#4: Putting on some Training Wheels

Progress:

Back at it again with.... BLOG POST #4 !! Previously, I started testing out my practice of coordination basics with my knowledge of basic chords by playing a very simple song, Amazing Grace. The results didn't really turn out well, but I wasn't expecting good results anyways... BUT, practice makes perfect and this is NOT the time to give up :^) Reflecting on the video I filmed, a question came to mind, and I thought to myself, "Why is it taking me so long to get these basics down?" I know everyone learns at their own pace, but the pace I'm going at right now disappoints me a bit since I'm way behind schedule. After pondering this thought, I came to realization that it was easier for me to play if I was actually able to see where my fingers were. So to test this hypothesis, I laid the guitar flat on my lap and started playing Amazing Grace.

Reflection:

Playing the guitar flat on my lap was so much easier since I was actually able to keep track of where my fingers were placed on the strings. I know guitar players would cringe at my method of playing guitar, but it's a good start to fixing my ongoing problems. As I was playing guitar in this position, I was able to look ahead of where my next note should be and place my fingers in the right position. This led to fewer mistakes and better tone quality. My fingers weren't tripping over different strings, the notes were correct, and the transitions were smoother than my previous trials. I also realized that I was much more relaxed while playing which brings light to the root to one of my many problems: confidence. Being able to watch where my fingers were gave me more confidence and assurance that I wouldn't play the wrong notes. My tendency to always look ahead in life and in music was also applicable to this instance of me playing the guitar. My music teachers (shout out to Mr. Ling and Mr. Miller) have always taught me to look ahead while reading music. Although it was tough at first since it takes time to feel comfortable with a song, that note to self gradually made it easier to be expressive and always be ahead, thus giving the comfort of feeling ready. I'm still not comfortable with playing guitar, but I know that I will be able to overcome this obstacle and evolve as a musician.