There are a few ways to learn guitar timing and to get better at it. To begin with, when you first learn a song you should tap your foot along with it. This will get you into a good habit of playing a constant rhythm. Here are some very good methods to use:
- Start out with a simple song in 4/4 time. This is the easiest time signature to play in because it one of the most often used time signatures. Once you know how to play a few easy chords, start strumming the chords out in a rhythmic pattern. Tap your foot out each time with each strum. One beat for every strum and then change the chord to a different chord after you play four beats. This is a great way to not only learn better timing, but you will also learn how to make chord changes with ease.
- Play along with a CD. When you want to learn a song try to play along with the cd and replicate it exactly. You will start to get used the song and the time changes. Keep repeating this until you get comfortable enough to play it on your own.
- Buy a metronome. A metronome is a device that produces auditory ticks or beats at regular intervals. You can buy these at pretty much any music store or online music store. In addition, there are also several websites that have free online versions that you can use. The great thing about using a metronome is that you can increase or decrease the tempo depending on what you want to play. In addition, some metronomes let you make your own time signatures to play along with. If you really want to learn a lot about tempos and playing in different time signatures, a metronome is a must have.
- Play with a drummer. There is no better way to learn keeping the beat than playing with other musicians. If you can find a decent drummer to play along with you will gain a lot of experience and really learn a lot about timing. In addition, you will get a live experience feel. Keep playing with other musicians and you will definitely improve your guitar timing and be more comfortable in a live setting.
With these simple tips you can quickly learn timing on the guitar. Take some time to practice these tips and you will soon be on your way to playing more difficult guitar techniques.
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