Guitar Learning & Techniques

Learn how pro guitarists exploit the circle of fifths to master chords, keys, and songwriting on the fretboard.

A hands-on guide by an expert guitarist on tuning, caring for, and troubleshooting the low E string, with real-world tips for both acoustic and electric guitars.

The first time I heard Steel Guitar Rag, I was transported to a smoky honky-tonk, the twangy melody weaving through the air like a time machine. Little did I know that this iconic tune would become my lifelong passion and the subject of countless hours of study and practice. As a long-time editor of ‘Acoustic … Read more

As I sat in my studio, a student’s frustrated sigh caught my attention. “I just can’t get this pull-off to sound right!” he exclaimed, his fingers fumbling over the fretboard. It was a moment that took me back to my own journey, reminding me why I wrote ‘Guitar Aerobics‘ and dedicated my career to demystifying … Read more

As I stood on stage, my fingers poised over the fretboard, I could feel the audience’s anticipation. They were expecting another run-of-the-mill metal solo, but I had something different in mind. With a deep breath, I launched into a blistering Locrian scale run that left jaws hanging. The haunting dissonance filled the venue, transforming the … Read more

I’ll never forget the day I stumbled upon a hidden guitar fingerpicking technique that revolutionized my playing. It was like unlocking a secret door to a world of musical possibilities. As someone who’s been strumming since childhood, I thought I knew it all—until that moment. What if I told you that this technique could transform … Read more

As a long-time editor of ‘Acoustic Guitar’ magazine, I’ve witnessed countless guitarists grapple with the enigmatic G# minor chord. It’s a shape that has brought both frustration and epiphany to players of all levels. I remember the day a young guitarist walked into our studio, her fingers calloused and her spirit nearly broken. She had … Read more

I strummed my beloved Stratocaster, expecting the searing wail of rock ‘n’ roll. Instead, a mellow, acoustic-like twang filled the room. My electric guitar sounded acoustic, and I was baffled. As the editor of ‘Acoustic Guitar’ magazine and a seasoned electric guitarist, I’ve encountered this perplexing issue numerous times. It’s a common problem that can … Read more

The year was 1990, and the metal world was about to be shaken to its core. As I held the freshly pressed vinyl of Megadeth’s ‘Rust in Peace’ in my hands, little did I know that this album would redefine thrash metal and become a guitar virtuoso’s holy grail. Fast forward three decades, and I’m … Read more

The first time I heard a bass guitar slide, I was mesmerized. It was like the instrument was singing, weeping, and laughing all at once. That moment changed my perception of bass guitar forever, opening up a world of expressive possibilities I never knew existed. As I delved deeper into this technique, I discovered that … Read more