Slow Down, You're Movin' Too Fast

Slow equals fast when it comes to guitar playing.

A common mistake that beginning guitar players make is trying to play too fast. Guitar teachers hear all the arguments and complaints. It doesn't sound good slow, I can't play slow, I was going slower, it's much faster than that, how will I ever learn to play that fast and the list goes on. The key to learning guitar is to be slow and deliberate when you practice. Really learning a song means you can play it through without having to think about it, not fearing the worst when that one part comes up, and thinking negative thoughts when performing. Believe me, I've been there and done that. The key is confidence that you can play the song without anticipating the "hard part." Every piece has one or more passages that will be difficult for you, it's a matter of nailing that part on a regular basis.

How do I build the confidence I need?

Practice in front of a mirror, record yourself, and play in front of friends, relatives and then strangers. Open mic nights, informal jam sessions, playing for your teacher, these are all confidence builders. The more you play in front of an audience the easier it becomes. Try it, you'll be amazed.