Blues Guitar For Beginners: An Easy Beginning Method

Would you like to learn how to play the blues guitar? Are you a beginner looking for an easy starting point? Look no further! In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through a method that will have you playing blues guitar in no time.

The Essence of Blues Guitar

Blues guitar is a genre that originated in African American communities in the Deep South during the late 19th century. It soon spread across the country and became an integral part of American music culture.

What makes the blues guitar so captivating is its expressive and emotional nature. Blues guitarists often use bends, slides, and vibrato to create soulful sounds that tug at the heartstrings. The genre has a rich history and has influenced countless musicians across different genres.

Blues Guitar for Beginners: An Easy Beginning Method

by Melanie Shankle([Print Replica] Kindle Edition)

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	13180 KB
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	48 pages

FREE

Getting Started

Before diving into playing the blues guitar, it's important to familiarize yourself with the basics. Here are a few essential steps to help you get started:

1. Understand the Fretboard

Take some time to learn the names of the strings and the notes on the fretboard. This knowledge will be crucial as you progress in your guitar playing journey.

2. Learn Basic Chords

Mastering basic chords is essential for any guitarist, regardless of the genre they want to play. Practice the open chords, such as A, D, E, G, and C. These chords will serve as the foundation for many blues guitar progressions.

3. Develop a Strong Sense of Rhythm

Blues music heavily relies on rhythm. To enhance your playing, practice strumming patterns and rhythmic subdivisions. Start with simple patterns and gradually increase the complexity as you gain more confidence.

The 12-Bar Blues Progression

One of the most common blues progressions is the 12-bar blues. It forms the backbone of countless blues songs and provides a solid structure for improvisation and soloing. Here's a breakdown of the 12-bar blues in the key of E:

Practice playing this progression until you can seamlessly transition from one chord to another. This progression provides the perfect backdrop for blues improvisation and soloing.

Blues Guitar Techniques

Now that you have a solid foundation in blues guitar, it's time to explore some essential techniques that give the genre its distinctive sound:

1. Bends

Mastering bends will allow you to infuse your playing with emotion. Practice bending the strings to the desired pitch using your fretting hand. Experiment with different bending techniques to develop your unique style.

2. Slides

Slides add a smooth and fluid quality to blues guitar playing. Slide your finger up or down the fretboard to connect different notes and create a seamless flow of sound.

3. Vibrato

Vibrato is another technique that adds expressiveness to your playing. By slightly bending and releasing the string rapidly, you can create variations in pitch. Experiment with vibrato to find your preferred intensity and speed.

Resources for Further Learning

To continue your blues guitar journey, take advantage of the numerous resources available online:

1. Online Lessons

There are many websites and YouTube channels offering free and paid guitar lessons. Find a reputable instructor who specializes in teaching blues guitar and follow along with their lessons.

2. Blues Guitar Books

Visit your local bookstore or browse online retailers for blues guitar instructional books. These books often provide step-by-step guides, sheet music, and practical exercises to help you hone your skills.

3. Jam with Other Musicians

One of the best ways to improve your playing is by collaborating with other musicians. Join local jam sessions or seek out fellow guitarists who share your passion for blues. Playing with others will push you out of your comfort zone and help you develop your improvisational skills.

Learning to play blues guitar can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience. By following this easy beginning method, you'll be well on your way to becoming a proficient blues guitarist. Remember to practice regularly, experiment with techniques, and keep the soulful spirit of the blues alive in your playing.

Blues Guitar for Beginners: An Easy Beginning Method

by Melanie Shankle([Print Replica] Kindle Edition)

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	13180 KB
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	48 pages

FREE

This book takes the beginning guitarist from the basics of buying their first guitar through the basic fundamentals of blues guitar techniques and blues lead guitar playing. It is written in a step-by-step manner that allows you to advance at your own pace. Tablature, photos, diagrams and drawings make new concepts or techniques easy to understand. Written by an outstanding performer and educator, this is the beginner's chance to study with the best.