The following is an excerpt from an article entitled "Advice For The New Guitar Player". You can find the entire article at the Better Guitar website: www.betterguitar.com

I've been playing guitar for over 26 years. Along the way I have been given, and have picked up, a few bits of advice about playing guitar. I would like to share some of that advice with you. Remember, however, that any advice is only worth what it costs. So here are my two cents worth (you can keep the two pennies.) These are in no particular order, and I may be adding new items as I think of them.

PLAY EVERY DAY

Even if it's only for 15 minutes at a time, you should get into the habit of playing every day. If you play every day, you will get better -- guaranteed. Becoming a good guitar player is a mix of desire and spending countless hours actually playing. If you have the desire to be a good player and are willing to put in the time practicing, you will get good. Like most worthwhile things in life, learning to play guitar takes effort. It is worth it.

PLAY WITH OTHERS

Nothing will improve you guitar playing faster than playing with other guitarist and musicians. Whether it's a guitar teacher, a friend who shows you some chords, or jamming with a band, you will invariably pick up new ideas, riffs, chords, and techniques that will improve your playing. The more people you can play with, the better. Itıs good for your playing and it's great fun.

START OR JOIN A BAND

If you can find some other musicians with similar playing abilities, why not start a band? There are few things more enjoyable than jamming with other musicians. You don't have to be pros, just learn a few simple songs and wail away in your garage. A lot of famous bands started out that way.

BE OPEN TO NEW MUSICAL STYLES

When you're a teenager, you often have very rigid views of what *good* music is. While there is nothing wrong with only liking one type of music, you should try listening to styles of music you aren't familiar with. If youıre a Metal fan, try listening to Jazz. Listen to the guitar players in other styles of music. You may not care for that particular style of music, but you should be able to appreciate good guitar playing. You will be surprised at what you can learn from guitarists who play other styles of music. Don't stop at listening, try playing other styles of music. The more different influences you can add to your playing, the more unique it will be. Plus, the more styles of music you know, the more likely you'll be to get a gig.

Mark Starlin

For more great guitar info visit the Better Guitar Website: www.betterguitar.com