What's the verdict on "Guitar Principles Book" by Jamie Andreas?

Hi There.

I'm a beginner with a total of 5 weeks of experience now on guitar. But I have practiced a good hour a day probably. I just don't really "know" how to practice is my problem.

Can anyone on here give me their impression of the book "The principles of correct practice for guitar. By Jamie Andreas? He sells this book at guitarprinciples.com and I have heard a few people say it was very useful for teaching proper left hand position, managing tension in your fingers, and learning to change chords in a more relaxed manner (among other things).

I'm totally willing to be as patient as it takes to learn good habits. I really enjoy just practicing for now. When the day comes that I can hold an entire song together, well, that will be a priceless Mastercard moment for me!

So let me know who likes this book, and why.

Thanks!

TracyD.

Hi Tracy,

I am not familiar with that book, but it sounds like some very good information.

And...

To put your question in a different light, I'd ask you this:

What is your preferred learning style?

In other words, do you learn best when you get to SEE and HEAR the new information (like you do when you learn from Guitar Tricks videos), or, do you do well with READING the information? Or both?

Some of my lessons here on Guitar Tricks cover the exact practice skills you mentioned (teaching proper left hand position, managing tension in your fingers, and learning to change chords in a more relaxed manner).

Also, I have many tutorials that teach full songs as a way of reinforcing new skills, even at a beginner level. You mentioned you'd like to play full songs - maybe you're closer to that than you thought!

I am not at all discouraging you from the book - but just trying to offer additional resources for your interests.

Here are some links right here on Guitar Tricks you might find useful:

”SPIDER LEGS” WARM-UP EXERCISES
http://www.guitartricks.com/tutorial.php?input=621

ACOUSTIC CORE CONCEPTS: HOW TO MAKE FASTER CHORD CHANGES
http://www.guitartricks.com/tutorial.php?input=463

ACOUSTIC STRUMMING 1: GETTING STARTED
http://www.guitartricks.com/tutorial.php?input=486

ACOUSTIC FINGERPICKING FOR BEGINNERS 1: GETTING STARTED
http://www.guitartricks.com/tutorial.php?input=596


Good luck, have fun, keep us posted!
Best wishes, Lisa

Originally Posted by: Dread-Not...
Can anyone on here give me their impression of the book "The principles of correct practice for guitar. By Jamie Andreas?

Dread,

Jamie is a she. But I can tell you, you won't find a better book to teach you the principles of muscle memory and the low-level mechanics of becoming a better guitar player. (and no, I don't work for Jamie, I'm just a fan)

Guitar Tricks is a great resource too, but if we used only one resource to learn to play guitar, we would have a hard time of it.

I encourage you to use all resources at your disposal, including Jamie's book. I will admit I first balked at the price, but now I am very glad I bought it. Try it, and you'll agree.

Take care,

-Fred Ramsey