Author name: Andy Schneider

Total guitar NRD. Professional musician since 1987. Author of 100+ books for string players, published by Seeing Music.

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Podcast Episodes

Ep005 – Practice Easy for Big Results

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**Ep005: Practice Easy for Big Results**

Hey there, fellow guitar enthusiasts! 🎸 Ever find yourself feeling guilty for not spending hours practicing every day? In this episode, I bust the myth that marathon practice sessions are the only way to improve and share how effective short, focused practice can truly be. It’s not about the hours you put in, but the quality of those minutes!

I open up about my personal practice strategies that keep motivation high and fit into any busy schedule. You’ll be surprised at how even a simple, consistent 15-minute practice can lead to big results. Throughout the episode, I highlight the impact of setting clear, small goals and using tools like metronomes and practice journals. I also introduce an advanced tip for seasoned players that involves a fun bar graph tracking system to reach those ambitious licks and solos goals.

Plus, we’ve got a free practice journal page waiting for you at GTRNRD.net to track your progress—a handy resource for crafting your personalized, effective practice routine.

Tune in as we look forward to next week’s juicy topic—the evolution of tube amps. Promise me you’ll reconsider those practice habits this week and enjoy seeing the change in your skills!

Hit play and join us for this one—you don’t want to miss it!

See you there, NRDs!

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Podcast Episodes

Ep004 – Supercharged Strumming

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**GTRNRD Podcast Ep004: Supercharged Strumming**

Are you ready to turbocharge your guitar playing with some killer strumming techniques? 🎸 In this episode, we take an electrifying journey into the art of strumming—a pivotal skill that can truly elevate your guitar game. Whether you’re just starting out or you’re already rocking the guitar scene, mastering strumming is your ticket to unlocking new sounds and rhythms. We’ll tackle everything from the trusty down and up strumming patterns to ensuring your rhythms are consistent and your note volumes are even. Plus, you’ll get the inside scoop on smooth chord changes and practical tips to polish these moves to perfection.

Bass players, listen up! I’ve got some special strumming secrets for you, too. We’re talking about experimenting with two-note strumming way up the neck for some bold, new textures. And for all you advanced players out there, we’re diving into the dynamics, fret hand mutes, and varied strumming targets that transform good music into great music.

Curious to see these strumming skills in action? Hit play and join the conversation—your guitar is going to thank you for it! 🌟 Share your strumming adventures with us on social media, and if you’re looking to really dig in, check out my book, “Acoustic Guitar for Adults – Book 1”.

Listen now wherever you get your podcasts, and stay tuned for next week when we’ll explore tips on practicing efficiently. Keep experimenting, and you’ll be amazed at how your music comes alive!

See you there, NRDs!

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Podcast Episodes

Ep003 – FAQ: Pickups

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Ep003: FAQ – Pickups

Ever wonder how those magical pickups in your guitar really work their wonders? 🎸 In this episode, I’m diving into the electrifying world of guitar and bass pickups—the unsung heroes behind our favorite riffs and solos. We explore the fascinating trio of electromagnetic, piezo, and microphone pickups, covering their unique characteristics and how they can shape your tone like a sculptor with a rockstar twist.

We’ll break down what makes single coils sparkle and humbuckers hum, plus I’ll give you the lowdown on the classic axes they call home—think Fender Strat and Gibson Les Paul. We also chat about piezo pickups, beloved by acoustic players for their crystal-clear vibes, and delve into the depth you can capture with microphones on an acoustic setup. Oh, and don’t forget the creative wiring tricks like coil-splitting and playing around with active versus passive options—because versatility is key, right?

Whether you’re a tone chaser or just love geeking out over gear, there’s something in here for all you NRDs. So hit play and join us on this sonic adventure—you don’t want to miss it!

See you there, NRDs!

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Podcast Episodes

Ep002 – What is Music Theory?

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Title: GTRNRD Podcast Ep002: What is Music Theory?

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Ever feel like music theory is a mysterious secret society? 🎼 Fear not, fellow guitarist, because in this episode, I’m here to crack the code and show you how it can supercharge your playing. We’re exploring how music theory is more than just rules—it’s your guitar-playing toolkit!

Join me as we build chords from scales like the trusty C major, and discover how the C major and A minor chords are a match made in musical heaven. This episode is packed with practical tips to boost your songwriting and soloing by understanding the magic that is music theory.

Hit play and tune in—this one’s packed with insights that could change your musical journey!

See you there, NRDs!

Podcast Episodes

Ep001 – The Skill Triangle

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Title: GTRNRD Podcast Ep001: The Skill Triangle

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Hey there, fellow guitar nerds! Ever heard of the “Skill Triangle”? 🎸 In our very first episode of GTRNRD, I unveil this essential framework that’s all about turning you into a well-rounded musician. Whether you’re strumming away like a pro or just starting to find your groove, the Skill Triangle—comprising technique, music theory, and gear knowledge—is your ticket to musical mastery.

Tune in as I share my journey from a self-taught strummer to a seasoned player, learning how to balance these three pillars. We’ll explore how knowing where to place your fingers is just as crucial as understanding the magic behind musical harmony, and why every gear head needs to have a solid dose of theory. Plus, I’ll offer tips on avoiding the pitfalls of neglecting any corner of the triangle.

Intrigued? There’s more! I’m giving away a free guide to the Skill Triangle to help you evaluate and hone your skills. So, what are you waiting for? Hit play and join us for this one—you don’t want to miss it!

See you there, NRDs!

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