Guitar Theory


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Guitar TheoryIt is so important for every guitar player to have at least a basic understanding of guitar theory… that is, how music theory relates to the guitar.

Guitar theory shouldn’t be boring, because it describes how things work, and gives us rules that we can use to make great sounding music. When we pair a bit of theory together with a bit of skill on the guitar, great things can happen.

The easiest way to understand guitar theory is by learning the number system. You’ll find quite a few references to that in the lessons on this page, but I go into far more detail on that in my Unlocking I IV V course which I really encourage you to check out. You’ll likely be surprised how a basic 2 hour lesson can really change the way you approach your guitar.

Alright, do you have your guitar in hand? Let’s get started.

Guitar Theory Lessons

Why The Guitar is a MINOR Instrument

I’ve often said that guitar is a minor instrument; however the other day someone called me on that and asked me to explain it. You see, that’s why the minor g[more]

Tips For Changing Keys In A Song

Have you ever wondered how to go about changing keys in a song? Possibly in the last verse, or in a bridge, or something like that? If you’ve ever tried changing ke[more]

What IS Guitar Theory?

If you’ve been on my email newsletter for any amount of time, or if you’ve been hanging around Guitar Tips Weekly very much, you’ve probably heard me ta[more]

How To Create Your Own Guitar Chords

This guitar lesson will show you how you can create your own guitar chords, using nothing more than a scale and open chords you already know. We’re using the key of[more]

Cool Guitar Riffs #3 – Inverted Thirds in G

Today’s guitar lesson has some cool guitar riffs and ideas for you, but this time I also get into the theory behind the riffs – just a bit . Theory is incredi[more]

Songwriting Tips – Getting Started

Personally I love just grabbing my guitar… and noodling. I’ll pick a key, whatever strikes my interest at that moment, and start noodling just for enjoyment&#[more]

The Difference Between Major and Minor Chords

Today’s topic is the difference between major and minor chords. Perhaps you’ve noticed this before, but the difference is only a single note! That note is the[more]

How To Transpose Chords With a Guitar Capo

Last time I made a lesson on how to use a guitar capo, I left out an important bit of information: how to transpose properly so that you remain in the same key as the res[more]

Fortunate Son (John Fogerty) Guitar Lesson

Here’s a good old classic rock tune for today’s lesson: Fortunate Son. It’s got a great intro riff that will be instantly recognizable by anyone you pla[more]

Learning the String Names: Tones & Semitones

Learning the string names on your guitar is an absolute must; there’s no two ways about it. Understanding tones and semitones allows you to figure out what any note[more]