Beginner Lesson: First Left Hand Note (A), Sight Reading, Moderato, A Fairy Tale – From my free PDF Method: Classical Guitar Method Vol. 1. All the lessons for the book are listed at the download page. This book teaches classical and fingerstyle guitar skills with a focus on the rich pedagogical tradition of classical guitar. Most learning objectives are covered through pieces and duets allowing students to perform full pieces from the first lesson.
Video Times: First Left Hand Note (1:12), Sight Reading (3:32), Moderato (7:14), A Fairy Tale (10:14)
These are the first pieces for the left hand and are designed so absolute beginners can practice some simple melodies. The main goal is sit and hold the hand properly and learn to present music from start to finish. The only left hand note used is ‘A’ on the 3rd string, 2nd fret. Various other skills are also discussed. The songs are: Moderato and A Fairy Tale. Here’s the Youtube Lesson Link if you want to watch it there.
Thanks so much for your methodical, calm, and supportive approach to teaching classical guitar. I’m 78 and just beginning after deciding that I should learn how to play the music the pleases me most – which meant classical rather than folk, blues, or rock guitar. I know how to read basic music but haven’t really studied an instrument before. I look forward to picking up my guitar each day to play and to practice. I admit that I felt somewhat frustrated until I figured out for myself how to hold the guitar in what I hope is the correct position (I finally settled on using a foot stool). BTW: I was working my way through your first book – which I purchased – and started again to watch the excellent videos which explain techniques and give the opportunity to play duets. BTW: I enjoy playing your sight reading exercises. I’ll look for an in-person teacher (I agree with you that it is essential) once I work my way through your first book. Again … thanks, Mya
Thanks so much for your kind words. Happy practicing!