Beginner guitar practice routine

by Donald
(Jacksonburg, WV)

Question: I have had my guitar for about two years now and only recently decided to really get into it. Over the past few years I have collected around 50 to 60 books ranging from beginner books up to style methods. My focus on music style has been a combination of rock and blues.

Right now my practice routine is:

- warm-up
- one min chord changes
- chord progressions
- strumming technique
- theory, including scales and reading standard music notation.

I use Hal Leonard's complete method but I also have Berkley's Complete Method and Mel Bay's vol 1-5. is this a adequate practice routine or do you have any other suggestions?

Answer

Well it certainly looks like you have a well rounded practice routine and a comprehensive set of learning materials to draw from. Not sure there is anything to add to it at this stage as I don't want you to lose your focus.

The main thing is that you can hear progress in your own playing. Make sure you record yourself regularly and listen back. You'll hear things purely as a listener that you don't hear whilst playing the guitar.

Notice your improvements but also take time out from your regular practice routine to work on your weaknesses. For example, your chord changes might be improving at a steady rate, but your strumming technique might need that little more time devoted to it. It's being responsive in this way that will ensure you progress smoothly.

Keep up the good work! You set a good example for other beginners.