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Ep011 – The Scales Junglegym

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**GTRNRD Podcast Ep011: The Scales Junglegym**

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Who knew a jungle gym and your fretboard could have so much in common? 🎸 In this episode, we’re swinging into “The Scales Junglegym,” where I draw on the physical play of jungle gyms to inspire our scale practice. Just as a jungle gym stretches our muscles and sense of adventure, scales stretch our musical muscles, building hand coordination and musical flexibility.

Why should you dive into this episode? Well, scales are music’s foundation! I break down how tackling scales with creativity (and some fun, just like playing outside) can transform your guitar playing. By shaking up your finger choices and casting aside predictable patterns, you unlock new worlds of melodic possibility. Plus, I’ve packed this episode with practical exercises to expand your technique and free your music from the mundane.

So what are you waiting for? Hit play and swing into this episode for some musical monkey bars—you don’t want to miss it!

See you there, NRDs!

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Ep010 – Hammer-Ons and Pull-Offs

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### GTRNRD Podcast Ep010: Hammer-Ons and Pull-Offs

Hey there, guitar wizards and low-end maestros! Ever wish your solos could sing like a bird or scream like a superstar? Well, you’re in luck. 🎸 In this week’s episode, we’re diving into the world of hammer-ons and pull-offs—those magical techniques that can transform your playing from “meh” to “marvelous.”

Join me as we dissect the mechanics of hammer-ons, where you strike a note by simply placing a finger firmly on the fretboard, and pull-offs, which let a string ring out beautifully as you lift your finger. Perfecting these moves will add fluidity and expression to your music, whether you’re serenading the moon or setting your fretboard on fire.

I’ll guide you through some practical exercises to strengthen your fingers and improve your timing. Plus, we’ll explore how to spice up those scale exercises and how to use these techniques to turn your melodies into something vocalists would envy. That’s right—hammer-ons and pull-offs are like the consonants of your musical language, enhancing your solos with variety and nuance.

To geek out even further, check out my books, “Beginner’s Guitar Jumpstart” and “Bass Guitar Beginner’s Jumpstart,” which you’ll find at SeeingMusicBooks.com. These reads are perfect for grounding your foundational skills and theory.

So, ready to experiment and share your newfound skills on social media? I can’t wait to see what you come up with. And don’t forget to tune in next time when we’ll be swinging through “The Scales Junglegym” episode—your melody-making might just reach new heights.

Listen now wherever you get your podcasts, and let’s amp up your musical expression!

See you there, NRDs!

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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

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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