HOW TO GET STARTED:

Improvising or “jamming” is a great way to blow off steam after a practice session. It’s great to do your own thing for 10 minutes, rather than learning other peoples songs. My advice is to jam over the tracks included in this course for 5-10 minutes at the end of your practice.

Don’t think you’re doing anything wrong. Sure, there is some scales and music theory to learn, but remember jamming is about your own creativity.

MORE SPECIFIC TIPS FOR THIS COURSE:

• Learn the boxed positions first.
• Learn the notes on the thickest E string off by heart so you can jam in any key.
• Try jamming on just one string, to learn the formula of each scale.

TIPS ON WRITING SOLOS AND GETTING CREATIVE:

• Try humming or singing the notes that are in your head. Don’t let the scales put your fingers on autopilot.
• Use dynamics (loud and quite in your playing).
• Think of your solos as a conversation, sometimes it’s not what you’re saying but HOW you say it.
• LISTEN to the band. Don’t just start soloing straight away.
• Less is more. Use rests, held notes and sustain to give more depth to your solos.
• Finally, enjoy yourself. No one can describe that awesome feeling when the solo your playing fits with the track and what you can hear in your hear. Go for it!