3 Mistakes that are Stopping you from Learning Guitar

There are many factors to consider when we are an absolute beginner trying to learn something for the first time. There are several difficulties that a beginner faces that can slow down progress or result in a complete failure at learning the guitar which is an amazing instrument.

In this blog, we will discuss 3 mistakes that people make that directly impact their guitar learning.

Mistake #1 – Being Stuck on Warm-Up exercises

When you go to a music school or first guitar instructor, the first thing they are going to do is ask you to play guitar exercises. Typically, to master this exercise you may take a month or more. In our experience, most of the time, students complain saying that “I'm stuck at this exercise forever”. Now, if you're stuck at the same kind of exercise for two weeks or more, it’s obvious that you're going to lose interest. And once you start losing interest, the next thing you do will be to discontinue learning this amazing instrument.

So, what’s the Solution?

The right way to learn is to learn chords at the same time. So, why do you need to learn the chords at the same time? That is because chords by itself are going to take more than two or three weeks to master. So, let’s calculate the total time you’re going to take - you are going to learn the warmup exercise for three or four weeks then after that you're going to start with the chords. Chords will take you another two or three weeks so for two months you're just doing some exercise on the guitar

Mistake #2 - Learning Complicated Chords

When you first started learning to play chords on the Guitar, you tend to learn these chords C Major, E Minor, G Major and D Major. Now, while E Minor and D Major are not so complex for a beginner, the other two chords – C Major and D Major can be quite tricky for a beginner.

So, what’s the Solution?

That is why you should learn ‘half chords’. So, what are half chords? Half chords are simplified versions of the full chords – these typically have less notes that need to be played. These notes are typically played on the first three strings. So, we highly recommend first learning the half chords and how to apply them correctly. Playing these half chords and being able to apply them will help build your muscle memory and confidence. Once you have gained mastery over these half chords and are ready to venture into full chords, then you can start with full chords.

Mistake #3 – No Rewards/Motivation

A lot of students end up spending their first few weeks or even months on warm up exercises. They are unable to move their fingers fast enough, not coordinated or just unable to get a grasp of the instrument. The problem is that, if they are unable to achieve anything, they are going to get bored and lose motivation very quickly.

So, what’s the Solution?

The first thing we need to understand is the psyche of a learner. If somebody is trying to learn anything, it's directly related to how enjoyable that learning process is. How much of a reward system is it based on. So, learning and accomplishing things at a faster pace will keep you motivated. This in turn will keep you motivated to learn further. And if the process is really slow and complicated, you will either get tired or bored and you will ultimately stop learning. At the end of the day, with everything you learn, to keep you motivated, you need to have accomplishments. So, while warm up exercises are important, we advise that you don't spend more time on only exercises. Learn to play songs and learn songs alongside which is more rewarding and keeps you motivated to learn more.

In Summation

So, that was our 3 Mistakes that are Stopping you from Learning Guitar and our 3 solutions to counter that problem. So, make sure you don’t repeat these mistakes on your journey of guitar learning to achieve your goals. If you want to see a video demonstration of these topics, please see the video on our YouTube Channel - https://youtu.be/XcPYZXhdyt0    
 
If you want access to detailed guided lessons and practice routines, please do check out our Guitar courses on https://musicpandit.com – On Music Pandit, you get step-by-step lessons  that are designed to get you playing your favourite songs as quickly as possible. The lessons cover a whole range of topics including easy chords, popular strumming patterns, how to be creative with your playing and how to apply your techniques on any song!
 
We hope you enjoyed this topic and it was useful for you. Please follow our blog so you don’t miss out on any upcoming blog posts. If there is any topic you want to know more about, just comment below and we will definitely discuss it.

About Music Pandit

Music Pandit brings you the most effective way to learn music online with a 360-degree approach to learning music.

Music Pandit offers Online Video Lessons with the support of Personalised feedback from our Music Pandits, curated step-by-step lessons, extensive content - you can choose multiple instruments with One subscription, carefully organised Practice Routines, a Musical Community, Creative Challenges, Goal setting and so much more – so you can learn Anytime, Anywhere at your pace! Sign up today on https://musicpandit.com  

5 Things to do to Start Singing Right Now

Do you love to sing? Or do you have a song in your head that you dream of singing? Whether you wish to perform on a stage someday or you just want to step up your shower singing skills, anyone can learn how to sing better.

 

A common misconception about singing well is that you’re either born with it or you’re not. Well, we believe that ‘anyone can sing’ and we are going to tell you how!

 

In this blog, we will discuss 5 things you need to know to start your singing journey right now!

 

#1 A Singer is a Vocal Athlete

Singing is actually comparable to any athletic endeavour – let’s take for instance training for a performance, we can compare it to training for a marathon. There are certain muscles that need to be worked out and we push ourselves a little more every day to build up our endurance.

 

The same thing is applied when singing, we work out several parts of our vocal anatomy including vocal cords, larynx and soft palate. The more regularly you do this, the better control and flexibility you will have over your voice.

 

While physiological differences do play a role in the tone of the voice, the fact is that vocal training can make all the difference between an amateur singer and a professional.

 

#2 Stay Motivated

Now, when you are starting to sing, you will come across many nay-sayers. Everyone encounters negative people who constantly discourage you.

 

But, try to remember why you started in the first place. Who was that person or What was that song that made you want to sing?

 

Don’t forget it.

 

No singer was great when they started their musical journey, every one of them worked hard and didn’t give in to their critics and that’s why they got where they are.

 

Remember ‘you don’t have to be great to start but you have to start to be great.’

 

#3 Breathing Technique

One of the most important fundamentals to get right when you sing is your breathing technique. This is what makes the difference sounding breathless to holding that note with ease.

 

For singers, the technique of breathing through the diaphragm of belly breath is essential in order to deliver better and more stable sound.

If you don’t know how, try this technique. Put your hands (one on top of the other) on your belly, with the center of your lower hand touching your navel. Watch how your breathing responds. You may notice that your belly wants to expand as you inhale and retract as you exhale. Let this happen, but don’t try to force it.

 

The best way to practice this exercise is while lying in bed. Place your hands lightly on your stomach and watch as your belly expands and contracts with your breathing.

 

#4 Posture

When singing posture is one another important piece of the puzzle. So, let’s talk about how you can maintain the right posture while singing.

 

Whether you are standing or sitting, there is a way that you can ensure that your breathing and your singing resonance does not get disturbed.

 

Starting from the top, your chin should be parallel to the floor and slightly tucked in or back. hold your chest high and your shoulders down or slightly back. Keep your tummy both firm and expandable at the same time. You will need to practice controlling these muscles while learning how to breathe using your diaphragm.

 

Singing while standing is the best posture so that your tummy or lung area is not being crushed and you have enough room to move freely. Your hands should be relaxed and held still at your side. Do not hunch or lean backwards, stand straight.

 

Singing while sitting is not the ideal posture, however, if you need to sit, please ensure that your back is straight and not hunched forward or leaning backward. Your tummy and lung are should not be crushed.

 

#5 Easy Warm Up Exercises

Lip Rolls

Lip Rolls are a great way to warm up. They get blood flowing to the vocal chords, and around the mouth area increasing flexibility. Other variations of Lip Rolls are great exercise to ensure smooth transitions between Chest Voice, Head Voice and Mix Voice.

How to do a proper Lip Roll

1. Gently place your fingers on each cheek

2. Lift up and, depending on preference, move your fingers slightly forward or pull back

3. Blow*

 

*Keep your lips loose! You want the air flow to allow them to vibrate against each other. Repeat this 4-5 times to ensure your lips mouth region gets warmed up and flexible.

 

Moving Up & Down the Keyboard

Starting from the middle C (or the 3rd C on the keyboard), move slowly towards the left or the lower pitch. Go as far as you can without straining too much or hurting your voice. Similarly, do this with the upper range. Do this a few times to wake up and warm up your voice so that it is nice and clear. You voice will also feel more flexible and in control.

 

So, there you have it. Our 5 pointers to begin your singing journey today! If you want to see a video demonstration of these topics, please see the video on our YouTube channel - https://youtu.be/t77WUmix7hw

 

If you want access to detailed guided lessons and practice routines, do check out our Western Vocals lessons on https://musicpandit.com -  On Music Pandit, you get access to step-by-step lessons that cover a whole lot of topics like improving your vocal range, vocal projection, improvisation, vocal vibrato and so much more.

 

We hope you enjoyed this topic and it was useful to you. So, please follow our blog so you don’t miss out on any upcoming blog posts. If there is any topic you want to know more about, just comment below and we will definitely discuss it.

 

Music Pandit brings you the best and the most effective way to learn music online with a complete 360-degree approach to learning music.

Music Pandit offers Online Video Lessons with the support of Personalised feedback from our Music Pandits, curated step-by-step lessons, extensive content - you can choose multiple instruments, carefully organised Practice Routines, a Musical Community, Creative Challenges, Goal setting and so much more – so you can learn Anytime, Anywhere at your pace! Sign up today on https://musicpandit.com 

Online vs. Offline – What is the Right Way to Learn Music?

There are so many online music courses on the internet today but how do you know if they are any good? But then again, if you are going to a Music School in your city, you might not have the time to attend those music classes. So, what is the best option to learn music?

 

Online Music Education

 

Advantages 

 

1. Flexibility: can pursue your music lessons at your own time and in your own pace, there aren't strict time constraints. So, you can adjust your time from your schedule and put your free time towards learning music.
2. Organised Lessons: Because the lessons are pre-recorded, they are usually very crisp and clear, it does not change with teachers, accents or moods. The lessons are designed with a clear objective and everything essential to your learning is available in the lessons. All the theory and concepts surrounding the topic are all covered in the lesson.
3. Practice Routines: You get structured practice routines to help you develop specific skills.
4. Affordable: Online Music Learning is much more affordable compared to a Music School or private lessons.
5. No Teacher Issues: Online lessons usually have good instructors who are also responsible to building the course and have vast knowledge when it comes to the topic. Instructors will be available anytime as the lessons are readily available and thus ensuring that you don’t have any challenges when it comes to your learning. Finally, the instructor’s mood and behaviour will be consistent and motivating throughout the course unlike in real life – thus ensuring you have a smooth learning experience.
6. Multiple Subjects: You have many options when it comes to choosing an instrument in the online learning model. Websites can provide any number of courses that allow students to pick their favourite instruments or topics and learn.

7. High Quality Video Lessons: the great thing about online music lessons, especially the pre-recorded classes is that the content is easy to view and understand. Unlike online LIVE sessions, there are no internet issues, lags or drop-offs.

 

Disadvantages

 

1. No Instant Feedback: The drawback to online curriculum is the feedback system. There is a process involved for direct interaction through online and sometimes can be frustrating and time consuming. However, on platforms like Music Pandit, you will get personalised feedback in 24 hours.

 

 

Music school (Offline)

 

Advantages 

 

1. Personal Interaction & Feedback: It allows direct interaction with your instructor. Every lesson can be immediately provided with feedback, so if you have any doubts or questions, it can be resolved right there.
2. Network: You may meet fellow musicians who are at the same level as you. It is really healthy and fun to socialise with your peers as it encourages growth and more interest in that particular subject.
3. Performance: You may perform as a part of the music school or with your peer group.

 

Disadvantages

 

1. Less Subject Options: A Music school will only be able to provide a limited portfolio of subjects due to difficultly in getting specialised instruments and instructors.
2. No Flexibility: If you are a working adult or learning in school or college, you might not get much time to go for music classes and the timings won’t be very flexible.
3. Monotonous: It requires commitment as you may be rehearsed through the same drills again and again, especially if you are a beginner which, might make the sessions little monotonous.
4. Instructor Issues: The teacher may not be very skilled and have limited knowledge. The teacher may be irregular due to other commitments like personal classes and shows. The teacher may not be in a good mood some days and can thus affect the learning of that day.

 

Conclusion

In conclusion, it is really useful to consider the benefits and dis-advantages before embarking on your music learning journey. It is good to ensure that your goals align with the method of teaching, affordability and the time required. 

Music Pandit brings you the best and the most effective way to learn music online with a complete 360-degree approach to learning music.

Music Pandit offers Online Video Lessons with the support of Personalised feedback from our Music Pandits, curated step-by-step lessons, extensive content - you can choose multiple instruments with One subscription, carefully organised Practice Routines, a Musical Community, Creative Challenges, Goal setting and so much more – so you can learn Anytime, Anywhere at your pace! Sign up today on https://musicpandit.com 

5 Reasons You Should Learn to Play the Guitar

Guitar is an instrument that can be carried around easily and give you the perfect accompaniment while you sing away your favourite songs at a campfire, a friend's party or on a stage! Guitar is a really responsive instrument that can assist you to deliver your emotions in various ways and finally, it looks really cool! 

However, it also has some other great benefits - here are some reasons we think you should learn to play the guitar:

1. Accompaniment

There is no instrument, better than guitar, to company you - especially if you like singing and have to carry around an instrument to help showcase your talent. It is portable, lighter than most of the other instruments and the environment it can create compares to none. It can give you the sense of rhythm as well as assist you perfectly, if you want to sing along.

2. Building Personality

As you go further into learning the guitar and tackle each lessons, it makes you a better, smarter and a more well-rounded human being. The techniques and the concepts you have to learn to be able to play the guitar to your favourite tunes requires you to improvise and enhances your concentration, memory power, listening skills, analytical skills and your reactions. All of these nurture your body language and helps you to feel more confident about yourself. This helps build a personality that others and you yourself respect. Also, it also teaches you to manage your time better and more effectively as you start balancing your busy schedule along with getting better at the guitar.

3. Incorporating Fun in your life

With the ever growing fast paced living culture of today’s world, we often forget to leave some time for ourselves, to lay back, relax and have fun. Playing the Guitar can be the perfect getaway from the busy schedules that control our lives. Find some time, say 20-30 minutes every day to practice your Guitar, and you will see a vast difference in your mood as well as guitar skills. With the right instruction, you can be playing and singing your favourite songs in just a few weeks.

4. Learning Life Enhancing Skills

Playing the Guitar improves your coordination skills, cognitive abilities and also provides a workout for your brain as you read music and play the guitar, at the same time. It prepares you to be multitask, which you can apply in your day-to-day life. You can test and shape your creativity as you start learning to improvise on guitar. It can completely change the way you think, process and analyse certain aspects in your life, allowing you to ‘think outside the box’ and producing more effective results from you.

5. Medium of Expression

Guitar is an instrument that can talk for you, or for your emotions. It gives you an outlet to express your feelings or a mood you are trying to convey to the audience. This is what all musicians strive to get to as they mould their music into self-expression which appeals to the audiences’ emotion and form a connection. All instruments has their own capacity to be able to express, however a Guitarist can somehow talk through those emotions in a more subtle manner. If you are someone who has a lot to say but is unable to express it, the Guitar is the instrument that you are looking for.

All of these benefits come through stages in your experience in the instrument. If you are curious about the Guitar and want to check it out - you can easily learn with just 30-40 minutes a day. Nothing is hard, it is only unknown and you just need to familiarise yourself with it. You need to invest a little time to begin your guitar learning journey but you can be guaranteed a great skill and a fun lifelong companion.

Music Pandit brings you the best and the most effective way to learn music online with a complete 360-degree approach to learning music.

Music Pandit offers Online Video Lessons with the support of Personalised feedback from our Music Pandits, curated step-by-step lessons, extensive content - you can choose multiple instruments with One subscription, carefully organised Practice Routines, a Musical Community, Creative Challenges, Goal setting and so much more – so you can learn Anytime, Anywhere at your pace!