5 Fun Guitar Challenges to Overcome Difficult Times

In this video, we will explore five exciting guitar challenges that will help you overcome difficult times while sitting at home.

These challenges are designed by Paul Davids to enhance your guitar skills, improve your timing, and provide you with a creative outlet. So grab your guitar and let's dive right in!

Video: 5 Fun Guitar Challenges

Challenge 1: Spider Exercise

Are you looking to improve your technique and finger dexterity? The Spider Exercise is a perfect choice. Follow these steps:

• Start on fret 7 of the low E string and play the B note.
• Move to fret 8 and 9, playing C and C#, respectively, using your middle finger, ring finger, and pinky.
• Transition to the A string, keeping your index finger in position, and play the notes D, E, F, and so on.
• Continue moving down the strings, maintaining efficient finger movements.
• Once comfortable, try increasing your speed while maintaining accuracy.

Challenge 2: Triads

Triads are essential building blocks in music theory. Let's explore them:

• Start with the C major triad: C, E, G.
• Move to the next triad based on the last note of the previous triad (e.g., G major: G, B, D).
• Continue this pattern, naming and internalizing major triads in the circle of fifths.
• For an extra challenge, visualize these triads on the guitar fretboard.

Challenge 3: Looping Guitar Mistakes

Looping can be a tricky skill to master. Let's address common mistakes:

• Avoid speeding up during a loop. Maintain a consistent tempo throughout.
• Ensure that you start playing before recording to eliminate any moments of silence at the loop's beginning.

Challenge 4: First Take

The first take is often filled with creativity and spontaneity. Embrace this challenge:

• Record yourself playing something on the guitar as your first take.
• Share your recording on social media or use the hashtag #FirstTakeChallenge.

Challenge 5: Rhythm Challenge

Rhythm is the heartbeat of music. Let's work on your timing:

• Play along with a drum beat that gradually increases gaps of silence between beats.
• Focus on landing on the one beat accurately, keeping the rhythm steady.
• Download the free backing track provided for this challenge.

By taking on these five guitar challenges, you can not only improve your skills but also find joy and creativity during challenging times. Remember to embrace the process, have fun, and share your progress with others. Stay motivated, keep practicing, and you'll come out of these difficult times as a better guitarist!