How to Play This Old Guitar

Picking up the guitar for the first time, or even after a long hiatus, can feel like reuniting with an old friend. There’s a certain charm to strumming a classic tune like “This Old Guitar” by John Denver that never gets old. Whether you’re a beginner or someone looking to polish their skills, this song offers a simple yet heartwarming way to connect with your instrument. Let’s unravel the steps to playing “This Old Guitar,” while also sharing some tips for those delving into the vast world of guitar playing.

Getting Familiar with the Chords

“This Old Guitar” is not overly complicated, which makes it a great choice for beginners. The song primarily uses basic open chords—G, C, D, and A minor. If you’re just starting out, these chords are like your bread and butter. Here’s a quick guide on how to play each one:

• G Major: Place your middle finger on the third fret of the low E string, your index on the second fret of the A string, and your ring finger on the third fret of the high E string.
• C Major: Put your ring finger on the third fret of the A string, middle on the second fret of the D string, and index on the first fret of the B string.
• D Major: Place your index on the second fret of the G string, middle on the second fret of the high E string, and ring on the third fret of the B string.
• A Minor: Your middle finger goes on the second fret of the D string, ring on the second fret of the G string, and index on the first fret of the B string.

Getting these chords under your fingers is crucial. Practice switching between them smoothly, focusing on clarity and timing. Remember, patience is key. If you find yourself struggling, take a break and revisit it later. Sometimes a little distance can bring clarity.

Strumming Patterns to Bring the Song to Life

Once you’re comfortable with the chords, the next step is to nail down the strumming pattern. “This Old Guitar” features a gentle, flowing strum that complements its nostalgic feel. A good starting point is the classic down-down-up-up-down-up pattern. Here’s how you can break it down:

• Start with a downstroke on the beat.
• Follow with another downstroke, then a quick upstroke.
• Pause slightly, then hit an upstroke followed by a downstroke and finish with an upstroke.

This pattern can seem tricky at first, but with consistent practice, it will become second nature. Try muting the strings with your left hand and just focus on the right hand to get the rhythm locked in. Once you’re confident, combine it with the chord changes.

Interestingly enough, if you’re looking to expand your strumming technique, Riffhard offers lessons that delve into more advanced strumming patterns, taught by some of the best in the metal genre. While “This Old Guitar” might not be metal, mastering a variety of strumming patterns can enhance your overall playing technique.

Adding Dynamics and Expression

Playing the right notes is one thing, but breathing life into them is another. Dynamics play a crucial role in making your rendition of “This Old Guitar” more expressive. You can achieve this through varying your strumming attack:

• Soft Strumming: For verses or softer parts, ease up on your strumming hand to create a more mellow sound.
• Strong Strumming: During the chorus or more emotional parts, add some force to your strumming to make the song more impactful.

This push-and-pull of dynamics can transform a simple song into something much more engaging for both you and your audience. Think of dynamics as the seasoning in a dish—they’re subtle but can make a world of difference. Play around with it and see what fits best for you.

Singing Along: A Journey of Coordination

One of the joys of playing “This Old Guitar” is that it’s perfect for singing along. However, singing while playing can be a bit like rubbing your stomach and patting your head at the same time—it takes coordination! Start by getting comfortable with the guitar part alone. Once you feel confident, add the lyrics in sections:

• Focus on singing just the first verse while playing the chords.
• Once that feels natural, move on to the next section.
• Gradually piece together the entire song until you can sing and play effortlessly.

Remember, the goal is to enjoy the process. If you find yourself getting frustrated, take a step back. It’s supposed to be fun, after all. And who knows? You might find that your voice and guitar become the best of friends.

Playing with Emotion and Storytelling

John Denver’s music is all about storytelling, and “This Old Guitar” is no exception. When you play, think about the story you’re telling. What emotions does it evoke in you? Is it nostalgia, happiness, or perhaps a bit of melancholy? Translating these feelings into your playing can make a significant difference:

• Reflect on the lyrics and what they mean to you personally.
• Use dynamics, as mentioned earlier, to emphasize parts of the song.
• Experiment with tempo changes for dramatic effect.

Playing with emotion and storytelling not only enriches your performance but also helps you connect with the song on a deeper level. It’s like painting a picture with sound, where every strum and note adds color to your canvas.

Incorporating Fingerpicking

Feeling adventurous? Try incorporating some fingerpicking into “This Old Guitar.” Fingerpicking can add a delicate texture that’s perfect for this kind of tune. Here’s a basic pattern to get you started:

• For the G chord, use your thumb on the low E string, index on the G string, middle on the B string, and ring on the high E string.
• Pluck the strings in a steady rhythm, alternating between thumb and fingers.
• Apply the same pattern when switching chords.

This technique can be challenging at first, but it’s a rewarding skill that opens up a new world of possibilities. If you need more guidance, Riffhard has some excellent lessons in fingerpicking techniques that can help you expand your skills.

Practicing Regularly and Effectively

Consistent practice is the secret sauce to becoming a great guitarist. Here are some tips to make the most out of your practice sessions:

• Set a Schedule: Dedicate a specific time each day for practice. Consistency is more important than duration.
• Warm Up: Start with finger exercises or scales to get your fingers moving.
• Focus on Weak Points: Spend extra time on areas you find challenging, whether it’s a chord transition or a tricky strumming pattern.
• Record Yourself: Listening back can highlight areas for improvement you might not notice in the moment.

Practicing doesn’t have to be a chore. Mix it up by playing along with backing tracks, trying different songs, or even composing your own pieces. The key is to keep it enjoyable and rewarding.

Using Technology to Enhance Your Learning

In this digital age, technology can be a valuable ally in your guitar journey. Here are a few ways you can leverage it:

• Metronome Apps: Keep your timing in check with a metronome app. It’s an essential tool for every guitarist.
• Online Lessons: Platforms like Riffhard offer a treasure trove of lessons from top guitarists, covering everything from basic chords to advanced techniques.
• Recording Software: Use DAWs (Digital Audio Workstations) to record and listen back to your playing.
• Tab Software: Programs like Guitar Pro allow you to view and edit tabs, making learning new songs easier.

These tools can help you track your progress, discover new techniques, and stay motivated on your musical journey.

Final Thoughts

Playing “This Old Guitar” offers a wonderful opportunity to connect with your instrument and explore the joy of music. From mastering the chords to expressing the song’s story, every step enriches your playing experience. And if you’re looking to dive deeper into guitar techniques, Riffhard provides a wealth of knowledge from the world’s best metal guitarists, helping you grow as a musician. Enjoy your journey with this timeless tune, and keep strumming with passion!