This week I focused on triads - practicing them on strings 5-4-3 and 3-2-1. I also rewatched all the foundational lessons.
Even though they're "basic" lessons, Tomo included so many crucial details I'd completely missed while self-studying. Really glad I decided to go through even the most fundamental videos - learned way more than I expected!
Triads are totally new to me. I've always wanted to understand them better after hearing about the CAGED system everywhere. About CAGED - I totally agree with what Tomo mentioned in other videos. It helps memorize shapes but doesn't really help you understand the relationships between notes. When practicing triads now, I force myself to play SUPER slowly, consciously thinking: "What note is this? Root? 3rd? 5th? What chord am I actually playing? Is this root position or an inversion?"
Been doing this for 5 days now. At first my brain couldn't keep up with my fingers at all, but after forcing myself to slow down, I feel noticeably more comfortable after 3 days. Since I only get to practice a little each night, I'm taking it slow - but it's okay! For the first time ever, I feel like my practice actually means something. Guitar Wisdom makes every minute at the guitar feel purposeful and effective.
Thanks a million, Tomo!
（My English writing isn't great, so I used DeepSeek to translate this from Chinese. How does it read to you guys?）
Thank you so much for your review!
Good job rewatching those foundation lessons.
Especially new Essential theory section.
Yes! Don't fool by "Titles" because words can fool you!
You need to hear "Sounds" first then use your brain to understand intervals.
So you just cannot rush this process!
Don't expect too fast!
Don't worry!
Don't compare!
Be kind to yourself.
Being "Self-taught"
You have a big bag with many holes!
So happy to hear from you!
Thank you very much!
Please enjoy your guitar journey.
Go slow.. and steady!
You're very welcome.
Thank you.
Tomo
Thanks for sharing, Boyce. The translation was excellent and easy to read.
You are off to an excellent start here. Re-watching lessons is really important, with or without your guitar.
Slow and steady is the key to absorbing the information. Review often. Go back, so you can go forward.
Tomo really means it when he tells us to enjoy the journey.
Keep up the hard work. It is a lot of fun when you feel and hear yourself becoming a better musician.
Kurt
Thank you Kurt for important suggestion!
"Repeat" "Review" more!
Thank you.
Tomo
Welcome :)
It's wonderful to hear this, Boyce. You're on the right track with your approach. Please take your time, review often, and make the most of your limited time by fully dedicating your focus to one thing.
Thank you for sharing, and please keep us updated on your practice.
ps DeepSeek did an excellent job of translating!