10 Best Guitar Courses for Intermediate Level

Ready to take your guitar skills up a notch? You’ve been jamming for a while now, and maybe you’re feeling a bit stuck. Perhaps you’re looking for that “aha!” moment or just need some fresh inspiration. Whatever the case, finding the right guitar course can make all the difference. Let’s check out some of the best courses out there for intermediate players, packed with practical tips, relatable lessons, and maybe even a few riffs that will blow your mind.

The Art of Metal Rhythm Guitar

Alright, metalheads, listen up. Metal rhythm guitar is all about precision, power, and endurance. It’s what gives bands like Metallica and Slayer their unmistakable sound. So, how do you get there? Well, the trick is to focus on downpicking and alternate picking.

Start with downpicking. This technique is the backbone of those chunky, aggressive riffs. Spend some time just working on getting your downpicking clean and consistent. Try playing along with a metronome, gradually increasing the speed as you get more comfortable. You’ll be amazed at how much tighter your playing becomes.

Next, alternate picking is your best friend for speed. If you’ve ever marveled at the lightning-fast runs in a Megadeth song, alternate picking is likely at play. Practice scales using alternate picking, and focus on keeping your hand relaxed. Tension is the enemy of speed.

For those really looking to get serious, Riffhard is a great place to learn from some of the best. With lessons from modern metal rhythm guitar legends, you can hone your skills with techniques specifically tailored to the genres you love.

Understanding Music Theory Without Losing Your Mind

Music theory can often feel like a maze of complicated terms and concepts. However, for guitarists, understanding even the basics can open up a whole new world of creativity. Think of it as learning the grammar of a language you’re already speaking.

Start with the circle of fifths. It’s a visual representation of the relationships between different keys and is incredibly useful for understanding key signatures. Once you get the hang of it, you can quickly figure out what chords fit together in a particular key, making it easier to write songs or improvise solos.

Next, dive into scales and modes. The major and minor scales are a good starting point, but don’t shy away from exploring modes like Dorian and Phrygian. These often appear in metal and can add a unique flavor to your playing. Use them to craft solos that stand out and have more depth than just running up and down a pentatonic scale.

For a practical, hands-on approach, consider courses that break theory down into bite-sized lessons. This way, you can learn at your own pace without getting overwhelmed. Riffhard offers video lessons that incorporate theory into applicable guitar exercises, allowing you to see the immediate impact on your playing.

Perfecting Your Lead Guitar Phrasing

So, you’ve got speed, but do your solos sound like a flurry of notes without direction? That’s where phrasing comes in. Think of it as the punctuation in your musical sentences. Without it, everything just blurs together.

First, experiment with dynamics. Not every note has to be played at 11. Varying the volume and attack of your notes can add emotion and intensity to your solos. Try playing the same lick both softly and aggressively, and notice how it changes the feel.

Bending and vibrato are other essential tools in your phrasing arsenal. A well-executed bend can make your guitar sing, while vibrato adds a human touch to your playing. Practice these techniques slowly, focusing on control and consistency.

Finally, don’t underestimate the power of space. Silence can be as impactful as the notes themselves, giving your audience a moment to breathe and process what you’ve just played. Listen to guitarists like Slash or David Gilmour, who use phrasing masterfully.

And if you’re still struggling, you’ll find that Riffhard offers lessons specifically focused on lead guitar phrasing, taught by some of the best in the biz. It’s like having a personal coach guiding you to find your unique voice on the guitar.

Fingerstyle Metal: Yes, It’s a Thing!

When you think of fingerstyle guitar, you might picture a classical guitarist or maybe some folk tunes. But metal fingerstyle? It’s a unique beast and can add an entirely new dimension to your playing.

The key to fingerstyle metal lies in integrating complex rhythms and melodies simultaneously. This technique allows for a more textured sound, letting you play bass lines and leads at the same time. Start by practicing basic fingerpicking patterns, focusing on clarity and precision.

One common technique is the Travis picking pattern, which can be adapted to fit metal rhythms. It involves alternating the bass notes with your thumb while playing the melody with your fingers. Once you get the hang of it, try incorporating power chords or even tapping for some extra flair.

To truly excel, consider enrolling in a course that focuses on this style. Look for lessons that teach not only the fingerstyle technique but also how to apply it to heavy music. Fingerstyle metal may not be the norm, but it’s a surefire way to stand out in the crowd.

Improvisation: Finding Your Voice on the Fretboard

Improvisation is one of those skills that separates the good from the great. It’s about expressing yourself in the moment, crafting solos and riffs that feel spontaneous yet deliberate.

Start by jamming along with backing tracks. Pick a key and just play. Don’t worry about making mistakes, they’re part of the learning process. Focus on connecting your ear to your fingers, so the music in your head flows naturally through your guitar.

Learn some licks from your favorite guitarists and try to incorporate them into your playing. This can help you develop a vocabulary of phrases to draw from when improvising. As you get more comfortable, start experimenting with altering these licks to make them your own.

Another great exercise is call and response. Play a simple phrase, then try to “answer” it with another. This simulates a musical conversation and can help you develop a more dynamic and engaging style.

For structured improvisation training, Riffhard offers lessons that can guide you through the process, helping you build confidence and creativity in your improvisational skills.

Recording at Home: Getting Studio Quality on a Budget

Recording your guitar at home has never been easier, and you don’t need a ton of expensive gear to get started. With the right setup, you can produce high-quality recordings that capture your sound perfectly.

First, invest in a decent audio interface. This is your connection between the guitar and your computer. Brands like Focusrite and PreSonus offer reliable options that won’t break the bank.

Next, choose a digital audio workstation (DAW). Software like GarageBand, Reaper, or Ableton Live allows you to record, edit, and mix your tracks. Spend some time learning the basics, such as how to record multiple tracks and apply effects.

Don’t forget about amp simulators and plugins. They can emulate the sound of your favorite amplifiers and effects pedals, giving you a wide range of tones to experiment with. Plugins like BIAS FX or AmpliTube are popular choices.

Finally, consider your recording environment. Try to minimize background noise and experiment with microphone placement if you’re recording an amp. With a bit of practice and patience, you’ll be amazed at the professional-quality recordings you can produce right from your bedroom.

Songwriting: Crafting Memorable Riffs and Hooks

Writing your own songs is one of the most rewarding aspects of playing guitar. But sometimes, getting started can feel like facing a blank canvas. Don’t fret, there are a few tricks to get those creative juices flowing.

Begin with a riff. Some of the greatest songs started with a simple guitar riff, which became the foundation for the entire track. Experiment with different rhythms and note combinations until you find something that grabs your attention.

Once you have a riff, build on it. Try adding a chord progression or a contrasting section to create variety. Remember, not every part of your song has to be complex. Sometimes simplicity is the key to a catchy hook.

Lyrics can also play a significant role in your songwriting. If you’re stuck, consider writing about personal experiences or emotions. This can add authenticity and depth to your music.

And if you need a little guidance, there are songwriting courses designed specifically for guitarists. These can provide you with structured exercises and creative prompts to help you develop your ideas into full-fledged songs.

Developing Speed Without Sacrificing Accuracy

Fast playing is impressive, but only if it’s clean. Speed without accuracy can sound messy and unprofessional. So, how do you build speed while maintaining precision?

Start slow. It might sound counterintuitive, but playing at a slower tempo allows you to focus on each note, ensuring you’re hitting them cleanly. Gradually increase the speed as you become more comfortable.

Use a metronome religiously. It can help you stay in time and develop consistent picking patterns. Set it to a slow tempo initially, and gradually increase it as you improve.

Focus on your picking technique. Whether you’re using alternate picking, economy picking, or sweep picking, make sure your movements are efficient. Avoid unnecessary motion and keep your hand relaxed.

Finally, practice with purpose. Instead of mindlessly playing scales, set specific goals for each practice session, such as working on a challenging lick or mastering a new technique.

For courses that emphasize both speed and precision, Riffhard offers lessons that focus on these exact skills, taught by guitarists who have mastered the art of fast, clean playing.

Transcribing Songs: Learning by Ear

Transcribing songs by ear is a fantastic way to improve your playing and your musical ear. It forces you to really listen to the music and understand the nuances of different players’ styles.

Start with something simple. Pick a song you love, and try to figure out the main riff by ear. Use your guitar to match the pitches and rhythms you hear.

Once you’ve got the riff down, move on to the rest of the song. Break it into sections and tackle each one individually. It’s okay if you don’t get it perfect on the first try. The goal is to train your ear and improve your listening skills.

Don’t hesitate to use technology to assist you. Slow down the track with software or apps that allow you to adjust the tempo without changing the pitch. This can make it easier to hear intricate parts.

Transcribing can be challenging, but it’s incredibly rewarding. It helps you develop a deeper understanding of music and enhances your ability to learn new songs quickly.

Final Thoughts

There you have it—some of the best courses and techniques for intermediate guitarists looking to level up. Whether you’re diving into the world of metal rhythm, exploring music theory, or crafting your own unforgettable riffs, these courses offer something for everyone. And if you’re serious about getting better, consider checking out Riffhard. With lessons from some of the most respected metal guitarists, it might just be the boost you need to take your playing to the next level.