Level 4 · Musician · 20 min
Memorise from several starting points
By the end you can restart a study at three points without looking at the numbers.
Before this lesson
Lesson steps
1 Recall the first attack
Name the string and fret before playing a phrase from memory.
4 min
Check for · You find the first C on string 2, fret 1.
More detail
A phrase has a starting point. The string and fret help you find it. The first note gives your ear a check.
2 Hear what comes next
Sing the beginning of the phrase from memory.
4 min
Revisit the tablature · Step 1
Check for · Your first three sung notes follow the contour in the tab.
More detail
Aural memory follows the shape of a phrase. Singing the shape calls it to mind. The guitar then lets you check it.
3 A picture of the hand
Prepare the first finger of bar 5 before plucking.
4 min · Quarter note = 44, 1 note per click
Check for · The first sound matches the starting fret shown.
More detail
Observe the hand shape, then close your eyes just long enough to find it again.
4 The high starting note
Start bar 9 from memory.
4 min · Quarter note = 44, 1 note per click
Check for · Your first sound is G at fret 3 on string 1.
More detail
After two bars reveal the numbers and check each attack.
5 Start in the middle
Start your study at three different phrase openings.
4 min
Revisit the tablature · Step 4
Rhythm variations
Check for · You can start at 9, then 1, then 5 without playing the preceding bars.
More detail
A phrase opening gives you a landmark. Several landmarks provide several starting points. They help you restart after a hesitation. Select “Complete piece” to see the full tab.
You can move on when…
You pass when you can find bars 1, 5 and 9 in random order.
If a movement feels difficult
You always have to go back to the beginning.
Isolate a landmark bar and play just its first two attacks.
Your fingers start before you hear the phrase internally.
Sing the first note before placing the hand.