Articles written by Jim Shelp

Memorizing the fretboard is within the grasp of all guitarists. This article is a starting point for the novice to learn some of the guitar notes quickly.

Apr 8, 2010 - Jim Shelp

Students can take control of their learning by applying the study skills presented in this article. A list of basic study guides and test taking tips is discussed.

Nov 7, 2009 - Jim Shelp

Power chords can be found in virtually all types of rock music, among others. They can be easier to play than standard chord forms, and great to solo over.

Jul 31, 2009 - Jim Shelp

The guitar is jam-packed with musical possibilities. One can play virtually any style of music. Moreover, the guitar can be tuned in many attention-grabbing ways.

Jul 30, 2009 - Jim Shelp

Learning a few horizontal and vertically lead patterns is one of the first steps in becoming a guitar soloist. The G major and E minor pentatonic scales are essential.

Jul 20, 2009 - Jim Shelp

All guitarists want to add speed to their playing. One way to add blazing speed is by using a picking technique called sweep picking.

Jul 12, 2009 - Jim Shelp

There are many guitar soloing techniques to master. This article looks at the effective use of zigzagging arpeggio patterns and arpeggiated picking.

Jul 7, 2009 - Jim Shelp

One way to create a good song is to add musical form. A guitarist who wants to write good songs will study the major song writing forms that are popular today.

Jul 6, 2009 - Jim Shelp

When a guitar is tuned to standard tuning, it is set up perfectly to play in the key of G major or E minor. A guitarist should master the chords and scales in these keys.

Jul 6, 2009 - Jim Shelp

For a guitarist, tablature is a very useful way to document songs. This article offers an alternative approach to tabbing chord progressions and such.

Jun 27, 2009 - Jim Shelp

When a guitarist wants to end a song, either totally or partially, they will use various techniques. One such technique is the use of cadences.

Jun 25, 2009 - Jim Shelp

Do people love playing the guitar because they are good at it? Or are they good at it because they love it? What exactly is musical talent?

Jun 24, 2009 - Jim Shelp

The ultimate goal for many guitarists is to shred like the professionals. How does an impressive guitarist improvise and solo so effortlessly? Where does one start?

Jun 23, 2009 - Jim Shelp

Modes allow a guitarist to create interesting harmonies. The modal progression method described in this article opens up a whole new world of possibilities.

Jun 20, 2009 - Jim Shelp

This article introduces chords and chord harmonies. A guitarist should study how chords are formed and how to play them.

Jun 19, 2009 - Jim Shelp

Memorizing the fretboard is within the grasp of all guitarists. All one has to do is apply a few key ideas.

Jun 18, 2009 - Jim Shelp

It is important to not over practice or to practice incorrectly. Overuse and misuse are two common causes of injury. A proper practice routine will avoid wrist injuries.

Jun 17, 2009 - Jim Shelp

Self-esteem and self-efficacy are inter-related. One affects the other, but which should be emphasized in today's schools.

Jun 15, 2009 - Jim Shelp

A little nervousness can give the prospective performer an edge on stage, but too much can be disastrous. What can a prospective performer do about fighting stage fright?

Jun 10, 2009 - Jim Shelp