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How to Play THE BEATLES’ “Come Together” on the 3-String Guitar

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Tune up, plug in, and rock out to one of the Beatles’ most classic and riff-laden masterpieces. This arrangement is specifically for the 3-string guitar and was arranged to be played using a finger slide. It can, however, be played note-by-note whether you use a slide, or fret the notes without a slide.

The Tablature below corresponds to the video performance above.

The tuning for this song is Open G Tuning (G-D-G). To achieve this tuning, string your 3-string guitar up with the A, D, & G string from a standard 6-string guitar pack, and tune the strings to the notes G-D-G.

The key to playing this song correctly, is to think of it as two separate guitar parts that are being played simultaneously. The right-hand thumb is playing a bassline on each downbeat, and the rest of the fingers on the right hand pick the melody notes. It’s important to isolate the two parts and practice them separately in order to master this technique. This style of playing a melody and bassline simultaneously is popular in the “Mississippi Hill Country Blues” style of picking. To check out a complete lesson on this style CLICK HERE.

Thanks for keeping the Roots alive, and don’t forget to click “FOLLOW” on the right-hand side of this page to stay up-to-date with new lessons and articles!

The 3-String Guitar used in this video lesson was crafted by:
Bill Turner of Wunkywerks Guitars
Etsy Store: https://www.etsy.com/shop/WunkywerksGuitars
Email: Wunkywerksguitars@gmail.com

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Acoustic Guitar Sizes: Finding Your Perfect Fit

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Have you ever wondered how the size of an acoustic guitar affects its sound? From the intimate, focused tones of a parlor guitar to the deep, resonant sound of a jumbo, the size and shape of an acoustic guitar can have a profound impact on its sonic characteristics.”

 In this article, we’ll explore acoustic guitar sizes, their variations, and how to choose the perfect size that suits your needs.

Understanding Acoustic Guitar Sizes: A Musical Puzzle

Acoustic guitar sizes refer to the dimensions and proportions of the guitar body, which significantly influence the instrument’s tonal characteristics, projection, and playability.

Just like pieces of a musical puzzle, different sizes create distinct voices that cater to various playing styles and preferences.

The Spectrum of Acoustic Guitar Sizes

Acoustic guitars come in several sizes, each with its unique qualities and attributes. Let’s explore some common acoustic guitar sizes and their defining features:

Acoustic Guitar Sizes: Finding Your Perfect Fit

    1. Parlor Guitar: The parlor guitar is petite and charming, making it an ideal companion for intimate settings.

      The name comes from the rooms in which the guitar was typically played in the late 19th century.

      Some famous musicians who have been known to use the parlor guitar are, Eric Clapton, Mark Orton, Ed Sheehan, and John Mayer

      Its smaller size results in a focused and balanced sound, perfect for fingerpicking and folk music.

    2. Concert Guitar: Slightly larger than the parlor guitar, the concert guitar offers enhanced projection and volume. It strikes a balance between portability and sound, making it versatile for various genres.

      It is often used in classical music and flamenco music with its full sound.

    3. Grand Concert Guitar: With a larger body than the concert guitar, the grand concert guitar boasts a fuller sound and improved tonal complexity.

      A popular choice for those who have a smaller stature and require an instrument that’s built to a shorter scale. Great choice for traveling musicians who often play live performances. 

      Acoustic Guitar Sizes

      It’s suitable for fingerstyle playing and intricate arrangements.

    4. Auditorium Guitar: The auditorium guitar, also known as the orchestra model (OM), features a well-rounded sound with a pronounced midrange.

      More shallower than the dreadnought and narrower in width than a concert guitar. An Auditorium guitar brings the body closer to the player, making it feel more intimate and comfortable for stage use. 

      Some famous musicians who play it include Ed Sheeran, John Mayer, and Eric Clapton.

    5. Grand Auditorium Guitar: Expanding on the auditorium guitar’s design, the grand auditorium guitar offers a versatile sound profile with enhanced bass response and overall volume.

      It is a versatile mid-sized guitar that is a good choice for those who want a single guitar to travel with. The tone is great for strumming and picking. It performs well on stage and in the studio.

      It suits a wide range of musical genres.

    6. Acoustic Guitar SizesDreadnought Guitar: The Dreadnought is a true icon, known for its bold and powerful sound. Its large body produces a strong bass response, making it ideal for strumming and vocal accompaniment.

      This guitar is known for its powerful voice and lower-mid-rich tones that make it a favored choice for country artists. Although it is a popular choice for musicians of all genres.

      Some famous musicians who play the dreadnought guitar include Hank Williams Jr, Elvis Presley, Keith Richards, Thom Yorke, and Kurt Cobain.

      The original dreadnought guitars were made for the Oliver Ditson Company and featured mahogany backs and sides and spruce tops. 

    7. Jumbo Guitar: The jumbo guitar lives up to its name with a massive body that delivers robust volume and a deep bass presence.

      This is the largest of the guitar family with a deeper body than the popular dreadnought. The body is wider and deeper than traditional acoustic guitars, which gives them a unique appearance.

      Jumbo’s are well suited to rhythm guitarists in country and folk rock, and produce a deep rich sound favored by heavy strummers.  Some famous musicians who play this guitar are Elvis Presley, George Harrison of the Beatles, Neil Young, Sheryl Crow, and Pete Townshend of The Who. 

    Choosing the Right Acoustic Guitar Size for You

    Selecting the right acoustic guitar size involves considering factors such as playing style, comfort, and tonal preferences. Here are some steps to guide you on your quest:

    1. Identify Your Playing Style: Determine whether you lean towards fingerpicking, strumming, or a mix of both. Different sizes excel in different playing styles, so choose one that complements your technique.

    2. Consider Body Comfort: Hold and play guitars of various sizes to assess comfort. A guitar that fits well against your body ensures a pleasant playing experience, especially during extended sessions.

    3. Evaluate Sound Preferences: Listen to the sound produced by different acoustic guitar sizes. Pay attention to tonal qualities, such as warmth, brightness, and projection, to find the one that resonates with your musical taste.

    The Influence of Acoustic Guitar Sizes on Music

    Acoustic Guitar SizesAcoustic guitar sizes and shapes can have a significant impact on the sound of the instrument.

    The size of the guitar body type also relates to the volume of air within the instrument. Changes to the air capacity of the body will emphasize specific frequencies. A smaller body will have a more focused sound centered on higher frequencies, while a larger body will produce deeper low-end frequencies.

    Body dimensions can provide some indication of the tone you might expect, but other factors exert a profound influence, too.  Much depends on the tonewoods used to construct the body and the shape, size, and layout of the braces.

     

    Finding Harmony in Acoustic Guitar Sizes

    By delving into the nuances of size, sound, and playability, you’ve gained insights that will guide you toward the perfect fit for your musical aspirations.

    As you continue your exploration, remember that each acoustic guitar size has its own unique voice and character. Embrace the joy of trying different sizes, celebrate the nuances of their sounds, and let your heart lead you to the one that resonates with your musical soul.

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Rock On with the A5 Chord Guitar: Unleash Power and Energy

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Hello, fellow guitar enthusiasts and music lovers! Are you ready to dive into the electrifying world of the A5 chord guitar? Today, we’re delving into the realm of rock and power chords as we explore the mighty A5 chord – a driving force that adds raw energy and excitement to your playing. Whether you’re a budding guitarist ready to ignite the stage or a curious soul eager to understand the foundation of rock music, this guide will introduce you to the dynamic universe of the “A5 Chord Guitar.” So, pick up your guitar, plug in, and let’s embark on a journey filled with sonic power and musical intensity!
Unleashing the A5 Chord Guitar: The Essence of Power Chords
Think of the A5 chord as a musical powerhouse that forms the backbone of many rock and alternative tunes. This chord’s simplicity and raw intensity create an undeniable sense of power and drive, making it a quintessential element of rock music. Just like a lightning bolt on a stormy night, the A5 chord strikes with energy and sets the stage for electrifying performances.
Mastering the A5 Chord Guitar: Crafting Sonic Thunder
Let’s dive into the mechanics of forming the A5 chord on your guitar. Follow these steps:
1. Finger Placement: Begin by placing your index finger on the 2nd fret of the D string (the fourth thickest string), marking the root note (A).
2. Ring Finger: Position your ring finger on the 2nd fret of the G string (the third thickest string), forming the perfect fifth (E).
3. Strumming: Focus on strumming the A and D strings (the fourth and fifth thickest strings) while avoiding the low E string (the thickest string). You can also strum all three strings (A, D, and G) for a fuller sound.
4. Sound Check: Strum the strings individually to ensure each note rings out clearly. Adjust finger placement if needed for a powerful sound.
Exploring A5 Chord Guitar Variations: Adding Depth
While the A5 chord is inherently simple, you can add variations to enhance its sonic palette. Here are a couple of ways to experiment:
1. Add Distortion: Plug into an amplifier and apply distortion for a gritty and edgy sound that’s characteristic of rock music.
2. Palm Muting: Experiment with palm muting by resting the edge of your hand lightly on the strings near the bridge. This technique adds a percussive and rhythmic quality to your A5 chord progressions.
The A5 Chord Guitar in Action: Rock Anthems
The A5 chord’s raw power has fueled countless rock anthems. Here are a few iconic songs that showcase the might of the A5 chord:
1. “Smoke on the Water” by Deep Purple: The legendary riff that kicks off this classic tune is built around the A5 chord, creating an instantly recognizable and unforgettable sound.
2. “Blitzkrieg Bop” by Ramones: The driving force behind the punk rock revolution, the A5 chord propels the energetic and rebellious spirit of this timeless track.
Tips for Mastering the A5 Chord Guitar
As you dive into the world of the A5 chord, consider these tips to enhance your playing:
1. Focus on Precision: Strive for clean and precise strumming to ensure each note rings out clearly.
2. Experiment with Rhythm: Vary your strumming patterns to add rhythmic interest and dynamic flair to your A5 chord progressions.
3. Combine with Other Chords: Mix the A5 chord with other power chords or open chords to create dynamic chord progressions.
Conclusion: Embrace the Power of the A5 Chord Guitar
Congratulations, you’ve embarked on a thrilling journey through the electrifying realm of the A5 chord guitar. As you unleash power chords, experiment with variations, and rock out to iconic tunes, you’ll discover the A5 chord’s ability to captivate audiences and infuse your music with raw energy. Keep practicing, keep experimenting, and keep embracing the captivating allure of the A5 chord. It’s your gateway to a world of musical intensity, where each strum reverberates with sonic thunder. So, plug in, turn up the volume, and let the invigorating world of the A5 chord guitar propel you into a realm of melodies that ignite the soul and ignite the stage, one powerful chord at a time!

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Guitar Finger Exercises: Strengthening Your Musical Fingers

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Playing the guitar is like embarking on a captivating musical journey where your fingers dance across the strings, weaving melodies that resonate with the heart. To embark on this journey with confidence and finesse, it’s essential to develop strong and agile fingers. Guitar finger exercises are the key to building finger strength, dexterity, and control, allowing you to navigate the fretboard with ease and create beautiful music. In this article, we’ll explore the world of guitar finger exercises, discover their benefits, and provide you with practical exercises to enhance your playing. Get ready to unlock the secrets of guitar finger exercises and take your musical skills to new heights!
Understanding the Importance of Guitar Finger Exercises
Guitar finger exercises are specialized drills designed to target specific finger movements and muscle groups used in guitar playing. These exercises not only improve your finger strength but also enhance your ability to execute techniques such as chords, scales, and intricate melodies. By incorporating regular finger exercises into your practice routine, you’ll lay the foundation for smoother transitions, cleaner notes, and overall improved guitar playing.
Benefits of Guitar Finger Exercises
Mastering guitar finger exercises offers several benefits for aspiring guitarists:
1. Finger Strength: Guitar finger exercises help develop the strength of your fingers, enabling you to press down on the strings with precision and clarity.
2. Dexterity: These exercises enhance finger dexterity, allowing you to navigate the fretboard smoothly and execute complex patterns with ease.
3. Coordination: Guitar finger exercises improve finger coordination, enabling you to play multiple strings and frets simultaneously while maintaining accuracy.
4. Technique Enhancement: Practicing finger exercises refines your playing technique, ensuring that each note sounds clean and distinct.
Practical Guitar Finger Exercises
Here are some practical guitar finger exercises that you can incorporate into your practice routine:
1. Finger Crawls: Place your fingers on adjacent frets (e.g., index on 1st fret, middle on 2nd, ring on 3rd, and pinky on 4th). Starting from the low E string, play each string individually, lifting and placing your fingers sequentially. Move up one fret at a time and then reverse the process.
2. Spider Walks: Position your fingers on non-adjacent frets (e.g., index on 1st fret, middle on 3rd, ring on 2nd, and pinky on 4th). Similar to finger crawls, play each string individually, moving up the fretboard one string at a time and then reversing the process.
3. Chord Transitions: Select a chord progression (e.g., G – C – D) and practice switching between the chords smoothly and without pause. Focus on lifting and placing your fingers as efficiently as possible.
4. Scale Runs: Choose a scale (e.g., the C major scale) and play the scale ascending and descending using alternate picking. Focus on maintaining a consistent rhythm and clean articulation.
Incorporating Finger Exercises into Your Practice Routine
Here’s how you can integrate guitar finger exercises into your practice routine:
1. Warm-up: Begin your practice session with a brief warm-up, gently stretching and flexing your fingers. This prepares your fingers for the exercises ahead.
2. Focused Sessions: Dedicate a portion of your practice time to specific finger exercises. Start with a slow tempo and gradually increase your speed as you become more comfortable.
3. Consistency: Consistency is key. Set aside a few minutes each day to work on finger exercises. Over time, you’ll notice significant improvements in your finger strength and agility.
Conclusion: Your Fingers, Your Musical Canvas!
Congratulations, you’ve embarked on the path of mastering guitar finger exercises! By incorporating these exercises into your practice routine, you’ve equipped yourself with the tools to create music that resonates with clarity and finesse. Whether you’re strumming chords, picking intricate melodies, or exploring the depths of scales, strong and agile fingers are your passport to a world of musical possibilities.
As you continue your musical journey, remember that practice and dedication are essential to honing any skill. Embrace the joy of learning, celebrate your progress, and let your passion for music guide you forward. With consistent effort and a love for playing, you’ll find yourself navigating the fretboard with confidence, creating captivating melodies, and expressing your unique musical voice.
Guitar finger exercises are just the beginning of your musical odyssey. As you delve deeper into the world of guitar playing, you’ll encounter a myriad of techniques, chords, and musical concepts that will enrich your playing and allow you to express your creativity with depth and emotion. So, keep practicing those finger exercises, keep exploring new horizons, and most importantly, keep enjoying the wonderful journey of creating music with your guitar. Happy playing!

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