How to Get Serious About the Guitar

So, you’ve decided to buckle down and get serious about playing the guitar, especially if you’re eyeing those heavy metal riffs and face-melting solos. Whether you’re dreaming of shredding like Eddie Van Halen or laying down heavy grooves like Tony Iommi, getting serious about guitar involves more than just passion. It requires dedication, a structured approach, and a good understanding of where to start and how to progress. Let’s break down what it takes to transform from a casual strummer into a disciplined guitarist.

Finding Your Musical Inspiration

Before diving into the technical aspects, it’s crucial to identify what inspires you. Is it the raw power of thrash metal, the dark aura of black metal, or perhaps the innovative sounds of djent? Understanding your musical inspiration will guide your practice sessions and keep you motivated.

Once you know what excites you, dive into the music of your favorite bands. Listen actively, and try to understand what makes their sound unique. Is it the intricate solos, the rhythmic complexity, or the tone of the guitars? Listening with a critical ear will not only deepen your appreciation but also provide you with a roadmap for your journey.

For instance, if you’re inspired by Metallica, pay attention to James Hetfield’s downpicking technique. If Dream Theater’s progressive metal has caught your ear, notice John Petrucci’s use of odd time signatures and complex solos. This kind of focused listening is like having a mini-lesson every time you hit play.

Setting Realistic Goals

Setting goals is essential for progress. Start by defining what you want to achieve in both the short and long term. Are you aiming to master a specific technique, play a particular song, or perhaps compose your own music?

Break these goals down into manageable chunks. For example, if your aim is to play a complex solo, start by mastering individual licks or phrases. Tackle them one at a time. Gradually piece them together, and before you know it, you’ll be playing the entire solo.

Moreover, set a timeline for each goal. This helps in keeping track of progress and staying motivated. But be flexible—sometimes, things take longer than expected, and that’s okay. The key is consistency. Practice regularly, and you’ll see improvement.

Building a Practice Routine

A structured practice routine is a cornerstone of getting serious about guitar. It’s not just about playing for hours on end; it’s about making the most of your practice time.

Start with a warm-up to get your fingers moving. This could be simple chromatic exercises or scales. Spend about 10-15 minutes on this.

Next, focus on technique. This could involve alternate picking, sweep picking, or fingerstyle—whatever aligns with your goals. Spend a significant portion of your practice time here, say 30-40 minutes. Use a metronome to develop timing and speed gradually.

Then, dedicate some time to learning songs. Choose pieces that challenge you but are within reach. This not only applies what you’ve practiced but also keeps things fun and interesting.

Finally, end your session with a cool-down. Play something you enjoy and that relaxes your mind. This helps reinforce the positive aspects of practice and leaves you looking forward to the next session.

Developing Technique and Speed

In the world of metal guitar, technique and speed are non-negotiable. Whether it’s downpicking, alternate picking, or tapping, mastering these techniques will set you apart.

Start slow. Speed is a byproduct of accuracy. Use a metronome and gradually increase the tempo as you become more comfortable. Focus on clean, precise playing rather than rushing through exercises.

For example, if you’re working on alternate picking, choose a simple scale or pattern. Start at a slow tempo, ensuring each note is clear and even. Once you can play it perfectly, increase the speed incrementally.

Additionally, explore different techniques. If you’re into djent, work on palm muting and rhythmic precision. For progressive metal, practice odd time signatures and complex chord progressions. The diversity in practice will not only improve your skills but also keep your interest alive.

At Riffhard, we offer lessons from some of the best metal guitarists in the world, focusing extensively on these techniques. Watching how the pros do it can provide invaluable insights and inspire your practice sessions.

Understanding Music Theory

While the term “music theory” might sound intimidating, it’s essentially the language of music. Understanding theory can greatly enhance your playing and creativity.

Start with the basics. Learn about scales, chords, and how they relate to each other. Understand key signatures and how to construct chord progressions. This knowledge will allow you to understand why certain notes sound good together and how to create your own musical ideas.

For metal guitarists, modes are particularly useful. The Phrygian and Locrian modes, for instance, are often used to create that dark, edgy sound typical in metal music. Spend time learning these modes and experimenting with them in your playing.

Remember, theory is a tool to aid your creativity, not a set of rules. Use it to experiment and find your unique voice on the guitar.

Improvising and Composing

Improvisation and composition are where you can truly express yourself as a guitarist. It’s about taking the techniques and theory you’ve learned and using them to create something new.

Begin by improvising over backing tracks. This helps develop your ear and sense of timing. Start simple. Choose a key or mode and stick to it, focusing on creating melodies and phrases.

When it comes to composition, start with a riff or melody. Build around it, adding layers and variations. Don’t be afraid to experiment. Try different chords, rhythms, and structures.

Remember, composition is a personal process. There’s no right or wrong. The goal is to create music that resonates with you. If you’re looking for guidance, Riffhard offers insights from seasoned musicians on how to develop your own compositions.

Investing in Quality Gear

While technique is crucial, having the right gear can significantly enhance your playing experience. You don’t need to spend a fortune, but investing in quality equipment can make a big difference.

Start with the basics: a good guitar and amplifier. When choosing a guitar, consider the genre you’re interested in. For metal, guitars with humbucker pickups are preferred for their powerful sound.

Amplifiers also play a vital role in your tone. Decide whether you need a combo amp or a head and cabinet setup based on your playing environment and performance needs. Experiment with different models to find the sound that suits you.

Don’t forget about accessories like picks, cables, and pedals. These can shape your tone and offer greater versatility in your playing.

Networking with Other Musicians

Playing guitar can sometimes feel like a solitary pursuit, but connecting with other musicians can be incredibly rewarding. Whether it’s joining a band, participating in jam sessions, or engaging in online communities, playing with others can accelerate your growth.

Being around other musicians exposes you to different styles and techniques, broadening your musical horizons. It also pushes you to play better, as you’ll want to keep up with the group.

Additionally, collaborating with others can lead to new musical ideas and projects. The synergy of working together often results in something greater than the sum of its parts.

If you’re looking to connect with other guitarists, Riffhard offers a community of like-minded musicians where you can share your progress, get feedback, and find potential collaborators.

Staying Motivated and Overcoming Plateaus

Every guitarist hits a plateau at some point. It’s normal and part of the learning process. The key is not to get discouraged.

When progress seems slow, revisit your goals and practice routine. Sometimes, a small tweak can reignite your passion. Try learning a new song, exploring a different genre, or setting a new challenge for yourself.

It’s also important to remind yourself of why you started playing in the first place. Revisit the music that inspired you and let it drive you forward.

Lastly, be patient and kind to yourself. Improvement takes time, and every guitarist’s journey is unique. Celebrate small victories and keep pushing forward. With dedication and the right mindset, you’ll continue to grow as a musician.

Final Thoughts

Getting serious about the guitar is a journey filled with challenges and rewards. From honing your technique to understanding music theory and finding your own voice, each step is a building block towards becoming the guitarist you aspire to be. At Riffhard, we offer resources to help you along this journey, with lessons from world-class guitarists and a community to support your growth. Keep practicing, stay inspired, and enjoy the ride!