Lee John Blackmore
29 avr. 2024
APRIL 24
Hey all !
Apologies for the slight delay in getting this month's newsletter to you. I've been having a blast hanging out with my young nieces and nephews, making music and just having a great time. They've been quizzing me about learning guitar and YouTube, and it got me thinking.
You know how kids these days think you can learn just about anything from YouTube? Well, while that might hold some truth, it got me pondering a few points. In this ever-changing digital world, who knows how long they’ll stay relevant, right?
Soft Skills: Playing guitar isn't just about technical proficiency; it also involves skills like creativity, improvisation, and collaboration if you're playing with others. While YouTube tutorials can teach you chords and scales, developing these softer skills often requires playing with others, experimenting, and being open to feedback.
Long-Term Commitment: Learning guitar is a journey that requires dedication and persistence. While YouTube can provide quick lessons on specific songs or techniques, mastering the instrument requires consistent practice over a long period. It's about building muscle memory and developing a deep understanding of music theory, which can't happen overnight.
Personal Development: Learning guitar can be a deeply personal journey that involves self-expression and emotional exploration. While YouTube tutorials can teach you how to play certain songs, true musical growth often involves connecting with your emotions and experiences, which requires introspection and self-awareness.
Complex Subjects: Guitar playing can involve complex concepts like music theory, fretboard navigation, and improvisation. While YouTube can introduce you to these topics, truly understanding them may require studying textbooks or taking specialised courses that provide a more comprehensive understanding.
Real-World Application: While YouTube tutorials can teach you how to play specific songs or techniques, applying them in a band setting or live performance can be a different experience altogether. Playing with others or in front of an audience requires skills like timing, communication, and adaptability, which can't always be learned from videos alone.
Failure and Resilience: Learning guitar inevitably involves making mistakes and facing challenges. Whether it's struggling with a difficult chord progression or feeling frustrated with your progress, resilience is key to overcoming setbacks and continuing to improve. YouTube tutorials may not always address the emotional aspects of learning an instrument and bouncing back from failure.
In summary, while YouTube can be a valuable resource for guitar learners, it's important to supplement it with real-world practice, self-reflection, and an understanding of the broader aspects of music and personal development.
Stay Connected:
Connect with me on social media for weekly guitar inspiration, sneak peeks of upcoming lessons, and surprise giveaways. Find me on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.
If you have any questions, feedback, or suggestions, please don't hesitate to reach out to me.
Best regards,
LJ