How I Learned to play Metal Guitar as Beginner

Summary

This video provides a comprehensive guide for beginners looking to learn metal guitar, covering the essentials of getting started, gear recommendations, and key techniques. The speaker emphasizes that you don't need expensive equipment to begin—focus on building foundational skills first. Tips on dialing in a metal tone, mastering techniques like downpicking and palm muting, and using tabs are also included. The video encourages progress through practice and patience, with song suggestions from simple riffs to more complex metal songs. Overall, it's a motivating and practical guide to starting your metal guitar journey.

Takeaways

• 😀 Start by learning basic guitar techniques, regardless of genre. Metal can be learned from the get-go, but the fundamentals remain the same.
• 🎸 Gear doesn’t matter much at first. Focus on getting an affordable guitar and amp that work, and upgrade later when you’re more committed.
• 📱 Use resources like Rocksmith 2014 or YouTube tutorials to kickstart your learning. Don't get overwhelmed by conflicting advice—stick with what works for you.
• 🔊 Don’t overspend on gear early on. You can start with a basic setup and avoid spending hundreds on high-end equipment until you’re sure you want to pursue guitar long-term.
• 🎚️ Dial in your guitar tone with low gain from the amp and a bit of overdrive. Keep mids scooped to taste but avoid overdoing it.
• ✋ Focus on developing core metal techniques like downpicking, palm muting, and pinch harmonics to get the right sound.
• 📝 Use guitar tabs to help you learn songs, but try ear training as well to improve your overall musicality. Resources like Songster and Ultimate Guitar are helpful.
• 🎶 Start by learning simple riffs to stay motivated, like the one from 'Are You Mine' by Arctic Monkeys. Gradually move to more complex songs as you improve.
• ⏱️ Practice regularly, even if it's just 15 minutes a day. Small but consistent sessions add up over time.
• 🧠 Be patient with your progress. Mastering guitar takes time—don’t expect instant results. 10 years of progress can go by quickly with consistent effort.
• 🎵 Always use a metronome when practicing to improve timing and rhythm. It’s a key tool for all musicians, especially guitarists.

Q & A

What is the best way to start learning metal guitar for beginners?

For beginners, it's important to first learn the basic guitar techniques regardless of the genre. If you're aiming to play metal specifically, you can start by using tools like Rocksmith 2014 or YouTube tutorials to build your foundational skills.

Why is Rocksmith 2014 recommended for learning guitar?

Rocksmith 2014 is a great interactive tool that helps beginners practice in a fun way. It provides feedback as you play, making it easier to track your progress and stay motivated.

Can YouTube tutorials be effective for learning guitar?

Yes, YouTube tutorials can be a useful resource, but it's important to be cautious since different teachers might offer conflicting advice. It's key to find what works for you personally and avoid getting lost in the variety of content.

What should a beginner focus on when choosing a guitar?

At the start, the brand or cost of the guitar isn't as important as having something functional to practice on. Focus on getting an affordable, used guitar or a budget-friendly model. Gear can be upgraded later as you progress.

Do beginners need an expensive amp to play metal?

No, you don't need an expensive amp to start. Beginners can make use of affordable amps like the Line 6 Spider or Boss Katana, which offer built-in effects and good sound quality at a reasonable price.

Is it okay to practice on an acoustic guitar when starting out?

Yes, you can start learning on an acoustic guitar, especially if you're on a tight budget. However, you will eventually need an electric guitar and an amp to achieve the full metal sound.

How should a beginner set up their guitar tone for metal?

To dial in a metal tone, use a distortion or overdrive pedal with low gain to avoid unwanted noise. Focus on adjusting the bass and mids to your taste, but avoid scooping the mids too much as it may muddy the sound.

What are the key techniques to focus on for playing metal guitar?

Metal guitarists typically focus on techniques like downpicking, palm muting, and pinch harmonics. These techniques are essential for achieving the aggressive, tight sound that defines metal.

Why is it important to learn songs and riffs while practicing?

Learning songs and riffs helps keep you motivated and provides a tangible sense of progress. Starting with simple riffs and gradually increasing complexity can lead to noticeable improvements in your playing.

How can a beginner get better at reading guitar tabs?

Guitar tabs are a useful tool for learning complex riffs. Beginners can use tab software like Sster or Ultimate Guitar, which often offer playback features to help you learn at your own pace. It's also important to practice interpreting the tabs and play along with them.

How can I stay motivated while learning guitar as a beginner?

Set small, achievable goals, such as mastering a short riff or learning a new song. Celebrate these victories, no matter how small, to stay motivated. Patience is key, and remember that consistent practice will yield results over time.

What is the importance of using a metronome when practicing guitar?

Using a metronome helps improve your timing and rhythm, which are critical for playing metal. It ensures you stay in time, especially during faster sections or more complex riffs, and it helps you build solid timing from the start.