Your Classical Guitar Input Here

Missing the notes

by Stephen
(Dublin, Ireland)

Hi,

I would consider myself reasonably capable on the guitar; however, I have one major issue that prevents me ever playing in public.

Despite having been playing the guitar for a couple of years and having built up a decent repertoire, I have one major stumbling block that prevents me from moving up another level.

That stumbling block is 'missing the notes'. That is, when there is any considerable movement on the fret board, invariably I will always hit one or more dud notes, either they buzz or mute.

It is highly frustrating, there is no consistency either to the mistakes, sometimes it is one particular note that I miss, then when I play again I get that note right but then miss another!!

I have convinced myself that it is to do with dedication and concentration but I would consider myself a good student.

Any tips to get around this problem would be much appreciated.

Regards,
Stephen


Hi Stephen,

I think you're expressing a pretty common problem amongst guitarists (not just classical players).

There are many reasons you could be missing the notes. We've all been there before. It could be nerves, lack of preparation, muscle tension or a host of other reasons or all of the above!

If it's nerves you'd do well to buy this little book called Keeping Your Nerve by Kate Jones.

It's inexpensive, easy to read & it's packed with little tips to help you improve your performance.

You could also read the articles of the pianist Stephen Hough.

He talks about and gives great insight into how our ego is tied into our performance and can create problems.

I don't mean this advice in an offensive way. It's just that many of us don't even know when the ego can be controlling our subconscious mind and can cause problems.

In practical terms you might need to "over learn" the pieces. Playing and practicing slowly and advancing at a slow pace up to the proper tempo can also help.

Also, you can isolate the problem bars and "over learn" those as well.

Additionally, you must learn to play for yourself first. Play for the enjoyment and don't judge yourself too harshly if you make a mistake. Ironically, the less I've cared about making mistakes has meant that the less mistakes I actually make. It just takes time to establish your confidence and belief but be assured you can do it.

The last bit of advice I'd give for playing in pubic is to also work up to it slowly i.e. play for a small number of friends and family first before you "up the ante" as it were. Once you have several successful performances under your belt you'd be surprised how much confidence you can acquire.

I hope this is of help.

Kind regards,
Trevor M.