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Writer's pictureSteven Randell

Mind the Gap: The Advantages of a Structured Guitar Syllabus

Hey there, fellow guitar enthusiasts! 🎸 Ready to dive into a topic that might just change the way you approach your guitar journey? Do you have gaps in your playing? If you're a guitarist who's been strumming to your own tune without a structured syllabus, it might be time to consider the benefits of a more systematic approach.


A guitarist dangerously close to a speeding train

I get it – the allure of picking up your guitar and jamming out to your favourite riffs is undeniable. It's like a musical comfort zone that feels oh-so-good. But let's be real for a moment – have you ever found yourself avoiding certain chords or techniques? Or maybe you've been guilty of breezing past those tricky bits that make you frown? You're not alone, my friend. It's a common pitfall for guitarists, and that's why we need to apply a little Polyfilla to those cracks in your playing. So what are the advantages of a structured guitar syllabus?


The Danger of Ignoring the Gap


Imagine you're on a road trip with your guitar. You set off on a journey, eagerly strumming along, and suddenly you encounter a pothole – a musical obstacle. Instead of addressing it, you decide to take a detour and keep cruising. Over time, those potholes become craters, and your smooth musical journey starts feeling more like an off-road adventure.


Avoiding certain aspects of guitar playing can lead to bad habits that are tough to break later on. Maybe you're a master of power chords but struggle with fingerpicking. Or perhaps you can solo like a rockstar but can't read a lick of sheet music. These gaps in your skill set can hold you back from truly unlocking your guitar potential.


Why a Structured Syllabus?


Enter the structured syllabus, like those offered by the London College of Music. Think of it as your GPS for navigating the vast landscape of guitar playing. A structured syllabus is designed to take you on a well-rounded musical journey, ensuring you cover all the necessary bases along the way. Here's why it's worth considering:


1. Comprehensive Learning: A structured syllabus covers a wide range of topics, from chords and scales to music theory and technique. It ensures you don't miss out on important skills that might not be your favourites but are essential nonetheless.


2. Progressive Approach: Just like you wouldn't jump from crawling to sprinting, a structured syllabus follows a logical progression. You build on foundational skills, gradually tackling more complex challenges as you go.


3. Balanced Development: By addressing your weak spots head-on, you prevent the dreaded skill gaps from forming. You'll become a more versatile and adaptable guitarist who's ready to take on any musical adventure.


4. Expert Guidance: The syllabus is crafted by experienced musicians and educators. They've been down this musical road before and know the best way to guide you through it.


5. Motivation Boost: As you conquer each challenge, your confidence grows, and so does your motivation. The sense of accomplishment fuels your desire to keep learning.


Embrace the Journey, Gap and All


Remember, it's not about shying away from the gaps in your skills; it's about tackling them head-on. As guitarists, we're all on a unique musical journey, and the gaps are part of what make it exciting. Embrace them as opportunities to grow, to refine your craft, and to become the guitarist you've always dreamed of being.


So, whether you're a strummer, a picker, a shredder, or all of the above, consider incorporating a structured syllabus into your practice routine. Give those neglected chords and techniques some love, and watch as your musical landscape expands in ways you never thought possible.


Ready to mind the gap and bridge the divide between where you are and where you want to be as a guitarist? It's time to grab your guitar, your determination, and embark on a musical journey that's truly transformative. Happy strumming! 🎶🎵

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