Missing the Point

LittleFeat · #1 October 20th, 2005

I have been studying theory for only about a week now, but it has been an intense week. I've covered what I consider to be alot of ground, and when it comes down to it I understand everything I've learned. Only I just don't see how I can translate it into my fingers. I know how to make a triad and all and I understand intervals. I memorized the 12 major triads, but again when I sit down with my guitar and think about what I've learned they are just letters and I cannot seem to turn it into music. Maybe I have been looking at it as too much of a science, I don't know. Maybe I'm not quick enough on my feet or something like that. Is there something that I'm missing? Am I looking at it in the wrong light? If somebody would please give me some advice on how to do this the right way I would really appreciate it.

William

Kirk Lorange · #2 October 21st, 2005

Hi LF ...

I think the best way to apply your knowledge so far is to take a song, any song, and pick it apart. Look at each chord (write them out) and spend some time looking at the various ways of changing between them. There are many. Your triads can become the centers of activity for each.

Next, spend a lot of time breaking those chords back down into notes. Use the chord's notes to create melody ... it can be as simple as you please. Really let it sink in that melody (riffs, licks, solos, improv) are firmly anchored to the 'chord of the moment' ... as the chords change, so do these anchor notes.

Here's another: take a melody you already know and analyze it against the chords ... this will prove to yourself that what I say is true: melody is mostly chord tones.

That should get you started.

BTW ... a week is no time at all. You can spend decades delving into this stuff and still learn something new every five minutes!

LittleFeat · #3 October 21st, 2005

Kirk I really can't thank you enough for all the advice you've given me. The best I can do is tell you, from one guitarist to another, how much you've helped my progress and whats more made it captivating and fun.
I finally got a job (started orientation today) so you can expect to see me on the PlaneTalk forum before too long.

allthumbs · #4 October 21st, 2005

It will be great to see you on the P.T. forum. I was going to suggest it before I read your reply. Your questions are classic indications that you are ready for Kirks' Plane Talk system. Your jaw is gonna drop. A week of studying P.T. would be like studying applyed theory for months IMOP. I can't help, but chuckle at the thought of your reaction after being exposed to it. If your anything like me, you'll be running around the house jumping up and down with glee once you begin to get it and realize what you will be able to do.