26
26
7
7
APRIL 201 APRIL 20177Join this top UK blues-rocker for
Join this top UK blues-rocker for
a brilliant minor blues lesson
a brilliant minor blues lesson
O
O N
N V
V
I
I D
D E
EO
O
A
A
YNSLEY LI
YNSLEY LI
STER
STER
Ma
Ma
ster
ster
class
class
Pt3
Pt3
C
C L
L A
A S
SS
S I
IC
C A
A
L
L
Featuring:
Featuring:
George Harrison (Acoustic)
George Harrison (Acoustic)
Judas Priest (Har
Judas Priest (Har
d Rock)
d Rock)
Oscar Moore (Jazz)
Oscar Moore (Jazz)
With the greatest players
With the greatest players
ELGAR
ELGAR
Play his rousing epic
Play his rousing epic
Land of Hope And Glory
Land of Hope And Glory
New chords for every type of blues
New chords for every type of blues
Great workouts and progressions
Great workouts and progressions
Plus studio quality jam tracks
Plus studio quality jam tracks
Learn the licks of this
Learn the licks of this
jazz-b
jazz-b
lues m
lues m
aster
aster
Larry
Larry
Car
Car
lton
lton
Y
Y
our
our
T
T
op
op
St
St
yl
yl
e
e
St
St
u
u
d
d
ie
ie
s
s
Licks, chords
Licks, chords
and solos!
and solos!
1
1
More than
More than
60
60
BLUES
BLUES
CHORDS
CHORDS
Y
Y
OU’LL EVER N
OU’LL EVER N
EED!
EED!
A
A
LL THE
LL THE
This month’s Rock column brings you
This month’s Rock column brings you
a
a
delay-tastic
delay-tastic
U2 style track to try
U2 style track to try
T
T
h
h
e
e
ED
ED
GE
GE
P
P L
L A
A
Y
Y L
L I
IK
K
E
E
PLAY
PLAY
FUSION
FUSION
10 super jazz-rock
10 super jazz-rock
examples to add
examples to add
sophistication and
sophistication and
style to your solos
style to your solos
MAKING YOU A BETTER PLAYER SINCE 1994
MAKING YOU A BETTER PLAYER SINCE 1994
PLAY
Apr
April il 20120177 33
ISSU
ISSUE 26
E 267
7
}
}
A
APRIL
PRIL 201
20177
Neville Marten,
Neville Marten, Editor
Editor
[email protected] [email protected]
WE
WEL
LC
CO
OME
ME
MAN
MANY YEAR
Y YEARS AGO I was humiliat
S AGO I was humiliated by a
ed by a
guitarist fr
guitarist friend - with no malice at all, I
iend - with no malice at all, I
hasten to add. He and his brother were in a
hasten to add. He and his brother were in a
we
well-
ll-kno
known
wn pr
prog
og ban
band
d and
and ha
had
d mo
moved
ved to
to
the town where I lived. We’d got to know
the town where I lived. We’d got to know
each other and one day he suggested the
each other and one day he suggested the
two of us have a jam. While his brother was
two of us have a jam. While his brother was
the lead guitarist, this chap was ‘strictly
the lead guitarist, this chap was ‘strictly
rhythm’ - although he did occasionally like
rhythm’ - although he did occasionally like
to ‘make it cry or sing’ (groan!).
to ‘make it cry or sing’ (groan!).
Given that we didn’t know what the
Given that we didn’t know what the
other really did, we inev
other really did, we inevitably end
itably ended up
ed up
playing blues and rock stuff. He let me solo
playing blues and rock stuff. He let me solo
rst and I wailed away on my red 335,
rst and I wailed away on my red 335,
giving it every
giving it everything I’d g
thing I’d got. He, on the
ot. He, on the
other hand was all over hi
other hand was all over his blonde
s blonde
Tele’s neck, playing partial chords,
Tele’s neck, playing partial chords,
half-chord-half-half-chord-half-riff ideas, link
riff ideas, link
lines, bass runs - t
lines, bass runs - the lot.
he lot.
Whe
When
n it
it cam
came
e tim
time
e to
to
swap roles my basic barre
swap roles my basic barre
chords were, by contrast,
chords were, by contrast,
leaden and unmusical.
leaden and unmusical.
Whe
Where
re he
he ha
had
d ma
made
de my
my
licks come to life, my
licks come to life, my
dreadful rhythm was killing
dreadful rhythm was killing
his tasteful, funky chops.
his tasteful, funky chops.
Wha
What
t a
a les
lesson
son I
I lea
learne
rned!
d!
That historic preamble was (
That historic preamble was (you’
you’ve
ve
guessed it) to set up this
guessed it) to set up this issue’
issue’s main story,
s main story,
whi
which
ch is
is all
all ab
abou
out
t pl
playin
aying
g com
compl
plem
emen
entary
tary,,
interesting, musically relevant, exciting
interesting, musically relevant, exciting
and rewarding blues rhythm guitar.
and rewarding blues rhythm guitar.
Jon Bishop has again come up with the
Jon Bishop has again come up with the
goods and, whether you’re into blues or not,
goods and, whether you’re into blues or not,
his feature is an i
his feature is an indispensabl
ndispensable source of
e source of
ideas that will benet any guitarist.
ideas that will benet any guitarist.
Checking through
Checking through Jon
Jon’s exampl
’s examples -
es - he
he
leaves no stone un
leaves no stone unturned - wi
turned - will set you up
ll set you up
as a ne blues rhythm
as a ne blues rhythm playe
player and ensure
r and ensure
yo
you
u ne
never
ver nd
nd yo
yourse
urself
lf with
with the
the sam
same
e red
red
face that I was left with all those years ago.
face that I was left with all those years ago.
In tandem with Jon’s
In tandem with Jon’s
feature you shoul
feature you should also visit
d also visit
Iain Scott’s Chord Camp. It’s
Iain Scott’s Chord Camp. It’s
about CAGED system chords
about CAGED system chords
- exactly what my friend was
- exactly what my friend was
using that day and about which I
using that day and about which I
had absolutely no idea (wince!).
had absolutely no idea (wince!).
Do enjoy the issue, and I’ll see
Do enjoy the issue, and I’ll see
yo
you
u aga
again
in nex
next
t mo
month
nth..
R
R
E
E
A
A
D
D
Y
Y
T
T
O
O
S
S
U
U
B
B
S
S
C
C
R
R
I
I
B
B
E
E
?
?
w
w w
w w
w ..m
m y
y f
f a
a
v
v o
ou
ur
r iit
t ee
m
ma
a g
g a
a zziin
nees
s ..c
c o
o..u
uk
k
Just some o
Just some of your regular
f your regular
GT technique experts...
GT technique experts...
JON BISHOP JON BISHOP
Jon is one of those great all-rounders Jon is one of those great all-rounders who can turn his hand to almost any who can turn his hand to almost any style. No ‘Jack of all trades and master of style. No ‘Jack of all trades and master of none’, he nails every one with ease! none’, he nails every one with ease!
IAIN SCOTT IAIN SCOTT
For over 25 years Iain has taught in the For over 25 years Iain has taught in the UK’s top schools and academies, as well UK’s top schools and academies, as well as a stint at GIT in LA. He can also boast as a stint at GIT in LA. He can also boast playing with the legend Brian Wilson! playing with the legend Brian Wilson!
STUART RYAN STUART RYAN
Head of Guitar at BIMM Bristol, Stu is an Head of Guitar at BIMM Bristol, Stu is an acoustic guitar virtuoso who performs acoustic guitar virtuoso who performs throughout the UK. His latest book/CD throughout the UK. His latest book/CD The
The TrTraditadition ion is is avaavailailable ble nownow..
PHIL HILBORNE PHIL HILBORNE
The
The UK’UK’s s origoriginainal l magmagaziazine ne guiguitar tar tuttutoror,, Phil’s something of a legend. A great Phil’s something of a legend. A great player, he’s currently touring Europe player, he’s currently touring Europe with the Champions Of Ro
with the Champions Of Rock show.ck show.
CHARLIE GRIFFITHS CHARLIE GRIFFITHS
Guitar Institute tutor Charlie first came Guitar Institute tutor Charlie first came to fame in Total Guitar’s Challenge to fame in Total Guitar’s Challenge Charlie series. He’s also one of the UK’s Charlie series. He’s also one of the UK’s top rock, metal and fusion guitarists. top rock, metal and fusion guitarists.
SHAUN BAXTER SHAUN BAXTER
One of the UK’s most respected music One of the UK’s most respected music educators, Shaun has taught many who educators, Shaun has taught many who are now top tutors themselves. His Jazz are now top tutors themselves. His Jazz Metal album is considered a milestone. Metal album is considered a milestone.
JUSTIN SANDERCOE JUSTIN SANDERCOE
One of the most successful guitar One of the most successful guitar teachers ever, justinguitar.c
teachers ever, justinguitar.com is a om is a minemine of information, and
of information, and his YouThis YouTube channelube channel boasts almost 500,000 subscribers! boasts almost 500,000 subscribers!
PAT HEATH PAT HEATH
BIMM Brighton lecturer, ESP product BIMM Brighton lecturer, ESP product demonstrator and all-round busy demonstrator and all-round busy musician, Pat brings you six cool licks musician, Pat brings you six cool licks each month in 30-Minute Lickbag. each month in 30-Minute Lickbag.
BRIDGET MERMIKIDES BRIDGET MERMIKIDES
Guildhall and Royal Academy trained, Guildhall and Royal Academy trained, Bridget is a Royal College of Music, Bridget is a Royal College of Music, examiner, a respected classical player examiner, a respected classical player and award-winning blues guitarist. and award-winning blues guitarist.
LES DAVIDSON LES DAVIDSON
Les has worked wi
Les has worked with Mick Taylor, Rumer,th Mick Taylor, Rumer, Jon Anderson, Pete Townshend, Tina Jon Anderson, Pete Townshend, Tina Tu
Turnerner r & & mormore. e. He He alsalso o runruns s a a recrecordordinging studio and teaches at BIMM London. studio and teaches at BIMM London.
RICHARD BARRETT RICHARD BARRETT
One of the best players around, Richard One of the best players around, Richard is adept at most st
is adept at most styles but truly excels inyles but truly excels in the bluesier side of rock. He currently the bluesier side of rock. He currently plays with Spandau’s Tony Hadley. plays with Spandau’s Tony Hadley.
JOHN WHEATCROFT JOHN WHEATCROFT
A phenomenal guitarist, John is a A phenomenal guitarist, John is a master at all styles but a legend in Gypsy master at all styles but a legend in Gypsy Jazz. His new album Ensemble Futur is Jazz. His new album Ensemble Futur is out now on iTunes and Amazon. out now on iTunes and Amazon.
AYNSLEY LIS AYNSLEY LISTER TER
Aynsley is one of the UK’s finest Aynsley is one of the UK’s finest blues-rock guitarists, recording artists and rock guitarists, recording artists and performers. His new album Eyes Wide performers. His new album Eyes Wide Open is a killer; we welcome him to GT! Open is a killer; we welcome him to GT!
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DON’T MISS O
UR AM
UR AM
AZING
AZING
DIGITAL EDITION
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Apr April il 20120177 55
CONTENTS
CONTENTS
• C O N T E N T S
• C O N T E N T S • A P R I
• A P R I L 2 0 1
L 2 0 17 •
7 •
AYAYNSLNSLEY EY LISLISTER TER Vid
Video eo MasMasterterclaclass Pss PT3T3 4444 Aynsley Lister finishes his highly popular video Aynsley Lister finishes his highly popular video masterclass series with a superb Freddie King, masterclass series with a superb Freddie King, BB King or
BB King or Peter Green style slow 8-bar blues.Peter Green style slow 8-bar blues.
JAZZ-ROCK & FUSION JAZZ-ROCK & FUSION
Cracking the code
Cracking the code
3030 Jazz-rock ideas can take your playing into highly Jazz-rock ideas can take your playing into highly sophisticated realms. This article, originally from sophisticated realms. This article, originally from GT176, is your ultimate lesson in fusion. GT176, is your ultimate lesson in fusion.SPECIAL FEATURE
SPECIAL FEATURE
ALL
ALL THE
THE BLU
BLUES C
ES CHOR
HORDS..
DS....
...you’ll ever need!
...you’ll ever need!
1414 ThoughThought there t there were owere only threnly three, huhe, huh? W? Well thinell thinkk again: there are loads of brilliant chords to again: there are loads of brilliant chords to use in blues, so read this lesson if you want to use in blues, so read this lesson if you want to become the coolest blues rhythm guy around! become the coolest blues rhythm guy around!
COVER FEATURE
COVER FEATURE
EDWARD ELGAR EDWARD ELGAR
Land Of Hope And Glory
Land Of Hope And Glory
5050 Bridget Mermikides arranges andBridget Mermikides arranges and transcribestranscribes this British
this British composer’composer’s most famous work, s most famous work, asas used to close the Last
used to close the Last Night Of The Proms.Night Of The Proms.
CLASSICAL TAB CLASSICAL TAB C C O O V V E E R R H H A A R R R R I I S S O O N N : : G G E E O O F F F F A A H H O O W W A A R R D D / / A A L L A A M M Y Y REGULAR FEATURES REGULAR FEATURES LESSONS
LESSONS INTRODUCTION INTRODUCTION 5555 Jason Sidwell introduces another Jason Sidwell introduces another action-packed Guitar Techniques lessons section packed Guitar Techniques lessons section 30
30
--
MINUTE LICKBAG MINUTE LICKBAG 5656 Pat Heath has six more licks for you to play at Pat Heath has six more licks for you to play at easy, intermediate and advanced levels. easy, intermediate and advanced levels.BLUES 58
BLUES 58
Les Davidson gets to grips with
Les Davidson gets to grips with the touch, tonethe touch, tone and taste of the awesome Larry Carlton! and taste of the awesome Larry Carlton!
ROCK 62
ROCK 62
Martin Cooper has his Gibson Explorer and Martin Cooper has his Gibson Explorer and delay pedal ready, to bring you U2’ The Edge. delay pedal ready, to bring you U2’ The Edge. HARD
HARD ROCK ROCK 6666 Charlie Griffiths introduce
Charlie Griffiths introduces the s the twin-guitartwin-guitar assault of NWOBHM legends, Judas Priest. assault of NWOBHM legends, Judas Priest.
JAZZ 72
JAZZ 72
John Wheatcroft believes that Nat ‘King’ Cole’s John Wheatcroft believes that Nat ‘King’ Cole’s guitarist Oscar Moore was one of the very best. guitarist Oscar Moore was one of the very best. ACO
ACOUSTUSTIC IC 7878 Stuart Ryan is intrigued by the chords and Stuart Ryan is intrigued by the chords and changes in George Harrison’s post-Beatles changes in George Harrison’s post-Beatles work - his ‘All Things Must Pass’ era... work - his ‘All Things Must Pass’ era... CREATIVE ROCK
CREATIVE ROCK 8282 Shaun Baxter begins a new
Shaun Baxter begins a new mini-series thatmini-series that explores four-note Mixolydian arpeggios. explores four-note Mixolydian arpeggios. CHORD
CHORD CAMP CAMP 8888 Iain Scott covers the much-discussed CAGED Iain Scott covers the much-discussed CAGED system (Major chords) in this month’s lesson. system (Major chords) in this month’s lesson. IN
IN THE THE WOODSHED WOODSHED 9292 Charlie Griffiths goes down the the shed to Charlie Griffiths goes down the the shed to discover how to hybrid pick with the inclusion discover how to hybrid pick with the inclusion of the oft-neglected fourth
of the oft-neglected fourth finger.finger.
F
F
E
E
A
A
T
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U
U
R
R
E
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S
V
V
I
I
D
D
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O
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O
O
R
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I
I
A
A
L
L
LEAR
LEAR
NING
NING
ZONE
ZONE
A bluesy E13 chord
A bluesy E13 chord
played on a Gibson played on a Gibson ES-335 ’63 Reissue ES-335 ’63 Reissue WEL WELCOMCOME E 33 Nev tells a sad tale of unwitting
Nev tells a sad tale of unwitting humiliation andhumiliation and belittlement at the hands of a guitarist friend. belittlement at the hands of a guitarist friend.
TALKBACK 6
TALKBACK 6
We value your opinions, positive or otherwise. We value your opinions, positive or otherwise.
INTRO 8
INTRO 8
Food For Thought, Session Shenanigans, 60 Food For Thought, Session Shenanigans, 60 Seconds, Jam Tracks, Phil’s OML and more. Seconds, Jam Tracks, Phil’s OML and more. SUBSCRIPTIONS 28 SUBSCRIPTIONS 28 Save time and money – get GT delivered! Save time and money – get GT delivered! BACK
BACK ISSUES ISSUES 5454 Missed a copy of GT in the last six months? Missed a copy of GT in the last six months? ALB
ALBUMS UMS 9494 Our reviews always cover an interesting spread Our reviews always cover an interesting spread of recent guitar-led releases...
of recent guitar-led releases... FRETBOARD
FRETBOARD & & USER USER GUIDE GUIDE 9595
/
/
66 Our musical terms and signs guide now Our musical terms and signs guide now includes an anotated fretboard diagram. includes an anotated fretboard diagram. NEXNEXT MT MONTONTH H 9898 Guitarists Of Steely Dan; Three-String Chords Guitarists Of Steely Dan; Three-String Chords & Arpeggios; Will McNicol video lesson; Rick & Arpeggios; Will McNicol video lesson; Rick Parfitt tri
Parfitt tribute (Rock), Totobute (Rock), Toto, SRV and more!, SRV and more!
TURN TO TURN TO PAGE 28 NOW PAGE 28 NOW FOR OUR LATEST FOR OUR LATEST SUBSCRIPTION SUBSCRIPTION OFFERS OFFERS Aynsley Lister: Aynsley Lister: Part 3 of his Part 3 of his blues-rock blues-rock soloing series soloing series
Talk
Talk Back
Back
P
Pos
ost
t
Guitar Te
Guitar Techniques, Future Publishing, Ivo P
chniques, Future Publishing, Ivo Peters Road, Bath, BA2 3QS.
eters Road, Bath, BA2 3QS.
Em
Emai
ail
l
neville.marten
[email protected]
@futurenet.com using the heade
m using the header ‘Talkback’
r ‘Talkback’..
‘MIXED’ MESSAGES? ‘MIXED’ MESSAGES?
In your February 2017 issue Matt In your February 2017 issue Matt Chambers asks, apropos the Chambers asks, apropos the Mixolydian mode in A, which has Mixolydian mode in A, which has F# and C# but G natural ( F# and C# but G natural (b b 7th),7th),
“Wouldn’t it make more sense to “Wouldn’t it make more sense to have the key signature of D Major, have the key signature of D Major, as A Mixolydian is the fth scale as A Mixolydian is the fth scale degree of D Major?” Jason Sidwell degree of D Major?” Jason Sidwell replies, “…Guitar Techniques… replies, “…Guitar Techniques… decided to universally conform to decided to universally conform to traditional music conventions traditional music conventions (founded in classical music) in that (founded in classical music) in that all key signatures would be Major all key signatures would be Major or (Natural) Minor keys.”
or (Natural) Minor keys.” Whereas tha
Whereas that decisit decision adon adoptedopted by Gui
by Guitar Techniqtar Techniques is ues is a pera perfectlyfectly reasonable strategy and entirely reasonable strategy and entirely defensible, it is by no means defensible, it is by no means universal in classical music. At least universal in classical music. At least two pieces in my
two pieces in my current repertoirecurrent repertoire use key signatures that reect the use key signatures that reect the modal nature of the music. modal nature of the music.
A ‘classi
A ‘classical’ (Scal’ (Spanish panish NationalistNationalist School) piece in my repertoire is School) piece in my repertoire is Madroños by Frederico Moreno Madroños by Frederico Moreno Torroba. This has a tonal centre Torroba. This has a tonal centre that is clearly E. The key signature that is clearly E. The key signature having no sharps or ats is of C having no sharps or ats is of C Major. This indicates to me that I Major. This indicates to me that I should expect Phrygian (amenco should expect Phrygian (amenco like) sounds. Of course, things are like) sounds. Of course, things are rarely quite that simple. Madroños rarely quite that simple. Madroños can be thought of as
can be thought of as in the Phrygianin the Phrygian Dominant mode (fth mode of, in Dominant mode (fth mode of, in this case, A Harmonic Minor, and this case, A Harmonic Minor, and even more amenco) given that it even more amenco) given that it opens and closes with an E opens and closes with an E MajorMajor chord. This might suggest a key chord. This might suggest a key signature of G#, but that would be signature of G#, but that would be too easily confused with F# and is too easily confused with F# and is best avo
best avoided, aided, as with s with tunes usitunes usingng the Harmonic Minor. Madroños, in the Harmonic Minor. Madroños, in fact, shifts through a variety of keys fact, shifts through a variety of keys and modes, thus making lots of and modes, thus making lots of accidentals necessary. Flamenco accidentals necessary. Flamenco often does likewise.
often does likewise. I have also learned an I have also learned an arrangement of The Blarney arrangement of The Blarney Pilgrim by Clive Carroll. Its Pilgrim by Clive Carroll. Its tonal centre is D
tonal centre is D (transposed(transposed by capo
by capo) but ) but although although it usit useses F#, all the Cs are natural. Clive F#, all the Cs are natural. Clive uses the G
uses the G Major key signatureMajor key signature of a single sharp, F#.
of a single sharp, F#. This indicates that we This indicates that we can expect to hear can expect to hear Mixolydian sounds. Mixolydian sounds. Duck Baker in his Duck Baker in his
arrangement does the same. arrangement does the same.
Two caveats: Blues is often a Two caveats: Blues is often a delicious mix of Major,
delicious mix of Major, Mixolydian,Mixolydian, Minor and Pentatonic sounds. It is Minor and Pentatonic sounds. It is arguably best to use the magazine’s arguably best to use the magazine’s convention with Blues, accidentals convention with Blues, accidentals indicating ‘blue notes’ to the ear. indicating ‘blue notes’ to the ear. Secondly, it is best to stick to the Secondly, it is best to stick to the regular 15 key signatures, one regular 15 key signatures, one natural and seven each of sharp and natural and seven each of sharp and at, building forwards or
at, building forwards or backwards
backwards around around the cycle the cycle of 5ths.of 5ths. As pr
As previously eviously mentioned, mentioned, a keya key signature of a random sharp (eg signature of a random sharp (eg G#) or at could be confusing. G#) or at could be confusing.
To conclude, although there is To conclude, although there is nothing wrong with GT’s policy on nothing wrong with GT’s policy on this issue, it is not
this issue, it is not a universallya universally adopted convention in music. So, if adopted convention in music. So, if Mr Chambers prefers to use key Mr Chambers prefers to use key signatures that reect the modality signatures that reect the modality of a piece, he is in good company. of a piece, he is in good company. Bria
Brian n ArthArthur, ur, NorthNorthumbeumberland rland Good point, Brian. Music, while being a Good point, Brian. Music, while being a very precise art on the one hand, can be very precise art on the one hand, can be multiplicit
multiplicitous and confusing on ous and confusing on thethe other. After years of refining how GT does other. After years of refining how GT does things, we have arrived at a set of things, we have arrived at a set of standards that seem to work well across standards that seem to work well across all the various styles we cover – as all the various styles we cover – as youyou
poin
point t out, out, fromfrom blues to classical. blues to classical. One size won’t One size won’t always fit perfectly always fit perfectly 100% of the time, but 100% of the time, but in a
in a single publication it’ssingle publication it’s necessary (and probably necessary (and probably
best) to come up with a stance on all best) to come up with a stance on all these potentially conflicting issues and these potentially conflicting issues and stick to it. We realise that certain stick to it. We realise that certain scenarios might be well served by other scenarios might be well served by other approaches, but overall (and
approaches, but overall (and notwithstandi
notwithstanding the ng the vagaries of music),vagaries of music), we are happy with things the way they we are happy with things the way they are. We would, of course, never dictate are. We would, of course, never dictate how others do things, and
how others do things, and understandunderstand that we are likely to encounter different that we are likely to encounter different approaches here and there.
approaches here and there.
GUITARISTS’ AILMENTS GUITARISTS’ AILMENTS
I have subscribed to GT I have subscribed to GT for fourfor four about years and every issue has about years and every issue has sparkling gems to improve my sparkling gems to improve my skills, thinking and approach, even skills, thinking and approach, even after 30 years of plunking
after 30 years of plunking the confounded plank. the confounded plank. Unfortunately in the Unfortunately in the same period, several same period, several medical issues have medical issues have confronted both my confronted both my hands: eg ‘trigger nger’, hands: eg ‘trigger nger’, carpal tunnel syndrome, carpal tunnel syndrome, Dupuytren’s contracture, Dupuytren’s contracture,
and mild arthritis. I’m also aware and mild arthritis. I’m also aware that a lot of older players are that a lot of older players are partially deaf, have a hunched partially deaf, have a hunched posture and back problems related posture and back problems related to the way they’ve played for 40 to the way they’ve played for 40 odd years.
odd years.
So I wondered if a series So I wondered if a series ofof articles on guitar related articles on guitar related bio-mechanics - how to avoid, or mechanics - how to avoid, or recognise early symptoms and recognise early symptoms and manage common medical problems manage common medical problems that dedicated twangers might that dedicated twangers might encounter - would help younger encounter - would help younger players to consider methods to players to consider methods to minimise risks of typical long-term minimise risks of typical long-term guitarists’ impending medical guitarists’ impending medical
complications? There have been complications? There have been odd references to ngers, tendons, odd references to ngers, tendons, arms and brains (memorisation arms and brains (memorisation techniques) so the truth is out there techniques) so the truth is out there and within GT’s grasp!
and within GT’s grasp! Russ
Russ GranGrant t
You may well be right that the moment is You may well be right that the moment is ripe for such an article or
ripe for such an article or series in GT,series in GT, Russ. As you say, we’ve tinkered around Russ. As you say, we’ve tinkered around the edges a few times but never got to the edges a few times but never got to the nitty-gritty. Actually, I have had the nitty-gritty. Actually, I have had Depuytren’s contracture for several Depuytren’s contracture for several yea
years, rs, but but as as yet yet my my hand hand (the (the fretfrettingting one!) has not turned into the closed claw one!) has not turned into the closed claw that typifies the advanced stages of this that typifies the advanced stages of this nasty ailment. Luckily, I’m told the hand nasty ailment. Luckily, I’m told the hand can stay normal for years or even never can stay normal for years or even never contract, so fingers crossed (if that’s not a contract, so fingers crossed (if that’s not a horribly mixed figure of speech). horribly mixed figure of speech). Having discussed the idea with Jason we Having discussed the idea with Jason we feel that a genuine doctor would need to feel that a genuine doctor would need to contribute, and possibly oversee the contribute, and possibly oversee the whole thing. We also feel that, since our whole thing. We also feel that, since our writers are all busy players, teachers, writers are all busy players, teachers, recording artists in their own right or out recording artists in their own right or out on the road backing others, it would be on the road backing others, it would be great to get their practical insight too. great to get their practical insight too. We’re on the case, so watch this space! We’re on the case, so watch this space!
NO
NOT T ALL ALL ABOABOUT UT SOSOLOLOING!ING!
I buy GT when there’s something on I buy GT when there’s something on the cover that oats my boat. I the cover that oats my boat. I chuck it into my
chuck it into my shopping basket inshopping basket in the supermarket and my the supermarket and my wife d
wife doesn’t noesn’t notice tiotice till it’sll it’s too late. But I have noticed too late. But I have noticed how much you
how much you concentrate on lead concentrate on lead playing, as opposed to playing, as opposed to chords and rhythm. I’d chords and rhythm. I’d buy it
buy it more omore often if ften if therethere were more
were more great great chordchord features – I remember 50
features – I remember 50 GorgeousGorgeous Chords, from some years back, but Chords, from some years back, but not much recently.The mag is great, not much recently.The mag is great, but p
but perhaps erhaps a bit a bit lop-sided?lop-sided? Mark
Mark BelwBelwayay
Well, Mark, I must disagree. Apart from Well, Mark, I must disagree. Apart from the mammoth cover feature in this very the mammoth cover feature in this very issue, Chord Camp is a brilliant resource issue, Chord Camp is a brilliant resource for rhythm; the Rock column always has for rhythm; the Rock column always has a rhythm part; and
a rhythm part; and Acoustic usuallyAcoustic usually focuses on chords, be they
focuses on chords, be they strummed orstrummed or pick
picked. ed. Plus Plus we we reguregularllarly oy offer ffer hugehuge rhythm guitar features in every kind of rhythm guitar features in every kind of style. Perhaps you should visit the style. Perhaps you should visit the supermarket more often. Enjoy the issue! supermarket more often. Enjoy the issue! Jason Sidwell: GT’s
Jason Sidwell: GT’s music editor and a music editor and a fine guitarist in a fine guitarist in a host of styles host of styles F F R R A A N N K K C C . . M M Ü Ü L L L L E E R R Depuytren’s, where Depuytren’s, where
fingers can contract
fingers can contract
into a claw - it’s not
into a claw - it’s not
good for guitarists!
Intro
Intro
miss a note’ thing and you have miss a note’ thing and you have a Ca C Major chord (C-E-G). Keep the same Major chord (C-E-G). Keep the same shape but move it all up one note so shape but move it all up one note so thumb is on the D and you have a D thumb is on the D and you have a D Minor chord (D-F-A). This follows Minor chord (D-F-A). This follows the diatonic chord sequence for the the diatonic chord sequence for the key of C which is: C Major, D Minor, key of C which is: C Major, D Minor, E Minor, F Major, G Major, A minor, E Minor, F Major, G Major, A minor, B Diminished and then back to C. B Diminished and then back to C.
We n
We number umber these these chords chords usingusing Roman numerals for convenience. Roman numerals for convenience. The rhythm I recommend you The rhythm I recommend you start with is playing a root note of start with is playing a root note of the chord (just the one note) in the the chord (just the one note) in the left hand somewhere to the left of left hand somewhere to the left of where you
where you plan to plan to play tplay the chord,he chord, and then the triad with the and then the triad with the rightright hand, do that all twice and you have hand, do that all twice and you have
the bass on beats 1 and 3 and the the bass on beats 1 and 3 and the chord on 2 and 4. How much chord on 2 and 4. How much quicker was that to learn than the quicker was that to learn than the same thing on guitar?
same thing on guitar? A chord
A chord pattern pattern that wthat works fororks for gazillions of songs is the good ol’ gazillions of songs is the good ol’ I-V-VI-IV (1-5-6-4) so doing each of I-V-VI-IV (1-5-6-4) so doing each of those for a bar and you
those for a bar and you got yourselfgot yourself the ability to play hundreds of the ability to play hundreds of
songs at parties and show off your songs at parties and show off your new awesome piano skills. Some new awesome piano skills. Some (simplied) songs you might like to (simplied) songs you might like to sing over this would be:
sing over this would be: I’m YoursI’m Yours (Jason Mraz), Let It Be (The (Jason Mraz), Let It Be (The Beatles), When I Come Around Beatles), When I Come Around (Green Day), Wherever You Will Go (Green Day), Wherever You Will Go (The Calling).
(The Calling).
If you fancy trying something a If you fancy trying something a
bit mor
bit more old-schoe old-school, try ol, try using tusing thehe I-VI-II-V (1-6-2-5) chord sequence I-VI-II-V (1-6-2-5) chord sequence which is
which is the founthe foundation dation of manof manyy more songs like: I Got Rhythm more songs like: I Got Rhythm (George Gershwin) or The
(George Gershwin) or The RainbowRainbow Connection (Muppets).
Connection (Muppets).
The so-called ’50s progression The so-called ’50s progression - I-VI-IV-V (1-6-4-5) - is used in - I-VI-IV-V (1-6-4-5) - is used in Stand By Me (Ben E King), All I Stand By Me (Ben E King), All I Have To Do Is Dream (Everly Have To Do Is Dream (Everly Brothers) and tons of others. These Brothers) and tons of others. These are simplied somewhat and I had are simplied somewhat and I had to leave bits out, but the idea is to to leave bits out, but the idea is to get you started and give you some get you started and give you some food for thought. Next month we’ll food for thought. Next month we’ll see how you can use these ideas to see how you can use these ideas to help your guitar playing, and get a help your guitar playing, and get a little more creative. For now, tinkle little more creative. For now, tinkle those ivories and have some fun! those ivories and have some fun!
FOOD FOR
FOOD FOR
thought
thought
P
P
lay piano in 15 minutes! Ilay piano in 15 minutes! I love those misleading ads love those misleading ads one sees all over the one sees all over theinternet. But for strummers internet. But for strummers out there with even a
out there with even a rudimentaryrudimentary music theory knowledge, it is a very music theory knowledge, it is a very easy step to transfer basic concepts easy step to transfer basic concepts to the piano - and with
to the piano - and with manymany benets
benets. If . If you cayou can gen get yourt yourself self inin front of a piano or keyboard this front of a piano or keyboard this micro course will get you up and micro course will get you up and running, and playing a load of running, and playing a load of songs in just a few
songs in just a few minutes.minutes. The white notes on the
The white notes on the piano arepiano are
C-D-E-F-G-A-C-D-E-F-G-A-B-C and the B-C and the blackblack notes are the sharps and ats. notes are the sharps and ats. Remember that E-F and B-C are Remember that E-F and B-C are just a
just a semitone semitone apart apart so they so they areare the ones that are without a the ones that are without a sharpsharp between t
between them. You’ll hem. You’ll notice notice thatthat the sharps are grouped in twos and the sharps are grouped in twos and threes – well, B and C are located to threes – well, B and C are located to the left of the groups of two. If we the left of the groups of two. If we only use the white notes we are only use the white notes we are playing in the key of C Major, which playing in the key of C Major, which is all we’ll be
is all we’ll be working in today.working in today. One of the cool
One of the cool things aboutthings about theory applied to piano is that it’s a theory applied to piano is that it’s a lot more obvious than on guitar. lot more obvious than on guitar. Basic triad chords for example are Basic triad chords for example are R, 3rd and 5th, and this on piano is R, 3rd and 5th, and this on piano is simply, play a note (Root), miss a simply, play a note (Root), miss a note (2), play a note (3rd), miss a note (2), play a note (3rd), miss a note (4), play a note (5th)
note (4), play a note (5th) - it’s right- it’s right there in front of you! There are there in front of you! There are many ngering options but to start many ngering options but to start use your right hand, thumb on the use your right hand, thumb on the root, middle nger on the 3rd and root, middle nger on the 3rd and pinky on the 5th. This will help you pinky on the 5th. This will help you to ‘miss’ the notes that
to ‘miss’ the notes that would havewould have been und
been under your er your index index and and ringring ngers (note that I’m avoiding ngers (note that I’m avoiding nger numbers here because nger numbers here because they’re different from
they’re different from guitar!).guitar!). So start that triad shape with So start that triad shape with your
your thumb thumb on on the the note note C, C, do do thethe ‘play a note, miss a note,
‘play a note, miss a note, play a noteplay a note
Every month,
Every month,
Justin Sandercoe
Justin Sandercoe
of justi
of justinguita
nguitarr.co
.com lends
m lends
GT his in
GT his insight as
sight as one of the wo
one of the world’
rld’s most successful g
s most successful guitar
uitar teachers.
teachers.
Thi
This mon
s month: Play piano in 15 minutes!
th: Play piano in 15 minutes!
T T I I N N A A K K
Get more info and links to Get more info and links to relatedrelated lessons on all Justin’s GT articles at lessons on all Justin’s GT articles at www.justinguitar.com/gtmag www.justinguitar.com/gtmag Here’s a piano-style keyboard with all
Here’s a piano-style keyboard with all the keys notated with their specific the keys notated with their specific notes. So much simpler than guitar! notes. So much simpler than guitar!
NEXT MONTH WE’LL USE THESE IDEAS
NEXT MONTH WE’LL USE THESE IDEAS
TO HELP YO
TO HELP YOUR GUITAR PLAY
UR GUITAR PLAYING, AND
ING, AND
GET A LITTLE MO
GET A LITTLE MORE CREATI
RE CREATIVE
VE
A B C D E A B C D E F G A B C D E F G A B C D E F G A B C D E F G A B C D E F G A B C D E F G A B C D E F G A B C D E F G A B C D E F G A B C D E F G A B C D E F G A B C D E F G A B C D E F G A B CF G A B C A A## B Bb b C C## D Db b D D## E Eb b F F## G Gb b G G## A Ab b A A## B Bb b C C## D Db b D D## E Eb b F F## G Gb b G G## A Ab b A A## B Bb b C C## D Db b D D## E Eb b F F## G Gb b G G## A Ab b A A## B Bb b C C## D Db b D D## E Eb b F F## G Gb b G G## A Ab b A A## B Bb b C C## D Db b D D## E Eb b F F## G Gb b G G## A Ab b A A## B Bb b C C## D Db b D D## E Eb b F F## G Gb b G G## A Ab b A A## B Bb b C C## D Db b D D## E Eb b F F## G Gb b G G## A Ab b A A## B Bb b Justin shows Justin shows how easy it is how easy it is to get started to get started playing piano playing piano
April 20
April 201717 99
Intro
Intro
W
W
ell do I remember myell do I remember my rst professional rst professional engagement, a seminal engagement, a seminal moment in my Showbiz moment in my Showbiz history. For those of you under the history. For those of you under the misapprehension that I might be misapprehension that I might be referencing my very rst studio date referencing my very rst studio date (Cheltenham & Gloucester Building (Cheltenham & Gloucester Building Society commercial, Advision Society commercial, Advision Studios, to be obsessively and Studios, to be obsessively and compulsively accurate), you would compulsively accurate), you would bebe in in regrettregrettable able error. error. Nor Nor am am II remembering my Free Jazz (in both remembering my Free Jazz (in both senses) debut, The White Hart senses) debut, The White Hart Public House, Holborn (or Covent Public House, Holborn (or Covent Garden Borders, for any of you Garden Borders, for any of you estate agents in tonight). Or even my estate agents in tonight). Or even my grand entrance into the movie grand entrance into the movie industry, a charmingly inexpensive industry, a charmingly inexpensive celluloid caper, light of plot, lighter celluloid caper, light of plot, lighter of dialogue and lightest of costume of dialogue and lightest of costume for the two and occasionally three for the two and occasionally three nubile protagonists involved. nubile protagonists involved.
No. The focus of this rose-tinted No. The focus of this rose-tinted reminiscence is The Thatched Barn, reminiscence is The Thatched Barn, Boreham Wood, Hertfordshire. It’s a Boreham Wood, Hertfordshire. It’s a Holiday Inn now, and not in a good Holiday Inn now, and not in a good way.
way. The The corporcorporate ate event event in in questiquestionon was
was the the Alfa Alfa Romeo Romeo UK UK AnnuaAnnuall Dinner And Dance. And
Dinner And Dance. And specically,specically, the three ights of stairs up which an the three ights of stairs up which an unsuspecting electric guitarist was unsuspecting electric guitarist was forced to schlep a Fender Pro Reverb forced to schlep a Fender Pro Reverb complete with vibrato, valves and complete with vibrato, valves and two 12-inch speakers. Elevators are two 12-inch speakers. Elevators are for wimps, apparently. However, for wimps, apparently. However, never let it be said that I am not a never let it be said that I am not a quick learner. By 2am and gig end, quick learner. By 2am and gig end, midway through a delightful reverse midway through a delightful reverse staircase manoeuvre, I had already staircase manoeuvre, I had already mentally prepared the ‘Equipment mentally prepared the ‘Equipment For Sale’ small ad for insertion in the For Sale’ small ad for insertion in the following week’s Melody Maker. The following week’s Melody Maker. The successor to Fullerton’s nest turned successor to Fullerton’s nest turned out to be a Peavey Pacer, 40 watts of out to be a Peavey Pacer, 40 watts of tough transistorised tone, two thirds tough transistorised tone, two thirds of the size, 50 per cent of the speaker of the size, 50 per cent of the speaker count and half the weight. This had count and half the weight. This had to be the way forward, as I
to be the way forward, as I reectedreected on the plight of those less blessed on the plight of those less blessed with
with optiooptions. ns. KeyboaKeyboard rd playerplayerss lugging Hammond organs or Fender lugging Hammond organs or Fender Rhodes Suitcase pianos plus
Rhodes Suitcase pianos plus wheeled
wheeled Twin Twin Reverbs Reverbs contaicontainingning their own body weight of JBLs. their own body weight of JBLs. Absurd
Absurdly ly over over equippequipped ed drummerdrummerss with
with double double bass bass rigs rigs and and ambitiambitionsons
to be the next Carl Palmer. And as to be the next Carl Palmer. And as for those six-foot ‘column’ speakers for those six-foot ‘column’ speakers - little wonder that the term ‘Sound - little wonder that the term ‘Sound Reinforcement’ had come into Reinforcement’ had come into common usage. The entire US common usage. The entire US Cavalry First Division would have Cavalry First Division would have been
been welcomed welcomed at at set-up set-up time.time. My rapidly absorbed lesson that My rapidly absorbed lesson that ‘less is less’ engaged me in a bi-polar ‘less is less’ engaged me in a bi-polar struggle between Top Tone or Torn struggle between Top Tone or Torn Triceps. For years I trod a crazy path Triceps. For years I trod a crazy path of nancial self destruction, zig of nancial self destruction, zig zagging between Peterson P100s zagging between Peterson P100s (tiny but tasty) and ight cased Mesa (tiny but tasty) and ight cased Mesa Boogie Nomads (The Truss Busters), Boogie Nomads (The Truss Busters), Roland Cubes and Dennis Cornell Roland Cubes and Dennis Cornell custom jobs, Fender Deluxes and custom jobs, Fender Deluxes and Champs. At one point I bought a red Champs. At one point I bought a red Toyota MR2, one of its main Toyota MR2, one of its main attractions being the cubby -hole attractions being the cubby -hole sized boot that could accommodate sized boot that could accommodate my teeny Paul Rivera designed my teeny Paul Rivera designed Super Champ and little else. Super Champ and little else.
And
And thus thus it it came came to to pass pass that that oneone ne day, the warring factions of ne day, the warring factions of unsatised ears and broken body unsatised ears and broken body nally declared an uneasy ceasere nally declared an uneasy ceasere after a visit to Bill Puplett, guitar after a visit to Bill Puplett, guitar technician to the gentry. On this technician to the gentry. On this occasion, he invited me to conrm occasion, he invited me to conrm that his latest guitar set-up was to that his latest guitar set-up was to
my satisfaction by inserting a jack my satisfaction by inserting a jack plug into well... nothing. With the plug into well... nothing. With the aid of recently corrected spectacles aid of recently corrected spectacles and an electron microscope I could and an electron microscope I could just
just discern discern the the outlinoutline oe of f somethinsomethingg similar in appearance to a transistor similar in appearance to a transistor radio sitting innocuously on his radio sitting innocuously on his work
work bench. bench. And And a a wee wee one one at at that.that. “What the Fender is that?” I “What the Fender is that?” I exclaimed euphemistically, as exclaimed euphemistically, as melliuous tone lled Bill’s melliuous tone lled Bill’s worksho
workshop. p. “Ah. “Ah. Well. Well. I tI take ake it it you you areare unfamiliar with The Lunchbox by ZT unfamiliar with The Lunchbox by ZT
Electronics? 130 Watts. 4.5-inch Electronics? 130 Watts. 4.5-inch speaker. Weighs the about same as speaker. Weighs the about same as your
your wallet wallet after after you’ve you’ve paid paid me.me. And,
And, as as you you can can see, see, not not muchmuch bigger
bigger. A. Although lthough I I own own no no shares shares inin said company, I do suggest that you said company, I do suggest that you acquire one. In the unlikely event acquire one. In the unlikely event that you consider it a tad bulky, they that you consider it a tad bulky, they also do The Lunchbox Junior. Just also do The Lunchbox Junior. Just 30 Watts and so small it requires 30 Watts and so small it requires electronic tagging to locate.” electronic tagging to locate.”
It remains only for me to tell you It remains only for me to tell you that I have been using said techno that I have been using said techno
wonder
wonder at at every every opporopportunity tunity sincesince the nice people at DHL popped the nice people at DHL popped along with my very own example. along with my very own example. Frankly, I wouldn’t be too fussed if it Frankly, I wouldn’t be too fussed if it sounded merely adequate. But it sounded merely adequate. But it doesn’t. It has played the The Royal doesn’t. It has played the The Royal Albert
Albert Hall, Hall, courtescourtesy oy of a f a line line outout through the headphone jack socket. through the headphone jack socket. Ditto the O2 Arena and The Royal Ditto the O2 Arena and The Royal Festival Hall. Words and phrases Festival Hall. Words and phrases like “Epic” and “Make sure you bring like “Epic” and “Make sure you bring that thing next time” have been that thing next time” have been bandie
bandied ad about bout by by sound sound engineeengineers.rs.
It nestles in its cute bag and sits It nestles in its cute bag and sits on my shoulder. I even bought the on my shoulder. I even bought the extension cab. Same size, same bag. extension cab. Same size, same bag. Fun to employ as a monitor and to Fun to employ as a monitor and to amaze stage crew. You could do amaze stage crew. You could do worse
worse things things in in 2017 2017 than than to to checkcheck one out. It was about 375 quid last one out. It was about 375 quid last time I looked. Just sayin’.
time I looked. Just sayin’. And
And a a happy happy down-down-sized sized newnew year
year to to you you all.all. For more
For more on Mitch on Mitch and his and his musicmusic go to:
go to: www.mitchdalton.co.uwww.mitchdalton.co.ukk
A
AND THUS TH
ND THUS THE WARRING FA
E WARRING FACTIO
CTIONS
NS
OF UNSATISFIED EARS AND BROKEN
OF UNSATISFIED EARS AND BROKEN
BOD
BODY DECLARED A
Y DECLARED A CEASEFIRE
CEASEFIRE
SESSION
SESSION
shenanigans
shenanigans
The studio guitar
The studio guitarist’s guide
ist’s guide to happiness and pe
to happiness and personal
rsonal
ful
fulfilment, as related to us by
filment, as related to us by
Mitch Dalton
Mitch Dalton
Thi
This mon
s month: Z i
th: Z is fo
s for Zen and the Ar
r Zen and the Art of ZT Ele
t of ZT Electronics
ctronics
Mitch’s Lunchbox
Mitch’s Lunchbox
amp has played
amp has played
the 02 Arena and
the 02 Arena and
Royal Albert Hall
THE GU
THE GUITAR’S VIBRATO arm is one of the ITAR’S VIBRATO arm is one of the most expressivmost expressive devices we have.e devices we have. Used with skill and
Used with skill and taste it can add a taste it can add a lot to your playing. This lick illustrateslot to your playing. This lick illustrates a ‘fake slide’
a ‘fake slide’ phrase where the intent is to fool the phrase where the intent is to fool the listener in to believinglistener in to believing you are using a
you are using a real slide, but it involves a great deal real slide, but it involves a great deal of control. It beginsof control. It begins with a ‘Dust My Broom’ style phrase, depressing and releasing the bar to with a ‘Dust My Broom’ style phrase, depressing and releasing the bar to
‘swoop’ into the B notes from the
‘swoop’ into the B notes from theb b 5 (5 (BBb b ) a semitone below. For) a semitone below. For
the quarter-tone swoop down to the G
the quarter-tone swoop down to the G note, pre-bend upwards with thenote, pre-bend upwards with the arm before picking, then release it back to the G note - it’s easy to pull the arm before picking, then release it back to the G note - it’s easy to pull the bar up too far, so take care. For the second phrase we ‘swoop’ into the notes bar up too far, so take care. For the second phrase we ‘swoop’ into the notes and add vibrato as indicated. How much you manipulate the
and add vibrato as indicated. How much you manipulate the bar for thebar for the same amount of ‘swoop’ or vibrato, varies - the higher strings require more same amount of ‘swoop’ or vibrato, varies - the higher strings require more movement than the lower ones. Good control is the key to success here. movement than the lower ones. Good control is the key to success here.
PHIL HILBORNE’S ONE-MINUT
PHIL HILBORNE’S ONE-MINUT
E LIC
E LIC
K
K
F
F
AKE SLI
AKE SLI
DE GUITAR VIBRATO ARM LICK
DE GUITAR VIBRATO ARM LICK
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99Intro
Intro
Inst
Instru
rumentals have supplied some of musi
mentals have supplied some of music’
c’s most evocative a
s most evocative and exci
nd exciting moments.
ting moments.
W
We asked some top guitar
e asked some top guitarists for their ta
ists for their take on this iconic mov
ke on this iconic movement. This month:
ement. This month:
Madonna’s long-term guitarist,
Madonna’s long-term guitarist,
Monte Pittman
Monte Pittman
GT: What is it about guitar GT: What is it about guitar
instrumentals that appeals to you? instrumentals that appeals to you? MP: Steve Vai and Joe
MP: Steve Vai and Joe Satriani wereSatriani were blowing
blowing up whup when I en I frst frst started. started. So So II think as a guitar player it was think as a guitar player it was something that came naturally. As a something that came naturally. As a teenager, I would make
teenager, I would make
instrumental tapes for my friends. instrumental tapes for my friends. GT: What can an
GT: What can an instrumentalinstrumental provide a listener that a
provide a listener that a vocal can’t?vocal can’t? MP: Well, lyrics can give a song a MP: Well, lyrics can give a song a defnite meaning, but an
defnite meaning, but an instrumental can carry the song instrumental can carry the song with j
with just the ust the melody.melody.
GT: Are there any musical factors or GT: Are there any musical factors or styles
styles you aim to embrace or avyou aim to embrace or avoidoid with instrumentals?
with instrumentals? MP: I’m up for whatever. I MP: I’m up for whatever. I don’tdon’t think like that. I
think like that. I will hopefullywill hopefully touch on just about every type of touch on just about every type of music at some point in my career. music at some point in my career. GT: Is a typical song structure - verse, GT: Is a typical song structure - verse, chorus, middle 8, verse, chorus etc, chorus, middle 8, verse, chorus etc, always relevant for an instrumental? always relevant for an instrumental? MP: Usually that’s what works best. MP: Usually that’s what works best. You can
You can substitute substitute one pone part fart foror another and still consider it the another and still consider it the pre-chorus. Maybe you have pre-chorus. Maybe you have pre-chorus ‘a’ and pre-chorus ‘b’. I pre-chorus ‘a’ and pre-chorus ‘b’. I kind of look at every song like that. I kind of look at every song like that. I have to learn a lot of songs for have to learn a lot of songs for Ultimate Jam Night at The Whisky Ultimate Jam Night at The Whisky A Go
A Go Go anGo and I d I also palso play in lay in the LAthe LA KISS House Band. Looking at KISS House Band. Looking at where the
where the structures structures lie helps lie helps meme remember them quickly.
remember them quickly.
INSTRUMENTAL
INSTRUMENTAL
inquisit
inquisition!
ion!
GT: How useful is studying a GT: How useful is studying a vocalist’s approach for guitar vocalist’s approach for guitar melodies?
melodies?
MP: It’s good to try different things. MP: It’s good to try different things. Sometimes you just play and Sometimes you just play and something comes to you. something comes to you.
Sometimes you play the rhythm and Sometimes you play the rhythm and a melody pops up in
a melody pops up in your head.your head. GT: How do you start writing one; is GT: How do you start writing one; is there a typical approach?
there a typical approach?
MP: Just from playing my guitar. I MP: Just from playing my guitar. I always record myself so if I come up always record myself so if I come up with so
with something Imething I’ll know ’ll know what I what I did.did. There are several times I’ve played There are several times I’ve played
something and come up with a something and come up with a riff,riff, then I didn’t remember what I then I didn’t remember what I diddid and the song was lost.
and the song was lost.
GT: What do you aim for when your GT: What do you aim for when your performance is centre stage for the performance is centre stage for the duration of the
duration of the instrumental?instrumental? MP: Just putting on the best MP: Just putting on the best performance I can.
performance I can.
GT: Many vocal songs feature a GT: Many vocal songs feature a guitar solo that starts low a
guitar solo that starts low and slownd slow then finishes high and fast. Is this then finishes high and fast. Is this structure a useful reflection for structure a useful reflection for instrumental writing?
instrumental writing? MP: I don’t know. MP: I don’t know.
GT: What type of guitar tone do you GT: What type of guitar tone do you prefer for instrumentals?
prefer for instrumentals? MP: Whatever sounds good. MP: Whatever sounds good. GT: Do you have favourite keys or GT: Do you have favourite keys or tempos?
tempos? MP: No MP: No
GT: Do you find Minor or
GT: Do you find Minor or Major keysMajor keys easier to write in?
easier to write in?
MP: Manor and Minor are both the MP: Manor and Minor are both the same. A Minor and C Major are the same. A Minor and C Major are the same keys. I don’t look at them as same keys. I don’t look at them as being d
being different.ifferent.
GT: Do you have favourite modes? GT: Do you have favourite modes? MP: I like m
MP: I like m anipulatinanipulating one forg one for another.
another.
GT: What about modulations into GT: What about modulations into new keys?
new keys? MP: Sometimes MP: Sometimes
GT: Do you view the backing band GT: Do you view the backing band differently than on a
differently than on a vocal song?vocal song? GT: No
GT: No
GT: What are your views on GT: What are your views on harmonising melodies? harmonising melodies? MP: Whatever sounds good. MP: Whatever sounds good. GT: What three guitar instrumentals GT: What three guitar instrumentals would you consider iconic, or have would you consider iconic, or have inspired you?
inspired you?
MP: They would be: For The Love MP: They would be: For The Love Of God (Steve Vai), Europa (Carlos Of God (Steve Vai), Europa (Carlos Santana), and Far Beyond The Sun Santana), and Far Beyond The Sun (Yngwie Malmsteen).
(Yngwie Malmsteen). Monte’s
Monte’s new alnew album, Invbum, Invertederted Grasp of Balance is out now on Grasp of Balance is out now on Metal B
Metal Blade Rlade Records. ecords. For more For more onon Monte,
Monte, go to go to montepittman.commontepittman.com Monte Pittman: Monte Pittman: aims to touch aims to touch on every style on every style of music of music