Hello everyone!
I've been thoroughly enjoying my time here watching all of Mr. Fujita's videos. I've been thinking about where to go next in my guitar journey. I have learned all my triads, minor/major 4 voicing chords, 7th arpeggios, major/minor pentatonic scales, etc. I am not so sure where to go from here. I am trying to improve my improvisation and be more creative to not sound like I am just moving around paying scales and triads. I also want to be able to create nice chord progressions with melodies. I frequently practice with backing tracks but I am struggling to move into that creative zone I want to be in. Should I try to learn licks that I can use in my playing? Any tips would be greatly appreciated!
Thank you Fabian for sharing this thread.
Good job! Just in case.. Did you watch new lessons on Essential Theory section?
https://tomovhxtv.vhx.tv/music-theory-i Please take a look. (ET1-ET22)
Definitely you can review each topics.
In order to advance yourself is to go back to foundation.
How about testing each topic?
Making videos where you can demonstrate understanding each topic?
Applying these topic over songs, chord progressions.
Did you these?
https://tomovhxtv.vhx.tv/jazz-standards
Go to apply theory section.
https://tomovhxtv.vhx.tv/music-theory-ii-applied-theory
https://tomovhxtv.vhx.tv/fretboard-harmony-applied-theory-part-2
Tomo's original songs.
https://tomovhxtv.vhx.tv/tomo-fujita-original-music-lessons-demos
Thank you.
Tomo
Hi,
Nice journey you are on. You are at a similar stage as I am more or less.
Now when you say that you've learned all those areas, does that mean you know the notes in the triads/voicings/arpeggios/pentatonic scales? Do you know the intervals? Do you know what inversion? Can you do all these things in various tempos? Can you apply some of these in progressions, soloing, voice leading with confidence and accuracy? I only ask because this is what I ask myself.
I would suggest learning some songs from the greats to get an idea of phrasing and note choices. Nothing better than stealing a few ideas here and there as we all do.
As for improv I might try to do one particular scale (in position or on one string perhaps) and then do 1/4 note fills in between some strumming to get comfortable with the process. As mentioned before learn some licks or phrases from artists you'd like to learn from and try to put your own spin on it. Then add in more positions and then maybe add in major scale notes or even chromaticism when you get there. I'd also practice some string skipping while doing scales so you don't get that playing scales vibe.
Of course, you could move on to applied theory here on Tomo's site and looking at blues or jazz songs to work on. I think these would be a great way to go.
As for me I've also subscribed to a variety of different course like Ariel Posen using triads in rhythm and soloing, or Eric Haugen's Improv course, Tommy Emmanuel's Duets that show how to comp and solo. But the idea is try to find as many resource as possible to work on what you want to do.
I think Tomo can offer better advice but these are my two cents.
Have a good day!
Thank you Michael for sharing your experiences!
You know so well on Guitar Wisdom lessons!
A lot of inspiration from you being here!
I am so grateful.
Thank you so much.
Tomo
And much to you too. You make a big difference in all our guitar playing lives. I'd even say you are a great inspiration for life, too. Taking it slow, being kind to yourself, don't expect too much etc. is a great lesson not only for guitar but also for life's trials and tribulations.
All the best Tomo! Thanks for being a great mentor and inspiration to us all! :)
Thank you Michael! I just want to share how fun to learn guitar!
Guitar playing is so good for my soul.
Guitar makes me so calm and not compare... no pressure from any sources.
Guitar gave me my own pace! I just don't expect anything so no regrets & no disappointments.
I am so grateful! I am so happy all GW members!
Tomo