Practice Guidelines for "Spanish Song"
Quick Start for the Right Hand
Learning a new skill requires practice. This is true whether you are learning a new instrument, a new sport, or a new dance step. Preparing to perform "Spanish Song" will require practice as well.
Let’s review The Five Practice Principles.
Be sure to set up your practice journal for Module Two. (Practice Journal template)
Complete a practice journal entry each time you practice.
Practice Video
Remember to practice using a metronome. At any time, you may visit Metronome Online.
Practice slowly at first, keeping a steady beat.
A metronome setting of 40 beats per minute (bpm) might be a good starting point.
For "Spanish Song," consider it a goal (not a requirement) to accurately achieve the tempo in this practice video (66bpm).
Improve
As you practice, identify and focus on opportunities for improvement. (Select below for improvement tips.)
Practice only the melody of "Spanish Song," using your “a” finger on your right hand. Focus on playing correct frets with proper left-hand form (as demonstrated in the following video).
Play the right-hand pattern on open strings (without using the left hand). Watch the following video as an example. Play the pattern several times with and without the metronome. Focus on your right-hand fingers and form. Focus on problem areas when practicing, but also spend time practicing as if you were performing. Set a goal in each of your practice sessions to play the song a set number of times (perhaps three) without stopping to correct mistakes.
Depending on the type of guitar or strings you are using, some discomfort in the left-hand fingertips can be normal (particularly for beginning guitar players). If you experience pain or discomfort in any other area (such as your wrists, arms, shoulders, back, or legs), you should stop practicing.
Check to be sure that you are sitting up straight, holding the guitar correctly, and using correct form.
Contact your instructor if you are unable to correct the problem.
Practice Daily
Set aside time to practice. Begin by allocating 30 minutes per day for focused practice. Try to maintain a regular practice schedule.
Do not limit yourself to playing your guitar only during your allocated practice time. Time that you spend playing for your own enjoyment is also valuable. Remember, however, to always use proper form and technique when you play.
