Hey ,

 

I've been teaching one to one lessons for 16 years and put in around 7000 hours of lesson time so far.

 

From this experience I've discovered 5 questions that can help determine if you're a beginner or intermediate player:

 

1: Can you change smoothly between open chords?

Smoothly means you can change from one chord to the next without stopping your strumming hand. Your open chords should sound clear. After all, you've played each one well over a 1000 times by now.

 

2: Can you play to a metronome?

The most essential skill any musician can posses is the ability to "keep time" or play along with others. If you can play securely to a metronome then you have a solid understanding of rhythm subdivision and your own inner metronome.

 

I'm not asking you to blast through Stairway To Heaven, just a couple of simple tunes. If you can finish a song then you have the skill and confidence to play for longer periods without stopping.

 

Music theory isn't essential for every guitarist, but learning your notes off by heart on these two strings opens the door to many useful techniques. Like scales, barre chords, and understanding the key of songs.

 

If you've started your barre chord journey then you're on the path to becoming an intermediate player. Barre chords require a "next level" of determination. They often sort the "wannabes" from the "havetobes".

 

Did you answer "yes" to each question?

 

If so try these intermediate songs. (and be smug for a moment!!!)

 

If you've answered no to some of the questions then click the blue question link for helpful tips and practise advice.

 

Use my Beginner Acoustic course at LGIL as a structured roadmap for your beginner stages.

 

Whether you're beginner or intermediate all I care about is helping you enjoy every practice.