How to Get Back into Playing Guitar

So, you've decided to dust off that old guitar and reignite your passion for playing. Great choice! Whether you used to shred on stage or just strum in the comfort of your bedroom, getting back into playing guitar can be a fulfilling journey. We'll go through some practical steps to help you ease back into it, focusing on enjoying the music and rebuilding your skills.

Finding Your Motivation

First things first, figure out what draws you back to the guitar. Is it the thrill of playing your favorite metal riffs? Or maybe you miss the creative outlet it provides? Pinpointing your motivation can be a powerful way to keep your enthusiasm alive. I remember picking up my guitar again after a long hiatus. The excitement of learning new techniques and writing fresh music was my driving force.

Consider jotting down a list of goals you want to achieve. Whether it's mastering a specific song or composing your own music, having clear objectives can give you a sense of direction. And don't stress if your goals seem ambitious—it's all about the journey.

Assessing Your Gear

Before diving back into playing, take a moment to check your equipment. A guitar that’s been sitting in the corner might need some TLC. Check the strings—are they rusty or worn out? If so, replace them. A fresh set of strings can breathe new life into your instrument and make playing more enjoyable.

• Tuning: Make sure your guitar is in tune. An out-of-tune guitar can be discouraging, especially when you're trying to rekindle your passion for playing.
• Setup: If it’s been a while, consider taking your guitar to a professional for a setup. This includes adjusting the action, truss rod, and intonation to ensure optimal playability.
• Amplifier: If you play electric, check your amp. Dust off the controls and cables, and ensure everything's in working order.

Having gear that feels and sounds good can make a big difference in your practice sessions. Plus, it’s a perfect excuse for a little retail therapy if you’ve been eyeing new pedals or an upgraded amp.

Building a Practice Routine

Consistency is key when getting back into guitar. Establishing a regular practice routine can help you regain your skills more quickly and keep frustration at bay. Start with short, focused sessions—say, 15-20 minutes a day. As you get more comfortable, gradually increase the time.

It’s important to strike a balance between working on technical exercises and playing for fun. Here’s a sample structure:

• Warm-up: Spend 5 minutes on finger exercises to get your hands moving.
• Technique: Dedicate 10 minutes to scales, chord changes, or any specific technique you’re working on.
• Song Practice: Use 10 minutes to play through songs you enjoy or are learning.
• Improvisation/Composition: Spend the last 5 minutes jamming or writing your own music.

Remember, the goal is to enjoy the process. If you find your practice sessions becoming a chore, switch things up. Try new songs or explore different genres to keep things fresh.

Revisiting the Basics

If it's been a while since you last played, revisiting the fundamentals can be incredibly beneficial. Focus on basic chords, scales, and rhythm exercises to build a solid foundation.

It's like riding a bike. Once you get back into it, those muscle memories will start kicking in. Even if you remember most of the basics, a quick refresher can help ensure you're not missing any crucial elements.

For metal enthusiasts, this might mean working on your alternate picking or getting those palm-muted chugs tight and precise. If you're interested, Riffhard has some excellent lessons on these techniques, taught by top metal guitarists.

Exploring New Techniques

One of the joys of picking up the guitar again is the chance to explore new playing techniques. If you’ve been away for a while, there might be new styles or methods that weren’t as popular before you took a break.

Djent, for example, has become a fascinating subgenre to explore with its complex rhythms and precision. Or perhaps you want to delve into more advanced techniques like sweep picking or tapping, which have always intrigued you but felt daunting before. Tackling new challenges can reignite your passion and expand your musical vocabulary.

Our instructors at Riffhard offer a range of lessons in these areas, so you can learn from some of the best players in modern metal.

Jamming with Others

Playing guitar can be a solitary pursuit, but sharing the experience with others can be incredibly rewarding. If you have friends who play, set up a jam session. It’s a great way to learn new things, pick up on different playing styles, and have fun.

If you don't know any musicians nearby, consider joining online communities. Platforms like Reddit, Facebook, or dedicated guitar forums can connect you with thousands of players worldwide. You might even find someone to collaborate with, exchanging riffs and ideas across the internet.

Jamming with others can provide motivation and introduce you to new musical concepts you might not encounter when playing alone. Plus, it’s always more fun to rock out with friends!

Recording Your Progress

Recording yourself can be a valuable tool in your guitar-playing journey. Not only does it allow you to track your progress, but it also helps you identify areas that need improvement.

• Set up: You don’t need fancy equipment to start recording. Your smartphone or a basic USB microphone can do the trick.
• Listen and Learn: Pay attention to your timing, tone, and technique. Are there any areas that need work?
• Share: If you feel comfortable, share your recordings with friends or online communities for feedback.

Recording can also serve as a creative outlet. Experiment with layering different guitar parts or creating full arrangements. It’s a fantastic way to express yourself and see how far you’ve come over time.

Incorporating New Music

One of the best ways to keep your guitar playing fresh is by regularly incorporating new music into your practice. Don’t just stick to the old classics you know—venture out and discover new artists and genres.

Explore subgenres of metal you might not have tried before. Progressive metal, with its intricate compositions, or metalcore, known for its intense breakdowns, can add variety to your repertoire.

If you’re looking for inspiration, our lessons at Riffhard cover a wide range of styles and can introduce you to both new music and the techniques behind it.

Patience and Perseverance

Lastly, remember that getting back into guitar playing is a process. It’s easy to get discouraged if progress seems slow, but patience and perseverance are your allies. Celebrate small victories and keep pushing forward.

It’s perfectly normal to have off days where things don’t click. On those days, take a step back and remind yourself why you love playing. Maybe spend some time just enjoying the music without worrying about technique or speed.

With time, dedication, and a bit of patience, you’ll find yourself reconnecting with your guitar in ways you never imagined.

Final Thoughts

Reigniting your passion for guitar playing can be both exciting and challenging. With the right mindset, gear, and practice routine, you'll find yourself making music in no time. Remember, Riffhard is here to support your journey with lessons from the best metal guitarists. Enjoy the process and keep those strings ringing!