Learning to play guitar??

Question

ok so ive found some tabs online that have pretty easy chords but i find it difficult to switch chords fast and smoothly. is this because the recorded versions of this song are in a different key which make it easier or does it just take alot of practice?? i have been practicing alot and i AM getting better but its just hard.

and also, whats the easiest way to mute while you're playing?? at some points in songs its not the full sound playing and just light sound almost like the chords plucked...how do i do this? easily? i can kinda do it but some notes come out too loud.

lastly, when i watch some of these videos and videos of my favorite bands i see them hold the neck with their thumb around it? why is that? i dont see how that helps and how you can play a chord like that?

help would be greatly appreciated...i am picking up the guitar quite fast but there are some minor issues i need to learn about first to make it that much easier! xD thanks soo soo much ;) xxxx

Answer 1

It just takes practice... It's an unnatural movement so you need to gain some muscle memory when it comes to pressing down the strings. Keep playing and it will get easier.

To mute, assuming you strum with your right hand, put the pinky side of your palm of your right hand on the stings near the bridge while playing. This is called a palm mute.

I tend to wrap my thumb around the neck while playing but it's just a personal preference. As long as you are hitting the notes right, that's all that matters.

Good luck, have fun, and keep practicing!

Answer 2

Yeah I know what you mean. Just keep practicing nd ask other playes for advice. If you wanna mute place your palm near the bridge of the guitar ad start chugging away. You can make it sound heavy or do light palm muting. The reason players put their thumbs around the guitar is so when they solo they have better control and vibrato. You can play chords with your thumb just watch john frusciante and jimi hendrix but thats their style know what I mean you dont hav to do that just do it the way you feel comfortable and if you wanna try go for it. keep practicing!

Answer 3

just practice for at least 15 minutes a day. it takes a long time to be able to play an instrument to a high level.