Question: How is the weight of the left arm used in classical guitar technique? When proper technique, sitting position, and curved fingers are in use, the weight of the left arm can be used to help pull the fingertips into…
A lesson on the concept of string crossing and ergonomics on classical guitar and how it relates to right hand fingering choices. In this lesson we cover ergonomic string crossings and awkward string crossings and relate the discussion to finger…
A lesson on the concept of finger alternation on classical guitar and how it relates to right hand fingering choices. This is from my book: Right Hand Fingering for Classical Guitar: Concepts and Case Studies. This book aims to give students…
Question: Is it better to memorize pieces in music and classical guitar? Short answer: yes. Long answer: depends on the situation. Yes, it is generally it is better to memorize your music for performance. Memorized music often results in a…
Music Theory Lesson No.3a: The Staff and Introduction to Clefs. In this lesson we will learn about the staff and the idea of clefs as well as how we map out pitches and musical time on the staff. You can find…
Question: Does the headstock have to be at eye level for classical guitar? Having the headstock of the guitar at eye level is a guideline that helps to ensure a healthy 45 degree angle or steeper for your guitar position…
Question: How proficient should I be at a piece before I continue to the next one? For a bit more context on this question, the actual question asked was: When using your method books without an instructor, how proficient should…
Question: How does sitting position affect my classical guitar technique? Your sitting and guitar position affects all aspects of your classical guitar technique. It is essential to succeeding in classical guitar studies. Whenever I examine any technique skill in a…
Question: How can I improve my tremolo technique on classical guitar? You are not alone in finding tremolo technique challenging. Many players, even fairly advanced ones who can play most late-intermediate to advanced techniques, still have trouble with tremolo. First,…
Music Theory Lesson No.2a: Why do we use music notation? In this lesson I discuss the reasons for using music notation and break down each element that that makes up the definition. This is an important discussion before we start…
Question: How can I deal with performance anxiety in music and guitar? Before I give you practical tips and step by step approaches, let’s first look at some misconceptions about performance anxiety. People can often perform a piece well at…
Vladimir Gorbach teaches a technique lesson on practicing scales with a focus on planting and timing as a way to build control, speed, and tone quality. Framing the discussion is maintenance of tension and reflexive relaxation in practice at slow…