Notes
When learning to play the guitar, no doubt you wil spend a great deal of time holding the instrument and looking at a chart, a tab or regular
music notation. Here are a few things to keep in mind. Hopefully these tips will keep you from being confused:
- When holding the guitar, the strings are numbered "1" through "6". The smallest string being 1 and the largest string being 6.
- While taking the above tip into consideration, when counting the strings, you should start with the smallest string being 1 and count upward.
- Generally, when looking at a graphic of a guitar neck, the high e string will be at the top while the low E string will be at the bottom. That way
when you look at the chart and then look down at the guitar neck, the orientation will be the same. This won't always be the case. However, the open strings should always be identified.
When playing your guitar alway keep the ergonomics of the instrument in mind. Although it might look cool to have the instrument strung low, that is not very effective.
Adjust your strap to a position that is comfortable and where you can easily chord and pick on the entire neck.
If you have the strap too low, it forces you to have an exaggerated bend in your fingering hand. This, while being uncomfortable, will all cause pain in the long term. In addition, it will also inhibit your ability to play smoothly. A good rule of thumb is; the guitar should be in basically the same position standing up as it is when you are setting down. Try it, I think you will find it much more effective.
When selecting a guitar strap, pick a wide strap that is comfortable. Make sure the position is comfortable for you
picking hand as well. You should be aware where your picking hand is anchored. While many people pluck the strings with their fingers when playing bass, anchoring your thumb to something is important. A popular train of thought with guitarist is to not anchor your picking hand. The thought is that is limits your ability to play faster and smoother. You can obtain different sounds by having the anchor point at different locations on the guitar body.
It is a good practice to place your thumb near the middle of the neck when picking or chording. This is a hard rule to follow, but if you notice, when your thumb is in this position, you have better access to the entire fretboard. You will see exceptions to this rule. If you look at Jimi Hendrix or Stevie Ray Vaughn video's, you can clearly see their thumbs hanging over the fretboard. And who would argue with their style?
When you are playing try to relax. This can be hard at times, especially if you tend to get nervous. But, you will notice that if you stay relaxed, your playing will be more fluid and sound much better.
Take a little time to keep your guitar clean and in good repair. I always wipe my guitar down after playing.
You should also periodically clean and apply a polish to the instrument. I use Martin Guitar polish on all of my guitars,
you should probably go with the manufacturers recommendations. If you have a rosewood fingerboard, applying a little lemon oil is a
good way to keep it in good condition. Personally, I use Fast Fret on all of my fingerboards.
At the very least, wipe it down after playing using a soft, lint-free cloth (100% cotton diaper).
Cleaning your instrument is a personal thing, I know some people that will not use anything on the fretboard, and they could be right. Some of
the most respected luthiers in the business only recommend breathing on the guitar to moisten it slightly (fogging) and then wiping with a baby diaper. This method works quite well!
Whatever you do, do a little research and keep it in good working condition. Take care of it and it will take care of you!