PLAY ALONG WITH JINGLE BELLS AND PRACTICE NOTE READING
In this lesson we’ll use one of the most popular traditional Christmas songs to practice note reading. I’ll also go over the chords at the end.
I think learning to read guitar notes is a lot of fun. The trick is to keep at it a little at a time and find lots of songs that are at your skill level.
In this video I’m doing what I would do with you if I were teaching you in person – giving you a chance to do keep up with a steady pulse without stopping or slowing down.
READING GUITAR NOTES
Here’s a step-by-step process for getting the most from this guitar notes practice session:
1. Go over the notes from beginning to end, then
2. Go back and play the song very slowly without stopping or slowing down
3. Go back and practice just the parts that you had problems with
4. Repeat step #2 until you can play all the way through
5. Pick up speed little by little until it’s at the appropriate speed for that song
Don’t forget to try out the guitar chords. I give some instruction at the end of the video.
Tell Us What You Think - Please Comment Below!
We would love to hear your comments and questions. What specific things are you struggling with while learning guitar?
Hi Thomas, I want to wish you and your family Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. I was away when you put out that great offer on lessons. I was so upset. I hope you have a great trip with your wife. Take care. Anne
How appropriate! Thank you.
I was coming along more or less (mostly less, I’m sure) with you until I missed a turn there when your sleigh went to playing chords on Jingle Bells.
I see the intermittent chord letters on sheet music just like you have posted here on Jingle Bells, but how do we know when to play what chords, when? (Grin)
I’m pretty sure you were playing more or different chords than the nice shown.
I guess I’m still not quite ready to go on the road with my guitar, but you’ve been a tremendous help!
Merry Christmas!
hi I am cole. I am 11 . I play the guitar and wanted say thank you for the notes. I play lead and needed it for a family reunion . Your tips were great . I make sure i use them when I play song.
Hi Cole… Thanks for your comment. I’m glad you found my notes helpful. I wish you the best. -Tomas
Hi Tomas,
as always you are the best.Thank You,JoAnn
Thank you very much for teaching how to play guitar. I am 69 and just start to teach myself music and how to play guitar. I know it's hard for me to start at this age, but I'm sure I'll overcome all obstacles.
I am from Iraq living in Jordan
You’re welcome Ramzi. – Tomas