The Best Way to Learn Guitar: Books or Apps?
Deciding between books and apps for learning guitar can be quite daunting. This article delves into the advantages and disadvantages of both mediums to help you make an informed decision. In this journey to learn how to play music on the guitar, one often finds themselves weighing whether to explore through the comfort of books or the interactive world of apps.
Why Reading Music is Crucial
Learning to read music is a fundamental skill that every musician should master. As you start reading music, it's essential to say the names of the notes out loud. This enhances your ability to retain the information by reading slower and focusing more on individual notes. Moreover, the ability to perform a particular movement without conscious thought comes from frequent repetition, which is a key element in developing muscle memory.
Understanding Guitar Tablature (Tabs)
Guitar tablature, commonly referred to as 'tab', is a simplified notation that guitarists use to translate musical notes into fret positions. It’s a shortcut method that empowers beginners to learn songs quickly and easily. However, the convenience and popularity of tabs have led to a decrease in the desire to learn traditional music reading. While tabs can be a valuable tool for quick learning, they lack the depth and understanding that comes with reading music notation. Reading music introduces you to the world of music theory, providing a deeper understanding of the instrument and music in general.
Why Music Theory Matters
Music theory is the backbone of music learning. It encompasses the principles and concepts that govern the composition, performance, and teaching of music. Engaging with music theory helps you understand the structure and harmony of music. Resources like the Wikipedia articles on Music and Mathematics and Musicology provide invaluable insights into the theoretical aspects of music. Learning music theory can greatly enhance your skills as a guitarist by helping you to read and understand more complex pieces of music.
Bonus Tips for Improved Learning
As you gradually learn tablature or finger movements, it's highly beneficial to sing the correct names of each note out loud. This practice will not only aid in learning the fretboard notes but also improve your ability to play by ear. By combining visual learning with auditory feedback, you can reinforce the connection between the physical movement and the corresponding sound, making the learning process more effective.
Conclusion
Both books and apps have their unique advantages and disadvantages. While books provide a structured and comprehensive learning experience, apps offer flexibility and interactive support. The choice between books and apps, or even a combination of both, ultimately depends on your learning style and the specific goals you wish to achieve. Embrace the full spectrum of learning, from traditional music reading to modern technology, and you will truly unlock the potential of the guitar.