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GMC Forum _ MTP - The Mentored Training Program _ Tolek Mtp Thread
Posted by: Tolek Jan 9 2009, 09:37 PM
Hey there Valentino! 
First of all, please excuse my absence in the last few days. I had so much to do for school: prepare for a concert, homework, etc. So, here we go!
You have probably seen what the MTP suggests for the first 4 weeks: the basics of timing & rhythm, soloing and finger exercises. This week, we will be focusing on chords (of A minor/ C Major) which are played with the pick and then on arpeggios (which follow every single chord). Every week, I am going to show you the lesson and give you additional information about it and some hints so that your skills developpement is more effective. Is it possible for you to record every evening a video what you learned that day? I would comment it and see very frequently where your playing is at.
I suggest you to practise besides your normal practise routine at least 30 minutes on the lesson of that particular week. I am going to post your first homework when you answered in this topic.
I´ve seen your videos and I think you will master them very fast. 
Do you consent to everything I mentioned above?
I can´t wait to start working with you!
See you!
Tolek
Posted by: valentino Jan 9 2009, 10:03 PM
Hey Tolek mate!!
No worries about absense, we all have lifes to live
I'm ready to start and very excited with this experience, and I know you have a lot to offer as I saw in your videos.
Of course it's possible to record the videos, no problem with that.
I practise about 1'5 or 2 hour per day, so there's no problem on use 30 minutes in the lesson, I can use even more time if needed.
YES, I CONSENT!!!
This promises to be a great trip mate!
Posted by: Tolek Jan 9 2009, 11:28 PM
[I´m writing an answer for more than 1/2 hour now, but I´m still not finished. I´ll post it tomorrow because I can´t write very clever now, sorry! 
]
I have some questions to you:
1. Are you familiar with music theory?
2. What music do you listen to?
3. Do you play another instrument?
4. Is it possible that this slice of finger that I am holding is yours?
Another question will follow maybe.
Good night!
Posted by: valentino Jan 10 2009, 12:00 PM
In the night is difficult to think (cleverly or not 
) if you are used to got to bed early.
About the question, here I go with the answers:
1. Are you familiar with music theory?
I'm studing from the Andrew's theory lessons. I'm finding it very instructive.
2. What music do you listen to?
Well, I have my bandwidth in the metal zone. Some groups to give you an idea: Iron Maiden, Blind Guardian, Manowar, Ozzy Osbourne. Also something more powerful, Sepultura, Obituary, Napalm Death. I like Steve Vai's style (I think we have this in common), Yngwie Malmsteen. This is just a sample to let you know what I listen.
3. Do you play another instrument?
Actually not, but when I was in the school I played flute as a part of plastic. And I think if I take a flute I can play it without problems. But, not, I will not take a flute 
4. Is it possible that this slice of finger that I am holding is yours?
Maybe, so please keep it in ice!!!
Cheers!
Posted by: Tolek Jan 10 2009, 12:32 PM
Thanks for your answers. I still have one question about theory left. What topics in theory do you know well (such as reading notes, chord building, rhythms...)? I think I will do a theoretical analysis of each lesson for you, so that you can reproduce something similiar without problems, ok? I´m currently writing your first homework.
Posted by: Tolek Jan 10 2009, 01:03 PM
OK! Let´s start now.
The Mentored Training Program allots in the first week the http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/rhythm-guitar/beginner-strumming-and-arpeggios/ lesson by Muris. I simply quote from the Syllabus:
Timing & rhythm (Part 1) -Chords to a backing track
Beginner- Strumming and Arpeggios
Goal - To play the whole lesson.
Purpose - practice timing and sense of rhythm. If this lesson gives problems - it will be a useful discovery. Dealing with the problem will help progress to the next level.
instructions - A Video showing progress should be provided playing with the backing provided (slower backings can of course be used)
As you see, this lesson should develop your timing and rhythm skills. What you should do first is to have a look at the tabs and try to play the whole lesson while reading. This helps to memorize it. However, the are a few things you should pay attention to:
- downstrokes (you can use alternate picking, but I recommend this economy picking or "sweeping")
- chord changes should be as fast and precise as possible
- when playing the F Major Barré chord, try to move your left wrist a bit more from you away, so that your index finger is pretty straight
- pay attention to the used fingering
Now, some theory!
You should know what a chord is: a set of three (a triad) or more different notes that sound simultaneously. And what is an arpeggio? It´s a broken chord in which the notes are played one after another. That lesson is written in A minor natural, but it ends in C Major. We have the following notes: A B C D E F G A.From this we can build these chords:
A min: A C E
B dim: B D F (this one isn´t used very often in standard chord progressions)
C Maj: C E G
D min: D F A
E min: E G B
F Maj: F A C
G Maj: G B D
In this lesson, the progression goes like this: ||: Am, C, Em, G, Dm, F, G, C :|| (2x).
Let´s take the degrees: ||: I, III, V, VII, IV, VI, VII, III :||. As you can see, every chord of that scale is used (except from the B diminshed chord).
Progressions where nearly every chord of the scale is used are very rare, so you don´t have to remember this one. I just want you to know what is happening here.
Any questions left?
Posted by: Tolek Jan 11 2009, 06:14 PM
Where are you? 
I wanted to ask you what techniques (or other topics like timing, etc.) you want to develop.
Posted by: valentino Jan 11 2009, 06:43 PM
Heey!! sorry, weekends are always turbulent days 
I'm doing the lesson, I find difficult the chord shifting, but I think it's normal at the beginning. I keep practising.
The theory thing.. well, I'm keeping in my level lessons as are marked by Andrew, so I'm very familiar with them.
One thing, I don't really understand what you mean with "when playing the F Major Barré chord, try to move your left wrist a bit more from you away, so that your index finger is pretty straight" maybe a sort video or a pic can help me a lot.
Techniques... well, timing is something I don't have problems I think, but chord shifting is something I find very difficult, so if you know something to improve it let me know, but I think is only practise and practise.
Tomorrow I'll do a video. Weekend was very destructive for me so it's better to do the video tomorrow.
cheers
Posted by: Tolek Jan 11 2009, 07:19 PM
Good to hear from you again! Now, I know that you don´t have much time on weekends.
I made a small video explanation for you:
I hope this helps and if not, let me know. Chord shifting is a matter of getting used to chords. You have to reproduce the chords plus shifting in your head without problems. Your goal is to know how to grab a chord and which fingers to use and this without thinking much. If you have troubles with anything, I can make another video where I play this lesson.
About theory: So, I can continue analyzing the lessons for you? Does this help you and is it understandable?
About chord shifting technique: if you know the chords by heart, you should have no problems with shifting after a few days. As you said, it is a matter of practise.
I can´t wait for the video. Let me know if ANY problems appear.
Cheers,
Tolek
Posted by: valentino Jan 12 2009, 02:10 PM
Thanks for the video, now I see what you mean, thanks.
Theoretical analysis has been very good to me, to see how the theory applies to the lessons, and is easier to understand. Thanks mate.
I'm now at work, so I'll continue the lesson this evening.
Cheers!
Valentin
Posted by: Tolek Jan 12 2009, 03:08 PM
Theoretical analysis has been very good to me, to see how the theory applies to the lessons, and is easier to understand. Thanks mate.
I'm now at work, so I'll continue the lesson this evening.
Cheers!
Valentin
Very good!
I can´t wait for the video. Am I going to see it this evening maybe? Did you understand EVERYTHING of the theory well? You know that it is very important to know what is happening in music to understand it.
Posted by: valentino Jan 12 2009, 06:08 PM
I'm practicing the lesson in this moment. But I'm omitting the arpeggio for now because I want to feel confident with the chord shifting and I'm using the 75bpm backing to have time to do a good fingering. Is it ok?
So, can I do the video this way too?
Posted by: Tolek Jan 12 2009, 06:36 PM
OK! I think that you won´t have any problems with the arpeggios since you don´t have to change the fingers to play it. It´s just playing the chord much slower.
I´m looking forward to the video. 
Posted by: valentino Jan 12 2009, 07:50 PM
ok, here you have the video.
As you can see I still have problems with the shifting, I hope during the week I can do it well, and with arpeggios 
sorry man, you have the most awkward student
Posted by: Tolek Jan 12 2009, 08:36 PM
You did a good job, Valentino! You don´t have to feel bad about your playing. I know that you are beginner and you have problems with things that seem pretty normal and easy to other guitarists. It is so normal, results come with practise, so never give up. Here at GMC are a lot of people who support you. My job as a mentor is to show you the best way through the jungle of guitar learning, so don´t excuse because you aren´t perfect which nobody, by the way, ok?
Your position shifting looks pretty solid and the best is that it sounds extremely clean. Also, your right hand really knows what to do. You always play the correct strings and in time (except one time ).
Now some critiques. Your left hand thumb should be placed in the middle of the neck so that shifting becomes even easier. Also, techniques like string skipping, legato, sweep picking, alternate picking, etc. become MUCH easier. Try to keep your thumb at that place. Here´s a video to clarify everything:
Oh, I forgot to add that you can try to keep your fingers perpendicular to the fretboard. You don´t have to, it looks more elegant and is only sometimes a way to make things easier.
The next period consists of introducing the arpeggios. I believe that you will master it without problems. Your chords are stable and a good basis to play single notes on them.
Keep up this work!
Posted by: valentino Jan 13 2009, 09:05 AM
Ok thanks. By the way, I can endure harsher critiques if needed, I mean, if something is really bad, is just it, really bad and no sweet words are necesary, so don't feel bad saying the truth
I noticed what were the problem on the "not in time" chord, that was a lilttle finger problem. It's hard to me moving the little finger were I want and very often this finger arrives late, so it's another issue to correct.
About theory of chord progression if I understand the sequence is:
First play is a minor witch is the relative minor of the following major we play, then we go one degree up in the circle of fifths and do the same, and then, we go back 2 degrees in the circle and again do the same with relative minor and major and then we go back using only the majors. All of this having in mind that we are using the scale of Am, so Am is the first interval. Is it ok?
Cheers!
Posted by: Tolek Jan 13 2009, 05:33 PM
Sure!
This time I didn´t have to be harsh. You did a good job.Try to position the following chord before you have to play it (about 1 beat before). This gives you enough time to move your pinky to the right place.
First play is a minor witch is the relative minor of the following major we play, then we go one degree up in the circle of fifths and do the same, and then, we go back 2 degrees in the circle and again do the same with relative minor and major and then we go back using only the majors. All of this having in mind that we are using the scale of Am, so Am is the first interval. Is it ok?
You can interpret it like this, but I would never come to it! Much too difficult!
The following table should help you to identify the chord progression:
- Am = I
- C = III
- Em = V
- G = VII
- (Bdim = II)
- Dm = IV
- F = VI
- G = VII
- C = III
This is the progression. You wonder why I added the Bdim chord, here the answer:
If you have a look at the intervals, you will see that there´s always a 3rd between them (minor or major, it depends. you have to stay in the A minor natural scale, that´s how it´s decided). The chord that is build on the B is diminished and as I said it sounds a bit weird, so Muris decided to skip it. That 3rd movement is interrupted when the G chord reappears. This is because we want to get a traditional IV-V-1 cadence in C Major. The I degree is C Maj, the II is F and the V is G. Personally, I would say this lesson is in C Major because we don´t have a G# (which would justify the A Minor harmonic (natural minor scale with a 7th Maj)) and we end with C. However, Muris says this is in A minor, so I follow his idea.
A little theory exercice for you: try to figure out the chords of this progression in Dmin/FMaj and Emin/GMaj.
Good luck!
Tolek
Posted by: valentino Jan 14 2009, 08:56 AM
Hey mate!
Here you have the theory exercice:
Dm
Dm= I
F= III
Am= V
C= VII
Edim= II
Gm= IV
Bb= VI
C= VII
F= III
F Maj
Fm= I
A= III
Cm= V
E= VII
G dim= II
Bb m= IV
D= VI
E= VII
A= III
Em
Em= I
G= III
Bm= V
D= VII
Gb dim= II
Am= IV
C= VI
D= VII
G= III
G Maj
Gm= I
B= III
Dm= V
Gb= VII
A dim= II
Cm= IV
E= VI
Gb= VII
B= III
Ididn't know why the combination of Major, minor and diminished, so I went to the theory board and saw the modes progression and found that this is the Aeolian mode.
I couldn't record a video yesterday, but this evening you'll have one.
Cheers!
Valentin
Posted by: Tolek Jan 14 2009, 01:26 PM
Well done, Valentino! Actually, you did a bit too much. I asked you to do only Dmin and Emin and mentioned the relative scales F Maj and G Maj. You applied the same chord progression to the Major Scales and forgot about notes of the scale. Example: F Maj, II degree. You say it's G dim, but it's G min since the notes are: G Bb E. I'm not going to write this progression in Major because it will sound a bit strange, I think (I can't check it because I am at school right now).
When I get home this evening, you'll get a more complete answer, ok?
See you
Posted by: valentino Jan 14 2009, 05:48 PM
hehe, well what I did is just take the same chord progression, but I really don't know how it's built, I mean, I don't know what kind of relationship are with notes of the scale and the chord progression. So, if there is a minor where I put a diminished is ok, I believe you, but I don't know why it is this way
Here you are your take with arpeggios, 75bpm, I really can't do it faster mate, sorry.
Posted by: valentino Jan 15 2009, 06:28 PM
Well, seems like I'm getting more confident I think. A lot of work to do yet, but progress is the goal, isn't?
You can see I'm trying to correct my thumb position. I noticed an improvement on chord shifting with this tip, so thanks very much mate!!!
This take is 100bmp
Posted by: Tolek Jan 15 2009, 08:54 PM
Wohoo! You made me really proud, man! The second video is a (nearly) perfect version of the lesson. Congratulations on this, you did a great job. However, I found one issue. Here´s a video that explains how to use better your right hand:
You save a lot of energy when doing this sweeping-like picking. In addition, it´s easier and you can play it faster.
About theory: I´m going to write a bit for you this weekend. During the week I don´t have much time and I am so tired. I don´t want to write something confusing so that you don´t understand it.
So, practise a bit and you are going to play this lesson perfectly. In fact, it was perfect, you only used your right hand a bit uneconomically. Continue with your good work!
Tolek
Posted by: valentino Jan 15 2009, 09:04 PM
Thanks mate!! You have a lot of merit in it by your video responses and explanations. You helped me a lot with them.
I'll practice the sweep, I tried but I often get out of tempo, but I'll work on it.
Cheers!!
Valentino
Posted by: Tolek Jan 15 2009, 09:10 PM
I'll practice the sweep, I tried but I often get out of tempo, but I'll work on it.
Cheers!!
Valentino
Good to hear that!
Don´t forgot about practising with a metronome. You can also download the Guitar Pro File and switch on the metronome and practise with it. It´s a very good way to nail the rhythm of a certain song/lesson.
See you
Tolek
Posted by: valentino Jan 17 2009, 07:31 PM
Hey mate!!
I did this take with the sweep technique. As you can see the big problem with tempo is on the upstroke on sweeping (also a bit on downstroke). And I failed a couple of chords by paying a lot attention on traing to maintain the tempo while sweep.
Not a good take, but this helps you to see the issues.
Cheers!!
Valentin
Posted by: Tolek Jan 17 2009, 09:12 PM
Good evening, Valentino!
As you said, this take is worse than the one before. If you don´t feel comfortable with that manner of playing, you don´t have to use it. You can simply continue playing with picking. I personally find it easier with the sweeping movement and I thought that it sounds more fluid in general, but you convinced me. If you still want to practise the sweeping motion, I made a video that shows how to practise it. I used some chords of the Amin scale, it doesn´t matter which one you use. Try it with the chord progression of the lesson if you like.
(I forgot to add the video, sorry! )
Are you ready for the next lesson, mate? I think that you don´t have serious problems with timing if you pick normally, it´s just when you sweep when problems appear. Practise and this is going to disappear. So, if you agree we are going to move to the next lesson about timing.
Do you want to develop your riffing (rock/metal) skills or do you feel bad in playing the blues?
By the way, is the following spanish sentence correct? "Estamos tocando la guitarra."
Posted by: valentino Jan 17 2009, 09:36 PM
Heyya!!
Well, I don't feel comfortable with sweep, but every technique I learn is enriching, so I'll keep practicing sweep as well.
Yes, I'm ready for the next lesson.
I like metal, but if you want me to play blues is ok. Learning is learning and I do what my teacher say
And yes, it's correct, we are playing guitar
Cheers!
Valentin
Posted by: Tolek Jan 18 2009, 04:40 PM
Welcome to week 2!
This doesn´t mean that we forget about the first week where you learned the chords of A min / C maj while trying to stay in time. I repeat that you did a good job! This week we are expected to develop more your rhythmical abilities. The syllabus provides three lessons from which we have to choose one. The http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/rhythm-guitar/blues-groove-library-part-1/ should be a cool exercice for our goal. I know it´s a bit fast, but I am sure that you are that amitious that you will master it!
First of all, I suggest to practise first a simple rhythmic pattern like in video 3. Here are the tabs, I picked them out of the tab ensemble because there are no tabs for each video.
|--3-| |--3-| |--3-| |--3-|
Q E Q E Q E Q E
----------------------------------|
----------------------------------|
----------------------------------|
----------------------------------|
--2----2--4----2--2----2--4----2--|
--0----0--0----0--0----0--0----0--|
|--3-| |--3-| |--3-| |--3-|
Q E Q E Q E Q E
----------------------------------|
----------------------------------|
----------------------------------|
----------------------------------|
--2----2--4----2--2----2--4----2--|
--0----0--0----0--0----0--0----0--|
|--3-| |--3-| |--3-| |--3-|
Q E Q E Q E Q E
----------------------------------|
----------------------------------|
----------------------------------|
----------------------------------|
--2----2--4----2--2----2--4----2--|
--0----0--0----0--0----0--0----0--|
|--3-| |--3-| |--3-| |--3-|
Q E Q E Q E Q E
----------------------------------|
----------------------------------|
----------------------------------|
----------------------------------|
--2----2--4----2--2----2--4----2--|
--0----0--0----0--0----0--0----0--|
|--3-| |--3-| |--3-| |--3-|
Q E Q E Q E Q E
----------------------------------|
----------------------------------|
----------------------------------|
--2----2--4----2--2----2--4----2--|
--0----0--0----0--0----0--0----0--|
----------------------------------|
|--3-| |--3-| |--3-| |--3-|
Q E Q E Q E Q E
----------------------------------|
----------------------------------|
----------------------------------|
--2----2--4----2--2----2--4----2--|
--0----0--0----0--0----0--0----0--|
----------------------------------|
|--3-| |--3-| |--3-| |--3-|
Q E Q E Q E Q E
----------------------------------|
----------------------------------|
----------------------------------|
----------------------------------|
--2----2--4----2--2----2--4----2--|
--0----0--0----0--0----0--0----0--|
|--3-| |--3-| |--3-| |--3-|
Q E Q E Q E Q E
----------------------------------|
----------------------------------|
----------------------------------|
----------------------------------|
--2----2--4----2--2----2--4----2--|
--0----0--0----0--0----0--0----0--|
|--3-| |--3-| |--3-| |--3-|
Q E Q E Q E Q E
----------------------------------|
----------------------------------|
----------------------------------|
--4----4--6----4--4----4--6----4--|
--2----2--2----2--2----2--2----2--|
----------------------------------|
|--3-| |--3-| |--3-| |--3-|
Q E Q E Q E Q E
----------------------------------|
----------------------------------|
----------------------------------|
--2----2--4----2--2----2--4----2--|
--0----0--0----0--0----0--0----0--|
----------------------------------|
|--3--| |--3--| |--3--|
Q E E E E E E E E E
----------4--------3--------2-----|
-------------3--------2--------1--|
-------4--------3--------2--------|
----------------------------------|
--2-------------------------------|
--0-------------------------------|
|--3--| |--3--|
E E E E E H Q
--0--------------2-------------|
--0--------------0-------------|
--1--------------2-------------|
-----------------1-------------|
--------0--1-----2-------------|
-------------------------------|
If you show me a video where you play this exercice, I´m going to correct you and then we can move to the next stage.
Yesterday in the chat you mentioned that you still have problems with shifting because of your weak pinky. There are really good exercices to develop its strength. For me, the http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/solo-guitar/alternate-picking3/ worked best. My little finger became MUCH faster after playing this lesson for a few weeks.
About your theory problem: I recommend Andrew´s theory lessons, especially http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/guitar_forum/index.php?showtopic=3116, http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/guitar_forum/index.php?showtopic=3285, http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/guitar_forum/index.php?showtopic=3342 and http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/guitar_forum/index.php?showtopic=9562. If you want to know what is happening in a lesson/song harmonically speaking, these lessons are a perfect start to understand it. Again, if you have any questions at all, just let me know and I´ll try to help you.
If you want, you can still send me newer takes of the previous lesson. I´m really curious about your "sweeping" progress.
Good luck and practise well!
Tolek
Posted by: valentino Jan 19 2009, 11:46 AM
Heeyyy!!
I'll do a video this evening with the exercise, I was practicing a bit yesterday and, guess what? I have problems But it's better that you see in the video that I'll make.
I'm using this lesson to develop my little finger control
http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/solo-guitar/little-finger-work-out/
is it ok? or may I use the one you recomended? Not like and order, but maybe you find one more useful than the other for my problem.
And I'll keep you update with my sweeping technique.
Thanks mate!!
Cheers!
Valentin
Posted by: Tolek Jan 19 2009, 02:00 PM
Hello!
That lesson is fine, too. As long as you move your pinky, everything is good for it. You can also use the following exercice to develop your little finger strength (they´re warm-up exercices in fact ):
E E E E E E E E E E E E E E E E E E E E E E E E
|-----------------|-----------------|---------1-2-3-4-|
|-----------------|-----------------|-1-2-3-4---------|
|-----------------|---------1-2-3-4-|-----------------|
|-----------------|-1-2-3-4---------|-----------------|
|---------1-2-3-4-|-----------------|-----------------|
|-1-2-3-4---------|-----------------|-----------------|
E E E E E E E E E E E E E E E E E E E E E E E E W
|-2-3-4-5---------|-----------------|-----------------|------||
|---------2-3-4-5-|-----------------|-----------------|------||
|-----------------|-2-3-4-5---------|-----------------|------||
|-----------------|---------2-3-4-5-|-----------------|------||
|-----------------|-----------------|-2-3-4-5---------|------||
|-----------------|-----------------|---------2-3-4-5-|------||- E E E E E E E E E E E E E E E E E E E E E E E E
|-----------------|-----------------|---------2-3-4-1-|
|-----------------|-----------------|-1-2-3-4---------|
|-----------------|---------4-1-2-3-|-----------------|
|-----------------|-3-4-1-2---------|-----------------|
|---------2-3-4-1-|-----------------|-----------------|
|-1-2-3-4---------|-----------------|-----------------|
E E E E E E E E E E E E E E E E E E E E E E E E W
|-4-5-2-3---------|-----------------|-----------------|------||
|---------5-2-3-4-|-----------------|-----------------|------||
|-----------------|-2-3-4-5---------|-----------------|------||
|-----------------|---------3-4-5-2-|-----------------|------||
|-----------------|-----------------|-4-5-2-3---------|------||
|-----------------|-----------------|---------5-2-3-4-|------|| - E E E E E E E E E E E E E E E E E E E E E E E E W
|-------------|-------------|-------1-3-4-|-2-4-5-------|------||
|-------------|-------------|-1-3-4-------|-------2-4-5-|------||
|-------------|-------1-3-4-|-------------|-------------|------||
|-------------|-1-3-4-------|-------------|-------------|------||
|-------1-3-4-|-------------|-------------|-------------|------||
|-1-3-4-------|-------------|-------------|-------------|------|| - E E E E E E E E E E E E E E E E E E E E E E E E W
|-------------|---------4-2-|-3-5---------|-------------|------||
|-------------|-----2-4-----|-----5-3-----|-------------|------||
|-------------|-4-2---------|---------3-5-|-------------|------||
|---------2-4-|-------------|-------------|-5-3---------|------||
|-----4-2-----|-------------|-------------|-----3-5-----|------||
|-2-4---------|-------------|-------------|---------5-3-|------||
Use your pinky in every exercice. You don´t have to play this fast, but it´s necessary to use a metronome for practise. If you want, you can show me how you are playing those few bars.
I can´t wait for today´s video(s?).
Cheers,
Tolek
Posted by: Tolek Jan 19 2009, 06:53 PM
Just a quick question: do you have guitar pro?
Posted by: valentino Jan 19 2009, 07:26 PM
A quick answer: yes
I'm practicing the lesson with it, bars 13 to 24 using speed trainer at 50% so it matches with the slowest backing track.
60bpm
As you can see my weak are the B(V) in chord progression by the finger stretching and the last chord by the ring finger who don't let the b string to ring ( I need to correct the freting position a bit up in the fretboard ) and the little finger by the slow motion of it to land in the fret.
I don't know if I can do more videos with the exercises of little finger and sweep cause I have not much more time.
Cheers!!!
Valentin
Posted by: Tolek Jan 19 2009, 08:38 PM
Thanks for the quick answer.
Good job again! You played it pretty cleanly without much background noise. However, I have to mention two things or better solutions for the stretch and the descending lick. Here´s a video: (Sorry about the "ehm"´s, but today I can´t speak normally, I´m toddling all the time 
Not only today... I hate that)
It´s a pity that you don´t have time for playing more. If you don´t mind, I´d suggest a little practise session for you which takes 30 min:
10 min Warmup: do the little finger exercices I showd you with a metronome
10 min Lesson from Last Week: try to stay in time with the sweeping motion
10 min Actual Lesson: try to go faster when you feel comfortable with the current tempo (which is already the case, I think)
This should be an effective way to develop all your weak points that I´ve seen. If you have more time left, I´d say you should extend the warmup and the actual lesson parts.
Here´s another video that shows you what you can do to develop the flexibility of your fingers:
Have you any questions about theory? Do you want me to explain this lesson a bit?
Keep practising as you did until now!
Tolek
Posted by: valentino Jan 19 2009, 09:14 PM
Hey mate, no worries about the "ehm's", you sould see me when I'm trying to speek English
I already tried the fingering with the middle finger, but I see Ivan is using the ring finger so I stuck at his fingering to do the lesson as I saw. By the way I want to be used to use the finger that is spected to be used. I'll make the next take doing it with your method.
About hybridpicking. Well I'll try, I'm used to do arpeggios with fingerpicking but I never tried it with a pick in the hand so we'll se how it goes
I can stend the times for exercises cause I practice about 1'5 or 2 hours per day (except weekends )
About the stretching exercises I figured that I don't have to force it, just stretch a bit every day. is it ok?
And about theory. I'm still wondering why the chord progression change when I do it from a minor to a major scale. I remember you said (II) is diminished on the minor one and the (II) is minor on the major one. I don't know if it's about the mode, about the notes relationship... If it is in the theory links you gave me I can't find it in there (maybe I can't find it because I don't really understand what I'm reading )
And if you want to explain the theory in this lesson is ok for me. As you can see I need a lot of help with theory
Thanks mate!!!
Cheers!!!!
Valentin
Posted by: Tolek Jan 19 2009, 09:52 PM
The problem is that it´s in every language.
Every time I try to explain something, I start with "ehm"´s... And when I have to read something at school, I become very tense I can´t say a word properly. That´s such a bad feeling. Try the way you feel most comfortable with. That is all that counts. It should be economic, sure, but mostly it should be easy for you! I personally think that it´s much easier the way I showed you.
If you are not sure how it goes, then you should check out http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/ls/hybrid-picking-beginner/. Just take a look and play some bars, so that you understand the principe of this very useful technique. But as I said above, everything you play must feel comfortable for you. However, you should always give a try to a few possibilities to find the best one, even if it might feel a bit strange at the beginning. When I first came in touch with this technique, I immediately left it.
When Muris showed me the great advantages of it in Igalo, I changed my mind and gave it a try. Now, I use it wherever it appears useful. )Great! Exercices are essential for a good musical development. I´ll try to arrange a plan for you, ok? Or do you have a plan? Could you show it to me, so that I could give you some hints, maybe?
)And if you want to explain the theory in this lesson is ok for me. As you can see I need a lot of help with theory
Thanks mate!!!
Cheers!!!!
Valentin
Hehe.
Theory is my strong side. If you don´t mind, my answer to this problem will be delayed because I have much to do for school, unfortunately! I need some time to write an understandable explanation for you. Cheers,
Tolek
Posted by: valentino Jan 20 2009, 08:39 AM
Well, I was following a plan made by Mr. Dhal, wich consist in 30 min. scales, 30 min. techniques (I was focused on alternate picking and a bit of vibrato) and 30 min. learn something new. But since we are in the MTP I focused more in the lessons and I leave a bit scales and techniques. By the way I know that in the lessons I'm practicing thechniques aswell, but not that focused as I was doing.
If you make a plan of exercises I'll be happy to follow it.
By the problem in the school: no worries mate, be confident!! Now you're a respected music teacher!!!
Cheers!!!!
Valentin
Posted by: valentino Jan 20 2009, 08:02 PM
Heeyyya mate!!!
Here we go with some videos.
first the exercises
Now the fisrt lesson with sweep arpeggios, not very well...
And the actual lesson with the tips you gave me
I find a bit difficul the hybridpicking cause I'm not used to do fingerpicking with a pick in the hand. But I like the technique
Cheers!!!
Valentin
Posted by: Tolek Jan 20 2009, 08:51 PM
Hi Valentino!
All in all, good job. Your timing in the exercices is excellent, on the other side, it becomes worse in the first lesson where you have to do that sweep motion. I´d say you leave that lesson for a while and do only exercices on that movement. Here´s again the video that shows you an exercice to develop it:
It´s just a matter of time. You have to get used to that technique, then it will sound as great as the other version.
Try to move your left hand´s fingers as little as possible and try to keep the fingers you don´t play with as close the fretboard as possible. I refer to the 3rd video where you don´t need your index finger.
About the new lesson: it was very good, only your hybrid picking needs a bit work. It was hard to hear the fingerpicked notes! You can exaggerate when picking the strings to gain some strength for your fingers. Here´s a video that summarizes everything:
I didn´t have much to say, but I am so tired that I don´t really know what to say. I sat there for 5 minutes and was thinking what I should say. I fixed the first few sentences, the rest was sponataneous.
You will get your lesson plan the weekend if everyhing goes well.
See you and keep practising!
Tolek
Posted by: valentino Jan 21 2009, 05:45 PM
Hey mate!
Seem like I have a really big problem with fingers independience. 
The index finger issue comes by this, I'll make a video with an exercise to show you the problems I have, so maybe we need to spend some time to correct it.
Ok, here is the video...
Posted by: valentino Jan 21 2009, 08:21 PM
Heeyy!!
Here is the video of the lesson. When I play the fingerpicked strings in my amp they sound ok, but when I plug it on the soundcard sounds like they are muted, I tried changing the equalization but seems to be a problem with the high frequecies input.
I spent a lot of time practicing the finger independence, so today I only did the actual lesson
This was a bad day mate
I hope you got a better day than me
Posted by: Tolek Jan 21 2009, 08:48 PM
Seem like I have a really big problem with fingers independience.
The index finger issue comes by this, I'll make a video with an exercise to show you the problems I have, so maybe we need to spend some time to correct it.
Ok, here is the video...
Hi!
You do one big mistake: you keep your fingers in the frets even if you don´t need them. Here´s a video again.
It´s just a matter of time. Your brain has to get used to playing guitar. You´ll see that in a few months the things that you did not that good in the last weeks will seem obvious for you. If you like, you can practise http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/search_results.php?formSearch=Finger+Independence. They should be really helpful.
Here is the video of the lesson. When I play the fingerpicked strings in my amp they sound ok, but when I plug it on the soundcard sounds like they are muted, I tried changing the equalization but seems to be a problem with the high frequecies input.
I spent a lot of time practicing the finger independence, so today I only did the actual lesson
This was a bad day mate
I hope you got a better day than me
That take was perfect.
It´s just a pity that you have problems with the EQ. Could you maybe upload a take where you play through your amp so that I can hear your hybrid picking? I have a bad day, too. I´m tired the whole day, I overslept in the bus so that I came home later than usual, etc.
Everyhing´s clear?
Tolek
Posted by: valentino Jan 21 2009, 09:52 PM
You do one big mistake: you keep your fingers in the frets even if you don´t need them. Here´s a video again.
I did purposely to get used to not move a lot the index finger when I move the other fingers because when I move them I separate the others from the fretboard. I wasn't doing the warming up exercises
I'll try the lessons.
Sorry for your bad day mate.
I can try to play with the amp, but I don't know if the microphone is good enough to do the job
Cheers!
Valentin
Posted by: Tolek Jan 21 2009, 11:00 PM
Very good initiative, valentino! It´s good to add your own ideas! This time it wasn´t an effective way to improve finger independence. I´ll try to do a plan for you with those exercices in it.
Bad days come and go.
It doesn´t have to sound excellent, I just want to hear the volume of those notes.
Good night!
Posted by: valentino Jan 22 2009, 08:18 PM
Hey there!!
I'm doing the first 2 videos of this lesson to improve finger independence
http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/solo-guitar/fingers-independence-I/
When I do the first one I don't find any problem, but when I do the second I find problems. First when I fret with the little finger on the low E string I mute the A string, I must work on doing a gentle arc to avoid the muting. And another issue is my ring finger (and a bit the little finger too), I find very hard to move it down alone so I need to practice it.
Well, now the videos.
The sweep motion is going well, but I practise it with Am and C chords so I can concentrate in the sweeping.
And here's the blues video. With the amp and the micro the high frequencies sounds better, but they still sound low though in the amp sounds ok, so maybe is a sound card problem
I feel better today cause I'm finding the parts I really must practice.
Cheers!!
Valentin
Posted by: Tolek Jan 22 2009, 09:04 PM
Hey mate!
About your videos I haven´t to say anything. They´re very good. You can try the blues lesson at a higher speed now. As you already play that bluesy riff pretty well, we can move to the next one which sounds even nicer! This one has a walking bass which is a pattern in the bass that you transpose when changing the chords. In this example we have on the chord E: E E G G# B B B C# E. We transpose it a perfect 4th higher and we get on the chord of A (which is the IV degree of the E Major scale and which is a perfect 4th higher than E): A A C C# E E E F# A. The same counts for the V degree of the E Major scale which is B: B B D D# F# F# F# G# B. Actually, Ivan added some other notes to the bass line to make it a bit more singing, but I think that it should be clear with this example, or am I mistaken? Here are the tabs for video number 6:
|--3-| |--3-| |--3-| |---3--|
Q E Q E Q E E E E
------------------------------------|
------------------------------------|
------------------------------------|
--2----2----------2----2--2------2--|
--2----2--2----2--2----2--2h--4-----|
--0----0--3----4--------------------|
|--3-| |--3-| |--3-| |---3--|
Q E Q E Q E E E E
------------------------------------|
------------------------------------|
------------------------------------|
--2----2----------2----2--2------2--|
--2----2--2----2--2----2--2h--4-----|
--0----0--3----4--------------------|
|--3-| |--3-| |--3-| |---3--|
Q E Q E Q E E E E
------------------------------------|
------------------------------------|
------------------------------------|
--2----2----------2----2--2------2--|
--2----2--2----2--2----2--2h--4-----|
--0----0--3----4--------------------|
|--3-| |--3-| |--3-| |---3--|
Q E Q E Q E E E E
------------------------------------|
------------------------------------|
------------------------------------|
--2----2----------2----2--2------2--|
--2----2--2----2--2----2--2h--4-----|
--0----0--3----4--------------------|
|--3-| |--3-| |--3-| |--3--|
Q E Q E Q E E E E
-----------------------------------|
-----------------------------------|
--2----2----------2----2--2-----2--|
--2----2--2----2--2----2--2--4-----|
--0----0--3----4-------------------|
-----------------------------------|
|--3-| |--3-| |--3-| |--3--|
Q E Q E Q E E E E
-----------------------------------|
-----------------------------------|
--2----2----------2----2--2-----2--|
--2----2--2----2--2----2--2--4-----|
--0----0--3----4-------------------|
-----------------------------------|
|--3-| |--3-| |--3-| |---3--|
Q E Q E Q E E E E
------------------------------------|
------------------------------------|
------------------------------------|
--2----2----------2----2--2------2--|
--2----2--2----2--2----2--2h--4-----|
--0----0--3----4--------------------|
|--3-| |--3-| |--3-| |---3--|
Q E Q E Q E E E E
------------------------------------|
------------------------------------|
------------------------------------|
--2----2----------2----2--2------2--|
--2----2--2----2--2----2--2h--4-----|
--0----0--3----4--------------------|
|--3-| |--3-| |--3-| |--3--|
Q E Q E Q E E E E
-----------------------------------|
-----------------------------------|
--4----4----------4----4--4-----4--|
--4----4--4----4--4----4--4--6-----|
--2----2--5----6-------------------|
-----------------------------------|
|--3-| |--3-| |--3-| |--3--|
Q E Q E Q E E E E
-----------------------------------|
-----------------------------------|
--2----2----------2----2--2-----2--|
--2----2--2----2--2----2--2--4-----|
--0----0--3----4-------------------|
-----------------------------------|
|--3--| |--3--| |--3--|
Q E E E E E E E E E
----------4--------3--------2-----|
-------------3--------2--------1--|
-------4--------3--------2--------|
----------------------------------|
--2-------------------------------|
--0-------------------------------|
|--3--| |--3--|
E E E E E H Q
--0--------------2-------------|
--0--------------2-------------|
--1--------------2-------------|
-----------------1-------------|
--------0--1-----2-------------|
-------------------------------|
I also add a video for you that gives you advice on the finger independence:
If you still have problems or something is unclear, let me know!
Glad to heat that!
It´s very good to see the own mistakes. This skill and self-critique are a perfect match to become a good guitarist!See you,
Tolek
Posted by: Tolek Jan 25 2009, 10:30 PM
Hey there!
I want to excuse myself. I didn´t have the time this weekend to arrange a plan for you... I think that I´ll have to do that today or so.
Keep practising the lessons we affronted a bit. This week we are going to see a new one, so don´t hesitate to post videos! We have to move on!
Cheers,
Tolek
Posted by: valentino Jan 26 2009, 01:36 PM
I want to excuse myself. I didn´t have the time this weekend to arrange a plan for you...
I think that I´ll have to do that today or so.Keep practising the lessons we affronted a bit. This week we are going to see a new one, so don´t hesitate to post videos! We have to move on!
Cheers,
Tolek
No problem mate!
I haven't had time this weekend to do anything. The only productive thing I did was a jam session with my cousin. I was in his house all weekend.
I keep practicing, as always
Cheers!
Valentin
Posted by: Tolek Jan 26 2009, 10:45 PM
I haven't had time this weekend to do anything. The only productive thing I did was a jam session with my cousin. I was in his house all weekend.
I keep practicing, as always
Cheers!
Valentin
Hi!
You had a jam session? Awesome! When doing this, you get so much experience... Very good!
Week N°3 has already begun and I have to introduce you to the next lesson. However, I want you still to practise the Blues Groove Lesson and the Finger Independence Exercices. Details will follow with your practise plan. I chose the http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/solo-guitar/tarantella-rock-traditional-folk-dance/. "Tarantella" means "spider" in Italian and is a folk dance which time signature is mostly 3/8, 6/8 or 12/8, it depends on the song.
Start by learning what notes you have to play while taking care of the rhythm. At first very slowly. If you posted a video tomorrow, it would be very good, I could immediately correct you!
This lesson starts in E natural minor (very short) and changes later on to E harmonic minor (the leading-tone (=7th degree) is D#). The second part of the lesson starts in G Major which is the relative Major scale of E minor and it ends in G Major, too. There is nothing special, harmonically speaking, just a modulation to the relative Major scale, as I said.
I´m looking forward to the video, my friend!
Cheers,
Tolek
Posted by: valentino Jan 28 2009, 08:52 AM
Hey mate!
I'm not posting videos, but I keep practicing. Hope today I have time to record a video.
I'm having a very busy days, but I always have time to pick up the guitar and practice a bit.
Cheers!!
Valentin
Posted by: Tolek Jan 28 2009, 07:12 PM
Hey there!
Glad to hear that you are still alive. As you have busy days, I know how you feel. How much time do you have left for practising now? I have to know this for structuring your plan if you still want one.
I hope to see a video from you today!
Cheers,
Tolek
Posted by: Tolek Jan 31 2009, 03:55 PM
Valentino? Where are you?
Posted by: valentino Feb 2 2009, 06:56 PM
Hey mate!!
I'm really really sorry man, I got some family problems that needed attention and I got a little time to practice.
Now a couple of videos.
First one is the second blues lesson you gave me.
This take is 80bpm
I know, the fingering is horrible, but I find hard the thumb and index finger position while freting 2 strings and move the other fingers.
The second one is the first 28 seconds of the Tarantella lesson
This take is 90bpm
Of course there are thousands of things to correct, but I didn't got time mate. I'm really sorry man!
I hope you're not upset by the absence.
Valentin
Posted by: Tolek Feb 2 2009, 09:34 PM
Valentino, my friend! I am so glad to see you back again. I thought that something happened... Good luck with your family problems. I know that they´re very unpleasant and difficult to solve. You should really concentrate on them, family is the most important thing in life, imo.
I´m going to comment your videos tomorrow because I´m not feeling well now, sorry. I´m a bit sick...
Take care!
Tolek
UPDATE 3.2.2009: Still sick.
Posted by: Tolek Feb 5 2009, 08:19 PM
Well, here I am! Full of new energy that the success in the MTP brought me. I´m still sick, but on the good way of recovery. Sorry for the delay.
I just made a video for you that explains your issues. In general, they are: palm muting (position), alternate picking (used a bit too less) and Hammer-On/Pull-Offs problems. Here it is:
If you have any questions, let me know.
I´m off to do my homework for tomorrow... Music harmony! It´s much, so I think it´ll be a long evening.
See you soon,
Tolek
Posted by: Tolek Feb 5 2009, 10:40 PM
Update: the video is on.
Posted by: valentino Feb 9 2009, 07:57 PM
Heeyyy!!
How are you mate?
I have 2 videos...
First 1 is the blues. There are a couple of fails 
hehehe.
and this is the tarantella trying to correct the problems I got before.
I hope you are totally recovered
Cheers!!!
Valentin
Posted by: Tolek Feb 9 2009, 10:53 PM
Hello valentino!
Glad to see you back with two videos. I hope everything is a bit better now in your house...
hehehe.As you said, there are some fails, but just very small ones.
The only thing that is a bit weak are your hammer-ons. You should try to hammer-on a bit harder and faster. Like in karate, as I told you before in the video. Do you need again a video explaining it briefler? Also, in the part where you use hybrid picking (which was very pleasant, actually), you should accentuate the bass note which is every time the first note of the beat.All the rest was good, you corrected the issues I mentioned and you look and sound more professional now. I am satisfied. Good job!
I´m glad that you went a bit further with that lesson! Can´t wait to hear the final version. Well, everything was pretty good. In the beginning, I still can hear the D string that you hit accidentally (I think I forgot to mention that, sorry). An exercice would be to practise only that part over several minutes while focusing to hit only the G string. A bit annoying, but very effective!
Cheers!!!
Valentin
Well, not totally yet. I´m still expectorating heavily.
But when I see your new corrected takes, I´m immediately feeling better. I hope that you get more time for playing guitar, soon. I like seeing your progress!
See you soon,
Tolek
(Sorry that there´s no video. It´s late and I think you don´t need one for those few details, you surely know what I mean!
And I have to prepare for my Spanish test tomorrow! If you really want one, just let me know. No problem to make one tomorrow!)
Posted by: Tolek Feb 15 2009, 04:00 PM
Hey Valentino!
I just wanted to ask how you were. Is everything alright? I´m a bit worried about you.
I hope that all your problems will dissapear.
Cheers,
Tolek
Posted by: valentino Feb 23 2009, 05:57 PM
hey mate!!
I' sorry for the absence. Things at home are backing to normality but I am buying a new car and I spend free time going to a car dealer to another looking for best prices. Very stressful mate, but we are living crissis time, and every euro is important!!
I hope to have the final price this week
And I hope this week I can find some time to practice.
Cheers!!!
Valentino
Posted by: Tolek Feb 23 2009, 06:21 PM
Hey mate!
I´m so glad to hear from you! And I am happy that things went out well.
Good luck with practising!
Tolek
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