How to Start Playing the Guitar Again

Picking up the guitar after a long break can feel like reuniting with an old friend. You know each other well, but there's still some catching up to do. Whether life got in the way or you simply lost the groove, it's never too late to reignite your passion for playing. We're going to walk through some practical steps, strategies, and insights to help you ease back into the world of guitar playing with renewed enthusiasm.

Setting Realistic Goals: Start Small, Dream Big

When getting back into playing, it’s tempting to aim for the stars right away. You might dream of shredding through a six-minute metal solo by the end of the week. But let's be real: setting modest, achievable goals is key to building momentum.

• Daily Practice: Start by setting aside 15-20 minutes a day. This might not sound like much, but consistency is what counts.
• Focus on Fundamentals: Revisit basic scales, chord progressions, and strumming patterns. They form the foundation of your playing.
• Track Your Progress: Keep a practice journal. Jot down what you practiced, what went well, and what needs work. Over time, you'll see how far you've come.

Remember, playing guitar is a journey, not a race. By setting small, realistic goals, you create a path to success that’s both achievable and fulfilling.

Rekindling Technique: Finding Your Groove Again

Once you're back into the habit of regular practice, it's time to polish those techniques that might be a bit rusty. Start with your picking hand—often the first to lose its edge.

• Alternate Picking: Practice with a metronome to regain timing and precision. Start slow, then gradually increase speed.
• Palm Muting: Essential for metal riffs, this technique adds a percussive edge to your sound. Remember, it's all in the wrist.
• Hammer-Ons and Pull-Offs: These add fluidity to your playing. Use them to create fast runs without picking every note.

If you’re looking to refine these skills further, Riffhard offers lessons from top metal guitarists who can help you zero in on these techniques with precision and flair.

Relearning Theory: Making Sense of the Fretboard

Theory can feel daunting, but understanding the ‘why’ behind the music can dramatically enhance your playing. Here's a quick refresher on what you need to know:

• Scales: Major, minor, and pentatonic scales are your best friends. They form the basis of solos and improvisation.
• Chord Construction: Know how chords are built from scales. This knowledge helps in creating complex progressions and adding depth to your rhythm playing.
• Intervals: Understanding the space between notes can help you craft harmonies and melodies.

Grasping these concepts can transform your approach to learning new songs and writing your own music, making the fretboard a less intimidating place.

Exploring New Genres: Expanding Your Musical Horizons

Variety is the spice of life, and it's also what keeps your guitar playing fresh and exciting. If you’ve primarily played one style, consider branching out.

• Metalcore and Djent: Embrace the rhythmic complexities and aggressive tones.
• Progressive Metal: Dive into odd time signatures and intricate song structures.
• Black and Death Metal: Challenge yourself with rapid tempos and atmospheric elements.

Learning different styles can introduce you to new techniques and broaden your musical vocabulary. Plus, it's a fun way to reignite your passion for the guitar.

Joining a Community: Finding Support and Inspiration

Playing guitar doesn't have to be a solitary journey. Communities can provide support, feedback, and inspiration. Look for local guitar groups or online communities where you can share your progress and learn from others.

• Online Forums: Places like Reddit or dedicated guitar forums offer a wealth of knowledge and camaraderie.
• Social Media Groups: Facebook and Instagram have vibrant guitar communities where you can connect with like-minded players.
• Jam Sessions: Nothing beats the experience of playing with others. It's also a great way to hone your skills in a live setting.

By engaging with a community, you can find motivation and encouragement on days when your enthusiasm wanes.

Tackling New Songs: Rediscovering Your Repertoire

One of the joys of returning to the guitar is rediscovering old favorites and tackling new songs. Here’s how to make the most of it:

• Start Simple: Ease back in with songs you’re already familiar with. This will boost your confidence and remind you why you love playing.
• Break It Down: Learn songs in sections. Focus on mastering each part before moving on to the next.
• Use Technology: There are apps and websites that can slow down music without changing the pitch, making it easier to learn complex riffs.

Playing along with songs you love can make practice feel less like a chore and more like a jam session with your favorite band.

Improvisation: Letting Your Creativity Flow

Improvisation is where you can truly express yourself as a guitarist. It’s also an excellent way to integrate all the skills you’ve been working on.

• Backing Tracks: Use online backing tracks to practice. They provide a musical context for your solos and help you work on timing and phrasing.
• Jam With Others: If possible, find a fellow musician to jam with. Improvising with others can push you to new creative heights.
• Experiment: Don’t be afraid to try new things. Play with different scales, modes, and rhythmic patterns to see what sounds you can create.

Improvisation can be daunting at first, but with practice, it becomes one of the most enjoyable aspects of playing guitar.

Staying Motivated: Keeping the Flame Alive

Staying motivated over the long term is one of the biggest challenges guitarists face. Here are some tips to keep that passion burning:

• Set New Challenges: Once you achieve a goal, set a new one. This could be learning a new technique or writing your first song.
• Celebrate Milestones: Acknowledge your progress. Whether it's nailing a difficult riff or completing a practice routine, take a moment to appreciate your achievements.
• Mix It Up: If you feel stuck, shake things up. Try a different style, tune your guitar to a new tuning, or learn a song outside your usual genre.

Motivation can wax and wane, but by keeping things fresh and engaging, you'll find it easier to stay committed to your guitar journey.

Final Thoughts

Returning to the guitar after a break doesn’t have to be intimidating. By setting realistic goals, embracing new challenges, and seeking inspiration, you can rediscover the joy of playing. And if you're looking for guidance, Riffhard offers lessons from some of the most respected metal guitarists, helping you refine your skills and achieve your musical aspirations. Embrace the process, enjoy the journey, and most importantly, keep playing!