RIP Pebber! I was going to say what a great loss but your lifelong teachings will continue on. One of my favorite music teachers. Hate to admit but I once trolled you as 'Peter'. Your response 'I've never heard that one before' priceless 💲.
This lesson is a bit long and dense, but Mr. Brown knows his stuff. It is worth it, not only to view, but to take action and spend time with the exercises. If you practice what he covers you will get better. This goes for beginners to advance. Thank you Pebber!
best explanation behind the chromatic scales of anyone so far and why we need to master it. Neither guitar teacher I had could give me this detailed of a background on why they wanted me to learn it.
You are one of a very few reputable teachers on YT or maybe in general. I do think it is important to recognize the difference in practice requirements for the vast majority of people and for those who wish to become virtuosos. For the vast majority of humans the rock style may be preferable because it is more comfortable so they will stick with it, and they will never get close to the skill ceiling anyway. Carry on!
I really get a kick out of your lessons. When you screw something up you admit it and add a lot of honesty. And your humor is refreshing. Thanks for all your hard work.
A lot of guitarists/teachers, spend too much time, showing off and talking about how impressive their repertoire is, but in the end, the lesson is about the student, and if they receive incorrect information, it reflects on me. Teaching itself takes along time to develop. I appreciate the time your taking helping pple, and even myself. Even after 25 years of playing, I am always open to learn more, and develop a proper technique. Thanks.
Ever sense I started watching your videos and applying some of the techniques and practices to my playing my guitar playing has improved greatly! Thank for uploading these.
So glad I found your videos. My wife played piano and she described how classical piano players play and their hand positions -- so similar to your classical guitar technique. No one else on YT teaches this that I have found, and I desperately need this kind of instruction. There IS a right way to do it. Thanks so much
Your channel is EXTREMELY valuable for guitarists who are seeking GOOD TEACHING for LEARNING NEW TECHNIQUES. I just found your videos early this morning(May 14th 2012) and I am VERY happy that I have found your videos. You are offering HOURS of helpful videos for anyone who GENUINELY wants to know and check out/learn the things you are explaining. Just wanted to thank you for being a guitarist/musician who understands the need for MAESTROS in this new technological age of man. Thank you, Pebber.
Pebber - been playing for a lifetime and I have to say though I am not practicing with your videos - I really enjoy listening to you and watching your lessons: you are one of the best instructors for teaching the detailed mechanics of guitar technique. For those that have only guff for the diamonds of knowledge you are sharing, I have only pity... AND one thing to say to them: LISTEN TO THIS MAN PEOPLE, HE'S GOT THE GUITAR FIGURED OUT VERY WELL!!!
What a great lesson, you are the man, its a shame I haven't known you were on the internet for so long, honestly you have such great value and you are so clear. Thanks Pebber Brown I hope you are doing well!
Wish I had you as my teacher many years ago. I've learned soooo much in one sitting with you. God be with you and thank you for sharing your God given talent with so many of us. God bless!
+Kilgore Trout talent is the fruits of your own hard work and passion and not a gift from an imaginary sky daddy! Its an insult for any artist who has to hear that somehow he didn't earn it himself but got it stuffed up their own behind by this so called god... DJ Electro has every right to criticize Willie Turners comment.
SapiensfromTerra Thanks! It takes a lot of time practicing and learning before any talent can even be demonstrated. Sure, some people can naturally do something better but anyhow it takes work.
DJ Electro Trance Gressor and most of the time you won't even see a spec of success... "Success is burried in the garden of failure" don't know who that quote was from... Its not like Bach for example got touched by the force and could immediatly write fuges like crazy!
You are a dad of concept. Im 60,and been playing since ive been 11. love ur stuff. i have students,and i tell them you have to practice,and there is no magig potion to greatness. Just practice,and enjoy ur progress. thanks for ur great ideas. jesse
hey dude i just wanted to say i watched this video exactly 1 year ago and didn't finish watchingt because i thought it was lame. after one year time to time i applied some of the tips you mentioned and it just grew on me and my playing. i think your stuff is awesome and makes me a better guitarist overall. thanks.
The way you present your information...man, this lesson is deep. This is the first of your tuts I have seen but the best of all that I have seen. Thanks.
HI Pebber, Yes, thank you. You make more sense than others I have seen. You have answered so many questions that beginning guitars players have, so well done and thank you. You are a natural teacher.
Thank you Professor P. Brown for a great lesson. You pointed out areas that I have not considered before but now I cannot wait to apply and practice. I do not understand how someone can be so small of a person to complain about free lessons. I am truly grateful for people like you that are willing to share your knowledge and spread the feeling of music.
Oh my god i am all into checking out youtube vids teaching me techniques and stuff and I never ran into your vids before today..they are SO helpfull!!! it's very inspiring hearing you speak about music/study/practice etc!! thanks a bunch!
I just across your channel and want to say thanks for your huge effort to teach and learn others. As i had stopped 20 years ago with playing and recently had few strokes and forgot mostly all this is truly helpful to pickup what i left to long time ago. And for the haters it doesnt matter if its free or payed education if you dont like it at what ever level or way that might be STOP and move on no one its waiting for wining and complaining. Oh its free and volunteer to educated peeps so get lost to say bad things to this man or whom ever. As at addition to above i try to type in english as it is not my native one so if its not good enough for the haters i dont give a damn.... Again many thanks sir for all your video i take and will advantaged with it...
Hello From Australia! :), iv been playing for many years and professionally for the past 10years I luv watchin your videos I learn something new every time. just wanna say Thank you. God bless
Great lesson. I took a couple lessons with a classically trained guitarist and he said almost all of the same things that you said. He was all about technique and said that it would greatly help my jazz and blues playing. Great lesson!
Learned to play yrs ago...fortunately I was taught this technique right off the start. Im a basic guitar player but because I had my wind up metronome and old les Paul Junior...I would get up early before work every morning and do the scales un-plugged just like this man says. Im a working man, construction not a professional but I have been asked to lay down guitar tracks for my song writer friends at local studio. Because I play mainly by ear, these scales done with finger agility from practice allow you to do fairly well at soloing. memorizing fret board through scales has allowed me to enjoy playing...even as a plain player.
Hi Pepper. Great lesson! After 50 years of playing self taught, I am doing it the 'right' way! Very hard for me,but great for my technique! More versatile now! Thanks again. Ash
I applaud your sincerity and straight forward teaching. No bulllshit and to the point ! Thank u for getting me back to reality ! Practicing is the matter of all matters unless you are a born genius. Cheers!
First video of yours I've watched. Heard of you from a willseasyguitar video (He recommended you). Now i have to watch them all. After 26+ years of on again off again playing, everything you've said in this video hit me spot on. Been practicing/refining my hand/finger position for the last few years especially. You totally hit the nail on the head. Lots of new players I meet don't even think about this stuff, but it's so important. Hell, prior to the last few years I never thought too much about it and it did limit me for a long time. Thanks for a great video!
This is probably one of the way better informative videos I've watched. The commentary on what makes classical technique valuable was great. Also, I'm definitely going to work on keeping my fingers closer to the fretboard. I'm absolutely sure that has been holding me back.
Great video... I find it interesting how many of my students disregard the importance of the techniques gained from practicing chromatic scales in the ways you have demonstrated.
I'm a self taught guitarist... I've been highly complimented but I always take it with a grain of salt due to an inate awareness to an imperfect technique... This is a great video man.. simple yet very effective persective
YOU ARE SO RIGHT ABOUT CLASSICAL GUITAR TECHNIQUE-500 YEAR OLD vs MODERN BLUES 2 notes. I congradulate you on the technique about the chromatic scales.
I love your "common sense" approach. I'm a classical guitarist (and rock, jazz, and everything else I can play guitarist). This is such a clear explanation of every thing you're doing. I'm going to recommend your channel to all my students.
I'm was a professional female bass player and casual rock guitar player. Thanks for putting this up, it's really helping me get my guitar playing together--remember we're not all guys! :-)
I spent an hour working on one drill he demonstrates and today I broke into a new level of articulated picking. I've been hacking around for 40 years like a flounder. Perfect practice makes perfect.
Thank you for the lessons and advice. I'm very new to guitar and I'm actually struggling a bit with the thumb thing. But I now know what I was doing wrong and the solution. Thank you and God bless you.
Love the humor. Obviously, you have great patience and an understanding of the human mind. LOL. You give great lessons for beginners and nice tips for veterans that need to refresh so they won't "backslide". I plan on checking in often to see what new things you have to offer. I am a multi-instrumentalist that makes a living playing music; no day job. Your humility is a great asset and your advice is valuable and should be heeded by anyone trying to improve themselves no matter what level.
you know how long it took me to find a vid on chromatics with the right technique? geez, there's a lot of wrong stuff on youtube...which doesn't matter if you only want to play ten open chords and strum in two patterns for eternity, but if you want to move past beginner level, you need good technique with the least possible extraneous movement and relaxed fingers. Bravo.
I truly truly wish these fools would read your comment and realize the same thing - but they dont - they have these friends who all suck telling them what to do.
Hey Pebber! Great work, my man! The information you're teaching is spot dead-on right. I've been a guitar instructor since 1982, and I agree 100%! Preach it, brother-man...it is good to see someone who cares and keeping the art and traditional way alive.
This guy is 100%. When i play scales and quick licks usually my thumb is nice and neat behind the neck with my finger tips doing the quick playing. However as soon as i finish a phrase and go for a dramatic vibrato my thump shifts more upwards to get that smooth vibrato feel. Playing guitar is about being dynamic with your hand movements but being consistent with which techniques you use. Great tips.
Just bought my acoustic guitar and suddenly i discover we are two different elements!!!!!!! i'm looking one way it's looking the other way and so sad i needed someone to put me through.........but ALAS!!!! i found you and things started to take a new shape. Thenk you for the lessons and simplicity. also won't forget your humor =DDDDD
I wish I where young again being 60 and leaning guitar I guess I might run short on father time. Pebber you are talented and a very good instructor. thx
During the past 35 years I have taught over 150,000 guitar lessons and have transcribed hundreds of songs and solos for my students. I grew up in the 1960's and was a teenager in the 1970's and was in my twenties during the 1980's. Rock music was the next step after Rock&Roll music of the late 50's and early 60's. Pentatonic scales have been used across the spectrum and only started to become slightly experimental with bands in the 1970's.
Have to say, I, a critical human to be sure, love what you are teaching. I seriously doubt most people will be able to listen and/ or deal with it but man, honestly........ just watching this one video....... not even necessarily doing all the exercises..... has definitely improved my playing. I tend to do the exercises at random when I'm screwing around.... I can only imagine if I got seriously disciplined with it. .......and I've been playing quite a while. I learned some proper fingering when I was starting out in the late seventies..... this reminded me of all that. Know I will be slowly assimilating this and your other videos into my playing and practicing. thanks man!
:-) I am the base player. Love your stuff. I am 60 and learning. I will never be great but I have lived long enough to know that practice practice practice is where it is at.
+Rick M Good luck on the journey bro ,picked up my First Plectrum and Dean Acoustic at 58! 9 months on ,lots of fun,yeh it comes pretty slow ,but from zero to where I am now is a sea change.Once i got to the stage of taking on my fave songs from start to finish ( Space Oddity DB),The sense of satisfaction buzz was immense!Gotta practise as you say .only way!
Very good. I was taught by two classical guitarists and they taught me like pebberbrown. Always learning more everyday, constant and never ending improvement.
Ohhh my God! - I've been playing guitar for 7 years now, and I couldn't figure it out why weren't I being able to build Alternate Picking speed! - The problem was that I've been lifting the fingers ascending & descending all the time... Thank you sir. God bless you, you opened my eyes. Thanks again.
Pebber Brown you're absolutely right about technique of not using the overlapping thumb. I myself use to play that way a lot, but I've developed over the years and learned to get a good vibrato without support of the thumb. Folk ought to watch Randy Hansen play, that guy has awesome vibrato and often times play classical style without the thumb. I saw him covering Hendrix's "House Burning Down" and he was pretty much classical throughout the bends. Thanks for your sharing your knowledge Pebber.
Proper technique, your thumb placement strap length, etc., will save you the pain of music related injury and increase you facility on the instrument in single note, comping and chord solo. Period. Listen to this man and what he is telling you.
Good lesson for learning exercises that will expand your physical skills. I've been playing for 30+ years, and I don't know exactly when I went to "thumb behind the neck" but it's really the natural position for playing. Even when bending notes, my thumb doesn't really go "over the edge." Keep up the good work!
I love what you are teaching for I teach my students the same method. Also something to think about. A Rock guitarist can play a simple riffs, chords, or scales and make it look difficult. A classical trained guitarist can play the same riffs, chords and scales or a virtuoso music and make it look effortless. Keep up the Good work Mr. Pebber Brown...
Again - I have been playing since 1966 and NEVER taught in the Los Angeles area. Your memory is clouded from the corridors of time. You definitely have me confused with someone else. You may have taken a lesson from me back then but your statement that "I told you" that I was only playing for a couple years was definitely not me. Its cool man we all have vague memories from back in the day...:)
Haters gonna hate! Thanks for the lesson, this was great - coming from a guy who lifts his fingers off the board too much. I've only been practicing the chromatic with a metronome for a day and it's already helping a little bit. Thanks again.
I simply wanted to say, Thank You! You have taught me more, in a way I can understand, in an hour than I have learned (?) to this point in my whole life! Like You said, the music dictates, how You do it, is up to You, but I like Your approach--it just gels with me. Thanks PB!!! You rock..and jazz...and blues...and, well....lol I am just an old guy finally taking the time to try and learn . Thanks again!
good lesson. learned that from robt fripp about 30 years ago and my playing got alot smoother. now it's automatic but sometimes if we don't practice with focus we tend to have to remind ourselves. thanx for the reminder
I like the fact that you are teaching us how to 'speak', and pointing out key points/'lessons' along the way. Eventually, I hope that you will teach us how to actually, proficiently "Read" (on sheet music), the things that we're now learning to 'speak'. => Another Great Lesson!!! Thanks!!!
I am so thankful to have come across your video's. I am at a stage with guitar where I sometimes feel confused about what to focus on, and i really dig your approach. Thank you for providing so much information. You are stellar :)
Pretty obivious that you are an experienced player, so the negative comments don't mean much. You are spending your time trying to help those who have a hunger to learn and advance. Play on brother.
What you're mentioning in respect to perfecting the art of techinique is very simple but alot of work in its execution... which should be no deterrant to someone with a true passion for guitar and perfecting their ability on the guitar... very down to earth, sound approach... cheers...
What you're saying is gospel. I took lessons for years when I was a teenager and my guitar teacher would push my fingers down when he saw me raising them so far away from the neck. I got front row seats to a Yngwie malmsteen and watched him play close up. His fingers were so close to the neck when he played it was like he was playing a type writer . Thank you for confirming this.
Pepper--you are right, it is simply the most efficient way to position your hand. I had never given it a thought before, as I sometimes use my thumb on full chords for lower two notes when I need to articulate 4notes on top with other fingers for melody lines---in any event, I do whatever I have to do to hit the notes I want to hit, but your video makes some primary truths come to light again--nice post! (I sent you a video response, and my thumb does indeed show itself and go under).
Right on brother! This is good stuff, I've been playing for over a decade but agree 100%, some techniques are 20 year plus ventures. The only time you quit learning how to play is when you are in your coffin, until then every day is a lesson and more practice.
you're a great teacher! your videos are always densely packed with actually useful information for beginners. now, where is Music Theory 1B, 2A, and so forth?
hey man, i found your vid after watching a buddy guy video. I was grooving along until you got into defending your teaching. I just wanted to say, "no worries, man. Don't feed the trolls :)" The people who are ragging on your vids, trashing your lessons, are trolls. No need to feed them because most of them wont even listen to what you're saying. Keep putting up the lessons and, now that I've found your vids, i'll follow along. Thanks for taking the time out to make these vids!
I went to Berklee College of Music as well, from 2006-2009. I learned so much and since then, I have improved tenfold, not just because of attending Berklee, but out of the INERTIA to BECOME better. I practice for about 4-6 hours a day, and still I am always searching for ways to improve my game.
Thank you for the wisdom in keeping the fingers tight, Ive never had a lesson in my life and have struggled in learning the old fashioned way, I discovered the fingers to far away out of common sence by realising if im in new york and my fingers in los angelas it would be a while before i could even pick up my guitar so keep them close, but even tho I know that, its like my fingers got a mind of their own and want to visit los angelas again, frustrates the heck out of me. I subscribed to you, i like the way you teach, Im a blond and in just a few minutes of watching this video I learned several things to practice and us to improve my playing, Im putting in 4 to more hours a day in practice, im disabled and can do that, playing my guitar has become the love of my life its really personally rewarding for me. Your right about the thumb location I will force that technique to do exactly that. forcing my self isnt a problem to deal with, Ive happily accepted that fact. Im 61 and i have to force everything else, But I get the results I want and thats when I get to smile. I will keep an eye open for your videos, THANK YOU :)
It's a strange comparison but I view guitar much like football.... or learning to paint etc. It's about fundamentals. It's about drilling the core things over and over and over and over again. I've expanded my practice routine to around 2 and a half hours a night. I appreciate your videos because they bring up a lot of things I wasn't aware of. Thank you for posting.
Pepperbrown....Mate.......thank you. Absolutely amazing lessons and channel. Don't even bother with these dingbats talking garbage. The people who aren't slapping them down for you are too busy practicing your lessons and information to comment, because they know what they are getting and appreciate it. You're a boss. Cheers.
It's kinda shocking to learn Pebber Brown has died. I've followed his youtube lessons on and off for the last 12 years or so. May he rest in peace!
RIP Pebber .. what a great teacher. Pebber uses just the right mix of "you suck" with "here, do it this way" ..
RIP Pebber! My most respected online teacher. Will miss you greatly.
Thanks! I've been playing 51 years and still get stuff from you! Right on the ball!
ancle hey ur a snr.guitarist..?
RIP Pebber! I was going to say what a great loss but your lifelong teachings will continue on. One of my favorite music teachers. Hate to admit but I once trolled you as 'Peter'. Your response 'I've never heard that one before' priceless 💲.
You are so missed, Pebber. 45 years of friendship is hard to let go of. I come here to your page and visit.
This lesson is a bit long and dense, but Mr. Brown knows his stuff. It is worth it, not only to view, but to take action and spend time with the exercises. If you practice what he covers you will get better. This goes for beginners to advance. Thank you Pebber!
best explanation behind the chromatic scales of anyone so far and why we need to master it. Neither guitar teacher I had could give me this detailed of a background on why they wanted me to learn it.
You are one of a very few reputable teachers on YT or maybe in general. I do think it is important to recognize the difference in practice requirements for the vast majority of people and for those who wish to become virtuosos. For the vast majority of humans the rock style may be preferable because it is more comfortable so they will stick with it, and they will never get close to the skill ceiling anyway. Carry on!
YOU SIR ARE BY FAR THE BEST ON UA-cam!! GOD BLESS YOU MAN EE REALLY APPRECIATE THE WISDOM YOURE DROPPING
I really get a kick out of your lessons. When you screw something up you admit it and add a lot of honesty. And your humor is refreshing. Thanks for all your hard work.
A lot of guitarists/teachers, spend too much time, showing off and talking about how impressive their repertoire is, but in the end, the lesson is about the student, and if they receive incorrect information, it reflects on me. Teaching itself takes along time to develop. I appreciate the time your taking helping pple, and even myself. Even after 25 years of playing, I am always open to learn more, and develop a proper technique. Thanks.
Your videos gives me huge amounts of inspiration. Many thanks PB!
hey bro ur a guitarist???
Yea I'm a string bender :) You?
ur really know how to lead guitar..?
Rest in Peace Pebber..you were the greatest
Ever sense I started watching your videos and applying some of the techniques and practices to my playing my guitar playing has improved greatly! Thank for uploading these.
The best guitar guru in the internet ever..
So glad I found your videos. My wife played piano and she described how classical piano players play and their hand positions -- so similar to your classical guitar technique. No one else on YT teaches this that I have found, and I desperately need this kind of instruction. There IS a right way to do it. Thanks so much
Your channel is EXTREMELY valuable for guitarists who are seeking GOOD TEACHING for LEARNING NEW TECHNIQUES. I just found your videos early this morning(May 14th 2012) and I am VERY happy that I have found your videos. You are offering HOURS of helpful videos for anyone who GENUINELY wants to know and check out/learn the things you are explaining. Just wanted to thank you for being a guitarist/musician who understands the need for MAESTROS in this new technological age of man. Thank you, Pebber.
Pebber - been playing for a lifetime and I have to say though I am not practicing with your videos - I really enjoy listening to you and watching your lessons: you are one of the best instructors for teaching the detailed mechanics of guitar technique. For those that have only guff for the diamonds of knowledge you are sharing, I have only pity... AND one thing to say to them:
LISTEN TO THIS MAN PEOPLE, HE'S GOT THE GUITAR FIGURED OUT VERY WELL!!!
What a great lesson, you are the man, its a shame I haven't known you were on the internet for so long, honestly you have such great value and you are so clear. Thanks Pebber Brown I hope you are doing well!
so nice to stumble upon a guitar teacher who really cares about putting out solid stuff and wanting to share the love of guitar. Right on man!
Wish I had you as my teacher many years ago. I've learned soooo much in one sitting with you. God be with you and thank you for sharing your God given talent with so many of us. God bless!
Willie Turner And you can't say a sentence without using the word God in it?
Kilgore Trout Pretentious people.
+Kilgore Trout talent is the fruits of your own hard work and passion and not a gift from an imaginary sky daddy! Its an insult for any artist who has to hear that somehow he didn't earn it himself but got it stuffed up their own behind by this so called god... DJ Electro has every right to criticize Willie Turners comment.
SapiensfromTerra Thanks! It takes a lot of time practicing and learning before any talent can even be demonstrated. Sure, some people can naturally do something better but anyhow it takes work.
DJ Electro Trance Gressor and most of the time you won't even see a spec of success... "Success is burried in the garden of failure" don't know who that quote was from... Its not like Bach for example got touched by the force and could immediatly write fuges like crazy!
You are a dad of concept. Im 60,and been playing since ive been 11. love ur stuff. i have students,and i tell them you have to practice,and there is no magig potion to greatness. Just practice,and enjoy ur progress. thanks for ur great ideas. jesse
hey dude i just wanted to say i watched this video exactly 1 year ago and didn't finish watchingt because i thought it was lame.
after one year time to time i applied some of the tips you mentioned and it just grew on me and my playing. i think your stuff is awesome and makes me a better guitarist overall.
thanks.
The way you present your information...man, this lesson is deep. This is the first of your tuts I have seen but the best of all that I have seen. Thanks.
Just wanted to drop a line and say thanks so much for taking the time to help us all out. Very much appreciated!
Thanks, Boss. I think I speak for everybody, when I say that YOU and ALL OF YOUR WORK are not only greatly appreciated, but LOVED, as well!
You're Awesome Professor, the best I ever seen!
HI Pebber,
Yes, thank you. You make more sense than others I have seen. You have answered so many questions that beginning guitars players have, so well done and thank you. You are a natural teacher.
Now this guy illustrates it better than anyone i have ever seen!!!! Thanks for such an eloquently stated point!!
Thank you Professor P. Brown for a great lesson.
You pointed out areas that I have not considered before but now I cannot wait to apply and practice.
I do not understand how someone can be so small of a person to complain about free lessons.
I am truly grateful for people like you that are willing to share your knowledge and spread the feeling of music.
Oh my god i am all into checking out youtube vids teaching me techniques and stuff and I never ran into your vids before today..they are SO helpfull!!! it's very inspiring hearing you speak about music/study/practice etc!! thanks a bunch!
i am glad i found your vid...i has loads of info...thanks .
I just across your channel and want to say thanks for your huge effort to teach and learn others. As i had stopped 20 years ago with playing and recently had few strokes and forgot mostly all this is truly helpful to pickup what i left to long time ago. And for the haters it doesnt matter if its free or payed education if you dont like it at what ever level or way that might be STOP and move on no one its waiting for wining and complaining. Oh its free and volunteer to educated peeps so get lost to say bad things to this man or whom ever.
As at addition to above i try to type in english as it is not my native one so if its not good enough for the haters i dont give a damn....
Again many thanks sir for all your video i take and will advantaged with it...
Pepper in 3 years into learning and totally value you opinion , You really are a super teacher. Just wanted to Thank you .
This stuff is priceless. You are a guitar guru, man. Any young players out there can save themselves years of time wasting by listening to Pebber.
Hello From Australia! :), iv been playing for many years and professionally for the past 10years I luv watchin your videos I learn something new every time. just wanna say Thank you. God bless
You teach practicality and that is something that will always prevail. Thanks for teaching logically. Peace.
Great lesson. I took a couple lessons with a classically trained guitarist and he said almost all of the same things that you said. He was all about technique and said that it would greatly help my jazz and blues playing. Great lesson!
Learned to play yrs ago...fortunately I was taught this technique right off the start. Im a basic guitar player but because I had my wind up metronome and old les Paul Junior...I would get up early before work every morning and do the scales un-plugged just like this man says. Im a working man, construction not a professional but I have been asked to lay down guitar tracks for my song writer friends at local studio. Because I play mainly by ear, these scales done with finger agility from practice allow you to do fairly well at soloing. memorizing fret board through scales has allowed me to enjoy playing...even as a plain player.
Hi Pepper. Great lesson! After 50 years of playing self taught, I am doing it the 'right' way! Very hard for me,but great for my technique! More versatile now! Thanks again. Ash
I applaud your sincerity and straight forward teaching.
No bulllshit and to the point !
Thank u for getting me back to reality !
Practicing is the matter of all matters unless you are a born genius.
Cheers!
First video of yours I've watched. Heard of you from a willseasyguitar video (He recommended you). Now i have to watch them all. After 26+ years of on again off again playing, everything you've said in this video hit me spot on.
Been practicing/refining my hand/finger position for the last few years especially. You totally hit the nail on the head. Lots of new players I meet don't even think about this stuff, but it's so important.
Hell, prior to the last few years I never thought too much about it and it did limit me for a long time. Thanks for a great video!
This is probably one of the way better informative videos I've watched. The commentary on what makes classical technique valuable was great. Also, I'm definitely going to work on keeping my fingers closer to the fretboard. I'm absolutely sure that has been holding me back.
Great video... I find it interesting how many of my students disregard the importance of the techniques gained from practicing chromatic scales in the ways you have demonstrated.
I'm a self taught guitarist... I've been highly complimented but I always take it with a grain of salt due to an inate awareness to an imperfect technique... This is a great video man.. simple yet very effective persective
YOU ARE SO RIGHT ABOUT CLASSICAL GUITAR TECHNIQUE-500 YEAR OLD vs MODERN BLUES 2 notes. I congradulate you on the technique about the chromatic scales.
I love your "common sense" approach. I'm a classical guitarist (and rock, jazz, and everything else I can play guitarist). This is such a clear explanation of every thing you're doing. I'm going to recommend your channel to all my students.
I'm was a professional female bass player and casual rock guitar player. Thanks for putting this up, it's really helping me get my guitar playing together--remember we're not all guys! :-)
I spent an hour working on one drill he demonstrates and today I broke into a new level of articulated picking. I've been hacking around for 40 years like a flounder. Perfect practice makes perfect.
Thank you for the lessons and advice. I'm very new to guitar and I'm actually struggling a bit with the thumb thing. But I now know what I was doing wrong and the solution. Thank you and God bless you.
Love the humor. Obviously, you have great patience and an understanding of the human mind. LOL. You give great lessons for beginners and nice tips for veterans that need to refresh so they won't "backslide". I plan on checking in often to see what new things you have to offer. I am a multi-instrumentalist that makes a living playing music; no day job. Your humility is a great asset and your advice is valuable and should be heeded by anyone trying to improve themselves no matter what level.
you know how long it took me to find a vid on chromatics with the right technique? geez, there's a lot of wrong stuff on youtube...which doesn't matter if you only want to play ten open chords and strum in two patterns for eternity, but if you want to move past beginner level, you need good technique with the least possible extraneous movement and relaxed fingers. Bravo.
You are 100% correct. The classic approach is the best; I use it and I can bend the strings just fine.
I truly truly wish these fools would read your comment and realize the same thing - but they dont - they have these friends who all suck telling them what to do.
People seriously need to just watch how Holdsworth did it. Absolute perfection.
Hey Pebber! Great work, my man! The information you're teaching is spot dead-on right. I've been a guitar instructor since 1982, and I agree 100%! Preach it, brother-man...it is good to see someone who cares and keeping the art and traditional way alive.
This guy is 100%. When i play scales and quick licks usually my thumb is nice and neat behind the neck with my finger tips doing the quick playing. However as soon as i finish a phrase and go for a dramatic vibrato my thump shifts more upwards to get that smooth vibrato feel. Playing guitar is about being dynamic with your hand movements but being consistent with which techniques you use. Great tips.
Just bought my acoustic guitar and suddenly i discover we are two different elements!!!!!!! i'm looking one way it's looking the other way and so sad i needed someone to put me through.........but ALAS!!!! i found you and things started to take a new shape. Thenk you for the lessons and simplicity. also won't forget your humor =DDDDD
I wish I where young again being 60 and leaning guitar I guess I might run short on father time. Pebber you are talented and a very good instructor. thx
Now you know how much work you have yet to do. Keep at it every day you will eventually be able to do it. Thats what real practice is all about.
During the past 35 years I have taught over 150,000 guitar lessons and have transcribed hundreds of songs and solos for my students. I grew up in the 1960's and was a teenager in the 1970's and was in my twenties during the 1980's. Rock music was the next step after Rock&Roll music of the late 50's and early 60's. Pentatonic scales have been used across the spectrum and only started to become slightly experimental with bands in the 1970's.
Have to say, I, a critical human to be sure, love what you are teaching. I seriously doubt most people will be able to listen and/ or deal with it but man, honestly........ just watching this one video....... not even necessarily doing all the exercises..... has definitely improved my playing. I tend to do the exercises at random when I'm screwing around.... I can only imagine if I got seriously disciplined with it. .......and I've been playing quite a while. I learned some proper fingering when I was starting out in the late seventies..... this reminded me of all that. Know I will be slowly assimilating this and your other videos into my playing and practicing. thanks man!
:-) I am the base player. Love your stuff. I am 60 and learning. I will never be great but I have lived long enough to know that practice practice practice is where it is at.
+Rick M Good luck on the journey bro ,picked up my First Plectrum and Dean Acoustic at 58! 9 months on ,lots of fun,yeh it comes pretty slow ,but from zero to where I am now is a sea change.Once i got to the stage of taking on my fave songs from start to finish ( Space Oddity DB),The sense of satisfaction buzz was immense!Gotta practise as you say .only way!
Very good. I was taught by two classical guitarists and they taught me like pebberbrown. Always learning more everyday, constant and never ending improvement.
Ohhh my God! - I've been playing guitar for 7 years now, and I couldn't figure it out why weren't I being able to build Alternate Picking speed! - The problem was that I've been lifting the fingers ascending & descending all the time... Thank you sir. God bless you, you opened my eyes. Thanks again.
Pebber Brown I watched your lessons on youtube today, believe you are a Genius Sir I love your technics!
Pebber Brown you're absolutely right about technique of not using the overlapping thumb. I myself use to play that way a lot, but I've developed over the years and learned to get a good vibrato without support of the thumb. Folk ought to watch Randy Hansen play, that guy has awesome vibrato and often times play classical style without the thumb. I saw him covering Hendrix's "House Burning Down" and he was pretty much classical throughout the bends. Thanks for your sharing your knowledge Pebber.
Great video! Didn't realize how much my fingers were flopping around on descending chromatics. Very helpful. Thanks!
Proper technique, your thumb placement strap length, etc., will save you the pain of music related injury and increase you facility on the instrument in single note, comping and chord solo. Period. Listen to this man and what he is telling you.
Good lesson for learning exercises that will expand your physical skills. I've been playing for 30+ years, and I don't know exactly when I went to "thumb behind the neck" but it's really the natural position for playing. Even when bending notes, my thumb doesn't really go "over the edge." Keep up the good work!
Great lesson! So glad I found this!BTW that "look at the bass player" technique is awesome!
He aims at excellence and encourages his students to do so!
One of the most incredible guitarists of all time!
I love what you are teaching for I teach my students the same method. Also something to think about. A Rock guitarist can play a simple riffs, chords, or scales and make it look difficult. A classical trained guitarist can play the same riffs, chords and scales or a virtuoso music and make it look effortless. Keep up the Good work Mr. Pebber Brown...
Great Video! I am a total beginner and I really appreciate your clear instructions and natural humour! Awesome!
27 pages of solid material!, the guy's a legend already.
words of wisdom; reinforces what I've done for years, and, I'm trying to get it back after a long hiatus- this helps- thanks!
THANK YOU SO MUCH! i can't afford a teacher/lessons right now -- you are a savior!
Again - I have been playing since 1966 and NEVER taught in the Los Angeles area. Your memory is clouded from the corridors of time. You definitely have me confused with someone else. You may have taken a lesson from me back then but your statement that "I told you" that I was only playing for a couple years was definitely not me. Its cool man we all have vague memories from back in the day...:)
Haters gonna hate! Thanks for the lesson, this was great - coming from a guy who lifts his fingers off the board too much. I've only been practicing the chromatic with a metronome for a day and it's already helping a little bit. Thanks again.
I simply wanted to say, Thank You! You have taught me more, in a way I can understand, in an hour than I have learned (?) to this point in my whole life! Like You said, the music dictates, how You do it, is up to You, but I like Your approach--it just gels with me.
Thanks PB!!! You rock..and jazz...and blues...and, well....lol I am just an old guy finally taking the time to try and learn . Thanks again!
good lesson. learned that from robt fripp about 30 years ago and my playing got alot smoother. now it's automatic but sometimes if we don't practice with focus we tend to have to remind ourselves. thanx for the reminder
I like the fact that you are teaching us how to 'speak', and pointing out key points/'lessons' along the way. Eventually, I hope that you will teach us how to actually, proficiently "Read" (on sheet music), the things that we're now learning to 'speak'. => Another Great Lesson!!! Thanks!!!
You sir, are simply great. I've downloaded all the free PDFs you have posted, incredibly helpful even for an experienced guitarist.
Only minutes in and already know this where to come and learn play guitar. Ur a Down to earth cat. Thanks a ton!!!
I am so thankful to have come across your video's. I am at a stage with guitar where I sometimes feel confused about what to focus on, and i really dig your approach. Thank you for providing so much information. You are stellar :)
Pretty obivious that you are an experienced player, so the negative comments don't mean much. You are spending your time trying to help those who have a hunger to learn and advance. Play on brother.
What you're mentioning in respect to perfecting the art of techinique is very simple but alot of work in its execution... which should be no deterrant to someone with a true passion for guitar and perfecting their ability on the guitar... very down to earth, sound approach... cheers...
wow an hour of free lesson. full of great info even for experienced guitar players.
Wow,your lessons Pebber put a smile on my face,they are so good.You put me always on the right road.
What you're saying is gospel. I took lessons for years when I was a teenager and my guitar teacher would push my fingers down when he saw me raising them so far away from the neck. I got front row seats to a Yngwie malmsteen and watched him play close up. His fingers were so close to the neck when he played it was like he was playing a type writer . Thank you for confirming this.
I think it is good to learn both styles and then find what works best for your case.
Pepper--you are right, it is simply the most efficient way to position your hand. I had never given it a thought before, as I sometimes use my thumb on full chords for lower two notes when I need to articulate 4notes on top with other fingers for melody lines---in any event, I do whatever I have to do to hit the notes I want to hit, but your video makes some primary truths come to light again--nice post! (I sent you a video response, and my thumb does indeed show itself and go under).
Should you hear what he says instead of listening to what you think you know...you will learn. Thanks Pebber for the clarity
Right on brother! This is good stuff, I've been playing for over a decade but agree 100%, some techniques are 20 year plus ventures. The only time you quit learning how to play is when you are in your coffin, until then every day is a lesson and more practice.
The advice on these videos are invaluable , thank you
you're a great teacher! your videos are always densely packed with actually useful information for beginners.
now, where is Music Theory 1B, 2A, and so forth?
hey man,
i found your vid after watching a buddy guy video. I was grooving along until you got into defending your teaching. I just wanted to say, "no worries, man. Don't feed the trolls :)" The people who are ragging on your vids, trashing your lessons, are trolls. No need to feed them because most of them wont even listen to what you're saying. Keep putting up the lessons and, now that I've found your vids, i'll follow along. Thanks for taking the time out to make these vids!
I went to Berklee College of Music as well, from 2006-2009. I learned so much and since then, I have improved tenfold, not just because of attending Berklee, but out of the INERTIA to BECOME better. I practice for about 4-6 hours a day, and still I am always searching for ways to improve my game.
Thank you for the wisdom in keeping the fingers tight, Ive never had a lesson in my life and have struggled in learning the old fashioned way, I discovered the fingers to far away out of common sence by realising if im in new york and my fingers in los angelas it would be a while before i could even pick up my guitar so keep them close, but even tho I know that, its like my fingers got a mind of their own and want to visit los angelas again, frustrates the heck out of me. I subscribed to you, i like the way you teach, Im a blond and in just a few minutes of watching this video I learned several things to practice and us to improve my playing, Im putting in 4 to more hours a day in practice, im disabled and can do that, playing my guitar has become the love of my life its really personally rewarding for me. Your right about the thumb location I will force that technique to do exactly that. forcing my self isnt a problem to deal with, Ive happily accepted that fact. Im 61 and i have to force everything else, But I get the results I want and thats when I get to smile. I will keep an eye open for your videos, THANK YOU :)
It's a strange comparison but I view guitar much like football.... or learning to paint etc. It's about fundamentals. It's about drilling the core things over and over and over and over again. I've expanded my practice routine to around 2 and a half hours a night. I appreciate your videos because they bring up a lot of things I wasn't aware of. Thank you for posting.
Pepperbrown....Mate.......thank you. Absolutely amazing lessons and channel. Don't even bother with these dingbats talking garbage. The people who aren't slapping them down for you are too busy practicing your lessons and information to comment, because they know what they are getting and appreciate it. You're a boss. Cheers.