Are you learning these skills? If not, we can help.
Essentials
Tune your instrument (using a tuner), quicker the better. Check tuning often!
Learn G, C, D, and A chords, fingering each string accurately, for clear sound (check by sounding each string individually, making sure it’s clear and not muted) Bass and fiddle players don’t make chords, but need to know which notes go with which chord.
Switch smoothly between chords, with accurate fingering (with each switch, sound any problem string individually, making sure it’s clear, not muted). Practice these sequences: G-D-G (most common) G-C-G D-A-D C-D-C G-A-G
Change chords without looking, cleanly and quickly
Maintain a rhythm pattern while changing chords accurately
Find a slow jam that uses only G, C, D, and A, or play along with a slow jam recording
A super-easy, no-fail play-along session with Pete “Dr. Banjo” Wernick. The one instruction resource that every new player needs… right along with his/her first instrument!
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Jamming is easier and better when you can…
Remember chord changes of a new song – which chords happen and when
Anticipate chord changes, to make them at exactly the right time
Sing a song while playing, with accurate chording and a consistent rhythm pattern
Play and sing a song straight through with no pauses or hesitations
Play and sing a song fluently from memory, not using a written version
You can add a lot to a jam if you can…
Lead a song. Skills include knowing how to intro a song before playing (give key and chord changes to watch for), designate solos, ending, etc
Fake an instrumental solo on the fly, following the chord changes, melody optional
