Learning How to Play The Blues
Copyright (c) 2012 Chip Sheppard
The history of blue guitar dates back to the 1920s and the 1930s. In those days, blues guitarists would make a slide from the blade of a knife, or they would use the neck of a broken bottle. Many times, the bottle neck has been intentionally sawed off to use for this purpose. It was not uncommon to find rubber bands nailed to the outside of a house or shed, these rubber bands stretched from top to bottom and were played like a standing guitar.
When it comes to actually learning to play the classic blues guitar, there are a wide variety of different methods to take in. The problem is that the different methods are so far apart in style; it can often be extremely confusing. Sometimes it may even feel like you are learning two or three instruments at the same time. When you are just starting out, it is wise to steer clear of any offbeat or wild methods. These will be alluring; this is how one imagines blues guitar playing to sound. They will not help you as a beginner though. Stick to the standard practices to start with, as you begin to hone your skills you can slowly become more extravagant with your playing.
Endeavoring to concentrate on methods that teach you how to play classic blues songs from the past is the best way for you to improve. Blues was originally past from generation to generation through listening and copying what you heard. This is still probably the best approach as it will develop your ear and you will be more aware of the feel rather than concentrating on reading music or tablature which is what you would be doing if you were to take a blues guitar lesson from a tradition guitar teacher. The confidence that you will gain by hearing yourself play the classics will be invaluable. Do bear in mind though that this will not happen over night. The blues guitar, like any other instrument, takes time, effort and dedication. With these qualities, and a touch of natural talent, you will master the art.
Some of the most important factors in mastering the blues guitar are the blues riffs, scales, chords and of course the solos. A method that can help you to pick these up is key in your success. Other skills like vibratos, hammer ons and string bending will come afterwards. These techniques are for the more accomplished player and they will come with time. It is paramount not to do too much, too soon. Take your time and master each technique one by one. This way your mind will not get jumbled up with all of the different skills.
Learning to play now, rather than 50 years ago, you are in a far better position. The amount of technology that is available to help you is never ending. There are a plethora of DVD's and CD's that you can listen to, and even play along with. It is almost like having a virtual teacher in the room with you, and at a fraction of the cost. If you can afford to hire a private instructor to go along with these tools, it will further your advancement.
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