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Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Mar 25 2012, 08:41 AM

Hello man! this is your training ground, so let's see

Can you please tell me on what level you are with all the techniques you would like to develop? After knowing this, I can better direct you towards good practice

Cosmin

Posted by: Amitai Kedmi Mar 25 2012, 02:34 PM

Hey Cosmin! First off, thank you so much!
Second, I am familliar to AP and Sweep Picking, however my Sweeping is very weak, and kind of Avarage on the AP area.
With Sweeping, I can hit the notes on time and also make the pulloffs\hammerons on time and make them sound, but slow and
robotic like, I would like to make this a second nature
As for the Alterante Picking, I do this as a regular basis, but never improved. I need to be more precise and faster, mainly to nail
faster licks for Fusion~JazzRock soloing.

I would also like to develop my legato playing and tapping, but I think I am getting ahed of myself.


-Amitai

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Mar 25 2012, 08:39 PM

Hey man! Let's focus on sweeping and AP for starters - legato and tapping go hand in hand, so I think that after we first gain some ground with the first two we can go on with the other two

Tell me what sort of tempo feels relaxed for you in AL and sweep? Can you perform at that tempo for long?

Cosmin

Posted by: Amitai Kedmi Mar 25 2012, 09:13 PM

Okay.
AP and 2 string Sweep Picking is about 95-100BPM when picking 16th notes.
3 string Sweep Picking is about 80-85BPM. (Haven't got to more than 3 string Sweep picking)
That's about it.

Thanks,

Amitai.

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Mar 25 2012, 09:19 PM

Hey again Amitai! Check this out I got an uber lesson from Ben, which focuses on picking arpeggios:
http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/ls/Picking-Arpeggios/ it'll work the hell out of your right hand and it'll help coordination BIG TIME. Why don't you try and push this one, as fast and clean as possible? Let me know about your impressions at first glance

Cosmin

Posted by: Amitai Kedmi Mar 25 2012, 11:05 PM

Alright, here's my take.
Please don't mind the sound, I just got Guitar Rig 5 and still having trouble.
By the way, I'm playing on a Gibson Les Paul Standart modded by Larry Corsa.

http://soundcloud.com/amitaik/picking-arpeggios

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Mar 26 2012, 07:58 AM

Hey mate! This sounds very good!! Now, this can be transformed into an awesome right hand exercise if sped up and played clean can you place let's say 15 BPM over the original tempo and work against a metronome? If you can record it, t'would be awesome!

Posted by: Amitai Kedmi Mar 26 2012, 10:30 AM

Thanks!
Alright, this time at 120 BPM.
Not perfect but I think it's okay.

http://soundcloud.com/amitaik/picking-arpeggios-120-bpm

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Mar 27 2012, 07:04 PM

Not bad mate, but there are a few hick-ups here and there, but you can do better let's see another take after you have practiced the shifts with your left hand only against the metronome at the desired speed add the right hand after that and let's see what we get

Deal?

Cosmin

Posted by: Amitai Kedmi Mar 28 2012, 02:16 PM

Okay (:
I'll practice some more and make another take.
And...! I have a question.
Can I send you something I recorded and you'll give me your opinion? Thanks.

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Mar 29 2012, 01:01 AM

hey man, sure, let's see

Cosmin

Posted by: Amitai Kedmi Mar 30 2012, 05:23 PM

Hey Cosmin! Thanks, I will record both the task and the part I wrote in a few days.
I will be over at my friends house until Tuesday so I won't be able to do it until then,
but I'll have my guitar because we have band rehearsals. So I will have time to practice and work on the task you gave me (:


Have a nice weekend.

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Mar 31 2012, 02:57 PM

You too mate! Godspeed and I'll be here when you return

Cosmin

Posted by: Amitai Kedmi Apr 16 2012, 06:20 PM

Hey Cosmin, I'm back. Haven't played seriously for about 2 weeks or so, so I'm a bit rusty.
Recorded this 2nd 120BPM take for Ben's lesson 'Picking Arpeggios'.

How have you benn anyways?

Amitai


http://soundcloud.com/amitaik/picking-arpeggios-120bpm-2nd

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Apr 17 2012, 10:04 AM

Hey man! Things are good here just celebrated Easter with my family and now it's back to work!

Mate, the take is not bad, but please take care to tune up your guitar and try to have the same dynamic for each note this is fairly tricky as the tone is clean and the fluctuations are easier to spot

Anyway, I would also like you to start working on this one: http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/solo-guitar/alternate-picking-thirds/

Picking intervals is always a popular choice in soloing and thirds are usually the best to start with - how a bout this drill mate?

Cosmin

Posted by: Amitai Kedmi May 1 2012, 10:34 AM

http://soundcloud.com/amitaik/alternative-picking-thirds

Hey Cosmin, how are you?

Here is my first take for Muris's lesson, Alternative Picking - Thirds.
BPM is at 80.

Thank you and have a nice day

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu May 2 2012, 03:03 PM

Hey Amitai! Long time no see mate well, for a first take it's clean and pretty tight with a few exceptions where you tend to give it a shuffle feel keep up the constant timing and you'll be there

Can you record it against the backing track?

Cosmin

Posted by: Amitai Kedmi May 2 2012, 06:33 PM

Do you mean Muris's backing track? the 100BPM one?
I guess I can record it but at 100BPM it will be kinda sloppy.
I'll try and post it.

Thanks,
Amitai

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu May 4 2012, 09:07 AM

Hey Amitai, take your time man first, use a slower version of the backing track while recording, k? Just to get the feel of working with a rhythmic support while you're tracking your guitar let me know how it feels and when you got a take at the slowest pace available with the backing tracks, place it here

Cosmin

Posted by: Amitai Kedmi Apr 30 2013, 10:52 PM

Hey Cosmin, I'm bumping this since I have moved back to my old place after a few months of traveling.
So now I have the time, and after you made that video about becoming a better lead guitarist, I knew you
could help me a lot more.

If you have the time, I'd love to continue this journey.


Amitai.

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu May 1 2013, 12:59 PM

Heheheey Welcome back little buddy! Sure thing Let me know what you are currently working on and i will answer using videos because it's a lot easier to talk and demo things with the guitar rather than write!

Posted by: Amitai Kedmi May 1 2013, 01:22 PM

Well first, I came back last night really late, and saw your video response.
So I played a little with inspiration from you (first singing and then trying to find it on the fretboard).
https://soundcloud.com/amitaik/cosmins-wise-words
Please ignore any rhythmical issues, it was really late and I was drunk.

Second, I am trying to work on my creative writing and composing, aswell as lead technique and understanding
guitar licks theoretically. I would love some guidance.

Thank you very much,
Amitai.

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu May 1 2013, 03:15 PM

Hey man, this sounds promising and I have the following idea let's establish a chord progression and create a dialogue, you play a phrase and I play one. The rule is - sing it first and then play and record. After recording and being satisfied with the result, we analyze and say to each other what we played ok?

Posted by: Amitai Kedmi May 1 2013, 05:23 PM

Sounds great. Just to start it off, I'll be first.

6/4, 120BPM.

 Phrasing_with_Cosmin_1___120BPM_Backing.mp3 ( 1.37MB ) : 113

 Phrasing_with_Cosmin_1___First_Phrase.mp3 ( 1.37MB ) : 122

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu May 2 2013, 12:38 PM

Very nice mate - I'll cook up something and post tomorrow morning

Posted by: Amitai Kedmi May 5 2013, 01:37 PM

Hey Cosmin!

Well for now, here's something I recorded while playing with intervals on the first mode.
 Sixths.mp3 ( 2.97MB ) : 137

Would also appreciate it a lot if you could recommend me a lesson about rock/blues phrasing, and right using of the pentatonic positions.

Thank you!

Amitai.

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu May 5 2013, 01:54 PM

Hey man! I'm delaying a bit on the recording of that phrase - it's Easter here and we are celebrating this weekend (Most likely I'll record on Tuesday). But, my most heartfelt recommendation for you, regarding the blues/ rock lessons are definitely the ones our former fellow instructor Mate Nagy wrote for GMC - let's start with this one - it's got groove and it needs great control over the bends and vibrato!

http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/ls/Angus-Attitude-Blues/

What do you say, my friend?

Cosmin

PS: The recording showcases a great atmospheric idea! I definitely like it, but tell me, what do you mean by the first mode? Because it doesn't sound Ionian to my ears

Posted by: Amitai Kedmi May 6 2013, 09:58 AM

Hey Cosmin, happy Easter!

I will definetaly try that one.

And about the recording, you are right.
The "Rhythm" guitar is played on the Ionian mode (playing sixth and seventh pairs), and for the rest,
it's a combination of the Ionian and the Aeolian.
And thank you

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu May 6 2013, 09:41 PM

Hey buddy Here's what came to my head - after playing it, I realized that my aim (subconsciously) was to hit E or B notes whenever the riff changed to one of those chords. Tried to be as laid back as possible, in order to keep a smooth bluesy atmosphere.

Posted by: Amitai Kedmi Jan 27 2014, 12:45 AM

Hey Cosmin!
How are you?

I'm back once again, after six months being away from home, only had my classical guitar.
I didn't have much time to practice, but I did play almost daily for about an hour.
Now I'm back home hopefully for atleast a few months. First thing I did was taking a look around GMC
and looking for good acoustic lessons. Since I only had my classical guitar, I got a bit into fingerstyle playing.

Began the Brazilian Choro lesson a few days ago. Playing it all day and all night, it's an amazing lesson!
http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/ls/Brazilian-Choro/

I'd like to tackle it and play it full speed, including the last bit with the diminished arpeggios!
I can upload a video (haven't got my little studio set up yet, but I can record it with my shitty laptop) if you wish.
I have a serious problem understanding the diminished arpeggios timing.

So yeah! It's awesome to back. And if you have the time to help me, I'd be super glad!
Got motivation and ambitions

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Jan 27 2014, 12:40 PM

Hello and welcome back Amitai!

I would be glad to help out - so please show me where the problem is Note that I don't know any classical guitar technique - especially in respect to the right hand and I can only tell you what doesn't sound right or in good timing But let's give things a shot!

How is life going, man?

Posted by: Amitai Kedmi Jan 27 2014, 04:43 PM

Hey!
Everything is great. Home feels good.
Hows Romania? I'm going to be there in four months, meeting up with friends that are traveling the area, then going to Germany through Hungary and Austria.

And for the classical guitar technique, I don't mind. I would like to add on to my current theory knowledge, and make it more practical.
I'd like to compose (not classical tunes, more jazz and indie/folk), and understand it. I don't want to play around, stop myself on something
specific, say "Hey! That's good!" if I won't understand why it's good.

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Jan 28 2014, 08:35 AM

Hehe! Good choice man I am pretty much the same - trying to borrow from everywhere, understand everything, but use only what I really like. Well, in the mean time, I am waiting for your recording and if you wish, maybe we can meet up when you arrive here in Romania - what do you say? We can make a pic for GMC

Posted by: Amitai Kedmi Jan 28 2014, 11:07 AM

Well I think I got the "Brazilian Choro" under control hehe. I got the diminished part timing right, it's just super fast so I'm pacing myself.
I'll work on it a bit more, then I'll post a recording.

In the mean time, I'd like to get guidance on the theory=>practical theory part.
I know modes, not really good, but I know how to build them.
I'd like to have modes as a second nature. So I can play them fluently and understand them better.
So if we can begin with that it'd be super. I don't really know what else should I mention. Maybe arpeggios?

And yeah! If we'll be somewhere near Bucharest I'll be sure to let you know!

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Jan 29 2014, 10:47 AM

Hey there mate

I know what you mean and I will help out as best I can. The whole thing that you need to master, is the relationship between notes and chords. That's basically what modes are all about - first step Watch the replay of this video chat here: http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/guitar_forum/index.php?s=&showtopic=39243&view=findpost&p=671081

After this, please follow these steps:

- record 7 modal vamps (simple modal progressions - do you know how?) - one for each mode
- use the concepts in the video chat replay over each vamp on ONE string - basically at this step I want you to play the characteristic scale degree of each mode against that modal progression so that you may get acquainted with the flavor of the mode.

The characteristic scale degree is that particular note in each mode that gives it its flavor. Let me know if I am too fast, ok?

Cosmin

Posted by: Amitai Kedmi Jan 29 2014, 06:43 PM

Hey Cosmin.

I've watched it, great stuff!
I think I understand. So I need to use a diatonic chord progression that revolves around a chord that represents
a mode.

So I'm using a G root note (Ionian).
If I want to do a Dorian modal vamp, I can play 2-5-1 |Am|Am|D|G|. Is that right?
Then play the Dorian scale on one string?

*So I gave it a shot, playing G Dorian on the first string, with one finger.
It was hard because I haven't got my full set up yet, so playing on my classical guitar, which doesn't have markings.
https://soundcloud.com/amitaik/g-dorian-1st-string

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Jan 30 2014, 08:41 AM

Yes mate! Haha - great ideas - I think you nailed it totally I'm so glad - the situation you described is best noted as:

i IV VII as you are regarding it in an A Dorian context rather than ii V I judging it by the functions of the chords in the G major scale context - of course for the Am D G progression

What do you think so far?

Posted by: Amitai Kedmi Jan 30 2014, 11:17 AM

I think that it's pretty amazing. After a few minutes of playing I think I know the Dorian scale on the first string better than I ever have

But isn't it more confusing that way?
I mean, I know that when talking about a major scale, from the root note -
I - maj7
II - m7
III - m7
IV - maj7
V - 7
VI - m7
VII - dim
I understood why I-IV-VII, every chord is taken one "step" back when talking about the 2nd mode.
If I wanted to play this progression on the Phrygian it would be VII-III-VI wouldn't it?
And if I play with someone, when he says B Phryigian VI-III-II, its actually |Gmaj7|D7|Cmaj7|?

You also said, unless intending to do so, to avoid finishing phrases on the 4th and the 7th, because they are suspension notes.
If I'm playing the Dorian scale, is it the same with the 4th and 7th, or 3rd and 6th, or not the same at all?

And one more question. Should I play all the modes in a parallel way?
Like you said in the lesson. If I said G Ionian, I should have also played the G Dorian, G Phrygian and so on...?

Thanks! Going to work, afterwards I'll tackle the rest of the dorian strings

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Jan 31 2014, 08:31 AM

Hey mate - everything is correct up to the question regarding the VI III II - you also need the i - that means the B chord. Otherwise, you will not be able to tell the nature of the progression. Most of the times, a modal progression begins with the chord derived from the scale step that dictates the mode. That would mean that this progression should look more like this: i VI III II or even better i II VI III

Regarding the tension It is more of an interval knowledge question - there are intervals which can solve phrases in a very fluid way or others which can create more tension and not release the phrase at all - I recommend you to read this thread for more ideas on the matter:

http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/guitar_forum/index.php?showtopic=48905&st=0#entry644329

And yes, try the modes in the parallel but also in the derivative way In that way, you will become even more knowledgeable I am SO glad you understand these things Really!!

Posted by: Amitai Kedmi Feb 2 2014, 02:09 AM

Hey Cosmin, how was your weekend? Or is it not over yet?
Our week starts on Sunday, so mine is unfortunaly over

It confuses me. If I'm playing 7 different modal vamps, what differs them from one another if they should start with the "nature of the progression" meaning the root notes chord? I don't really know if I'm sure how to make 7 different modal vamps.

It's a bit much, I'm sure you know. 6 different string, 7 different modes, parallel, derivative. I think I'll just begin with the first few
modes, in a parallel way, string by string. What do you think?

I'll try and upload some takes tomorrow, or in 2 days.

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Feb 2 2014, 09:26 AM

Brooooo Take it easyyy This is not something that you achieve over night

For instance - famous Dorian progression found in Michael Jackson's 'Billie Jean': Em F#m Gmaj F#m

This progression is a typical E Dorian progression - that means it has D major as a mother scale - try it on

Starting as you stated is very good - no rush, give yourself time to assimilate - you've seen how nice it goes

Let's hear the recordings

Posted by: Amitai Kedmi Feb 3 2014, 02:44 AM

Hey Cosmin.

Yeah you're right, I need to take my time with that.

I still have some questions.

-A modal vamp must revolve around the modes note? And begin with it? Meaning G Ionian, A Dorian, D Mixolydian etc...

-I tried to come up with a Locrian modal vamp, everything sounds.. uhm.. odd? I like diminished chords in the end of a progression,
not in the beginning of it. Can you give me an example of a Locrian modal vamp?

-And generally, when playing on one string, in a derivative way, when I'm switching modes I'm still playing the same intervals,
which are in the same place, only now referring to my new "base note"?
I mean I played G Ionian on the 1st string, and then played A Dorian on the 1st string. It looks the same, doesn't it? Just needs
to be handled differently?

Thanks!

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Feb 3 2014, 09:12 AM

Hey man

Let's take things at a time:

1) Yes, usually if you want a modal vamp, it's common to use the chord derived from the mode's first note in the beginning.

2) Sure thing - there's a trick here Start with a m7b5 type chord as it's mellower than the diminished

I recommend this lesson for a good example regarding vamps: http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/rhythm-guitar/modes-and-chords-lesson/

3) EXACTLY Phrase by highlighting the characteristic scale degree of each mode over the afferent progression and things will fall into place.

I like your questions - it shows you are really paying attention to details and you are interested in learning for real! Keep rocking, man!

Posted by: Amitai Kedmi Feb 4 2014, 04:08 AM

Hey Cosmin!

I don't know why, but I only played the first three strings, on the first three modes.
I feel that I need to understand the meaning of "highlighting the characteristic of different modes".

So I recorded myself playing a little over a B Phrygian vamp, with one finger, starting with the 1st string, then moving up to the 2nd string. I also recorded myself playing the Brazilian Choro lesson by Andre Nieri, over the slowest backing track he provided, 95BPM.
I know I have timing issues, mainly because my fingers are still adjusting to that style of playing. And of course the diminished arpeggio part, which I'm getting better at, but still screwing it up

https://soundcloud.com/amitaik/brazilian-choro-95bpm
*I'm practicing it on a slower tempo than that.

https://soundcloud.com/amitaik/b-phrygian-1st-2nd-string

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Feb 4 2014, 09:25 AM

Mate - the B Phrygian sounds amazing, BUT it doesn't sound Phrygian Can you please tell me what chords you used and what notes you aimed for? This is exactly the best example we need to discuss in order for you to understand how to highlight the characteristics of modes

The Choro is well interpreted and I can see you have a nice feeling for this sort of music, but it needs time I guess, in order to come out perfectly.

Posted by: Amitai Kedmi Feb 4 2014, 10:15 AM

I played over B Phrygian i IV VII III VII |BM|EM|AM|D|G|.
And yeah, that's why I said that I'm trying to understand what's going on. It's confusing.
The notes I played are B C D E F# G A.

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Feb 5 2014, 09:04 AM

Bro B Phrygian means: B C D E F# G A B - having G major as a the mother scale What is B major doing there? If you harmonize the B Phrygian mode - you get Bm Cmaj Dmaj Em F#dim Gmaj Am

The i IV VII III VII progression is actually i iv vii III vii that means Bm Em Am Dmaj Am Try these chords and play by emphasizing the B and C notes

Posted by: Amitai Kedmi Feb 6 2014, 04:34 AM

Hey Cosmin! Good morning.

I thought about a solution to me not quite understanding the way the Phrygian is supposed to sound.
So I went to youtube, typed Phrygian and saw a video there of someone playing it. I think I got it.

It really reminded me of something Arabic/minor harmonic. So I quickly recorded a middle easternish progression.
It was all done very quickly since I was half asleep already. So consider this when you listen (after I uploaded it I realized the timing on some
parts was terrible). But I guess the handling of the Phrygian is more important here than timing haha

https://soundcloud.com/amitaik/b-phrygian-2
The first part is played with one finger, on the 1st string.
The second part is played with one finger, on the 2nd string.
On the last part I just did whatever I wanted at the time.

As for your last message -
I actually ment i iv vii III vi. But anyways I couldn't play over it with a Phrygian feel, it wasn't right for it.

And about the progression you suggested - Dmaj is D major 7 right? And if so why is it there? Isn't it supposed to be D or D7?
From what I know, G Ionian - G Am Bm C D Em F#dim G,
so wouldn't B Phrygian be - Bm C D Em F#dim G Am Bm ?


I also wanted to thank you for all your help. It isn't taken for granted. Much appreciated!

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Feb 6 2014, 10:25 AM

Hey man - no worries

Your assumptions are correct and the D major is either D major either D7 It can be both - don't forget that you can harmonize the scale, using only triads and not necessarily 7th chords.

The progression you recorded is very good and the ideas as well! You understood things but you need to be certain of what you are doing. Let me know which is the actual unknown element to you at this exact point and we shall sort it out Work on the timing to make things shine!

Posted by: Amitai Kedmi Feb 8 2014, 03:03 AM

Hey Cosmin!

What do you mean by harmonizing the scale using traids?

I think that what is still a big mystery to me is the scales characteristic itself. I'm not familiar with the different sounds of each mode, and this is exactly what we're doing here, I guess. It's easier for me to play a certain mode in a vertical way, because then I see it as a seperate scale. When I play a mode in a horizontal way, I can't ignore the fact that it's basicaly the Ionian mode. But it's a barrier I want to break through.

Should I move on to the next few modes to get a more general feel for them, or should I stick with the first couple to get a more complete understanding of them? There's time and I'm not in a rush, but it frustrates me on some level

Thanks!

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Feb 8 2014, 08:16 AM

Hello Amitai

Before moving on, we need to deviate a little, by going back to harmonizing - please take a look over these lessons here:

http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/ls/Triads_in_Major_Scale_Series_Part_1/
http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/ls/Triads_in_Major_Scale_Series_Part_2/
http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/ls/Triads_in_Major_Scale_Series_Part_3/

Posted by: Amitai Kedmi Feb 10 2014, 01:43 AM

Hey Cosmin!

Been working on what you gave me. I like it.
It seems like it wouldn't be as useful to harmonize with the inversions as with the regular 1-3-5 traids.
https://soundcloud.com/amitaik/triads-lesson-1
1-3-5

https://soundcloud.com/amitaik/triads-lesson-2
1st inversion.

https://soundcloud.com/amitaik/triads-lesson-3
2nd inversion.

I also recorded a first take on one of your lessons, Fairy's Dance.
https://soundcloud.com/amitaik/fairys-dance

Thanks!

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Feb 10 2014, 09:16 AM

Hey man! very proud!! You did a great job with the recordings!

Now - two things:

1) On the harmonizing lessons, have you understood WHY I wanted you to learn them?

2) On the Fairy's Dance - you need a brighter, acoustic tone if you wish to make it sound genuine and focus a bit more on the harmonics at the end, so that you make them all ring out

Posted by: Amitai Kedmi Feb 11 2014, 02:18 AM

Hey Cosmin!

So first of all, how about this?
https://soundcloud.com/amitaik/fairys-dance-take-2

Second, if I'm not wrong, triads are the most minimal way to present a chord, meaning only the basic notes a chord "needs", just the 1-3-5 I know from piano, because it's still a melody when playing 2 notes at the same time. So it's basic harmonization, Meaning instead of playing Gmaj7-Am7-Bm7-Cmaj7-D7-Em7-F#dim-Gmaj7, it would be G-Am-Bm-C-D-Em-F#dim-G, in their most simplified shapes.
So a G major ii v i would be - |A-C-E| |D-F#-A| |G-B-D|.
Is that correct?

I would also like to work on bends and vibrato. Besides all the knowledge I'm gathering in the past weeks, I'd like to
work on some technique aswell. When I try to give the bend a little vibrato and feel, it gets messed up. So I figured I need to sharpen my bending and vibrato skills.

**I've recorded something I've been working on for the past couple of days, so you can get an idea.
https://soundcloud.com/amitaik/bens-blues

Thanks!

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Feb 11 2014, 09:35 AM

Amitai, you are a sharp dude!

Good going - all the assumptions are correct and you understood the idea, now that you are clear on harmonizing, you should have no trouble with various modal progressions - once you understand the way in which a major scale is harmonized, harmonizing a mode is just the same, only that you begin from that step of the major scale on which the mode begins. That becomes the first step of that mode.

Example: you are in G major and you want to play a Phrygian progression -> You think of the B Phrygian mode (G major's 3rd step) meaning B C D E F# G A B so instead of G being I, you will have B become i (it's not noted with I, simply because after harmonization, the chord derived is a minor one not a major one)

Regarding the recordings - I like the classical vibe that the Fairy's Dance gets from using a classical guitar, but be careful in the mid part where there are two guitars recorded, as there are moments in which they are not perfectly superposed. The harmonics sound GREAT!

Regarding vibrato - it needs to be wider, man - it's too week and this is why it feels a bit strange Can you show me a little footage with your vibrato technique?

Cosmin

Posted by: Amitai Kedmi Feb 12 2014, 01:50 AM

Hey Cosmin!

https://soundcloud.com/amitaik/fairys-dance-3
Is this better?


I didn't have my tripod so it was a bit complicated, hope you can see what you need to.


Thanks!

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Feb 12 2014, 09:33 AM

Hey mate!

The Dance is ok, except for the fact that at around 0:27 - that lick sounds a bit different from what I am playing - make sure you nail it well at slow tempo and then tackle it again. Otherwise, the part before the final harmonics lick is a bit dry, but the two guitars section is in synch now. It's in the details mate You are doing a great job, but I want it perfect

Now, for the vibrato - it is too fast and it needs to be wider - it's all in the wrist motion, but to manage to get a good grasp on things, I totally recommend you to record against the original track, so that you can compare Ben's with yours in terms of wideness and tempo. Another important fact - vibrato is not something you do without any relationship to the song tempo Think about that a bit after analyzing the things stated above

Posted by: Amitai Kedmi Feb 13 2014, 01:15 AM

Hey Cosmin!

I listened to you playing Fairy's Dance, and to Ben playing Ben's Blues, and I think I learned and applied a little bit.

https://soundcloud.com/amitaik/fairys-dance-4
What do you think about that?

https://soundcloud.com/amitaik/bens-blues-2
My fingers are KILLING me! Tried putting more effort into the vibrato, and including vibrato when bending.
I also tried to incorporate vibrato into bends. I tried to keep in mind the tempo when playing vibrato, wasn't as simple as I thought.

Thanks!

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Feb 13 2014, 09:52 AM

Dude, seriously, you are a very fast learner

I think you understood things perfectly - if you compare these takes with the previous ones, you will note a great difference, in terms of 'feeling' things

I think these are good to go in the REC zone - both of them - so get some rest, shoot some vids and let's rock the REC

Cosmin

Posted by: Amitai Kedmi Feb 14 2014, 03:41 AM

Hey Cosmin!

Will do! Hopefully I'll get it done in Saturday. Meanwhile I'll keep working on the single string modes and everything we began.

Thanks!

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Feb 14 2014, 09:01 AM

Awesome, mate! Keep me posted - I think we are doing a good job here Congrats on being so dedicated and working hard!

Posted by: Amitai Kedmi Feb 15 2014, 02:52 AM

Hey Cosmin!

How should I do it?
Should I use the recordings I did and just shoot the video on top of them?
Should I do re-record them? Should I just play to the camera's mic?

Thanks!

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Feb 15 2014, 08:53 AM

Hey Amitai!

The options are the following:

1) Record against the camera mic, but that will most probably not do that much justice when we deal with the REC zone. But its a possibility, in case you can't do it in any other way. Just make sure that the volumes are adjusted and the guitar and the backing track can both be heard clearly in the recording.

2) Record both video and audio in the same time - video with the webcam and audio in a DAW and then mix them in a video editing software.

Have you had any experience working with one of those so far?

Posted by: Amitai Kedmi Feb 16 2014, 01:24 AM

Hey Cosmin!

I watched Ivan's video on audio&video recording. I'll go for recording with Cubase and my camera at the same time.
Don't have a tripod yet, having trouble finding a good place to shoot from so all of my guitar shows. I'm trying all of
these strange angles haha Hope that what I'll come up with will be fine.

I will get it done as soon as possible.

Thanks!

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Feb 16 2014, 08:26 AM

Hehe, I was ready to recommend that one if you would've encountered any trouble, but it looks like you move fast

Looking forward to seeing your vid, mate!

Posted by: Amitai Kedmi Feb 18 2014, 04:20 AM

Hey Cosmin!

I posted my REC take (http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/guitar_forum/index.php?showtopic=51388&b=1&st=0&p=0&#entry0).
I was having a hard time with it. I know I can do better, couldn't get myself to do a wider vibrato.
But I am happy with the take, I think
As for the Fairy's Dance, I think I'll postpone the REC take for a while, until I can figure out how to record with my mic will shooting a video.
I'm also continuing to practice the 1 string modes. Was wondering if I am ready for another lesson, to keep practicing my technique.

Thanks

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Feb 18 2014, 09:44 AM

Hey bro!

You did a good job so far and as I said, I have a very nice time working with you

Yes, I think we can move on with the techie stuff - how bout this one?

http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/ls/Alternate-Picking-Workout-2/

Posted by: Amitai Kedmi Feb 19 2014, 02:55 AM

Hey Cosmin!

I began playing the lesson you gave me. I like it!
https://soundcloud.com/amitaik/ap-workout-2

Thanks!

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Feb 19 2014, 08:10 AM

Dude... I think this can go straight to the REC zone Shoot a video and off ya go You are faster than the speed of light! Now, after we are done with the Fairy and this one as vids, I will challenge you

Posted by: Amitai Kedmi Feb 19 2014, 10:04 PM

Hey Cosmin!

I posted the http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/guitar_forum/index.php?showtopic=51398 and the http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/guitar_forum/index.php?showtopic=51404 REC takes.
As I said in the post itself, the Fairy's Dance was a bit complicated. I had to position myself so I can get most of the guitar in the frame and to have the mic recording well. I hope that it's good enough

I also participated in Gabriel's video chat today. It was very interesting, we did some sweep picking and AP licks.
Haven't really played sweep picking much, something that I'd like to work on in the future. For now, I'd like to focus
on what we started. So I'm ready to continue if you think I'm ready.

Thanks!

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Feb 20 2014, 07:31 AM

Hey Amitai I am viewing your takes as I am writing this and I will leave my comments there

Regarding the continuation - here's what I have in mind: http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/solo-guitar/alternate-workout/ this one is pretty difficult What do you think about it?

Posted by: Amitai Kedmi Feb 21 2014, 03:00 AM

Hey Cosmin!

Indeed a challenging lesson! I started to work on it when I practiced earlier. I think I should learn it thoroughly before I worry
about the speed. So I practiced it with the 70-80BPM backing tracks Muris provided and recorded a take for you at 90BPM.
I know the take is a bit sloppy, I am going to practice it for a while with a slower tempo.
https://soundcloud.com/amitaik/alternate-workout-90bpm

Also, in the last 10-20 minutes of each practice session I try to record a new backing track and solo over it a little.
So I uploaded today's backing track for your feedback
https://soundcloud.com/amitaik/round

Thanks!

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Feb 21 2014, 09:45 AM

Hey Amitai

I would suggest you to record against a metronome or against one of the slower backings and record like that - right now, I don't have any rhythmic landmark to be able to figure things out too well. And a reverb should suffice for now, the delay is only hindering you.

Regarding the improv - it's very nice and melodic, but I would smooth it out a bit, in respect to vibrato and the attack on some notes - it's a bit too harsh and you should focus on playing clean when you re-record. Maybe a smoother tone, as well? The ideas are very good! So all you need to do is to take care of the details now

Posted by: Amitai Kedmi Feb 21 2014, 10:52 PM

Hey Cosmin!

I'm practicing the Alternate Workout. Playing with the 80BPM backing track until I'll get only clean takes then I'll move on.
And as I mentioned, I began working a little bit on sweep picking aswell, and I found your Guthrie Govan Style Arpeggios lesson.
Here's my progress so far. I recorded it against the 100BPM backing track, which didn't load fully in Cubase. Very weird.
https://soundcloud.com/amitaik/guthrie-govan-style-arpeggios

Also here's something I did for Gabe's creativity workout. Mostly proud of the drums I wrote haha
https://soundcloud.com/amitaik/creativity-workout-21-2-14

Thanks!

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Feb 22 2014, 12:43 PM

Hey there amigo

You got the hang of those arpeggios The take could be more steady in respect to timing, but as before, if you would use the backing, I would be much more able to hear things Use the webcam sound, no problem

Now, for the creativity assignment - the tone is the primary thing here - it sounds too harsh and there's too much reverb (the riff tone is defined by the same harshness as well) and the vibrato is way to hastened and small - it should be wider.

What's the creative assignment based on, actually?

Posted by: Amitai Kedmi Feb 23 2014, 04:46 AM

Hey Cosmin!

I'll get on that. I'll also record the Alternate Workout on video.

As for the creativity workout, Basically Gabe puts up an image and we respond to it as we feel about it.
I didn't really focus on the tone or timing because I mainly focused on the idea. But you're right! Maybe I'll
perfect it a bit when I'll have the chance.

Thank you!

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Feb 23 2014, 02:20 PM

Wow Very nice idea man!

Listen You are a very talented player and I think it would be very indicated for you to start working on getting to the next level - I mean, it's a shame not to have a great tone and to work on orchestrations more and more.

Try to analyze your favorite tunes - what sort of orchestration elements do you notice? How is the drum line built? Have you taken these things into consideration until now?

Posted by: Amitai Kedmi Feb 24 2014, 01:44 AM

Hey Cosmin!

Thank you!
I have an idea. Maybe we can decide on a certain song, and I can do a mini song inspired by the songs\artists playing and writing.
What do you think? Will you choose a song? I don't care about the genre, it will be even more challenging if you pick what you want me to do.

I have also recorded myself playing the GG Style Arpeggios over 100BPM and the Alternate Workout over 80BPM.


Thanks!

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Feb 24 2014, 11:19 AM

Hey mate

Things are looking and sounding good! A few observations, if I may

- I would also like to see the right hand in action
- your whole body position will hinder you when you will have to deal with greater speeds and accuracy - you are too relaxed man I mean, relaxed in the not so good way
- your left hand fingers are moving a bit too much away from the fretboard

About the song challenge - alright We will start with something simple - 3 piece bands (bass, drums, guitars and vocals)

I'd go for Green Day



What do you think?

Posted by: Amitai Kedmi Feb 25 2014, 12:42 AM

Hey Cosmin!

I made something. It's very basic. I listened to the song and tried to take as much elements as I could.
I tried to make the bass a bit more complex and "active" as it is in the song, but it didn't go well with the guitar,
sounded awful.
Maybe I drifted away a bit from what it was supposed to be.
https://soundcloud.com/amitaik/green-day-inspired
I'm using EZDrummer for the drums, Trilian for the bass and Guitar Rig 5 for the guitars.


And do you mean I should be more energetic? If so maybe I shouldn't record after I come back from work haha

The Alternate Workout lesson is very challenging. Especially because it's an odd number of notes to pick for each arpeggio so
the picking pattern changes every time.

Thanks!

**I just played the Alternate Workout some more and I realized something that is setting me back.
When I do the
--11----------------- > ---9-----------
---------12---------- > ------11-------
----------------9----- > -----------7---
---------------------- > ----------------
---------------------- > -----------------
---------------------- > -----------------
I automatically change my left hand thumb position from high on the bridge to the middle of the bridge. Then it's like a hiccup.
Then I went to see how Muris played it. He keeps his thumb high, above the neck, with small changes.
When I tried to play it as he plays it thumb-wise the "bigger" arpeggios were harder, and my index finger had trouble getting there.
Maybe it's because of hand size differences? Should I just keep going as he does it and I'll get used to it and get better at the stretches?

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Feb 25 2014, 09:45 AM

No way man I think you did a pretty good job here - you replaced the vocal line with a guitar line, which is very good Now, can you create a full structure and make the second guitar lines in such a way that they would fit as verse and chorus themes? As I said, the idea is good but it needs to be developed into a full song

Regarding the 'relaxation' I meant that you are too laid back on your chair and that does not help with this sort of technical playing. You should sit in a position which allows focus - that's just my opinion, of course. Something like this:



I think that a lot of hand positions especially the ones in which the thumb and left hand wrist come into play, will feel a lot better, once you shift your practicing position

Posted by: Amitai Kedmi Feb 26 2014, 04:05 AM

Hey Cosmin!

I'll try and adjust my position, get something to elevate my foot and maybe a better chair for playing. I'll update when I do.

Here's a 2min version of the Green Day inspired song. I thought about making it longer but I think it's better this way.
I'm happy with this idea. I feel like I'm learning a lot.
https://soundcloud.com/amitaik/green-day-inspired-2

By the way, what happened to your video chats?

Thanks!

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Feb 26 2014, 10:53 AM

Hey bro - very nice track! I think you can make a nice edited video for this and ... congrats on your first song together

What say you? The chats - I am no longer doing them

Posted by: Amitai Kedmi Feb 27 2014, 01:06 AM

Hey Cosmin!

I think I won't do a video for this one, at least for now as I can only record with my webcam currently.

And that's too bad! I've been watching some old video chats and I liked yours. Also Darius's chats are extremely informative.

I've been working on another lesson, this time by http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/ls/jazz_funk_licks/.
https://soundcloud.com/amitaik/jazz-funk-licks
What do you think?

Thanks!

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Feb 27 2014, 09:26 AM

Thanks man Well, you might never know what the future brings

I like the recording of Stephane's lesson - nice tone and interpretation! I think you could make it a bit groovier, but that's just me - I think this style goes well with you!

Posted by: Amitai Kedmi Feb 28 2014, 03:49 AM

Hey Cosmin!

Stephane's lesson isn't a simple one for me. Lots of feel in the rhythm. I tried again.
https://soundcloud.com/amitaik/jazz-funk-licks-2

And hey, I just remembered you did a very cool take on Billy Jean in one of the video chats.
Are you planning on recording it and putting it on Youtube? I think I remember you saying something like that.

Thanks!

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Feb 28 2014, 01:11 PM

Hey bro - I like this one better indeed But watch out for 0:42 - there was a small 'hick up' there

Billy Jean.. yeah, indeed I said so I will actually perform it live for the first time in my life tomorrow evening at an acoustic gig I am being invited to be a part of I'll play my versions of Billy Jean, Three Libras (from A perfect circle) and The Best of you, by Foo Fighters. It's a charitable event held to support a vocalist's mom. He is part of a well known band here and we all teamed up from a lot of bands to perform in this concert and help out. Most likely these live versions will end up on Youtube, so I will share them here - if they don't suck, of course

Posted by: Amitai Kedmi Mar 2 2014, 02:23 AM

Hey Cosmin!

How was the gig? Are everyone satisfied with the amount that was raised?

When I played that lick in 0:42 I realized there was some automatic response from my 3rd finger.
So I played it slowly for a while, got a little control of it and tried again.
https://soundcloud.com/amitaik/jazz-funk-licks-3
What do you think?

Waiting for Youtube links for your covers!

Thanks!

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Mar 2 2014, 02:38 PM

Hehe! It all went great man - there were around 350 ppl in a fairly small venue, which is pretty much great The gig was very nice and it all went smooth - the crowd sang with me, so I think I got what I wanted Will share the links once I upload them

About the recording - yes, it's a lot better now, but I noticed something - the vibrato, mate it's too small and wobbly Notice 0:45? It needs to be smoother everywhere where it is present - deal?

Posted by: Amitai Kedmi Mar 3 2014, 02:17 AM

Hey Cosmin!

Happy to hear it went well

I know what you mean. Sometimes I can't control myself
With not much time on my hands, I did manage to record a couple of takes.
https://soundcloud.com/amitaik/jazz-funk-licks-4

Thanks!

I saw the Hasselhoff collab today and I thought to give it a shot.
So I tried to divide the progression into individual modes -
D, A, G, (Briefly returning to) A,
Bm, A, G,
Em, F#/D (or D), G, A
So D Ionian - A Mixolydian - G Lydian
B Aeolian - A Mixolydian - G Lydian
E Dorian - D Ionian - G Lydian - A Mixolydian
But the backing track itself doesn't have much time and I began rushing. So I hummed some lines and tried to implement them.
Would love some guidance on writing a solo for this. So here's a quick improv on the backing track -
https://soundcloud.com/amitaik/hasselhoff-collab

Thanks once again

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Mar 3 2014, 03:53 PM

Hey Amitai! Your groove is better, but still I would widen the vibrato! How about perfecting your technique with this lesson?

http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/ls/Beginner-Summer-Tune/

Oh and by the way - here are the recordings from the acoustic gig: http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/guitar_forum/index.php?showtopic=51504

Posted by: Amitai Kedmi Mar 3 2014, 04:27 PM

Hey Cosmin!

Your performance is so energetic! I love it! Very musical and theatrical

The lesson is great too. Piotr plays so well. I'll get on it!
And I think I missed you by a bit when editing my last post, I wrote something there about
the Hasselhoff collab. Check it out when you have the time

Thanks!

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Mar 3 2014, 05:07 PM

Thanks man Glad you liked it! Dude This is already very nice Melodic and smooth - it fits the track very well The space does not allow that much of a modal approach as you want it to, so building a nice line like this is BY FAR the winning choice - if you wanna keep it Hasselhoff till the end finish with a faster lick starting around 0:23



Thank you once again, man Piotr's lesson is JUST THE THING for you, right now, as it'll help you a lot with expression and most notably, control!

Posted by: Amitai Kedmi Mar 4 2014, 11:26 PM

Hey Cosmin!

Began working on Piotr's lesson.
I got the volume up when I played because the notes died pretty fast. After I uploaded the recording I realized that
in some points it doesn't sound good because of the high volume.
https://soundcloud.com/amitaik/beginner-summer-tune

And here's another of Piotr's lessons.
https://soundcloud.com/amitaik/jazz-blues-phrasing
Still have a lot of work on both of them. Especially the two fast licks on the second one.

As for the Hasselhoff collab -
Are you sure you meant 0:23? The backing already fades at that point.
I will try to come up with something

Thanks!

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Mar 5 2014, 12:58 PM

Hey Amitai - good work already here!

In the first one, you need to get a good grasp over a concept that involves NOT vibrating the string so quickly after hitting that note You let the note breathe and then sustain its life cycle with the vibrato. The second lesson needs a bit of polishing, here and there, but nothing alarming, just details which will be fixed once you manage to internalize it a bit more.

Regarding the potential lick at 0:23 - I was seeing it as fading with the track

Posted by: Amitai Kedmi Mar 5 2014, 09:41 PM

Hey Cosmin!

I tried to start the vibrato later. The notes still die early.
Beginner Summer Tune
https://soundcloud.com/amitaik/beginner-summer-tune-2

Worked on the faster licks a little.
Jazz Blues Phrasing
https://soundcloud.com/amitaik/jazz-blues-phrasing-2

Legato Major Scale run in the end of the take.
The Hasselhoff Collab
https://soundcloud.com/amitaik/hasselhoff-collab-2

What do you say?

Thanks!

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Mar 6 2014, 03:35 PM

Hey amigo!

Let's take things one at a time

1) Piotr's tune is better, the vibrato feels improved a bit, but watch out for bends such as the one at 0:44 - I don't like it when bends go out of pitch

2) 0:58 - great! The dynamics in this lick are very good! Watch out at 01:11 - that bend is a little bit under the pitch Why not go for a REC take with this one?

3) Swoosh! Awesomeness! I love it I really love it! Melodic and with a nice ending

Posted by: Amitai Kedmi Mar 7 2014, 02:21 AM

Hey Cosmin!

I posted the REC take http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/guitar_forum/index.php?showtopic=51531.

And the Beginner Summer Tune -
https://soundcloud.com/amitaik/beginner-summer-tune-3
I'll keep working on it.

Thanks!

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Mar 7 2014, 06:46 PM

Hey mate It's almost there - you need to interpret it a bit closer to Piotr's approach - but that's something which will come in time. In terms of execution, I don't have anything to complain about Shall we move to another one as well? I super enjoy working with you mate!

Posted by: Amitai Kedmi Mar 7 2014, 08:14 PM

Hey Cosmin!

I'll keep on practicing.
And yeah, I think i'm ready

It's a great experience for me too! And I feel like I'm making progress.
Thank you very much for your time, patience and guidance

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

The pleasure is all mine mate!

How about this one?

http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/ls/The-Voice-Of-Your-Guitar-2/

Time for some quirkier bends

Posted by: Amitai Kedmi Mar 8 2014, 10:57 PM

Hey Cosmin!

Love this lesson, a lot of expression and it's also challenging.
https://soundcloud.com/amitaik/the-voice-of-your-guitar-ii


I got sick yesterday so I'll be practicing a bit less until I get better. Will still do as much as I feel I can

Thanks!

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Mar 9 2014, 07:37 AM

Uh oh... take care mate, I hope you get well soon!

The lesson is almost there! Please try to play along with my recording, to see the interpretation details and also, focus on the bends, as there are a few which are a bit under the pitch

Otherwise, you are moving like the wind! Good work mate!!

Posted by: Amitai Kedmi Mar 12 2014, 01:15 AM

Hey Cosmin!

I am recovering... thank you.

Haven't played last few days at all, but I did play the lesson tonight and recorded it again.
You're doing a vibrato on the 2nd string 15th fret bend which I can't do with my second finger as you do. Still working on it.
https://soundcloud.com/amitaik/the-voice-of-your-guitar-ii-2

Thanks!

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Mar 12 2014, 09:33 AM

Hey Amitai, glad to hear you are feeling better Guess the odds have evened out and now my throat is killing me a bit, if I can say it like that..

Anyway, I will point out two important things

- I want your tone to sound bigger and spacier Maybe a little delay and a bit more gain for the spaciness. Right now, it's nice but a bit too intimate for what my intention with this piece really was
- Pay a bit more attention to the bends - there are a few who aren't that precise

Cosmin

Posted by: Amitai Kedmi Mar 16 2014, 12:19 AM

Hey Cosmin!

Sorry it took me a while to respond, I went to see my father for a few days.
How are you?

I'll record a new take, and I'll try to take care of the bends and tone.

Thanks

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Mar 16 2014, 08:45 AM

Hey amigo,

I am fine, my throat is clearing up and I can talk almost normally It's a very good thing you went to spend time with your dad! No worries, I'll be waiting for your takes, as usual How are you feeling?

Posted by: Amitai Kedmi Mar 17 2014, 01:06 AM

Hey Cosmin!

Glad to hear you're feeling better.
I'm feeling good, still coughing but the throat is much better and my temp is okay.

Here's the take.
https://soundcloud.com/amitaik/the-voice-of-your-guitar-ii-3

Thanks

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Mar 17 2014, 08:42 AM

Hey amigo

There are still some bends and notes which are not 100% there and there was a note which was a bit shorter than the one in the original somewhere around 0:54. I'd suggest you to play/record against the original so that you may get the feeling better. It usually helps a lot. For instance I did this when learning Pantera tunes and it really got me into the whole Dimebag groove and flow much better than if I wouldn't ve done it Deal?

Posted by: Amitai Kedmi Mar 19 2014, 11:37 PM

Hey Cosmin!

Sorry for not being active, a lot of things going on.
I will try to get it done in the next couple of days.
By the way, is the tone alright? I did add some gain and delay.

Thanks!

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Mar 20 2014, 09:16 AM

Hey man, no worries, life is happening Sometimes we want to play the guitar but it won't let us...

Anyway, I still think that the tone is too mild, it needs to be a bit more aggressive but not too much, add a little bit more gain and use your hands and ears otherwise You know that old saying, the tone is in the hands and I would add ears as well! Try to imitate my intention when playing!

Posted by: Amitai Kedmi Mar 26 2014, 05:17 PM

Hey Cosmin! How are you?

Gradually coming back to life

https://soundcloud.com/amitaik/the-voice-of-your-guitar-ii-4
I hope I got it right.

Thanks!


And I began working on Slash's Anastasia Intro. A tricky one!
https://soundcloud.com/amitaik/anastasia-intro

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Mar 27 2014, 10:47 AM

Hey Amitai! Glad to hear you are recovering, mate! I sang last evening without warming up and my voice still sounds a little raspy from that coughing I had to deal with a few weeks ago. Took advantage and sang some Alice in Chains and Chris Cornell tunes

Now, I like your approach on the Voice II - I'd be curious to see a video and take it to the REC Towards the end you rushed the phrases a bit, but it's not bad, it's a different approach.

Slash's intro - well, you are not yet fully comfy with it and if i were to place a metronome click behind it, it would sound like you are playing it with a swing feel Which is interesting but not what you aimed for, right? Please record it against a click Deal?

Posted by: Amitai Kedmi Mar 28 2014, 02:29 AM

Hey Cosmin!

I can still feel my throat and have headaches so I get you. My singing range is still affected. But it seems you took the hoarseness to a good place!

The REC take is http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/guitar_forum/index.php?showtopic=51702.

And I get what you mean. I think it's because I still had trouble with the shapes so I had trouble keeping the rhythm stable.
I did record it over a click, but I don't know how to export the click when I export the audio bit on Cubase.
I will record it again, maybe over a backing track if I can find one, when I'll be back home (Saturday).

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Mar 28 2014, 06:31 PM

Trying to make the best of it mate We have a friend who owns a very nice teahouse which is dedicated to photography. He is also a player and has a wide range of very expensive guitars and he will play alongside a part of my bandmates and some other guys in other bands in an all acoustic evening in his teahouse. Awesome experience which I can't wait for



Here ya go - a backing for you Looking forward to hear the theme over it!

Posted by: Amitai Kedmi Mar 29 2014, 11:04 PM

Hey Cosmin!

Here's the Anastasia intro. The backing track is in the original tempo so I struggled with it.
https://soundcloud.com/amitaik/anastasia-2

Also got my old amp fixed and set up last week. It sound amazing now and I'm so happy.
All the knobs were broken or not functioning well, the net was torn, it needed the attention

The amp is 15 years old and I got it from a friend of my dad that was a successful musician in the 90's, so it was on the road a lot .

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Mar 30 2014, 08:54 PM

Dude! Is that an AVT 50 from Marshall? I got the same amp between 2002 and 2012 and sold it afterwards Anastasia sounds better, a lot better like that - it could be a bit smoother but it's in good timing. There's a lot of Bach behind this theme, can you feel it?

Posted by: Amitai Kedmi Mar 31 2014, 11:25 AM

Hey Cosmin!

Good Morning!


After Todd's video chat on Saturday, in which we played some diminished licks,
I started working on Ben's lesson "Diminished Responsibility".
https://soundcloud.com/amitaik/diminished-responsibility

Thanks!

Posted by: Caelumamittendum Mar 31 2014, 03:17 PM

Can I just break in and say, I'm seeing and hearing lots of improvement in your playing following this thread, Amitai. Keep up the great work!

Sorry for barging in

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Mar 31 2014, 04:13 PM

You're always a welcome guest, Ben! And guess what - I also think this about Amitai's progress He's a continuous force!

Amitai - I like the recording, but I think it can be a little bit cleaner in playing Nothing much to add here really, aside the fact that I also like Bach and I will (hopefully enough) learn the whole Cello Suite and post a video

Posted by: Amitai Kedmi Apr 1 2014, 09:36 PM

Hey Cosmin and Ben!
Thank you both for the kind words! Put a smile on my face

Another "Diminished Responsibility" take. I'm still having trouble with the last part, I need to keep practicing on that one.
https://soundcloud.com/amitaik/diminished-responsibility-2

I'm having so much trouble involving vibrato into bends. I feel like it's physically hard for me, but I think I'm just doing it wrong.
When I try doing it it's not as smooth like it should be, and it just doesn't sound good.
Cosmin, can you maybe recommend another vibrato lesson?

Thanks!

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Apr 1 2014, 10:51 PM

Hello Amitai! As Ben stated! It's well deserved mate!

You are also doing a good job on the Diminished lesson - it's cleaner than before!

Now, for the vibrato, I would definitely go for this one: http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/ls/Bens-Vibrato-Odyssey-3/ as it treats THE EXACT subject What do you think?

Posted by: Amitai Kedmi Apr 4 2014, 07:40 PM

Hey Cosmin!

Ben's Vibrato Odyssey 3 is so hard for me. There's the pitch, and timing, and of course the vibrato. UGH!
I still can't get any of them right, but I'll keep working on it. Here's my progress so far.
https://soundcloud.com/amitaik/bens-vibrato-odyssey-iii

Here's another take of the Diminished Responsibility. I tried to involve vibrato into the 15th fret bend. I can't do the same
with the 21st fret bend, I can barely reach the correct pitch. But again, I'll keep working on that .
https://soundcloud.com/amitaik/diminished-responsibility-3

Thanks!

By the way, the amp isn't AVT50, it's Valvestate s80 (8240).

-I also began working on Megadeth's Symphony of Destruction Solo. It's a dream of mine to be able to play it .
https://soundcloud.com/amitaik/sod-solo-90bpm

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Apr 5 2014, 05:50 PM

Howdy Amitai!

Indeed, the vibrato lesson is still in the woodshed because those bends require more control - I would try the following thing: outside of the context, try to bend each note and just hold it there for 5 seconds. If at the end of the 5 seconds you are still in pitch, it means you are in control Then incorporate that bend in the context once again

The diminished one could still be a bit polished - not in respect of the playing but of the rigidity - somehow it feels a bit stiff I am sure that as time goes by and you get more comfy with it, you will have more flow!

About the solo - there was a little bend at about 0:40 which was somehow week, but otherwise, at this tempo, everything sounds clean and nice! Keep it up - what tempo must you reach?

Posted by: Amitai Kedmi Apr 5 2014, 10:54 PM

Hey Cosmin!

I'll get on the bends task And keep working on the Diminished Responsibility.

As for the solo, I think the original tempo is 140BPM.
Here's another take at 110BPM. I know it's very sloppy, I've gone back to 90BPM
https://soundcloud.com/amitaik/sod-solo-110bpm

Thanks!

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Apr 6 2014, 06:32 PM

Hey Amitai! No rush mate You are on the right way, anyway, so just take your time and be patient - I also forgot to congratulate you on a very important thing - recording the solo against a metronome click first and then on the backing. If you can play anything well against the click, you will be playing it amazing against the backing There's far more landmarks and the groove and other elements which are of great help in a backing

Posted by: Amitai Kedmi Apr 6 2014, 10:59 PM

Hey Cosmin!

Yeah, you talked about a click track when I recorded Anastasia. I now figured out how to make one so I did.
It's confusing at first, figuring out when comes what and where, but I'm doing it slowly.

Another take of Diminished Responsibility. The vibrato I tried to do was maybe a bit slow and wide? I only got a little of it in.
Ben plays it with this crazy shreddin vibrato, I think I can't play it like that, yet.
https://soundcloud.com/amitaik/diminished-responsibility-4

And a take of Ben's Vibrato Odyssey.
https://soundcloud.com/amitaik/bens-vibrato-odyssey-iii-2

And finally an idea I had when I played around a bit.
https://soundcloud.com/amitaik/7-4-14-playing-around
Not sure how can I develop this idea?

Thanks!

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Apr 8 2014, 08:03 AM

Hello Amitai

Out of what I can hear, the Diminished take needs a bit of polishing around 0:35 where that phrase is a bit blurry - don't worry, it's a matter of time and based on how you are working it'll fix itself in no time.

Regarding Ben's vibrato lesson - you are having trouble with vibrating notes that are bent - bending vibrato is a total nuisance when you are not in control and as I think I said before - isolate each note that needs to be vibrated when bent and exercise the bending itself. Bend the note and hold it there. Play it there and make sure it stays on spot. Once you are comfy with holding it there no matter how long, you will be able to vibrate it too

Your idea is BRILLIANT I love that kind of sound and I would either go toward some Andy Timmons style tune - check out his older stuff or some traditional eastern flavored music. Maybe continue with a riff based on the same idea, but more developed from the rhythmic perspective and bigger in respect to intention.

Posted by: Amitai Kedmi Apr 9 2014, 06:08 PM

Hey Cosmin!

I had an idea while on a walk with my dog, quickly came back and recorded something before going to work.
I'm not sure I like this direction a lot. And I don't like the fact that the intro line is slowed down because I changed the
tempo for the main riff. I could play it half time but it seems ridiculous.
Tell me what you think.
https://soundcloud.com/amitaik/moonstruck-1

Thanks!

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Apr 10 2014, 01:26 PM

Hey Amitai!

I like the main riff a lot and I think that with the right interpretation, the intro could fit in nicely Now, the thing that bugs me a bit, would be the 'not so sure' part that ties up the intro and the riff Maybe shortening it up and making the transition more direct, would be a good change

Posted by: Amitai Kedmi Apr 12 2014, 11:51 PM

Hey Cosmin!

Symphony of Destruction solo, in 120BPM. I'm practicing it at slower speeds. Today I played it against a backing track, and I
could keep up with the tempo, it was just very very sloppy. So I recorded it at a slower tempo. Still not perfect but there's progress.
https://soundcloud.com/amitaik/sod-solo-120bpm

My head was filled with very different ideas, so I changed the structure a bit and recorded it again.
I really wanted to do something with the harmonic minor scale, I'm not sure it fits in here but I put in it there anyways.
So here's another draft of Moonstruck.
https://soundcloud.com/amitaik/moonstruck-2

Thanks!

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Apr 13 2014, 06:16 PM

Hey mate!

Gotta say I love your tune I think it caught a Beatlesy vibe in respect to the intro, but as a general observation, the voices are not too well superposed - try to record more tidily and make them fit over one another without note duration differences. I really love the lead part, but towards the end, the harmony part is recorded with a little bit of a lack of focus These are all details that make the difference amigo Keep them well in mind!

About the Megadeth solo - it still needs work and polishing, so please stick to it - I guess you already know where it needs attention, eh?

Posted by: Amitai Kedmi Apr 14 2014, 02:27 AM

Hey Cosmin!

Yeah, you're right. I recorded it in a hurry before work. I did the first part and the rhythm guitar for last part again.
Didn't have much time to further develop this, but I'm beginning to really like it .
https://soundcloud.com/amitaik/moonstruck-3

Thanks!

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Apr 14 2014, 11:43 AM

That's more like it mate

The only thing I would do now - for now - would be to write a bass line, develop the drum section with more fills and forms suitable for the music you have written. Another thing - I would make the transition shorter - I mean that part before the harmonic minor lines - I would use the transition as the jump ramp towards the next part. When I say jump ramp, I mean the suddenness of the transition. I wouldn't do it slowly - I would do it a bit more abruptly - maybe marked by a stop and a short drum fill? Anyway, the ideas are very nice and I absolutely love the first solo!

Posted by: Amitai Kedmi Apr 15 2014, 10:22 PM

Hey Cosmin!

It has a bassline through all of it, so I didn't really knew what you meant. When I say a bassline, I mean just the note of each chord.
I'm not really sure how to write a proper bassline that doesn't just provide bass, but also provides something else to the tune.
I also made another part for the harmonic minor part. Though it really takes it somewhere else, so I'm not sure about it.
https://soundcloud.com/amitaik/moonstruck-4

Thanks!

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Apr 16 2014, 04:06 PM

Hey there matey

You are right - at this point, the bassline can just serve the guitar riffs, but if you want to develop a part in which the bass has the main role, you should build it in such a way that the bass will play a more melodic line, by effectively building a bass theme and finding the right chords to go with it

Now, I like the second part and I think that now you should find a way to connect the main riff, over which you are playing the initial solo, so that you can transform it into a theme for the whole song. What do you think?

Posted by: Amitai Kedmi Apr 20 2014, 04:03 AM

Hey Cosmin!

Happy Easter!
In Israel we don't celebrate Easter, we celebrate Passover.
So I don't know much about Easter, but your post looked yummy .

Here's Moonstruck draft #5.
https://soundcloud.com/amitaik/moonstruck-5

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Apr 20 2014, 09:34 PM

Hello Amitai!

Thank you man We have celebrated today and also tomorrow - the activity generally starts from Tuesday on. Too much eating and drinking if you ask me

Mate, take care You kind of spread yourself thin after the harmonic minor part. Please try to focus less on soloing and more on writing some themes that can be just like a vocal theme. For instance, have you noticed the approach of my themes in 'The voice of your guitar'? In both lessons there are 2 different parts - one time played low one time high

You should have a recurrent motif in your choruses and don't shy away from thinking your tune as a regular full fledged tune with vocals in it, ok?

Posted by: Amitai Kedmi Apr 23 2014, 01:18 AM

Hey Cosmin!

I put aside the harmonic minor part, I think it was maybe just me wanting to play harmonic minor rather than actually thinking
it fits there. I tried to build a certain structure - intro/verse/chorus/verse/solo/outro. Maybe the solo could be swapped with the 2nd verse.
Also played a line, tried to do some sort of a vocal hook. Also played it again in the 2nd verse only higher.
https://soundcloud.com/amitaik/moonstruck-6

Thanks!

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Apr 23 2014, 06:54 AM

Hey mate - MUCH better In respect to homogeneity and consistency and structure - I especially like the legato/Tool style interventions after the middle of the piece Nicely played! So, let's see - what do you feel that could be missing?

Posted by: Amitai Kedmi Apr 23 2014, 11:38 AM

Hey Cosmin!

I like the guitar line in the verse, but I think it can be changed a bit,
I feel like the bend and slide really fits there (5b 3s5), but the rest of it is a sort of a compromise.
I wanted to develop the bend and slide lick and keep it in this spirit, but I also needed a way to close it and
thought of nothing.
What do you think? Any suggestions?

Thanks!

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Apr 24 2014, 08:12 AM

Hehe - I know the exact feeling Now, it's time to think of what you want to keep out of what you have recorded so far and see how you could improve the other parts. When writing, you will get into this pretty often - recording and then filtering stuff until you reach a final version It can be a lengthy process, so don't worry. Now, when you are referring to closing, you meant the whole song or just the bend and slide idea?

Posted by: Amitai Kedmi Apr 24 2014, 05:52 PM

I'm referring to the rest of the lick, right after the bend and slide.
I don't think I should do the same lick 3-4 times and just add something different each time.
I think the verse should have a complete sentence, which isn't built by the same words. I hope I'm making sense.

Thanks .

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Apr 25 2014, 03:33 PM

I understand If you feel stuck, I suggest you to give it some time You could also isolate the lick and use limitations to create diversity

Version 1: use only slides and aim for the repetition of a certain note, arpeggio, structure
Version 2: use only legato and aim for using 3 distinct notes - where can you place them for maximum effect? Maybe use string skipping?
Version 3: use only bends and vibrato - use more notes - aim for a certain interval or combination of intervals

Imposing limitations will spark incredibly creative ideas Have you ever tried this method?

Posted by: Amitai Kedmi Apr 27 2014, 03:06 AM

Hey Cosmin!

That looks like an awesome creativity exercise!

I have this little project on my mind. Maybe not so little.
My dad's birthday is in exactly a month from now, and on top of the present, I really want to make him a few drums backing tracks.
I don't really know how to make this sort of thing for drum players, but I think I'll just figure it out while doing it.
I thought about 5 different tracks, that are all different genres. Maybe Rock, Blues, Funk, Jazz and Pop.
What do you think? Any guidelines/tips?

Thanks .

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Apr 27 2014, 01:44 PM

Bro - that's a very nice gift!

Try this: replicate the drum tracks of a famous song from each genre in your DAW and change a bit here and there The easiest and nicest way to do it - and trust me, you will learn A TON while doing it

Posted by: Amitai Kedmi Apr 27 2014, 02:27 PM

I knew it was confusing!
I meant tracks that has no drums in it, so he can play over it!
Full on guitars and bass, maybe even something else. He's playing for about 5 months now and getting better
every single second. It's crazy! He's so dedicated to learning and practicing and has fun doing it. Really inspiring stuff
I think if I'll be able to pull this off good, he'll enjoy them so much.

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Apr 28 2014, 07:45 AM

Aaaahhh! Got it mate Well, it's actually the same process BUT you record all the other instruments as well and you render the tracks without the drum lines for him It will be a tremendous ear training exercise for you!

My advice? Pick some easy songs, having a less complex orchestration, so that you may hear every instrument easily Or, you can always take a look here:

https://www.youtube.com/user/DrumlessMusic

http://www.wikiloops.com/tracks/missing-Drums.php

Posted by: Amitai Kedmi Apr 30 2014, 10:21 PM

Hey Cosmin!

I've decided to open another mentoring thread with Gabriel as well, so I can stay in control over everything.
So I'll do the tracks for my father over there, and we'll keep working on what we've already started .

I did another take for Ben's Vibrato Odyssey. Tried to stay in pitch real hard. I think that when I focus on hitting the right notes
on a bend I can't pay enough attention to the vibrato itself. So I have the feeling that when try to play everything the different elements
in my playing are losing their strength, because I have to focus on them all.
https://soundcloud.com/amitaik/bens-vibrato-odyssey-3-5114 https://soundcloud.com/amitaik/bens-vibrato-odyssey-3-5114

Thanks!

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu May 1 2014, 09:00 PM

Hey Amitai!

It's alright to explore mate - see to every aspect in your playing that interests you - Gabi is a great player and you have a lot to learn from him indeed

About the vibrato - the more you do it, the more you will be in control. I somehow never payed attention to vibrato, it just came to me in time and I never considered it as a problem until I started to figure out its power That's when I started to pay attention and enrich it almost daily. It's an ear training mostly and you should regard it as such while building finger muscle memory.

If you have the melody memorized, you will be able to focus on the interpretation - it goes for everything you learn Tell me one thing - have you tried to sing the more melodic lessons that you are working on?

Posted by: Amitai Kedmi May 1 2014, 10:55 PM

Hey Cosmin.

That sounds logical. Of course I have no patience and want to play crazy vibrato - right now! But I'll have to practice, and wait.

Singing the melody in order to memorize them? Or something else? I haven't tried that.

Thanks!

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu May 2 2014, 10:20 AM

Go for it! It works without question

Imagine that it's just like a famous vocal line that you remember, because it's part of your favorite song You can sing it at will, at ANY given time, right? Why wouldn't you do the same thing with a guitar line?

Posted by: Amitai Kedmi May 3 2014, 09:39 AM

I've been singing it for the past 24 hours, and when I'll get home back from my father's place I'll see how that goes.
Will post here another take. Is there something specific for me to pay attention to? Considering my last take.

Thanks!

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu May 3 2014, 12:16 PM

Hehe! Glad to hear you are trying this So, if it were up to me, I'd be focusing on pitches and the vibrato pitch - when you vibrated in the last take, you were not very even in respect to pitch. Please focus on these aspects and let the melody take its course as long as your anticipation power has grown a lot, theoretically, now that you know the lines very well.

Posted by: Amitai Kedmi May 9 2014, 02:17 AM

Hey Cosmin!

Still confusing me worrying about the pitch/timing and doing vibrato at the same time. A matter of time I guess .
https://soundcloud.com/amitaik/bens-vibrato-odyssey-4

Thanks!

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu May 9 2014, 09:45 AM

Yes indeed, it's a matter of time, mate

You are still not reaching some pitches and you need to smooth out the whole piece - have you tried to record over the original version, in order to notice the differences?

Posted by: Amitai Kedmi Jun 16 2014, 10:57 PM

Hey Cosmin!

It's been a long month. Lots of family events and work, I was barely at home.
But the next couple of months should be less stressed, and I'm here to do some work .
Will take a look at the last few posts and continue from where we stopped, if that's okay.

How have you been?

Thanks!

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Jun 17 2014, 07:25 AM

Howdy bro!

Welcome back! Everything is going great here Got a new guitar - PRS Tremonti USA, playing a lot of shows with Days of Confusion and life is nice in general - lots of work, but that's never a bad thing, eh?

Of course we can take things from where we left That Vibrato Odyssey is waiting to be finished We should get rid of it first and then move on to other things as well - deal?

I am really curious to see how your subconscious is feeling it now, after all this time

Posted by: Amitai Kedmi Jun 20 2014, 02:09 AM

Hey Cosmin!

That sounds great. Being busy is very draining at times but can be very fulfilling as well .

Recorded another take. It's not good hehe. But after a lot of time has past I can see in which exact moments I'm
having a harder time.

* At 00:17 and 00:32 - when going down from the higher bend half a step to the lower bend. I find it difficult to apply vibrato there.
And I think that I'm also rushing it. Ben plays it like he has all the time in the world, and I get stressed and release the bend as soon as I
can.

* At 00:25 and 00:35 when dropping from the bends. Can't do the circular bend very well.

https://soundcloud.com/amitaik/bens-vibrato-odyssey-3-5

Thanks!

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Jun 21 2014, 06:56 PM

Hello Amitai!

It seems you have nailed the critical points yourself This is not a very easy lesson at all and I think that it is more of a 'feeling thing' rather than actual technique That makes things even more interesting, right?

I would stick to playing with the original recording as much as possible and trying to emulate the exact feeling that Ben imprinted on the take - it's pretty much the safest way to nail things. I did the same with Dimebag's solos, when I needed to execute some very personal articulation elements of his.

In the mean time, we could also bring in a new lesson if you don't have anything else in the works, in order to keep a fresh perspective on things. Oh by the way, how is your composition faring?

Posted by: Amitai Kedmi Jun 22 2014, 12:28 AM

Hey Cosmin!

Yeah what I'm doing is playing with Ben's recording. But when I record myself I don't play over the original lesson.
Should I?

Another lesson would be great. Anything really.

And the compositions are going well as well. While I was away I kept recording ideas on my classical guitar.
Currently working on this -
https://soundcloud.com/amitaik/54-to-55-5
What do you think?

Thanks!

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Jun 22 2014, 01:58 PM

Hey mate!

I super love the riffage and this piece definitely takes my mind to Audioslave or Rage Against the Machine, two of my favorite bands. I think that you should go for a more thematic solo at the end tho, in order to make the song complete, alongside some vocals Can you sing?

I would develop a solo based on some of the riffs - why not take the main riff and transform it into a single note line and then maybe harmonize it with some intervals here and there? It would most definitely stay in the listener's mind for a long time, if you are to ask me

Now, I would surely be curious to hear Ben's lesson recorded by you over the original version - and I am sure that listening to that recording could help you figure some things out in respect to interpretation, so that you may get as close as possible to Ben's rendition - deal?

Now, about another lesson Hmmm, I was thinking about a lead lesson that combines more techniques and of course, relies on articulation

What do you think about this one? -> http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/ls/Bending-from-Outside-Notes-Marty-Friedman-Style/

I learned this style of bends some years ago and it proved a very valuable tool in respect to articulation control, so I think it can help you too!

Please let me know if it's too difficult, ok?

Cosmin

Posted by: Amitai Kedmi Jun 22 2014, 02:18 PM

Hey Cosmin!

The reference song is 'Show Me How To Live'. I love Tom Morello, and both Audioslave and RATM.
These are some great ideas! Thank you. I do think that the solo deserves a bit more depth
And about my singing. I keep in tune, but I consider my voice quite boring.

I will record the lesson over the original and post it here .

And I'll start working on the new lesson today. Sound awesome, and challenging. I'll see if it's not too hard.

Thanks!

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Jun 23 2014, 09:05 AM

Hey Amitai!

Great to know you like the new lesson Let's see that recording of Ben's lesson so that we may move forward - I will suggest you this one thing - follow your ears as much as possible in emulating Ben's phrasing. It's a crucial aspect of learning how to perceive articulation I know you are tempted to think about how much the hand is moving and so on, but go for the ears, ok?

Posted by: Amitai Kedmi Jun 23 2014, 11:08 PM

Hey Cosmin!

Here's the first take for Bending From Outside Notes -
https://soundcloud.com/amitaik/bending-from-outside-notes-1

And I recorded a take over Ben's playing. It came out worse than usual
https://soundcloud.com/amitaik/bens-vibrato-odyssey-3-6

Thanks!

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Jun 25 2014, 08:47 AM

Hey mate!

You are THIS close

Here's what I suggest:

- the first recording - you need to focus more on hitting the exact pitches of the notes when bending, as they are a teeny, tiny bit under pitch and that, my friend is the only thing that I can spot right now Maybe, playing it a bit cleaner, but the pitches are the most important right now.

- the second - I think I figured out what you have to do here Generally, in this lesson, vibrato in bending seems to be the problem. Whenever you bend notes, you are having a hard time to vibrate them smoothly and keep the pitch.

Maybe this exercise will help you gain control of the bending vibrato:

- bend the B note on the 12th fret, B string up a half tone, then up a whole tone and finally a third
- keep each bend there for 5 seconds and vibrate it as controlled as possible for another 5 seconds

Be careful to keep the pitch and the rhythm of the vibrato

What say you?

Posted by: Amitai Kedmi Jun 25 2014, 10:04 PM

Hey Cosmin!

I recorded another take for Bending From Outside Notes.
I tried to focus on the pitch rather than vibrato in the first part, where I had trouble.
Of course I didn't manage to do them both at the same time. I'll practice this part specifically.
https://soundcloud.com/amitaik/54-to-55-7

And the exercise sounds good!
So bending the 12th fret on the 2nd string half a step, hold for a few seconds, vibrate for a few seconds, then another half a step to make
it a full step, and again hold, vibrate. But what do you mean by a third? third of a step? Not familiar with this .

Thanks!

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Jun 27 2014, 08:11 AM

Hey Amitai I think that you accidentally shared one of your own compositions that rocks A LOT by the way

I would like to bring into your attention a little aspect I noticed about the solo - I noticed you have concocted it out of tying up a few nice licks - great approach, but, maybe it would be a good idea to make it shorter and change the licks between them a little more often as each of them takes a little too much time - see for instance, the one at 02:20. It sounds like a nice combo between Audioslave and Sevendust - especially the intro

About the bends - I wasn't talking about a third of a step but about a third as an interval - be it minor (a whole step and a half step) or be it major (two whole steps) - let me know if it's clear ok?

Posted by: Amitai Kedmi Jun 27 2014, 01:01 PM

Hey Cosmin!

Woops! I'm uploading things here and in my thread at Gabriel's board, guess I got confused .
Thanks for your advice!

So here's the right file -
https://soundcloud.com/amitaik/bending-from-outside-notes-2

And now it's clear! Will do!


Thanks!

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Jun 28 2014, 07:54 AM

Hey mate! I listened

It sounds great, really great, with the sole exception of vibrato - there are some good moments and there are some notes on which the vibrato feels rushed and small. I would like to see a video of you playing this because I have to understand how your technique functions in terms of hand mechanics, so I need to be able to look at you while you play this piece. Do we have a deal, amigo?

Posted by: Amitai Kedmi Jul 4 2014, 01:44 AM

Hey Cosmin!

I don't have the option to record video at the moment, but I will soon hopefully.
However I'll record the exercise you gave me.
I worked on it and I'm trying to keep the vibrato on time and constant. I have a hard time keeping the
bended note in pitch while applying vibrato, I usually drop it down a bit.
The whole concept of vibrato is not clear to me How much movement? and how fast? When to start? And when to stop?
And even if someone could answer these question the more problematic question of 'How?' is the main one
But the good way of getting a good grasp on vibrato is probably playing and practicing. I'll keep on going .

Thanks!

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Jul 4 2014, 11:14 AM

Hey bro,

Those are very good questions But the most honest answer I can give you is - use your ears Execute the vibrato against a chord - for instance, bend from D to E over an E minor chord. If it sounds in pitch, it means it's ok. If you want it wide, make it wide, if you want it aggressive, make it aggressive and so on, BUT keep the pitch

I never practiced any of these to be frank, I just played and tried to imitate what I heard until I got there. So yes, it is also a matter of practicing, but now, I can tell people what to be aware about when practicing vibrato, as to what I stated in the previous paragraph.

What do you think?