19

Posted by: Todd Simpson Aug 5 2019, 01:49 AM

TOP NOTCH WORK!! Being able to do a Five Note Per String (if you include the open string) Tapping Sequence is not something every player can do. It's not your average Eddie VanHalen 3 note per string tap, it requires going to an open string in this case so muting is key. It's easy to let noise creep in but not here! Clean as a whistle! Let's Debrief!!
MEDALS OF HONOR

*TAPPING TO GLORY-This is advanced tapping. It will work on every string so try it on every string when you can! It's a great way to work on muting to try to tap this on the G string. You did a great job keeping sounding right the entire way through. You have to hit every note for it to work and you did!!

*QUIET AS DEATH-The open string is there partially to test your muting. If you don't mute well, it will ring and others will ring sympathetically. It can become a noise fest. Not here! Quiet as a church mouse.


*PULLING FOR POWER- Pull off ability is key here as well. You are not just striking, you are striking and pulling to get the next note. If your pull is weak, the next note won't be audible. Your pulling is very good and every note is clear. Welcome to Advanced Tapping Soldier!! Try to use this in a solo when possible!!! you just..


LEVELED UP!!!!

Yet another impressive showing Soldier!! These are getting ever more difficult and you are rising to the challenge like a pro!!!
Sarge

Posted by: MisterM Aug 23 2019, 09:52 AM

Hi Todd

New take, lesson starting 2016




Starting 2016



Working 2016

Posted by: Todd Simpson Aug 24 2019, 06:22 AM

Nice!! That's one of my fave techniques. When I learned it was called a "Scale Inversion" but for the sake of continuity, I did a lesson on this technique for the Lessons Section called "Thirds". It also shows up in several variations in Bootcamp and even quick licks. It's a great way to make a scale more interesting and works on any scale. I use it in solos all the time!!
Todd

This is the Lesson link.https://www.guitarmasterclass.net/ls/Picking-In-Thirds/

Posted by: MisterM Aug 24 2019, 05:04 PM

Hi Todd

This lesson is actually on REC Section.
My mentor Gab has give me 10/10,
I thought I would get an 8

I'm Happy ...
I waiting grade others instructors

Posted by: Todd Simpson Aug 24 2019, 06:02 PM

10 wow! I"ll check it out!

Posted by: MisterM Oct 20 2019, 07:11 PM

Hi Todd

I work lessons 20 and 21.

Number 21 is really amazing, I love it

I will make videos in a few days if I can or maybe later

Posted by: Todd Simpson Oct 20 2019, 08:48 PM

Awesome! Glad you like it!!! If any of the Missions is something you want to take and use to create a song/track/backing/etc. feel free to do so I make all of this to share.

Todd

Posted by: MisterM Oct 22 2019, 04:14 PM

Hi Todd

Mission 20
I worked on the Calling elvis backingtrack.
The exercise really starts from 55 sec.

Mission 21
150 BPM with third party harmonization.
Sorry for the tone, the phaser may not be a good choice,

REC SECTION FUTUR
Also, a https://www.guitarmasterclass.net/ls/Funky-Blues-Rhythm/I’d already done.
I still have some progress to make in playing as a stephane lucarelli, but I think I’ve made a good progress with it
I wait, I think I can improve it.

What do you think about it ?


M#20 - Custom


M#21 - Third Harmonizing


Funky Blues Rythm (REC SECTION)

Posted by: Todd Simpson Oct 23 2019, 04:27 AM

MEDALS OF HONOR

*CONTROL- First thing Im looking for is control. If your fingers are out of control, out of synch, you will never be able to shred. The good news is your hands are talking to each other and your hand synch is getting better as you get better.

*ARTICULATION - Second I'm looking for good pick articulation. It's important to not let the pick pass too far beyond the point of the string so as to not get hung up in the strings. You are doing a good job of not letting the pick get "stuck"!

*MUTE- Last, as always, Muting. Muting is key to all of these drills. They simply can't be played properly if there are gaps in someones skill level. Good news. Your skill level is very impressive and continues to grow.

Very nice job putting it to music and making it work with a backing! As I"m always saying, music is the entire point after all. My goal is to get your hands to a place where they play as a matter of instinct.

Also, your REC take shows quite a bit of work and woodshedding. It looks good to me. I'd say go for it!
As for this one, you killed it!
you just..
LEVELED UP!!

Todd

Posted by: MisterM Oct 23 2019, 06:30 AM

Hi Sarge

Thank for feedback
Do you think that I can upload on REC SECTION
I don't understand "woodshedding". What do you say about it?

Posted by: Todd Simpson Oct 24 2019, 01:44 AM

Yes! Submit it Woodshedding is just slang for lots of practice. We would say you have spent time in the "woodshed" just an old saying Means time spent alone and away, focused on improving a skill.
Todd

Posted by: Todd Simpson Oct 24 2019, 02:42 AM

WOW! Impressive work Soldier! Nobody yet has played this Mission at the actual speed it was written at. You are the first. It's got that shred lick at the end of the riff that is just not easy to play, and even harder to play at speed and maintain precision..
Let's Debrief!
MEDALS OF HONOR
*MUTE OR DIE Right hand is firmly planted on the bridge and you are starting to articulate the pick very well with a pinch of wrist and some finger action. Score!

*PRECISION This is a very good workout for either alt picking or econ depending on how you approach it it. You adapt really well to this lick. You play it with precision and at speed.

*CONTROL No extra string noise, no unwanted notes and very even and deliberate pacing. NICE!

Impressive work Soldier. I can tell you worked long and hard on this one. It's well Earned.

LEVELED UP!!! Sarge

Posted by: MisterM Oct 24 2019, 10:56 AM

Hi Sarge

ok thank you for explain
go REC section

Posted by: MisterM Nov 15 2019, 02:05 PM

Hi Sarge


I played this mission as a legato exercise because it is one of my weak points.
I'm not a fan of the technique "right hand on the neck".

I hope it's ok for you



Also, I work https://www.guitarmasterclass.net/ls/Modal-Madness-2-string-patterns/
It's very hard....

I know what you think about my thumb and my wrist.
I work every day and there is no visual improvement



Here my futur lesson for REC Section
I have a lot of work to improve it

Posted by: Todd Simpson Nov 15 2019, 11:03 PM

The left hand work is GREAT on 22. However, you don't have to use the over hand technique, you can just plant your hand on the bridge. This lesson is all about being able to get the pattern going using a hammer on. You are using a pick to get the pattern going which would be fine in quick licks, but this is Bootcamp. You have great legato! The hard part about this one is trying to start the pattern on each string using a hammer on instead of a pick. Viewing these I can see you've come a long way and put a lot of work in!!! For this one Mission I need you to at least try to lead with a hammer on and put the pick down.

Once more in to the breach Soldier!!!

Sarge

Posted by: Todd Simpson Nov 17 2019, 12:52 AM

Your second and third vids are quite good here. You have a very solid sense of timing. Your second vid shows very good pick control. Progress is very slow when observing one's self. However I can see some good progress going on. Don't get discouraged. It's just slow going. It's a life time journey. Learning to appreciate each step along the path is the true goal. Not reaching a given goal itself. Just keep putting one foot in front of the other

I think your rec take is ready to go to be honest. I see you relaxing the pick hand which is perfect for this type of playing. it feels groovey and fun. I say go for it It's always worth a rec take to get feedback. Not matter what.


Todd

Posted by: MisterM Nov 17 2019, 07:43 AM

Hi Sarge

Ok I should try a new take as you say



Thank you for your feedback and encouragement.

About REC Section,
I'll make a new take with better video and maybe better tone in a few days

Posted by: Todd Simpson Nov 18 2019, 09:22 PM

It has been really great to see how much you have improved. Keep it going!!

Posted by: MisterM Nov 26 2019, 11:30 AM

Hi Sarge

I tried new
it's not perfect but I don't like this exercise



New take 140 BPM Modal madness - 2 string patterns

Posted by: Todd Simpson Nov 27 2019, 06:14 AM

Well Fought Soldier!! This is honestly one of the hardest things so far in Bootcamp. Some folks get stumped right here. Not you!!! You fought through it and played it all the way up and down. Nice!
Let's Debrief!!
MEDALS OF HONOR

*Left hand POWER! First thing I want to see if hand power. It will not work without it. You are doing well with your left hand here! Keep at this and it will get better each time!
*Pacing Second thing I need to see is smooth pace. This is a very tough one to keep evenly paced, you did very well on keeping it nice and smooth!! Not rushing or dragging.
*Mute Lastly, Solid Muting on this one. If you let your mute slip, it's a noise fest but not here! Quiet as Death.

As for your REC TAKE, NICE!! I'd say that one is ready to go! Clean, smooth, precise. Awesome! In short, you just ... LEVELED UP!

Sarge

Posted by: MisterM Mar 30 2020, 06:29 PM

Hi Todd

I decided to work on this lesson every day.
I think I’ve made some progress with my right hand.
I feel less rigid, what do you think about it ?

Posted by: Todd Simpson Mar 31 2020, 05:12 AM

DUDE! That's amazing honestly. This is a very hard piece and there is no room to miss any notes. It's got wads of technique to get right and wads of notes to memorize. Your playing is looking far less stiff, more natural and more relaxed. This is a great thing to see. Super congrats on your progress!!
Todd

Posted by: MisterM Mar 31 2020, 10:44 AM

Thank you Todd

Posted by: MisterM Jun 25 2020, 03:09 PM

Hi Todd

As I told you in an MP, I temporarily stop the BOOTCAMP because the work of the house takes a long time.

I focus on 1 or 2 lessons. Right now I’m trying to gain some speed with : "STRING SKIPPING ETUDE by Piotr KACZOR"
I reached 140 BPM but there are section that give me difficulties.
I’ll work slower to improve them.

Posted by: Todd Simpson Jun 25 2020, 07:44 PM

WOW!! Dude!! This is crazy good. Very impressive. Look at how smooth and effortless your playing is!!!!! I gotta say it's great to see you playing so well.

Todd

Posted by: MisterM Jun 26 2020, 08:26 AM

Thank you Todd

Objectif 180BPM as original..... "Hope is what make us live"

I strated to work mission 23.... I should make a REC in a few days

Posted by: Todd Simpson Jun 26 2020, 09:11 AM

Looking forward to it!!! Remember, no points in bootcamp for speed. I know that sounds odd as it's SHRED BOOTCAMP! But precision always comes first. Speed is just a byproduct.


Todd

Posted by: MisterM Jul 19 2020, 08:49 AM

Hi Todd

Here Mission 23
I wait your opinion

Posted by: Todd Simpson Jul 20 2020, 04:32 AM

That bit you added at the end was really clever. Creative stuff! it makes the lick feel more complete as well. NICE! This one is all about leading up with the PINKY. Part of running scales/licks up the neck is being able to lead with the weakest finger, the pinky. You really impressed me with your ability to run it like a pro and not miss a beat. Let's Debrief!

MEDALS OF HONOR

PINKY TRAVEL leading up the fretboard with the weakest finger (the pinky) is something that takes real work. It takes repetition and practice. You gotta earn it. There are no shortcuts. You clearly have embraced this and worked your fingers quite a bit to get this level of control. Impressive.

PACING This lick, like many of these, is built so that any rushing or lagging would be very easy to hear. This helps the player develop a sense of consistent timing. Your timing is spot on I must say. Nice!

MUTING I know I'm always banging on about palm muting. It's only because it's crucially important. It's not easy to pick and mute at the same time. it's why you see so many players using fret wraps at the first fret.

You did really well on this one Soldier. You just..

LEVELED UP!!!!!

Great to see you back in the fight!!

Sarge

Posted by: MisterM Jul 20 2020, 11:44 AM

Thank you Todd
I should look Mission 24 soon

Posted by: Todd Simpson Jul 21 2020, 02:44 AM

I'm sure you will KRUSH it!!!

Onward Soldier!!

Sarge

Posted by: MisterM Aug 20 2020, 10:22 AM

Hi Tood

Here Mission 24

Posted by: Todd Simpson Aug 20 2020, 08:34 PM

Impressive work Soldier! This is not an easy bit to play. It requires not stop string traverse and there are no gaps, per usual, so there is no recovery time. Also, you have to run it all the way down after running it all the way up. It's an endurance test more than anything. i am shocked that you can play this as precise and fast as this. I didn't realize you have made this kind of progress in your playing. It's a great thing to see. If you can sort this out at this speed, I think you may be able to burn all the way through these. Your playing is smooth, brisk and always under control. Your synch is tight and your speed is consistent. It's everything I hope to see on this drill. Let's Debrief!!

MEDALS OF HONOR

PICK AND HAMMER ON: The "Pick and Hammer On" is a crucial technique for speed. It lets you play a top speed without having to pick every single note. You are doing it perfectly. This can be applied to any scale!! You can play three notes per string scales and strike only the first note ascending and descending. Try this during your next solo. It's a great way to add bursts of speed without having to pick every note.

MUTE OF DEATH: Very solid palm muting on this one. Your mute keeps getting better each time so keep it up! On a lick like this, muting is extra important as it can trick the ear of the listener in to hearing pick strikes even when they are not there.
A timid mute won't achieve this. But a strong firm mute can trick the ear. It also requires good fretting hand power as well as you are hammering on two notes without picking them. So if your fretting hand is weak, this just wont work. The good news is your fretting hand is very strong!

TIMING: Very tight and very evenly played. This is a long lick so it's got plenty of rope for you to hang yourself if you get off pace. You don't miss a single note. This type of lick where you go back and forth in a scale makes it sound like you are playing far more notes than you actually are. It works for any scale. Try this in a solo as well. Run a scale in this way and you can trick the listeners ear in to thinking there is a lot more going on.

In short this is just amazing work Soldier. You are playing with precision and doing it at top speed. your practice is paying off. This is just perfect I look forward to see how you do on Mission 25! You are heading in to the deep end of the swimming pool but you are ready Soldier!

Onward Soldier!!
Sarge



[
quote name='MisterM' date='Aug 20 2020, 05:22 AM' post='779667']
Hi Tood

Here Mission 24


[/quote]

Posted by: MisterM Aug 21 2020, 04:53 AM

Thank you Sarge

I am happy with this exercise
It wasn’t easy the first few days to play fast.
I tried to relax and not focus on the notes.

Posted by: Todd Simpson Aug 21 2020, 09:28 PM

Relaxing really is the key! It seems counter intuitive to be sure. The body wants to tense up when playing fast. The bad news about that is that tensing up actually reduces ones ability to play fast. Also, staying tense for long periods can actually end up causing pain and even injury!

So it's crucial to train the hands and the body to stay somewhat loose. Keeping from tensing up will allow you to break through barriers and become the player you were meant to be. This drill is a great example of overcoming the urge to "tense up". Your playing is fluid and smooth and quite brisk! Super congratulations Soldier! keep this in mind when you attack the next Mission. It will serve you well!

Sarge

Posted by: MisterM Sep 20 2020, 07:44 AM

Hi Todd

Soon I should work mission 25

What do you think about may work about STRING SKIPPING ETUDE

Posted by: Todd Simpson Sep 21 2020, 04:36 AM

WOW!! This is impressive work Soldier. Is this a rec you are going to put up? Shoot me the link when you do. It's darn good. String skipping is not easy. You've got very good and clean pick and finger articulation going here and no string noise. NICE!!!

Posted by: MisterM Sep 27 2020, 09:46 AM

Hi Sarge

Thank you ,
I've a lot aof work before submit to REC section.
legato part is hard, I need to relax my playing again.
Work 170 bpm is on a right way.
I take my time and I try to apply your picking advices

Posted by: Todd Simpson Sep 30 2020, 01:30 AM

It looks pretty darn good to me. I came back and watched again and it's very impressive. I appreciate that you want it to be as good as possible. This is a noble impulse and I support your efforts. Play on!!!

Posted by: MisterM Oct 1 2020, 03:08 PM

Hi Sarge

Here mission 25
On this one, I tried to play fast => 130 140 and 150 BPM
I hope it's ok

Posted by: Todd Simpson Oct 2 2020, 03:15 AM

Impressive work Soldier!! This is a real finger twister! It's all about going back and forth in a scale to make it sound like there are more notes involved than there actually are. It requires muting, but not too much muting. You strike the right balance here. Well done! Let's Debrief!

MEDALS OF HONOR

PACING : You do a great job of pick control on this one. Steady pace and even playing. No bumps or stops, just working through the pattern. SCORE!

NO MUTE NO DEAL: Very clean palm mute per usual as I've come to expect. Not choking the strings but not allowing any string noise. DOUBLE SCORE!

BACK AND FORTH Back and Forth like a champ! You don't get lost in the notes despite playing at speed. IMPRESSIVE!!


In short, you just ...
LEVELED UP!!!!

You are ready for the deep end Soldier!
Onward!

Sarge

Posted by: MisterM Oct 16 2020, 10:07 AM

Hi Todd

Work on the house is complete
I would add photos on the topic soon
Today I can focus on the guitar

Here mission 26 & 27





Over all

If you want You can garde my REC https://www.guitarmasterclass.net/guitar_forum/index.php?showtopic=61342

What do you think about my EVH Take ,

Posted by: Todd Simpson Oct 16 2020, 08:01 PM

Impressive work Soldier!! Your REC take is very solid indeed It looks like it's got 3 votes on it already in the rec thread so I'll discuss it here. Your playing continues to show improvement each time I see a rec from you. This is saying quite a bit as you are playing at a very high level. I often see players gains start to flatten out once they reach a certain level. This is not the case for you at all. You continue to make great gains each and every time. Your at the stage now where you are able to focus on the finer details of playing. These can be overlooked. It's important to find the smaller aspects interesting in order to spend time on them. It's not the same as learning a new scale, it's more subtle. Learning when to increase/decrease vibrato on a single note, transitioning between techniques, varying the pressure on any given pick strike and creating dynamics, etc All of these things can only be focused on once a player has achieved a level of mastery of foundational techniques. It's in this area, where the subtle things add up, that a player develops his own "style". You are creating your own style each time. Keep it up!!

Onward to Mission 26. Let's take these once per day. First up, 26. I must say I was blown away when you ripped in to this at full speed. I was already impressed with the precision of your slower take and that would have been enough to badge up. Then you rip in to lick at full tilt and you don't lose precision! NICE!!! Let's Debrief!

MEDALS OF HONOR

PLANTED LIKE A TREE: Planted palm mute resulting in zero string noise. You've got a great palm mute here. You are even using the pinky of the mute hand to help mute the high strings. This is great to see. It's often the case that the hand only wants to mute the low strings during a palm mute. Often, the left hand mutes the high strings. This is a functional method but not ideal as it prevents some licks from working. For example, open string licks on every string require a solid mute of all strings and the left hand can't help. This is why I encourage players to mute all the strings with the right hand. It's something you have adapted well to!

TRAVERSE FOR THE WIN Traverse is just plain difficult for many a Soldier. Traverse of course, just talking about moving from one string to another. This Mission is non stop traverse and you have to go back and forth over the same piece of ground over and over. There are many chances to miss a note and ruin the take. It's built to be breakable but you don't falter. You rip through it at speed and with precision.

PACE WINS THE RACE: Even handed timing and synch. Not rushing or dragging, just right. This lick is quite long and it would be very easy to let the timing drift at some point. That's why it's built this way. To provide a long stretch of ground. If the hand is going to fail, this is where it would fail. The good news is you have developed great stamina. You play right through with no trouble

In short you KRUSHED it Soldier!! You are officially shredding. Playing 150 bpm with non stop traverse and picking every note is no small feat. It's a huge challenge and you play it with style and grace.

You just..

LEVELED UP!!!
You also just earned your first 3 Chevron Badge!

Onward
sarge

Posted by: MisterM Oct 18 2020, 09:40 AM

Hi Todd

Thank you for grading and comment

Here Mission 28, I wait grading about Mission 27



Since 15 days, I work some licks "Lydian Phrasing intermediate"

Posted by: Todd Simpson Oct 19 2020, 04:57 AM

27 is yet another full on SHRED LICK. This is where you get a chance to put all of the technique in practice and hopefully things start to click and you begin to "SHRED". I must say I was very impressed at your performance on this one. I was impressed by the previous one, but this one really blew me away. I was expecting the slow take to be the actual take, then you double the speed and don't lose any precision. Super congrats on that you are playing this at a very brisk pace and keeping it under control for an extended loop. Your hand doesn't fatigue, you don't start missing notes, you just keep it clean and burn!!!! Let's Debrief!

MEDALS OF HONOR

PRECISION STRIKE: This one is all about Precision. Speed is just a byproduct of precision after all. If one loses precision, play gets sloppy. Sloppy playing is the opposite of shredding. To shred, one must play with a high degree of precision and also not allow the body to tense up which causes fatigue and kills stamina. You play with a great deal of precision and stamina. AWESOME!!

SYNCH ON POINT: If your hand synch drifts even a pinch, drills like this will let you know. It's on a loop so that if you drift a bit, it will stick out like a sore thumb. I don't usually expect to see this many repetitions of this drill at speed since the hand can get tired. Not your hand though. You keep it high and tight the entire time. SCORE!!

TRAVERSELY: Being able to traverse frets without creating a hiccup in the pattern is what Iwant to see from this mission and you nailed it! The traverse point is smooth as glass. As a bonus, you make great use of the pinky on this drill. Some folks try to use the third finger on this, which isn't a great idea given the distance between first and last frets used. The pinky is what I look for and your pinky is flying!! DOUBLE KILL!!

I wanted to watch this one several times to make sure I wasn't missing anything. I thought maybe I was just not hearing small imperfections due to my monitors so I played through headphones and second set of monitors. Then tried at very high volume. No matter what I tried it sounded nice and tight. This might be the best version of drill I've yet seen and I've been doing this a while. Well Done!!!

You just..

LEVELED UP!!!

I'm on to your next Mission. I plan to give it a thorough viewing/listening as well. I have high hopes Soldier!!

Sarge

Posted by: Todd Simpson Oct 20 2020, 01:11 AM

Yet another very impressive take!! You have really knocked it out of the park on these last three. It's a TRINITY OF SHRED. These techniques will serve you very well as you move forward. These are foundational things that every shredder should be able to play with precision/speed. It took me a LOT of repetition to get these licks smooth and fast. I can see blood on the fretboard from all the woodshedding you put in! Let's Debrief!!

MEDALS OF HONOR

TRAVERSE OR DIE With skill and grace, you traverse like a champ! This one is not just string traverse. This is fret traverse in an extreme way. You have to go back and forth in the same area several times. it's very easy to get lost at some point. I've played this lick more times than I can count. It took me quite a few tries to be able to play it all the way through without losing my place. You put it on a loop and rip in to it at speed and don't lose a note. NICE!

SILENCE IS GOLDEN: Solid mute resulting in clean tone without string noise. Muting is KEY to playing a bit like this. Since you are moving so fast over strings and frets, generating some string noise is a constant potential problem. You keep it high and dry the entire time. DOUBLE SCORE!!

PICK ARTICULATION: This is some of the best pic articulation from you that I've yet seen. You don't let the pick hand tense up, you don't pick from the elbow, you keep a solid mute while doing all of this. That alone is a huge victory. Being able to keep a mute during complicated picking is a crucial skill that is not easy to get ones hands around TRIPLE SCORE!

You tore this a new one!! Killer Job Soldier! i feel no need to warn you about what's coming up as you will rip through it like a hot knife through butter! You are ready!!

You just...
LEVELED UP!!!

Onward!
Sarge

Posted by: MisterM Oct 21 2020, 09:25 AM

Thank you Sarge

For the mission 29, I added a legato work with
BT : https://www.guitarmasterclass.net/lick-of-the-day-v2/Pentatonic+Legato/

I hope that I understood the target of mission

Posted by: Todd Simpson Oct 23 2020, 04:28 AM

You continue to impress me Soldier!! These are some tricky bits and you don't miss a lick!!! You are ready for the crazy bits to come. I hope you can take all of these chops and turn them in to magic when the next collab rolls around! Many of these pentatonic licks are some of my fave licks ever. Let's debrief!!

MEDALS OF HONOR
CLEAN KILL: Doing a great job managing the string noise that is very hard to escape in open string licks in particular. Thats part of why I include this one. If your muting is not spot on, any open string licks will show the gaps. Also, this is a good introduction to using open strings for solo licks. This first lick would work as a solo lick for just about any blues/rock backing in the key of A. The open strings used are also in the scale. We are using the open strings almost like a capo. You krushed it even at pace!

SMOOTH AS GLASS: Pick articulation is smooth and consistent. You have very even picking here which is great. Your not over and under powering the pick, each strike is at a similar intensity which is what I'm looking for here.

PACE BY PACE You don't lose your mute, you don't start rushing or dragging, you keep a solid pace even when playing fast. This is the best part of all. You have great control over your speed, you don't dive in and rush a lick and lag at the back, you keep it all as it should be. Thats why I ask you to loop these, to see if you will drift. You didn't!!!

Very well played. That second lick is one of my all time faves. I often play it with the first finger as a bar so you are playing it in a more controlled manner which is impressive. You just..

LEVELED UP!!!

Onward!
Sarge

Posted by: MisterM Nov 1 2020, 03:00 PM

Hi Sarge,

I work string skipping lesson to 180 BPM
My playing got a little relaxed.
Despite everything, We can see my two hands tightening on the last note....
It’s really awful for the eyes

I should try to improve this last thing before REC Section

Posted by: Todd Simpson Nov 2 2020, 10:49 AM

Good Lord Soldier!!!! This is pretty darn impressive. I mean honestly. String skipping is one of the last major disciplines ones fingers have to tackle imho before one can play just about anything. This is very well done. Precise, synched, not too much pick pressure, not to much finger pressure, just right. Finding the right balance of pressure and speed is never easy and you clearly have sorted it out. Also, stamina is clearly on point. This would wear out most folks hands about half way through. Just a bit tense right at the end but even then still in control. NICE!!

Sarge

Posted by: MisterM Nov 2 2020, 11:44 AM

Thank you Sarge

Posted by: MisterM Nov 5 2020, 04:40 PM

Hi Sarge

I work mission 30
Soon I should make a take

Also, I submitted my take "String Skipping etude" on REC section

Posted by: Todd Simpson Nov 5 2020, 06:45 PM

You are on a roll Soldier!! These are some of the best takes I've ever seen and I've been doing Bootcamp for 10 years. Keep it up! Your REC was spot on!!! RECs are graded very tough and you still killed it!!

Posted by: Todd Simpson Nov 10 2020, 11:25 PM

Soldier, after reading the comments on your recent REC. I feel compelled to bring up something I've been biting my tonge about. A bit back, I started to try to talk to you about essentially re learning your picking technique. It seemed to create a good deal of stress and didn't get much result and finally it just seemed to be getting in the way of your progress. So I just let the matter drop. You continued to make very good progress and I was impressed with your REC! After reading the reviews from the other instructors, I'm starting to think I may have let the issue go prematurely. The very technique of planting one half of the hand on the bridge and using the other half of the hand to articulate the pick is what the original instructor of string skipping rec lesson was a master at doing. While I found your rec to be more than adequate, especially after I stopped focusing on subtle pick technique differences, other folks taking note of these differences is starting to make me think I wasn't being obsessive compulsive about the way you were picking. Other people are taking note of it as well and it does seem to be a bit of a road block in terms of your progress. So while I don't want to get you stressed over this again, I do hope we can address it in small bits as we move forward. I think it's something you can do. It may feel like going backwards a bit as you may have to slow down quite a bit to get the control needed to reconstruct your picking technique. however, I've seen you make HUGE gains and I think you are ready to attack this issue and push through it. Let me know what you think

I've found a couple of videos to illustrate this idea. This is something that every player struggles with soldier. You are not alone. I think you are ready to work through this. I don't think you were at that point the last time. I think you are ready now solidier!

Ok Soldier. Example 1. Notice how the amount of pick wag decreases as I speed up. Also notice the pick angle. The angle of attack/address is important as it sets up an optimal position for the hand.


In example 2, notice that my palm stays planted on the bridge. I don't lift or shift. I'm using thumb/finger articulation and using part of my hand and just a pinch of wrist. I've isolated to a single note.


In examle 3, I go through all the strings. Notice I keep a good solid palm mute and dont lift my palm off the bridge. Also, I"m keeping the same slanted forward pick angle. In addition, notice that my pick hand never tenses up. Even at speed, I keep the picking hand somewhat loose. This is key to stamina. Tensing up will kill your ability to play fast for extended periods.\


Sarge

Posted by: MisterM Dec 4 2020, 11:32 AM

Hi Sarge

Your advice are amazing
I'm trying to apply it but it's not natural for me
I keep focus on this video

Posted by: Todd Simpson Dec 4 2020, 06:48 PM

Rome wasn't built in a day Soldier!! You are doing GREAT!!! Don't try to make huge changes. Just try each time to make a subtle change and let your hand find it's way

Posted by: MisterM Dec 4 2020, 10:35 PM

Thank you Sarge, I will try it

Posted by: Todd Simpson Dec 4 2020, 11:37 PM

Check this out. Watch this vid. IT's a great demo on how to palm mute while articulating the strings. Now, this guy is using his fingers and his pick and a great deal of hammer on/pull off/legato, but focus on his palm mute. Look how he is keeping his mute while he picks. He doesn't lift, doesn't move the entire hand off the bridge. Also, he mutes firmly but doesn't choke the strings.

Posted by: MisterM Dec 8 2020, 09:49 AM

Hi Sarge

I had a great moment of doubt.
I wanted to stop playing guitar because of this frustration

However I keep hard work
I try to play Vivaldi again by focusing on picking hoping that it will be clearer.

It doesn’t show very well, but I try to be aware of my movements.
It lacks precision, for the moment I keep this speed, I need to improve this

Posted by: MisterM Dec 9 2020, 06:18 AM

Hi Sarge

I watched the videos this morning and I had like an enlightenment
The angle of my arm is not good.
When I position the elbow higher, the angle allows a better release of my wrist.

I’m gonna make a new video in a few days even slower.
Tell me what you think

Have a nice day

Posted by: Todd Simpson Dec 9 2020, 11:29 AM

AWESOME!!! Finding the right spot to comfortably and efficiently hold/play the guitar is an art form. It sounds pretty basic, how do I hold the guitar, how do I hold the pick, but it's one of the most involved things ever. It takes enormous amounts of trial and error. Then once you find the "sweet spot" you sometimes have to re learn how to play!

Posted by: MisterM Mar 1 2021, 09:33 AM

Hi Sarge

I should try to back on BOOTCAMP

Posted by: Todd Simpson Mar 2 2021, 01:45 AM

Welcome back to Bootcamp Soldier!! It's great to have you back in the fight! This mission is all about working your stretch. That first lick has a very wide stretch that can't be played using the first three fingers. It requires pinky power. The good news is you have killer pinky power. Also, it requires spot on hand synch as there are no gaps. One miss and it falls apart. Your precision is top notch. You really KRUSHED this one. It's fast, precise, there is no string noise. It's pretty much perfect. The blues lick is great as well and I love what you added to it. I do promise that these will get more challenging as you progress!!

You just..

LEVELED UP!!

Onward!!
Sarge

Posted by: MisterM Mar 8 2021, 09:41 AM

Hi Sarge

I hope that I undesrtood the mission

Posted by: azureus Mar 8 2021, 08:07 PM

sounds cool ...

Posted by: Todd Simpson Mar 9 2021, 03:35 AM

You got Soldier!! This one is about dexterity and you did a great job of keeping all of it high and tight. You manage to play with precision and style at the same time which is great. I notice how you are not tensing up which is great to see. Teaching the hands and body not to get tense is something almost every player struggles with at some point. You are doing a great job of staying relaxed and letting your fingers do the work. That's the a big part of what we are trying to work on here at bootcamp. Also, you have very good dexterity with your pinky. That last lick is a very tricky thing to do. The pinky has to have very good reach and has to stick the landing each time over and over. You not only did this well, you did it at speed. Never missed a note. You are ready to move on Soldier!!

You Just....

LEVELED UP!!!

Onward!
Sarge

Posted by: Todd Simpson Apr 26 2021, 05:45 AM

I have created a new Mute Drill just for my BOOTCAMP SOLDIERS! This one is not for a badge. This is just to help you work on your mute. It's a very simple drill. Just palm mute the bridge, and take your fret hand OFF of the guitar entirely. This will force your palm mute to do all the mute work and show you if there are gaps in your mute. So try it as in the vid, just strike each string a few times, and move on to the next string. Make sure that you don't hear any other string other than the one you are striking. That's the point of this drill. To make sure that you can isolate all of the other strings with your palm mute.

if you notice that you hear other strings ringing, even when you are not striking them, adjust your palm mute angle/position until you find that sweet spot where your palm should be resting. This is the secret sauce folks. Once you sort this out, you won't have to worry about string noise getting in your way, even on our crazy open string licks that span several or all of the strings. It's a quick and simple drill that can really help you isolate any issues with your mute. give it a whirl!!

Posted by: MisterM Apr 29 2021, 08:18 AM

Hi Sarge

Thank you , very cool video

Posted by: Todd Simpson Apr 29 2021, 11:56 PM

It's a very good drill to find if there are any gaps in your mute. I doubt you have any gaps from the vids I've seen from you but it's worth trying just to find out

Posted by: Todd Simpson Jun 2 2021, 10:01 PM

I shared the video as I wanted you to try to play this. I know you have very high skills and I think you can do this. It will show if there are any gaps in your mute Also!!

Phil gave me this link which will let you download your mission badge in the even it is giving you trouble. Evidently some folks are getting hung up trying to get their badge!

https://ezgif.com/webp-to-jpg

Posted by: MisterM Jun 26 2021, 09:28 AM

Hi Sarge,

I suffered from tendonitis in the left elbow for several weeks. It is still painful but it depends on the days.
Currently I feel good, so I work the speed again:
https://www.guitarmasterclass.net/solo-guitar/neoclassical-etude-1/

I started this lesson a few months ago... I had to stop because of the pain

The target is 140 BPM.... I have a lot of work because I understood accentuation isn't good

What do you think about it ?

Posted by: Todd Simpson Jun 26 2021, 10:46 PM

Impressive work!! This seems like it's ready to go! have you put it up for REC grading? Shoot me a link! Very solid on technique and timing which is what this one seems all about. Also very good use of the pinky! Without a good pinky, this would fall apart imho.

sarge

Posted by: MisterM Jun 27 2021, 09:23 AM

Hi Sarge

Thank you
Rec section in a few weeks.
I need a lot of work to play 100% speed.
Here a rec 90% with good accentuation (maybe good word is "articulation") and Backingtrack

Posted by: Todd Simpson Jun 27 2021, 02:57 PM

This is very impressive work . Your pinky is doing a great job as well. This rec requires a ton of things to make it work right and you are on top of all of it. I can see huge progress since way back when I first saw you play. You were always good but now your freaking killer!!!!

Posted by: MisterM Jun 27 2021, 03:46 PM

Thank you Sarge.
Your comment is very motivating.
It goes straight to my heart, especially knowing your shred skills....

Posted by: Todd Simpson Jun 28 2021, 12:15 AM

You are one of the best fighters in Bootcamp soldier! You are in the TALL WEEDS in terms of Mission Difficulty but your skills have come so far that I hope the Missions can still provide a challenge!! keep kicking ass and taking names!

Posted by: MisterM Jul 2 2021, 06:53 AM

Hi Sarge

Bootcamp taught me a lot.
Looking at some gmcer, I find it a shame to want to go too fast.
The bootcamp brings a lot if we don’t burn the steps.
It’s addictive but we should take our time, the way is so long.

Sometimes I try to work on mission 32.
I can’t find a focus for this one, but I’ll try to finalize it to unblock it all.

Thanks again for your 80’s smooth jazz com

Posted by: Todd Simpson Jul 7 2021, 09:25 PM

Id love to see you krush 32! It's great to watch you take on each mission.

Sarge

Posted by: MisterM Oct 19 2021, 02:59 PM

Hi Sarge

I'm back with mission 32
I’ve incorporated 2 licks into a solo, I hope that will suit you.

Posted by: Todd Simpson Oct 20 2021, 06:57 AM

Awesome!! You nailed it. The whole point of these missions is to teach your hands some licks that can be used when playing solos. It's all about playing actual music. You did a great job of it. Your technique is very solid and your soloing is emotive and expressive. Very well done! to wit!!




CONGRATS! you just...

LEVELED UP!!!

Onward!
Sarge

Posted by: MisterM Oct 20 2021, 10:40 AM

Thank you Sarge.
yesterday I felt good to create

Here 3 news missions.
I didn't want to play too fast.
The part with the open string makes it difficult to synchronize in time.
I preferred to play slowly to be tight in time.

Tell me if I need to start over faster.

Posted by: Todd Simpson Oct 21 2021, 08:59 AM

Super impressive work here Soldier!! You krushed it here. Your technique is spot on. Strike once hammer many is right up your alley. The last one is tricky and you nailed it as well. Your not rushing or lagging, your keeping a solid mute, and your playing is smooth and even. I'm seriously impressed. To wit!!


Congrats Soldier! You just..

LEVLED UP!!!


Onward!
Sarge

Posted by: MisterM Oct 22 2021, 05:33 AM

Hi Sarge

Thank you very much.

Posted by: MisterM Nov 19 2021, 07:46 PM

Hi Sarge

Presently, no time for bootcamp. I ll be back later

Since few days, I work The final Countdown Solo with third harmonizing
I hope make a good cover in a futur.

What do you think about my work ?
Excuse me for sound. I didn't record with worksatation DAW. This one is just cam Rec

Posted by: Todd Simpson Nov 20 2021, 12:17 AM

The subtle use of vibrato is for me the most impressive thing. Your control over the passage near the very end is quite impressive in deed. There is a bend and final vibrato that so many people just somehow miss entirely when i see versions of this solo on youtube. most folks can do the 2 string triad style sweeps it seems, but really struggle with the phrasing near the end. You nailed the entire thing. Nice!

Posted by: MisterM Mar 16 2022, 07:36 AM

Hi Todd.

I'm sorry for not following your bootcamp anymore.
Right now I don't have much time to play. I devote myself to the lessons. I still practice exercises every day.

I learn a new neoclassical lesson, it's quite hard. You know my difficulties in gaining speed.
I remain confident, but the gain in BPM will be more and more difficult.

REC 1 : 70 BPM (Day 2)

REC 2 : 100 BPM (Day 15)


REC 3 : 110 BPM (Day 36)

Posted by: Todd Simpson Mar 17 2022, 07:06 AM

No worries Soldier!! Bootcamp is here to help folks get better. You can use whatever you like, whether it's Missions or REC or really anything!! It looks like you have put a lot of work in on these!! Your technique is spot on IMHO. Great timing, picking, fretting, it's all there. It almost sounds like some bits from various bootcamp licks in parts! I think this is ready for REC! Shoot me a link when you post it!!

Sarge


[quote name='MisterM' date='Mar 16 2022, 02:36 AM' post='797334']
Hi Todd.

I'm sorry for not following your bootcamp anymore.
Right now I don't have much time to play. I devote myself to the lessons. I still practice exercises every day.

Posted by: MisterM Mar 17 2022, 07:16 AM

Hi Todd

Thank you for feedback.
Target 130 bpm.
Yesterday work on 120 BPM. It's won but very hard to stay focused.
130 BPM will not be reached before 1 or 2 months I think

Have a nice day.

Posted by: Todd Simpson Mar 18 2022, 02:14 AM

I'm sure you can hit 130 and more. Once thing to keep in mind, I notice your palm mute is light on the high strings and using your fret hand to make up for it. For this piece it works just fine. If there was a lot of open string licks, it would not work quite as well. If possible, try to spread your hand a bit over the bridge to cover all of the strings. It's not easy but it can have great benefits

Posted by: MisterM Mar 21 2022, 10:31 AM

Hi Sarge,

Ok thank you for feedback
I should try to do that.

have a nice day

Posted by: MisterM Mar 25 2022, 10:19 AM

Hi Todd

120 BPM (Day 46)
It becomes more and more difficult.
I do exercises at 120 in warm-up. For the rest, I would increase the speed 124 127 and 130 bpm.
My muting is better ?

Posted by: Todd Simpson Mar 26 2022, 03:15 AM

Your playing gets better each time i see it!! This is coming along very nicely. I think your muting has improved as well! I see you are using more of your palm to cover more of the bridge. One thing I would say to try just as a way to gain insight in to your playing is going to sound very odd. take your fretting hand off the neck for the duration of this piece. This means just open strings. You can mute the strings with sock or something if you like just to deaden the sound. Then play the entire piece using just your picking hand. As you play, focus your eyes on your picking hand. This is a 'Division Drill" where you are dividing your hands. In this part of the drill, you are just looking at your picking hand. The fretting hand is not even touching the guitar.

This is harder than it may sound. Without the fretting hand to guide the picking hand, some players just get entirely lost as to what they are playing and what string is next. If this happens to you, it's perfectly normal. Especially at first. it may take a few times through just to play a few bars. Its ok if you just make it a few bars in to the piece.

The point of this drill is to focus entirely on your picking hand. Watch for

1.)Is my picking hand centered on the bridge as I play or is it drifting up and down depending on what string I'm going to strike?

2.)Am I covering the entire bridge with my palm mute? Or are the high strings uncovered at some points?

3.)What is my pick angle like? Is it changing without my having realized it?

4.)Are my transitions between strings as smooth as I want?


It's a way to isolate issues with your picking hand. Don't spend more than 10 minutes or so on this. It should be just a quick test of your picking hand. It's a handy test for any piece you are working on to find out if your picking hand is doing what you want it to do

Let me know what you think!

Todd

Posted by: MisterM Apr 4 2022, 04:04 PM

Hi Todd

Thank you very much for the time you give me.
Gab also gave me advice on precision.
Hard to keep focus on these details......

I tried play with right hand only... it's very hard... it's not for me ...
At present, I need confidence, I keep focus on things that I can play I hope that you undestand.

My reference is "RUSTIX take" - He is not very smiling .... but his right hand is incredible. Perfect playing !!!
10 years I play a new. I 'm 51 years old, I accept my bad technic, I would never be a shredder.
Improve it need more and more time and work.

Nevertheless I'm proud of me. I reached the goal of 130 BPM.
As often I start without asking myself any questions. Maybe I'll won maybe I'll lose.
It's a new victory for me. I still work 10 days but it will be difficult to do better.

Posted by: Todd Simpson Apr 4 2022, 11:29 PM

Impressive work!! You improve with every video. Don't worry about the right hand only drill. It's just a drill to help focus on the right hand. It's quite difficult and if it's not helping, then it's not worth it. Keep it in mind for later on if you get stuck on a picking sequence, it can help sort the right hand.

Your finger/fret control is increasing as is your precision. I think id say you are a shredder right now after watching this video

Todd

Posted by: MisterM Apr 10 2022, 06:35 PM

Hi Sarge

I can't make better.
One week that I try to improve but it's more speed for me.
It's a race against time.
My natural speed for this lesson with no warm-up is 70/80.
I need Warm up 40 mn to can play 130 BPM.


I 'll need submit on REC Section.
What do you think about this rec ?

Posted by: Todd Simpson Apr 10 2022, 11:29 PM

I start hearing some issues around 7 seconds in to the vid. Your fretting fingers are searching for the landing and it's quite tricky to make adjustments at this speed. You are doing a great job on a very very tricky piece of music imho.

Your fret hand position is a bit compromised from the simple fact that you have trained your body to play "side saddle" instead of using classical position. As this is a based on a classsical style of play, the hand arch provided by the angle created by sitting in classical position gives a natural advantage. however, if you switched, it would take a bit of time to get used to it and take advantage of the natural angle of play. For now, side saddle is just getting in your way imho

Related to that, the angle of the neck is to low imho which is also compromising your fret hand. if you raise the angle of the neck up a bit, it will allow your fret hand to find a more natural position. This is usually done by placing the left foot on a classical foot rest which allows the most efficient angle possible for the neck and thus for the fretting hand. There is a reason that classical players hold the instrument the way that they do. For most playing, any position is ok. For playing at or near the limits of one's ability, especially if playing something semi classical or neoclassical, the physical advantage of classical position with a elevated foot rest is hard to beat.

Also, please remind me again of what type of pick you are using? Something as small as pick choice can have a huge impact on a piece like this.

In addition, have we ever talked about practicing very tricky passages using the thumbless technique? Is resets the pressure on the fingers allowing much quicker response since they are freed from the fulcrum created by the thumb. I'm not suggesting recording in this manner. Just using it to practice fast bits to find out the minimum finger pressure required. Then put the thumb back in.

I started out playing side saddle myself. I hit the same speed barrier. I had to make some adjustments and I came up with thumbless technique out of necessity. in the end it all came together to help me break through.

Posted by: MisterM Apr 11 2022, 09:19 AM

Hi sarge

I am aware of all these obstacles. It's very hard to correct them.
A week ago, this lesson seemed easier to me. I had time to work twice a day.
In recent days I have had less time and I admit I have lost confidence.
130BPM stresses me out, last week I was more relaxed. I will do 2 workouts a day.

I have already practiced exercises without the thumb, I will try again.
The angle of the guitar is comfortable for me, I don't really calculate its position, it is however higher than my usual position.

My picks are these /

Posted by: Todd Simpson Apr 12 2022, 04:24 AM

The pick is something much easier to change. Thick picks with no flex are ideal for this type of work and you have chosen well for this The one problem I see is that neither pick has a beveled edge nor a sharp point. For most playing, these would be more than fine. For pushing the boundaries near the limits, I think you can get a lot of benefit from a beveled edge and a sharp pointy tip on your pick. this makes traversing strings easier and reduces recovery time between pick strikes.

Pretty much any pick with a beveled edge and pointy tip, made of hard material, 1.0 mm or thicker will do the trick. If there is a music store near you, you can grab some there. If you need to order online, you have tons of options.

I'm a fan of the Vpick switchblade and the mathias guitars impaler among others. The bevel on the edge of these picks is what makes them so great. Without a bevel on the edge, you lose a bit of speed when changing strings. The sharp point is the last bit that comes in to play and it's a game changer imho.

Changing your playing position is a much bigger change. Probably way to much to do on short notice. But getting a new pick is very doable

This is one of the threads on picks we did a bit back with links, pix etc.
https://www.guitarmasterclass.net/guitar_forum/index.php?showtopic=62191

just for reference, her is a picture of a beveled edge pick with a pointy tip. it's the vpick black hole which is a switchblade with a hole in it for grip.

Posted by: MisterM Apr 12 2022, 05:10 AM

Hi Sarge.

Thank you for advices.
I ordered 6 "ernie ball prodigy".
I will make a feedback.

Have a nice day.

Posted by: Todd Simpson Apr 12 2022, 11:30 PM

good call!! Looks like a great pick. Ticks all the boxes, no flex, beveled edge, sharp point. It may take a bit o getting used to but once you get the hang of it, I'm very interested to see what you think. once I started using this type of guitar pick, I never went back to the rounded tip kind. At speed, rounded picks feel like trying to play guitar with your arm wrapped in wet laundry

Posted by: MisterM Apr 14 2022, 03:20 PM

Hi Todd.

Today I found a positive attitude.
In the past few days, I have questioned myself because all these failures have done me a lot of moral harm.

I searched for a long time for a more suitable preset.
I recorded my takes at 80/90/100 etc...
I listened to each of them before recording a faster one.

Today my maximum speed was 124 BPM. I didn'tt want to increase because it would have been another failure.
I prefer to stay on a victory and start again tonight or tomorrow.

I played with my new pick. Not easy yesterday, Today it's better.
What do you think about this take ?
Tone and playing ?

Posted by: Todd Simpson Apr 15 2022, 04:58 AM

This is much better! I can see that the new pick is really making a difference. Sometimes something very small can make a big difference. Having a sharp point and a beveled edge can really help when playing at high speed. I can tell that your precision has increased a bit and that your muting is sounding stronger as well. I can see you have clearly put in a lot of time on this piece. It gets better just about every time I see you play it.

I gotta say I think you have made huge progress and have every reason to be proud of yourself. This is a very complicated piece of music and you are ripping through it like a knife through hot butter. You got this!!!

Sarge

Posted by: MisterM Apr 18 2022, 10:14 AM

Hi Sarge

Thank you. I keep hard work.
Yesterday and this morning, I played full BPM after 20 min warm up.
Some section need a work about palm muting and alternate picking.
I should update tomorrow if it's a good day for me.

Posted by: Todd Simpson Apr 18 2022, 09:06 PM

Please do It's always good to isolate tricky sections. Break them apart and please do share them with me I'm happy to take a look and see if I can offer anything to help.

Sarge

Posted by: Manu RASSE Jun 8 2022, 06:50 AM

Hi Sarge

To keep motivation I learn "https://www.guitarmasterclass.net/ls/w-a-mozart-turkish-march/" by Emir Hot since 20 days.
The target speed is 145 BPM. I'm not looking for that speed because it's crazy.
I play slowly every day. Currently I try to play cleanly at 100 BPM.
I'm not regular because my right arm is still not cured.
I am being treated by shock wave like the left arm, but the healing is longer.
There are days when it hurts too much to play.
I keep hope but I feel like I'm regressing day after day.

I should try to make a take 100/110 BPM soon to show you my progress.
I dont't learn last licks. After 2"26 licks are more complexe for me.

Have a nice day

Posted by: Todd Simpson Jun 8 2022, 07:21 AM

Id love to see your progress video! One great thing to take from his video is notice how little finger pressure he is using to fret, and notice how little picking pressure he is using to pick. This is often the difference between hitting a speed mark. Playing with as little pick and fret pressure as one can manage in order to play a bit faster and more fluidly. it's an instinct to tense up but it can be overcome.

I hope your recovery is quick as possible!!


Sarge

Posted by: Manu RASSE Jun 10 2022, 06:30 AM

Hi Sarge

I focus on these points.
At the moment I still have some problems with some licks that are not natural for me.
Above 100BPM I make mistakes on certain sequences that are similar.
I have to stay calm and not be in too much of a hurry to want to play fast.

Tomorrow I'm in Holliday. I have a lot of work in my house but I should play guitar more that usually.

Have a nice day.

Posted by: Todd Simpson Jun 10 2022, 11:54 PM

It's normal to want to push the speed and normal to get a bit tight/tense when playing fast. There are many ways to fight against this. one way is to play a scale that you know very well, a typical 3 note per string scale like A Minor, and focus on staying calm and playing as easy as you can, while gently bumping the metronome. You'll find the spot where you want to tense, up, that is the area to focus on. once you have trained your body not to tense, you can apply it to just about anything you want to play It usually results in a huge speed increase as well. it certainly did with me .

Posted by: Manu RASSE Jun 22 2022, 04:22 PM

Hi Sarge

First REC - WORK 110 BPM
Hard to keep focus because long lesson and repetitive pattern.
I don't press too hard on the strings also I try to relax the thumb and index finger on the right hand but it's not easy.

Posted by: Todd Simpson Jun 23 2022, 12:42 AM

You are doing great on this piece!! I can tell you are using less fingers pressure which is great. The less pressure you use, the more stamina you will gain. On a piece like this it's very helpful since there is no pause in this type of music. Your hand will get very tired and start missing notes if you use too much pressure. I notice the run that ended at 2:02 sounded like maybe one note didn't get struck/fretted? It's a pretty minor thing at this point.

is your sharper/thick pick helping you to use less pick hand pressure?

Let me know when you are going to put this up for grading!!


Todd

Posted by: Manu RASSE Jun 23 2022, 05:22 AM

Hi Sarge.

I got used to playing with the new pick. I think it helps me.
however I still have this problem. I can't stay focused on my thumb.
Sometimes he moves sometimes he is rigid.
When I play slowly it's better but as soon as I speed up I lose concentration.
It's frustrating.

I wouldn't submit it to the REC because I don't learn the last 3 licks.
I remain lucid, 145 BPM will be too hard with my bad right hand technique.

I play this lesson to continue the practice.
I realize that the guitar is becoming less important day by day.
Sometimes I don't play for several days which never happened to me before.

Posted by: Todd Simpson Jun 28 2022, 08:14 AM

Im sorry to hear the guitar is not as important as it used to be? What has changed? You are one of the most avid students I've ever seen?

As for your thumb, it's OK to let it do what it wants to do as long as it doesn't get in the way of your playing. I found that having a hole in the center of my guitar pick helps me keep the thumb centered. You can drill/burn a hole in the middle of any plastic pick. It's a quick easy way to keep it centered


Todd

Posted by: Manu RASSE Jul 25 2022, 02:47 PM

Hi Sarge.

I found some motivation.
Right now my arms are getting better, that’s encouraging.

I play again every day. I avoid full alternate picking lessons because they irritate my tendons.
Actually I learn "STRAIGHT ROCK".
I made a take for Kris to show him the problems I have with the kick on the beat.
I should work more on it however I'm proud to play this one at full speed.

Posted by: Todd Simpson Jul 26 2022, 04:43 AM

This is top notch!! Great playing on this one IMHO. I think it's ready for REC. Your vibrato is the highlight of it. Well done!!

Posted by: Manu RASSE Jul 26 2022, 05:57 AM

Hi Sarge

Thank you for feedback
I still work some days, I should like relax my playing a little bit.

Posted by: Todd Simpson Jul 27 2022, 03:14 AM

Thats often the key to speeding up. It seems odd but playing with as little pressure and tension as possible is often the key to breaking the speed barrier

Posted by: Manu RASSE Aug 3 2022, 03:41 PM

Hi Todd.

You are the fisrt to see this take.
I think that I should post to REC SECTION.

The new pick works well, I manage to hold it at my fingertips without too much pressure.
I think I have made progress on the flexibility of my thumb. It's not very visible yet but it works well on the final licks.
I'm aware that Guido's music is much more expressive but I'm already very proud of this take.

I'm waiting for your impression before putting it on the REC.

Posted by: Todd Simpson Aug 4 2022, 12:43 AM

EDIT: I saw it's posted in REC! I'll put in my own review of it Killer job!!

Wow!! Very impressive work here. Your vibrato is expressive and works well in every spot imho. Also you have very clean and authoritative pick striking. It's not hesitant or weak. Glad that the new pick is working Just one small change like a new type of pick, or different type/thickness of strings, or the way the fretting hand thumb is used, can make a big difference.

I think this one is ready and I've watched it several times over the course of the day and come back to it to make sure my ears were fresh and each time it's still impressive.

at :40 your vibrato is as good as I've ever seen, controlled, musical. Nice!

NAILED IT!!!

Todd




quote name='Manu RASSE' date='Aug 3 2022, 10:41 AM' post='799910']
Hi Todd.

You are the fisrt to see this take.
I think that I should post to REC SECTION.

The new pick works well, I manage to hold it at my fingertips without too much pressure.
I think I have made progress on the flexibility of my thumb. It's not very visible yet but it works well on the final licks.
I'm aware that Guido's music is much more expressive but I'm already very proud of this take.

I'm waiting for your impression before putting it on the REC.


[/quote]

Posted by: Manu RASSE Aug 4 2022, 05:03 AM

Hi Sarge,

Thank you for feedback and for taking the time to analyze.
I’m glad my vibrato is improving. It helps me a lot in timing.

I sent Kris a private message.
I just saw his answer, he approves the presentation to the REC.

Now, the critics I hope will not be too harsh.