essential basics

It is recommended that you understand some of these basic areas before moving on to the lessons and tabs.

1. reading tab and rhythm

   Although reading music is not essential for some more modern guitar styles, rhythm reading ability is beneficial.

2. reading chord diagrams

   Chords are normally learnt this way as tab does not show the fretting hand fingering. Using the correct fingering will make it easier to change between chords.

3. reading chord charts

   Chord charts are often used for writing songs. They are also used in the rhythm guitar section in RGT electric guitar exams.

4. reading scale shapes

   Trans-positional scale patterns are easier learnt using this method because tab does not show the fretting hand fingering. Using the correct fingering is important and will help your lead playing.

5. reading rhythms (part 2)

   An easier way to read the most common rhythms, this will help both melody and riff reading, as well as strum patterns.

6. tuning guide

   This is one of the easier methods of tuning the guitar. However, no method is very easy for total beginners and if you can afford one, I would recommend you buy a basic electronic tuner.