8 months ago
I have been trying to learn guitar for over 4 years now, and still cannot change between chords accurately, nor quickly enough to keep up with the songs. I know that at my age (66) learning takes longer, but I am wondering if I may be better off trying another instrument. I tried bass, but it put me in physical therapy twice, so may be too heavy. Should I keep going on guitar or try piano?
Mike Olekshy
8 months ago
Hi there - thanks so much for your question! I understand the frustration of not being able to progress as quickly as you'd like. Chord changes are very challenging at first, so before throwing in the towel, I'd encourage you to stick with it a little longer and make sure you are practicing this as effectively as possible.
Pick 2 chords you have trouble changing to and from. Form the first chord with your fingers, and make sure every note in the chord is ringing out cleanly and clearly with no buzzing. If not, then experiment with finger curl, thumb and wrist placement, etc to get each note to ring out cleanly. Once you get it, take note of your hand and fingers position, then release the chord. Now try again - same chord. Do this over and over for a few minutes.
Now do the same for the 2nd chord.
Next - you're ready to try changing between the 2 chords. Start with the first chord, then strum slowly 4 times, now change to the second chord without interrupting your strumming groove. If your strum gets interrupted, it means you are strumming too fast - so slow it down. Slow it down enough that you can switch your fingers and not interrupt the groove. Strum the second chord 4 times now switch back to chord 1.
Do this exercise for 2-5 minutes at a time. Now choose 2 other chords and repeat the same thing.
Try to do these types of exercises every day for at least a few weeks. At the end of 2 or 3 weeks of consisten practice - assess your progress. You should see some improvement. I encourage you to try this and report back!! Keep at it - you can get it!!!! Hope this helps!!
