This is Part 1 of an exhaustive 4-part Series for the guitarists fretting hand technique. Each book focuses on specific ...
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The 1-2-3-4 Guitar System, Part 1
ONE FINGER EXERCISES FOR THE FRETTING HAND Part 1 of a 4 part Series:
“THE 1-2-3-4 GUITAR SYSTEM” by - Jim Ross • • • • •
*Also available* 2 FINGER EXERCISES FOR THE FRETTING HAND 3 FINGER EXERCISES FOR THE FRETTING HAND 4 FINGER EXERCISES FOR THE FRETTING HAND THE ‘1-2-3-4’ GUITAR SYSTEM COMPLETE SERIES J.S.BACH’s DOUBLE CONCERTO FOR 4 GUITARS *with many more titles available soon*
All four books of this series contain unique material. This system is designed to maximize the potential within each finger grouping. While introducing new material in each book, it builds on information learned in each preceding book. While you can gain a lot from any one of these books on their own, it is recommended that you work through all 4 of them for the best possible results.
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The 1-2-3-4 Guitar System, Part 1
*********************************************** This 1-2-3-4 Series is dedicated to the love of music and guitars! And to the education and advancement of guitar music.
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All transcriptions, exercise material, layout design, formatting, & typesetting done by Jim Ross.
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Cover Art & Original artwork created by Mark Cooper. See more of his work here: www.markcooperart.com
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Original artwork also by my brother, tattoo artist Barrett Nevins.
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Original artwork in Interval Analysis section by ‘Gruesome’.
© 2012 SEOTCI PUBLICATIONS, INC.
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. INTERNATIONAL COPYRIGHT SECURED. No part of this publication may be reproduced in whole or in part, or stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopy, recording, or otherwise without written permission of the publisher. For information regarding this Book contact:
[email protected]
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The 1-2-3-4 Guitar System, Part 1
ONE FINGER EXERCISES FOR THE FRETTING HAND by -Jim Ross PAGE # INTRODUCTION ---------------------------------------------------- 1 FORM & PRACTICE TIPS ------------------------------------------ 2 • Fretting Notes ----------------------------------------------------- 2 • Arching Fingers --------------------------------------------------- 3 • Thumb Position --------------------------------------------------- 4 • Your Posture -------------------------------------------------------6 • What About Tuning? ----------------------------------------------8 • The 3 Basic Principles of Motion --------------------------------10 • Thoughts on Sliding ----------------------------------------------11 • Thoughts on Picking --------------------------------------------- 11 ONE FINGER EXERCISES ------------------------------------------ 16 • Exercise Format -------------------------------------------------- 18 PARALLEL MOTION ------------------------------------------------ 20 • Parallel Motion part 1 -------------------------------------------- 20 • String Skipping --------------------------------------------------- 26 • An Introduction to Interval Analysis ---------------------------- 42 • Parallel Motion part 2--------------------------------------------- 44 REVERSE MOTION -------------------------------------------------- 62 • Reverse Motion part 1 -------------------------------------------- 62 • Reverse Motion part 2 -------------------------------------------- 82 ALTERNATING MOTION ------------------------------------------- 98 • Alternating Motion part1 ----------------------------------------- 98 • Alternating Motion part2 ---------------------------------------- 120 FINAL ‘NOTES’ ------------------------------------------------------ 136 • My Intentions ----------------------------------------------------- 136 • Closing Thoughts -------------------------------------------------135 BONUS MATERIAL ------------------------------------------------- 140 • Applying Multiple Fingers -------------------------------------- 141 • Real Music ------------------------------------------------------- 142 • J.S. Bach - BWV 1048 allegro ----------------------------------- 144 • Beethoven - Symphony #5 --------------------------------------- !46 • Mozart - Piano Sonata #16 -------------------------------------- 148
ONE FINGER EXERCISES FOR THE FRETTING HAND
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The 1-2-3-4 Guitar System, Part 1
S
Introduction
o what’s all this 1 finger stuff about? In short, this study is designed to maximize the ability & facility within each of your fretting hand fingers independently of each other. It’s a pretty simple concept. But I believe that the majority of players out there don’t really utilize all of their fingers. It’s likely that one or two fingers are responsible for all of the fretted notes in most of the things that they play. There is a huge capacity for each finger to play incredible music, so why not exploit that potential ability in each finger? Consider the left-hand technique of some of the greatest guitarists. Some of the passages they play through are extremely difficult to play. Think about some difficult chordal lines played by greats like Andres Segovia, Joe Pass, or Leo Kottke for example. All three of these players are immensely talented, but they all play completely different styles of music. One common factor is that their left-hand technique is extremely smooth & efficient. The ability to play a bass-line, a chord, and a melody simultaneously is no easy task. But all three of these legendary players do it with amazing precision and seamless grace. Again, it’s not an easy task. But, their collection of musical works (along with many others greats) are a testament that shows us that hard work, and earnest focus can result in great feats of seemingly inhuman ability.
Now consider another great: the inspirational jazz legend Django Reinhardt. Django suffered the loss of two fingers and partial paralysis in one leg in a tragic fire. And incredibly, he went on to make a name for himself as one of the greatest guitarist in history. He did this with the use of only 2 of his fretting hand fingers. He played difficult music that many people can’t play with all four of their fingers in good working condition. The determination he must have had to achieve what he did is astounding! It just goes to show that people often overlook the potential that they actually may have. It’s a shame that so many people take for granted their abilities, and never realize even a small fraction of what they are capable of. So all that said; with determination, dedication, and focus, you may be able to unlock whatever talent that may be lying dormant & untapped inside of you. This study is for anyone who wishes to better themselves and push the envelope of their own ability. And I hope to present you with a thorough reference guide that will enable you to explore your guitar from a few angles you may not have looked from before. This system and methodology is designed to de-mystify various often over-looked possibilities & qualities within the scope of your stringed instrument! Good luck, and have fun!!!
-Jim Ross
1
FORM & PRACTICE TIPS Before we get started, I just wanted to say a few things regarding proper form in the hopes of you gaining good practice habits. Let’s face it, if you plan on spending a lot of time, or any time at all on these studies, you should make sure you are doing them in the best form possible. Because we all want the best results for our time and effort spent right? Of course! So try to keep in mind that practice is a habit-forming endeavor. If you practice something ‘wrong’, or not properly, it may result in stifling your progress. So if you stay focused on what you are doing, and hold true to maintaining proper form & technique the best that you can, it will serve you well!
FRETTING NOTES
Ensure that each time you fret a note your finger is directly seated behind (almost on top of) the next fret. For example, if you are fretting the 2nd fret (on any string) your finger should actually be touching the back side of the 2nd fret (but not going over it). There’s generally a lot of space to fit the tip of your finger in the area of a fret, but be sure to push your finger to the backside of each fret. This results in the best possible intonation and clearest, best sustained note that you can play. Consider the fact that if you fret a note and you push down too hard, it will invariably bend your note sharp & out-of-tune. Additionally, be careful not to bend your string at all (unless you intend to) because it WILL make your note sound out-of-tune. It takes a little finesse and a good ear to do this properly, but it really is important to the quality of each and every note that you play, so keep it in mind. When you play certain chord shapes or scale patterns it may become more of a challenge for you to keep perfect form. So be careful, use your ears, and watch out for those ‘sour’ notes. *To the left is an example of bad fret position/ and to the right is the correct way*
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ARCHING YOUR FINGERS
As you are fretting notes, pay attention to the way your fingers are arched. They should be slightly curved in a way in which your fingertip is the ONLY part of your finger that is touching the string. This is important because you’ll notice that with poorly arched fingers, the flesh of your fingers will touch other adjacent strings. This is something you want to avoid unless you are fretting chords (or muting in some cases). In general; when fretting single notes you want to hit the fret & string you are aiming for ONLY, without touching any other fret or string. You’ll notice if you don’t adhere to this, you’ll accidentally make string noises (pops, clanks, clicks, etc...) that you did not intend. And obviously that will take away from the notes that you ARE trying to play.
If you use proper thumb positioning it will help you to play on your fingertips with a “relaxed” arch shape.
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The 1-2-3-4 Guitar System, Part 1
THUMB POSITIONING Additionally, you should pay close attention to were your thumb is on the neck by thinking about your horizontal & vertical positioning on the back of the fretboard. Keep in mind that while your fingers are fretting the notes, your thumb is holding your position solid and maintaining balance in your hand.
Horizontal positioning
Horizontal positioning is where your thumb is in relation to your middle finger. Maybe you will find your thumb closer to the 1st (index or “i” finger) or maybe closer to your 3rd (ring or “a” finger), etc... I like to think of my thumb and 2nd finger (middle or “m” finger) as a sort of paired couple. And when they are parallel with each other they make for a great centered hand position. With good solid form, your thumb & 2nd finger should form a vice-like shape. In other words, it should also resemble the shape you would make if you were to pinch something between your thumb and middle finger. So keep that in mind as you move linear shapes (up the neck towards the bridge, or down the neck towards the nut), as well as moving from string to string: You can (and SHOULD) experiment with this. KEEP YOUR THUMB & MIDDLE FINGER CLOSE IN THE FORM OF A PINCH. ****************************************************************************** With certain kinds of stretches & fingerings you may find that you want to shift it a little one way or the other. When you start playing through these exercises, applying one finger at a time, you’ll find the position of your thumb will tend to lean towards the finger you are playing with. For example; when you play these exercises with your 1st finger only, your hand will feel more balanced if it is pinching your thumb to your 1st finger. When you play with your 2nd finger, your thumb will pinch that finger. As with your 3rd finger, your thumb will pinch more towards that finger. However, you’ll likely find that your thumb won’t naturally stretch & pinch past your 3rd finger when fretting with your 4th finger (little or “e” finger). You’ll get the feel of it once you start running through these exercises “one finger at a time”. But as you start using all four of your fingers in various combinations (aside from this one finger study), you’ll find that your 2nd finger is generally the best to pinch your thumb to for maintaining good form & balance. 4
Vertical positioning
Vertical positioning is where your thumb is in relation to the top (E6) or bottom (E1) string on the back side of the neck. In general, it is good practice to center your thumb in the middle of the neck. With practice & time your hand will stretch much easier if you position your thumb closer to the bottom (E1) string. And you will find that the arch in your fingers will feel more natural in this position as well. With this approach the thumb would be tucked up tight on the under-side of the neck with your wrist straight. You should always keep your wrist straight as possible with your hand. hand And alternately you’ll find that some chord shapes are easier to execute when your thumb is shifted more towards the top (E6) string. And actually, right up over your neck & onto your fretboard in some cases is best with certain chords & bends. Again, experiment with this and you will find what works best for you.
Additionally, in some instances like when you use barre chords, etc... you can angle your thumb to about a 45 degree angle to better grip your fret board. Try to keep your thumb position in mind often. The image on the left shows a decent grip with the thumb and middle finger relatively parallel to each other in terms of “horizontal horizontal positioning positioning”.
The image on the right shows an example of “vertical positioning” where your thumb is closer to your little string, allowing for easier finger stretching & arch.
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The 1-2-3-4 Guitar System, Part 1
YOUR POSTURE
Everyone is built and shaped a little differently, so you’ll need to find what suits you best regarding all of these recommended positions. But in general, these positions are all a good ‘rule of thumb’, or at least a good starting point for you. Maintaining good posture will be invaluable to you while practicing. This is true especially when you are new to playing guitar. It can be very awkward to hold and position your hands on the neck when first learning to play. You will want to keep an upright stance (whether seated or standing) with your shoulders back, your feet squarely beneath you, your fretting arm’s elbow tucked in towards your side, & your wrist straight with your hand. If you do these things, you will be right where you need to be to play the guitar properly.
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YOUR FINGERS & TAB/NOTATION Each finger is identified in music, especially flamenco, classical, bluegrass, or other finger-style guitar playing as the following:
o = (p ) or thumb
thumb
1 = ( i ) or index finger
1st finger
2 = (m) or middle finger
2nd finger
3 = ( a ) or ring finger
3rd finger
4 = ( e ) or little/pinky finger
4th finger
This applies to both your right and left hands, regardless of if you are right or left handed. Most of the exercises & examples in these books refer to the fingers as 1-2-3-4. The TAB reads as: E6 is the big (low pitched) guitar string shown on the bottom line. The E1 is the small (high pitched) string shown on the top line. See below: *standard notation- (the top staff ) shows the rhythm* & suggested* fingers* E1 E1 B G D A E6
E6
1
1
2
3
4
2
4 3
4 4
3
2
1
3
2
1
(2)
*standard TAB- (the bottom staff ) shows the fret numbers. *Time Signature- 4/4 means four 1/4 note beats per measure * *in this book there are no suggested fingerings, because only One Finger is used* 7
The 1-2-3-4 Guitar System, Part 1
WHAT ABOUT TUNING?
This book is designed for the common 6 string guitar with standard tuning: ‘E6-A-D-G-B-E1’- as it is the most common & universal tuning used today. However, the modern use of multiple stringed instruments, various tunings, as well as alternate fretting configurations are seen more often these days. But you can still make use of the ideas presented in these studies with any of those tunings and configurations. That would include 7, 8, 9 string, and all other guitar & bass guitar string variations. And to a lesser degree, any instrument with strings: violins, cellos, banjos, sitars, and maybe even an erhu or any other exotic equivalent. These exercises are mostly Motion based material. Meaning that the tone & specific note is not as important as the actual pattern of Motion that your hand makes. There is ‘TAB’ & ‘standard notation’ included in this Series, so the material could potentially be adapted as motion studies for the piano, brass, woodwind, and other instruments as well. The application here is a broad one! These Books are mainly concerned with the literal motion of your hands and fingers opposed to melodic or harmonic consideration. So that makes for a very adaptable study across all genres as well as cultures of music.
Below is a ‘31 9-string’ custom built by Ron Sword. For more information about microtonal & custom temperament guitars, see: WWW.SWORDGUITARS.COM
The only real exception to the universality is in the ‘part 2’ of each of the Parallel, Reverse, & Alternating sections where harmonic intervals are discussed and applied.
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*Above is a ‘multi-scale 9-string 16-tone’ custom built. *To the left is a ‘chunk of overtones 24-48’ guitar.
*Below is a ‘16-tone’ piano.
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The 1-2-3-4 Guitar System, Part 1
THE 3 BASIC PRINCIPLES OF MOTION The idea of motion in a musical context is a relatively simple one. Motion can be broken down in 3 basic ways:
• You stay put on the current note you are on without ascending or descending. So basically, there is no intervallic motion involved. There’s just a solid drone, or an anticipation of movement to a new interval.
• You descend in pitch to an interval lower than the one you were previously on. This gives you the falling, almost relaxing quality. But the key tensions will ultimately play a bigger role in tension & resolution, more so than motion alone will. • You ascend in pitch to an interval higher than the previous note you played. This will alternately give you a sense of climbing & excitement. But again, key tensions & resolutions will play the biggest role here.
In short: you stay put, ascend, or descend. Any combination of those 3. 10
THOUGHTS ON PICKING
You will need to use some sort of picking technique to play through all of this. But since this Series is made up of mainly fretting hand exercises, I will leave it up to you to pick however you want to. I will dedicate a little more attention to the mechanics of picking in the other books in this Series as they apply to the specific exercises. But I will briefly suggest a few picking approaches to help get you going. You could play finger-style; using any of your picking hand fingers in any combination you choose. You could potentially “ghost hammer” every single fret. This would eliminate the need to pick entirely, but it is a lot less accurate of an attack. I would suggest however, (instead of those) that you simply play everything with a pick. Do EVERYTHING with strict down-strokes. Do it ALL again with strict up-strokes. And then do it ALL AGAIN with alternate picking (apply strict & also economy picking patterns). I don’t want to go deep into picking technique at this point, but I do not want to downplay the importance of synchronizing your picking hand with your fretting hand as you practice these exercises either. It’s easy to get focused TOO MUCH on your fretting hand, especially as the exercises become more difficult. But keep a conscious awareness of your picking hand as you move through this study. You may find that your picking hand is the ‘problem’ that is keeping you from executing these exercises when things don’t sound right; while your fretting hand is “doing exactly as it’s told”. You may want to work at your picking hand on it’s own if you find it is keeping you from playing these exercises. But then again, these are GREAT exercises to work on the picking hand as well.
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THOUGHTS ON SLIDING
You will notice while working through the exercises that you will have a tendency to slide your fingers from fret to fret, especially because of the chromatic nature of these finger drills. Actually, I’d recommend both: doing all of this study with & without sliding. It’s a great way to practice sliding from position to position, so by all means, do it! You should play through all of this with special care to raise your finger and re-plant it on the following fret without the sliding motion. Pay attention to the movements that your fingers make as you move from note to note. It should sort of feel like you are snapping your finger into place with a machine-like motion each time you re-fret the next note. But again, try out both the sliding & non-sliding variaitons, and give a little thought to the feel & effect that each way of playing has. Be creative with it! Use your imagination & try to combine both variations. Then add them into your own music & playing style. 11
The 1-2-3-4 Guitar System, Part 1
THE ONE FINGER APPROACH Each exercise is to be played with only ONE finger at a time. With all the proper techniques mentioned in the ‘Form & Practice Tips’ section applied, you should exhaust every exercise in each section with each of your fingers. ************************************************************************* • Start with your index finger (“i” or 1st) and play everything through. • Next move onto your middle finger (“m” or 2nd) and play everything through again. • Move on to your ring finger (“a” or 3rd) and play everything through another time. • And then repeat once more with your pinky (“e” or 4th). ************************************************************************* Alternately, and/or additionally you can play one exercise at a time. Play each exercise 4 times in a row, alternating each finger for each of the four repeats. Then continue to work through every exercise that way. Obviously there are many ways you can repeat these exercises, and you can cycle each finger in different ways. I would encourage you to come up with your own routines, and explore as many versions of them as you can. You will likely find that: your 1st finger is the strongest, the 2nd is slightly less strong, the 3rd even less strong, and your 4th probably the weakest. Of course everybody is different and there are always exceptions. The idea here is to utilize each of your fingers independently, and with total control. You want each of your fingers to “do what you tell them to” with no help and with no resistance from any of your other idle fingers. 12
Once you get the hang of doing this ONE FINGER routine, you will be much better equipped to start combining your other fingers to work as a complete unit. And this is the long-term goal of practicing these exercises: to have fingers conditioned so that they can play ANY musical passage with conviction. To do this, you will need to be able to execute any conceivable fingering pattern or combination thrown in your direction; no matter how difficult or complicated. The key here is to isolate each finger and run it through drills and exercises that tackle as many musical scenarios and potential fingerings as possible. You will notice that certain patterns relate to previous patterns. They are all practically identical exercises, but they build into more & more complex patterns as you move through this study. Although this may seem like I am overstating the obvious with the repetition of these exercises, it is important to actually get a visual, or “mental image” of the shapes and patterns in their entirety. I’ve had a few welcomed epiphanies regarding the connection of musically related elements many times before that were the result of me writing down various musical sequences, and then actually looking at the shape of what I had written down. I find that written music has this strange aesthetic symmetry to it, sometimes. It’s at least interesting to look at the physical form of something that is generally only heard & not seen. So viewing repetitive material is not entirely a waste of your time, and can actually be insightful. In the process you sort of burn these images of form into your mind. And I believe this strongly reinforces your understanding of musical form as a whole. With massive repetition, you’ll start to identify all of the underlying patterns within these exercises. Additionally, you’ll get a feel for the actual range each exercise has to offer; how far you can take them in any direction before they exhaust themselves. It’s an extremely meticulous study that pays mind to a seemingly endless series of variations. But the more time you spend with this study (and music in general) the more you will realize it’s all like a puzzle; the more pieces you fit together, the more you will be able to see the big picture, the more that your understanding will grow, and the more things will start to make sense to you. And oddly:
“The more that you learn, the more that you learn that you need to learn MORE” 13
The 1-2-3-4 Guitar System, Part 1
THE ONE FINGER APPROACH continued And while getting a “mental workout” -realizing the relation between intervals of notes, being able to visualize shapes & how they fit together, what sounds that they create, etc...; you will also be simultaneously working out your hand muscles from every angle. It is very similar to how a body-builder would isolate & exercises each individual muscle, then works them together as a group. This sort of approach will truly build on the mechanical & physical side of your playing, which is a huge obstacle to overcome. But with hard work, discipline, & quality time spent with your guitar & these exercises, you’ll find that you are able to confidently work through any physical limitations imposed by difficult music. I’ve included very complex and unconventional fingerings & patterns in this study. You may think: “I will NEVER use that in a musical situation”. Probably not, I would agree for a lot of this stuff that you probaby won’t. But the idea is simple; IF you can play extremely difficult passages accurately through a battery of exercises, you will find that playing things in a far simpler musical context will be less of a challenge for you. This will allow you to relax and play music without struggling or straining to play the “tougher” parts. These exercises are NOT really musical at all! Although these exercises may have some musical merit in certain contexts, they largely have NO MUSICAL VALUE. So why would you bother with them at all? Simply put: so your mind, your ideas, & your creativity will not be stifled by your physical limitations. That’s the whole of it. You may have the greatest music ever heard bouncing around inside of your head, but if your fingers & hands don’t allow you to play those sounds, then that will prove to be very frustrating to you. So the goal here is to achieve maximum physical ability that way you can play any sequence of sounds that you can possibly imagine. Okay, back to the “NOT musical at all” bit. So you pay your dues, and now you can play practically anything on a mechanical level, now what? Well it’s time to dive deep into scales, chords, rhythm, and phrasings theory. This is where you’ll start to really grasp melody, harmony, & various feels, grooves, styles, etc... But you will likely be able to move quickly through this process. Because now that you have a solid grasp on almost every conceivable fingering pattern, you’ll see that all these scales & chords are just made up of a combination of simple patterns. It’s a lot like how a complex machine is no more than the combination of a bunch of simple machines put together. Musically, everything can be broken down into it’s bare, fundamental parts. So even something that seems extremely complicated can be dissected into smaller “bite-size” pieces, and better understood. And this Series shows you how to break it all down. 14
LOOKING FORWARD
The ‘ONE FINGER EXERCISES FOR THE FRETTING HAND’ study is a mere primer for things to come in the following Books. There’s 285+ examples to keep you busy for at least a little while in this Book alone. Once you get used to the format, you’ll find it’s pretty easy to memorize all of this. And knowing something by memory is much more useful than relying on a book to ‘remind you’ what you are supposed to be playing. You want to develop your musical instinct so you can play things right “off the cuff ” & you need to feel confident to pull that off. Carefully executed repetitions of all these various exercises will build that confidence. This Series gives you a fairly thorough look at all the ‘subjects’ you are likely to encounter regarding hand motion. Improvisation and writing are both a lot like carrying on a verbal conversation. The more ways you know how to say something, and the more ‘subjects’ you understand; the more interesting and expressive your conversation is likely to be. The more you can rely on your insticts & musical vocabulary, the less you have to think before you play. And the less you have to think, the more you can just enjoy playing your guitar! *********************************************************************************** Music is an amazing artform that has a unique way of expressing the entire range of human emotion, and to “express the inexpressible” through the combination of sounds. From the most subtle to the most extreme combinations, this alchemy of sound, these waveforms in motion penetrate, literally into our hearts and minds. In effect, it has the capacity for leaving major impacts on us, and the world around us. It truly is a force to be reckoned with! The tools are all basically the same. A musician is a lot like a painter; you only have so many techniques & colors to work with and blend to suit your needs. You can choose any combination you wish to express whatever it is you feel inspired enough to express. I’ve met so many radically different personalities in various artists who possess amazing talent in their mediums. One beauty of art & music is the degree in which anything can be expressed. In these books, I hope to give you all the helpful tools that I can to help you along the road to fulfilling your musical goals, dreams, & aspirations.
“Its
not the destination, but the journey that counts”
And while this really is true, I think we all want to ARRIVE at our destination at the end of the day. Enjoy your studies! I wish you the best of luck & sincerely thank you for your time. 15
The 1-2-3-4 Guitar System, Part 1
ONE FINGER EXERCISES The ‘One Finger Exercises’ are split up into 3 sections: Parallel Motion, Reverse Motion, & Alternating Motion. They are quite literally just how they sound when you are playing through them- as you will see & hear in the following pages.
Parallel- in this case, means the exercises will run in a motion that flows in the same direction throughout the entire passage. Reverse- the exercises will flow one way in one direction, then turn around the opposite way as it returns. Alternating- the exercises will flow back & forth between Parallel & Reverse Motions as you play through each pattern.
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Now let’s take a look at these exercises!!!
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The 1-2-3-4 Guitar System, Part 1
THE EXERCISE FORMAT In example (A) you see a simple fretting example that starts on the top (E6) on the 1st fret. You play the 1st fret on each string, moving down from string to string until you reach the bottom (E1). Then you simply work your way back to the top string again. And example (B) simply goes in the opposite direction of example (A).
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The forms of example (A) and (B) are the basis in which all of the following exercises will follow. It’s a basic flow of ascending from string to string, then descending in the same way. You will find that all of the following exercises are formatted exactly the same way.
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Each of the 3 sections are divided into 2 parts: linear style & arpeggio style. All 3 sections are also numbered identically for convenience. ************************************************************************* Part 1 - linear exercises 1 - 65, consist of 5 groupings of 13 exercises each. Including single string crossing and multiple string skipping exercises. Part 2 - arpeggio exercises 66 - 95, consist of 30 various arpeggio exercises. This section also includes an introduction to Interval Analysis. ***********************************************************************************
Exercises (1) through (13x) are grouped together. To clarify: you should be starting exercise (1) by fretting the 1st & then the 2nd fret in an ascending motion with one finger shifting up one fret per string (1-2), and then you move to the next string and repeat. Next in exercise (2) you repeat the same thing, only with a descending finger pattern instead (2-1). As you move forward to (3) you repeat the same exact process, but you add 1 additional fret to the sequence (1-2-3 & 3-2-1 patterns). As you move on you will exhaust all frets up to the 7th fret and beyond: 1-2-3-4 (4’s), 1-2-3-4-5 (5’s), 1-2-3-4-5-6 (6’s), 1-2-3-4-5-6-7 (7’s), etc... ************************************************************************* Once you reach exercise (13x) you should understand clearly how these exercises are relative to each other. From that point you can continue up to (and beyond) the 12th fret if you are ambitious enough to do so. ************************************************************************* So you just progressively add more frets: (3’s) – (4’s) – (5’s) – (6’s) – (7’s) as you go. Then continue through (8’s), (9’s), (10’s), (11’s), (12’s), etc... I stopped notating the exercises once you reach the 7th fret, to avoid being excessively redundant. This does not mean that you have to stop there. Your guitar likely has 20, 22, 24, or more frets. So you can (and should) continue this exercise as high as you can reach. I have suggested that you work up to the 12th fret & higher at the end of each section. These are all indicated in the same way in the (__x) exercises: (13x), (26x), (39x), (52x), and (65x) shown at the end of each group. *************************************************************************
The main focus here is to get comfortable with shifting positions and moving around the neck comfortably one finger at a time.
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The 1-2-3-4 Guitar System, Part 1
PARALLEL MOTION
((part 1)
This section is formatted exactly the same way for both of the REVERSE and ALTERNATING MOTION sections. All of the exercises ascend & descend through each of the frets (1-2-3-4-5-6-7, etc...12+). They all have: single, double, triple, & quadruple string skipping variations in the same exact manner as will be demonstrated in the following pages. This section has a continuous flow of ascending from string to string, then descending with the same fretting pattern. ************************************************************************* Execute each fret fingering properly as explained in the ‘FORM & PRACTICE TIPS’ sections. *************************************************************************
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1
Notice in Exercise (1) and (2) that you ascend string to string from your low (E6) string to your high (E1) string. Then you simply descend from the (E1) string to the (E6) string with the same exact fretting pattern. You can see how it works clearly in the TAB & notation examples, but to further clarify: In exercise (1) you ascend from string to string with the (1-2) shaped fretting pattern & descend from string to string with a (1-2) fretting pattern as well. And you do this all One Finger at a time. The rest of this section continues the same way, as do the other 2 sections. 20
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1
The 1-2-3-4 Guitar System, Part 1
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1 2 3 4 5 6 1 2 3 4 5 6 1 2 3 4 5 6 1 2 3 4 5 6 1 2 3 4 5 6 1 2 3 4 5 6
1 2 3 4 5 6 1 2 3 4 5 6 1 2 3 4 5 6 1 2 3 4 5 6 1 2 3 4 5 6 1 2 3 4 5 6
6
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23
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1
The 1-2-3-4 Guitar System, Part 1
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
7 6 5 4 3 2 1 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 7 6 5 4 3 2 1
7 6 5 4 3 2 1 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 7 6 5 4 3 2 1
For Exercise (13x), continue up through frets 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, +, etc... ascend & descend just like in the previous exercises. These will obviously be your biggest position shifts. So as you move farther up the fretboard, be careful to accurately fret each note. Try your best to play each note with conviction and purpose.
12 11 10
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10 11 12
24
9
8
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
***Potentially you could go back to the start and repeat the process up to*** this point with each of your other fingers (2nd, 3rd, & 4th fingers). *************************************************************************
You will likely find that one of the toughest parts of these exercises is the shift from string to string, especially as you start fretting frets: 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, etc... When you are doing the (7’s) exercises and you reach the 7th fret, you have to immediately drop down to the 1st fret on the next string & continue on. You need to do this smoothly, efficiently, and without missing a beat. When you are making these wide transitions, you should pay close attention to exactly how you are shifting your hand from position to position. First of all though; be sure to BREATH & RELAX! You never want to tense up when playing music in general, because obviously this will only work against you. And be careful not to make any string noise as you ‘shift’ up or down to the next position. Take a minute to actually think about how far you are physically moving your hand with each position shift. The distance from your 1st fret to your 12th fret is slightly less than 1 foot (12 inches). So this also means that each fret is roughly an inch wide (obviously the frets get smaller as you move up the neck). So a shift from the 7th fret to the 1st is only a motion of about 6 to 7 inches. When you think about it that way, it’s really not THAT far to shift your hands. The average length of a guitar’s fretboard is about 18 - 20 inches (give or take). So you can easily see that the largest shifting interval possible is well under 2 feet. *The same principle can be applied to the interval between each string.* If you consider this fact, you will realize that: there is a limited range of motion that you will ever need to utilize in playing a guitar. So if you can train your hand to shift from the 1st fret to the 22nd - 24th fret and vice versa smoothly, then there is no position shift or interval that you won’t be able to play with accuracy & control. ******************************************************************************
A metronome or drum machine is invaluable to help you with your timing, and making sure you are not missing any beats as you play. An additional side note regarding use of a metronome is to think in terms of odd time signatures when & where they apply. For example, in the 5’s groupings- you can set your metronome to 5/8 time. When doing the 7’s groupings, you can then set your metronome to 7/8 time, etc... I’ve notated time signatures with each exercise & would suggest that you use them, or something similar to keep you “honest”. 5/4 could = 5/8, 6/4 could = 6/8, 7/4 could = 7/8 etc... *only in 5/4 you’d have twice as many notes as 5/8 at the same tempo* 25
The 1-2-3-4 Guitar System, Part 1
STRING SKIPPING Exercise group (14) through (26x) is based on all of the previous exercises. But now we will begin to use string skipping sequences. Basically, you will play the given fingering pattern, and then you skip one string to play the next. Then you fall back a string and repeat the process until you reach the last string. For Example: ***play strings*** E6-D-A-G-D-B-G-E1 then reverse: 1 E -G-B-D-G-A-D-E6
E B G D A E
1
1
1
1
1 1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1 1
As you move forward through the following groups, you will add larger string skipping motions. For example, in the next group of exercises, you will be skipping over 2 strings instead of one at a time. You then fall back a string, then skip over 2 more strings- back a string, skip 2 more; continuing the same way etc... This process repeats in further groups with triple & quadruple string skipping sequences as well.
E B G D A E
1 1
1
1 1
1
1 1
1 1
1 1
1
1 1
1
1 1
1
1 1
1
1
1
1
Each section, ( PARALLEL, REVERSE, & ALTERNATING ) will all be laid out in exactly the same way. So once you get the hang of this 1st section, you’ll know what to expect for the other 2 sections.
Now, lets move on to the actual string-skipping exercises. 26
Exercises (14) through (26x) are based on all the previous exercises. The only difference here is that now you will apply single string skipping to each pattern.
1 1
2
2
2 2
1
1
1 1
1
2
2 2
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1 1
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2 2
1 1
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2 2
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1 1 1 1
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3 1
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3 3 3
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1 3
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1 3
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1 3
27
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1 3
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3 1
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3 1
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1
The 1-2-3-4 Guitar System, Part 1
1 1 1 1
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4 4 4 4
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1 1 1
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1 2
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4 1
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1 4
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1
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5 1
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1 1
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2
1 4
2
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1
1 4
3
3
1 4 1 1 2
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4 1
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3
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1
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5 1 1
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5 1
28
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5 5 5
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1
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1 5 5
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1 5
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1 1 1
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1 2 3
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6
6
6 1 2
1 2
2
3
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6
6
6
1 2 3 4 5 6
1 2 3 4 5 6 1 2 3 4 5 6
1 2 3 4 5 6
1 2 3 4 5 6 1 2 3 4 5 6
1 2 3 4 5 6 1 2 3 4 5 6 1 2 3 4 5 6
29
1 2 3 4 5 6
The 1-2-3-4 Guitar System, Part 1
6 6 6
5
4
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1 6 5
6 5 6 5
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1
6 5 4 3 2 1
6 5 4 3 2 1 6 5 4 3 2 1
6 5 4 3 2 1
6 5 4 3 2 1 6 5 4 3 2 1
6 5 4 3 2
1 6 5 4 3 2 6 5 4 3 2
1
1 6 5 4 3 2
1
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
1 2 3 4 5 6 7
1 2 3 4 5 6 7
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
1 2 3 4 5 6 7
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
30
7 6 5 4 3 2 1 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 7 6 5 4 3 2 1
7 6 5 4 3 2 1 7 6 5 4 3 2 1
7 6 5 4 3 2 1
7 6 5 4 3 2 1
7 6 5 4 3 2 1 7 6 5 4 3 2 1
7 6 5 4 3 2 1
7 6 5 4 3 2 1 7 6 5 4 3 2 1
7 6 5 4 3 2 1 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 7 6 5 4 3 2 1
For Exercise (26x), continue up through frets 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, +, etc... Ascend & descend just like in the previous exercises. Etc...Etc..Etc...Etc...Etc...Etc.. Etc...Etc........
12 11 10
1
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6
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1
10 11 12
“Mere philosophy will not satisfy us. We cannot reach the goal by mere words alone. Without practice, nothing can be achieved.” -Swami Satchidananda 31
The 1-2-3-4 Guitar System, Part 1
Exercises (27) through (39x) follow the same exact flow as previously. But now you are applying double string skipping. ***play strings*** E6-G-A-B-D-E1 then reverse: E1-D-B-A-G-E6 with given frets per string.
1 1
1
2 1
2
2 2
1
2
2
1 2
1
1
2
1
2
1
1
2 2
2
2
1
1
1 2
2
2
1
3
1
1
2
2
1
1
1 2 3
1 2
1
2
2
1
3
3 1 2
3
3
1 2
1 2
3
3
1
3
3
1 2
3
3
1
3
3 3 3
2
2
2
1
3
2
1
1
3
2
1
1 3 3
2
1
3 1 2
3
2
2
1
1
1 2
1 2
1
2
2
1 2 1 2
2
2
2
1
3
1
1
32
2
1
3
2
1 2
2
1 1 1
2
3
4
1
2
3
4
2
1
3
2
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2
1
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4
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4
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1
4
3
2
1 4
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2
2
3
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4
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5
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5 1
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4 1
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1
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4
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1 3
2
3
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4
1
1
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5
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5
5
5 1
1
3
1
1 2
3
3
4
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2
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4 3
1 4
4
1
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5
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1 2
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5 1
33
2
3
4
5
The 1-2-3-4 Guitar System, Part 1
5 5 5
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5
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5
3
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1
1 5
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1 5
4
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1 1 1
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1 2 1 2 1 2
3
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6
6 3
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6
6
6
1 2 3 4 5 6 1 2 3 4 5 6 1 2 3 4 5 6 1 2 3 4 5 6 1 2 3 4 5 6 1 2 3 4 5 6
6 6 6
5
4
3
2
5
4
3
2
6 6 6
5
4
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2
1
6 5 4 3 2
1
5
4
3
2
1
1
1 5
4
3
2
1
6 5 4 3 2
1
5
4
3
2
1
6 5 4 3 2 1 6 5 4 3 2
1 6 5 4 3 2
1 6 5 4 3 2 1
34
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
7 6 5 4 3 2 7 6 5 4 3 2 7 6 5 4 3 2
7 6 5 4 3 2 7 6 5 4 3 2 7 6 5 4 3 2
1
1
1 1
1
1
7 6 5 4 3 2 1 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 7 6 5 4 3 2 1
For Exercise (39x), continue up through frets 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, +, etc... Ascend & descend just like in the previous exercises. Etc...Etc..Etc...Etc...Etc...Etc.. Etc...Etc........
12 11 10
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
9
8
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
10 11 12
35
The 1-2-3-4 Guitar System, Part 1
Exercises (40) through (52x) continue the same as all previous exercises, but with triple string skipping now. ***play strings*** E6-B-A-E1 then reverse: E1-A-B-E6
1 2
1 2
1 2
1 2
1 2
1 2 1 2
1 2
1 1
2
2
2
2
1
2
1
2
1
3
2
3
2
3
4
1 2
3
2
2
3
2
4
1
2
1
4 3
2
2
3
2
1
4
36
2
1
3
4 1 2
3
4
4
2
1
1 4 3
4 3
3
4
1
1
3
4 1 2
4 3 2
2
1
4
4 3
1
1
4 3
1
1
1
3
2
3
3
1 2
2
2
1
3
3
1 2
4 3
2
1
1 2 3
2
1
1
1 3
1 2
1
2
1
3
2
3
2
1
1
3
3 3
2
2
2
1
3 1
1
2
3
2
2
1
1 3
1 1
2
3
4
5
1
2
3
4
5
2
1
2
5 5
4
3
2
1
5
4
3
2
1
3
3
4
5
4
4
3
4
2
3
2
1
2
3
4
5
1
2
3
4
5
5
4
3
2
1
5
4
3
2
1
5 1
2
3
4
5
1
2
3
4
5
5
1 5
4
3
2
1
5
4
3
2
1
1
1 1
2
3
4
5
1 1
2
3
4
5
6
1 2
3
4
5
6 1
2
3
4
5
37
2
3
4
5
6
1 2
3
4
5
6
6 2
3
4
5
6
1 2
3
4
5
6
6
The 1-2-3-4 Guitar System, Part 1
6 6
5
4
3
2
1
6
5
4
3
2
1
5
6
1 1
2
3
4
5
6
7
1
2
3
4
5
6
7 1
7 7
6
5
4
3
2
1
7
6
5
4
3
2
1 7
4
5
2
2
6
6
3
4
3
3
5
5
2
3
4
4
4
4
2
5
5
3
3
6
6
2
2
6
5
4
3
2
1
6
5
4
3
2
1
1 6
5
4
3
2
1
6
5
4
3
2
1
1
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
1
2
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4
5
6
7
7
6
5
4
3
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1
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
7 1
2
3
4
5
6
7
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
7
1 7
6
5
4
3
2
1
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
1
38
For Exercise (52x), continue up through frets 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, +, etc... Ascend & descend just like in the previous exercises. Etc...Etc..Etc...Etc...Etc...Etc.. Etc...Etc........
12 11 10
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
9
8
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
10 11 12
****************************************************************** Exercises (53) through (65x) continue the same as all previous exercises, but with quadruple (quad) string skipping. ***play on strings*** E6-E1 then reverse: E1-E6
1
1
2
3
2
2
3
1
2
4
1 2
3
2
2
3
3
2
39
4
4 3
1
2
2
2
1
3
2
1
1
1
3
4
3
2
1
4
1 2
1
1
3
1
3
2
3
3
4
2
1
1 2
1 2
1
2
1
1
2
3
2
1
4
3
2
2
1
1
4
3
2
1
The 1-2-3-4 Guitar System, Part 1
1
1
2
3
4
2
4
3
2
2
3
4
5
5
4
3
2
4
2
4
5
6
5
4
3
2
2
3
4
5
2
1
5
4
3
2
4
5
6
1
2
3
4
5
5
4
3
2
1
6
5
4
3
2
4
5
6
7
1 2 3
4
5
6
5
4
3
2
1
1
40
7 6
5
4
3
2
2
3
4
5
5
4
3
2
1
6
1
2
3
4
5
6
6
5
4
3
2
1
1
7
7
6
1
1
1
7
7 6
3
3
1 2 3
1 2 3
1
6
6
6
5
1
1
1
4
5
5
5
3
1 2 3
4
5
6
7
7
4
3
2
1
1
6
5
For Exercise (65x), I’m sure you’ve got it by now; you continue up the fretboard as far as you can. Etc...etc...etc...etc...etc...etc...etc...
12 11 10
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
9
8
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
10 11 12
************************************************************************* So now, unless you have 7 or more strings on your guitar, you will have exhausted most string to string combinations in the 1st part of the parallel motion sequences. However, you may have noticed that the string skipping sections have other possible variations to explore as well. For example: With single string skipping, you could use these string flows also: ***play strings*** E6-D-B and return with E1-G-A. Or E6-D-B-A-G-E1 and return with E1-G-A-B-D-E6. With double string skipping, you could use this string flow: ***play strings*** E6-G-D-E1 and return with E1-D-G-E6.
You will find there are some variations that I haven’t included in this study. I have exhausted a good deal of them, but I encourage you to fill in any “blanks” that you may find in this series. 41
The 1-2-3-4 Guitar System, Part 1
An Introduction to
INTERVAL ANALYSIS
42
INTERVALS At this point you should start to observe the shapes and characteristics of the various intervals. In short, an interval is the distance from one note to another note. Generally when playing in a ‘key’ (or diatonically) the distance from the root note to the given note is the most important one to remember. However in this study, the intervals are mostly chromatic (non-diatonic). So you should focus more on the sound of moving from fret to fret, or from one note to the next as you play through the various intervals (listed below). Get familiar with the different sounds in all the various intervals you are hearing & playing in these exercises. It will get you thinking more in terms of actual music theory & playing in ‘key’ rather than just playing a lot of random notes. *********************************************************************************** ***Pay attention to the feeling and the sound created by moving***
through all of the following intervals:
************************************************************************* Root 1st- All intervals are directly related to the root note & all tend to feel resolved when returning to their root. The interval names are based on the distance from the root note (stepwise) to the given note. See below: Minor 2nd Major 2nd Minor 3rd Major 3rd Perfect 4th Flat 5th Perfect 5th Minor 6th Major 6th Dominant 7th Major 7th Octave
- this is a 1 - this is a 2 - this is a 3 - this is a 4 - this is a 5 - this is a 6 - this is a 7 - this is a 8 - this is a 9 - this is a 10 - this is a 11 - this is a 12
fret interval/ or one ½ step fret interval/ or 1 full step fret interval/ or 1 ½ steps fret interval/ or 2 steps fret interval/ or 2 ½ steps fret interval/ or 3 steps (diminished) fret interval/ or 3 ½ steps fret interval/ or 4 steps (augmented) fret interval/ or 4½ steps fret interval/ or 5 steps (or flat 7th) fret interval/ or 5 ½ steps fret interval/ or 6 steps
There are a lot more intervals to be covered, but for now, these will be the only ones we’ll be concerned with. Memorize all of these interval steps! In the following Books in this Series I will dig deeper into the actual feels, moods, & tensions that each of these intervals tend to create. 43
The 1-2-3-4 Guitar System, Part 1
PARALLEL MOTION
((part 2)
Exercise (66) through (89) are different than the previous exercises in that they make use of arpeggio, or sweep phrasing; from ‘string ‘string to string’ string’ instead of the linear phrasing ‘‘fret fret to fret fret’’. However they do carry the same ascending/ descending approach, as well as moving up and down in position.
You will notice the wide interval & position shifting will get increasingly difficult as you move through these following exercises. Again, remember RELAXED. Concentrate on fretting each note clearly to BREATH & stay RELAXED. & accurately as you get around the fretboard. Do NOT barre your finger across the entire fret, (unless you really want to practice barring specifically). Make sure you continue to fret each note cleanly & with the tip of your finger only. Focus & repetition are crucial! And of course, accuracy & quality are far more important than speed & quantity. So take your time, and really try to PLAY YOUR BEST!!!
************************************************************** These arpeggio exercises are great for working on your picking hand as well. So this is a perfect time for you to practice your sweep picking technique throughout this section. Concentrate on clean, smooth, cascading down-strokes & upstrokes as you move from string to string. ************************************************************************* Exercises (66) and (67) both move up in position one fret at a time, or chromatically (minor 2nd intervals or by ½ tones). As you move forward through the following arpeggio exercises, the intervals from fret to fret will get wider apart from each other. Those are the intervals you should pay attention to, not so much the intervals from string to string. The intervals from string to string are all mostly Perfect 4th’s throughout the next section.
*Experiment with other string to string intervals on your own as well* 44
Exercise (66) ascend the string-to-string shape in ½ step- minor 2nd intervals.
1
2
1
3
2
1 1
9
10
9
11
10
9 9
10
9
11
10
16
15
16
14
15
16 16
15
16
14
15
8
7
8
6
7
8 8
7
8
6
7
1
2
3
4
1
2
3
4
5
1
2
3
4
5
6
2
3
4
5
9
3
4
5
6
9
10
4
5
6
7
9
10
11
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
9
10
11
12
13
9
10
11
12
13
14
10
11
12
13
16
11
12
13
14
16
15
12
13
14
15
16
15
14
13
14
15
16
16
15
14
13
16
15
14
13
12
16
15
14
13
12
11
15
14
13
12
8 8
14
13
12
11
8
7 7
13
12
11
10
8
7
6 6
12
11
10
9
8
7
6
5 5
8
7
6
5
4 4
7
6
5
4
3 3
6
5
4
3
2 2
5
4
3
2
1 1
4
3
2
1
2
3
1
2
1
Exercise (67) descend the string-to-string shape in ½ step- minor 2nd intervals.
1
2 1
3
4
2 1 1
10 9
11 11
9
11
15
14 15
16 16
15 16
8
15
7 8
6 7
8 8
7 8
6
5
45
1 2
1 2
3
1 2
3
9
1 2
3 4
9 10
2 3
4
9
11
3 4
5
9 10
3 4
5 6
7
12
4 5
6
9 10
11
4 5
6 7
9 10
11 12
5 6
7 8
16
10 11
13
16
10 11
12
14
16 15
11 12
13
16 15
14
12 13
14
16 15
14
12 13
14
16 15
13
13 14
15
8
15 14
13
13 14
15 16
15 14
12
8 7
14 13
12
10
16
14 13
12 11
9
6
13 12
11 10
16
13
11 10
8 7
5
12
10 9
6
4
12
10 9
8 7
5
3
8 7
6
4
2
7 6
5
3
8
6 5
4
2
7
5 4
3
1
6
4 3
2
9
5
3 2
1
1 2
1
The 1-2-3-4 Guitar System, Part 1
Exercise (68) ascend the string-to-string shape in 1 step- Major 2nd intervals.
1
3
1 1
3
2
5
4
5
7
6
9 9
10
11
12
14
12 12
14
8 8
4 4
6
5
5
1
4
3
1
3
1
4 4
3
1
4 4
2 2
7 7
4
2
5
7
5
2 2
7 7 7
5
2
5
3 3
8 8
5 5
5 5 5
8
5
3
6 6
8 8
6
3 3
11 11
8
6
3
6 6 6
6
9
6
4
9
6
9
11 11 11 11
9
6
9
7
4 4
12
9
7
9 9 9 9
12
9
7
10 10
12 12 12
9
7
14 14
12
10
7
10
8
10 10 10
7
10 10
12
10
13
14 14 14 14
12
10
13
10
8 8
13 13
11
8
13
13
11
12 12 12 12
13
13
11
14
13 13 13
11
11
10 10
13
11
11
14 14
12
11 11
11
14
12
8
11
12
10 10 10
8
11
12
10
12
9
12 12 12
10
8 8 8
9
12
10
11
9
7
10 10
8
9 9 9
7
10
11 11 11
6 6
9
7 7
8
11
9
4
7
8
6 6
4
7
8
6
9
5
8 8
6
4 4
5
8
6 6 6
7
9
3
6
4
5 5
3
6
7 7 7
4
5
3 3
4
7
5 5
5
3
4 4
2
5
3
4
2 2
3
5
4
2
3 3
1
4
2
3
1 1
3
1 1
3 3
“Without deviation from the norm, progress is not possible.” -Frank Zappa 46
Exercise (69) descend the string-to-string shape in 1 step- Major 2nd intervals.
1
3
2
1
3
4
3
4
3
4
3
7
2
5
7 5
7
11
6
10
9
11
12
11 11 9
11 9
12 12
8
14
10 8
7 10
8
9
8 8
4
10
6 4 4
6 4
6
3
5
47
3 1
3 1
4
3 1
4
7
3 1
4 2
7 5
1 4
2
7
8
4 2
5
7 5
4 2
3
7 5
6
2 5
7 5
8
2 5
3
11
5 8
9
5 3
6
5 8
6
5 3
6 4
7
11 9
8 6
9
3 6
4
8 6
7
11 9
12
6 9
11 9
12
6 9
7 10
12 10
9 7
10
11 9
10 13
7 10
8
10
11
11 9
12
13
14
9 12
13
14 12
12 10
11
14 12
13
10
11 14
14
13
10 13
14 12
14 12
11
13 11
14 12
11
13 11
14
10
12 13
12
11 14
12
12 13
12
10 8
13 11
10
14 12
13 11
10
10 8
9
11 12
11
12
11 12
10
10
9 7
12 10
9
10 8
7 8
10
9
10 8
9
8
7
6
8 9
7
6
5
8 9
7 8
6 4
9 7
6
4 5
7 8
6
5 3
8 6
6 4
3
8 6
7
6 4
5
4
6 7
5
6 4
5 3
4
3
5
9
4 2
1
4 5
3
2
1
5 3
2
1
5
3
2
1
3 1
3
The 1-2-3-4 Guitar System, Part 1
Exercise (70) ascend the string-to-string shape in 1½ step- minor 3rd intervals.
1
4
1 1
5
8
5
6
8
5 5
8
5
6
8
9
12
9
10
12
9 9
12
9
10
12
8
11
8
7
11
8 8
11
8
7
11
4
7
4
3
7
4 4
7
4
3
7 7
48
4
1
5 5
4
1
5
2 2
4
1
5
2
6 6
1
5
2
6
3 3
8
5
2
6
8
5
2
6
3
8
5
9
6
3
7
8
5
9
6
8
5
9
6
10
8
5
9
6
10
7
5
9
6
10
12
9
6
10
7
12
9
6
10
7
11
12
9
13
10
7
11
8
12
9
13
10
12
9
13
10
13
12
9
13
10
13
10
9
13
10
13
11
13
10
13
10
11
8
10
13
10
12
11
8
10
13
10
12
9
11
8
10
7
11
8
10
7
9
11
8
10
7
9
6
8
10
7
9
7 7
10
7
9
6
7
4 4
7
9
6
8
7
4
6 6
9
6
8
5
7
4
6
3 3
7
4
6
3
5 5
4
6
3
5
2 2
6
3
5
2
4 4
3
5
2
4
1
5
2
4
1
4
2
4
1
4
1 1
4 4
Exercise (71) descend the string-to-string shape in 1½ step- minor 3rd intervals.
1
4 1
2 4
1
5 2
4 1
4 1
4
6 8
5
12 9
12 9
10 12
8
11 8
7
8
11 8
4
11
7 4 4
7 4
7
3
6
49
4 1
4 1
5
4 1
5
8
4 1
5 2
8 5
1 5
2
8
9
5 2
6
8 5
5 2
3
8 5
6
2 6
8 5
9
2 6
3
12
5 9
10
6 3
7
5 9
6
6 3
7 4
7
12 9
9 6
10
3 7
4
9 6
7
12 9
13
6 10
12
13
6 10
7
12 9
10
10 7
11
12 9
10
10 7
11 8
11
9 13
13
11
9 13
13
11 8
13 10
10
11 8
13 10
13
11 8
10
10 13
10
11 8
10
10 13
10 12
11 8
7
13 10
12 9
7
8 10
9
10 12
9
8 10
7
6
7 4
10 7
9
8
9
10 7
6
7 4
6
7 9
8
6
7 9
7 4
3
9 6
5
3
9 6
8
7 4
6
5
6 8
5
9
5 2
7 4
6 3
2
8 5
4 6
3 5
4
5
6 3
5 2
1
5
3 5
2
4 1
4
The 1-2-3-4 Guitar System, Part 1
Exercise (72) ascend the string-to-string shape in 2 step- Major 3rd intervals.
1
5
1 1
5
9
5
6
9
5 5
9
5
6
9
9
13
9
10
13
9 9
13
9
10
13
8
12
8
7
12
8 8
12
8
7
12
8
4
8
4
3
8
4 4
8
4
3
8 8
5
1 1
“Practice doesn’t make perfect. Practice reduces the imperfection.” -Toba Beta
50
5
1
6 6
5
1
6
2 2
5
1
6
2
7 7
1
6
2
7
3 3
9
6
2
7
9
5
2
7
3
9
5
10
7
3
8
9
5
10
6
9
5
10
6
11
9
5
10
6
11
7
5
10
6
11
7
12
13
10
6
11
13
9
6
11
7
13
9
14
11
7
12
13
9
14
10
13
9
14
10
14
13
9
14
10
14
10
9
14
10
14
12
14
10
14
10
12
8
10
14
10
13
12
8
11
14
10
13
9
12
8
11
7
12
8
11
7
10
12
8
11
7
10
6
8
11
7
10
8 8
11
7
10
6
8
4 4
7
10
6
9
8
4
7 7
10
6
9
5
8
4
7
3 3
8
4
7
3
6 6
4
7
3
6
2 2
7
3
6
2
5 5
3
6
2
5
1
6
2
5
1
4
2
5
1
5 5
Exercise (73) descend the string-to-string shape in 2 step- Major 3rd intervals.
1
5 1
2 5
1
6 2
5 1
5 1
5
6 9
5
13
6
10 13
9 9
13 9
13
8
12 8
7
8
12 8
12 8
4
7 12
8 4 4
8 4
3 8
4
7 3
7
51
5 1
5 1
6
5 1
6
9
5 1
6 2
9 5
1 6
2
9
10
6 2
7
9 5
6 2
3 8
6
2 7
9 5
10
2 7
3
9 5
6
7 3
8
13
5 10
11
13
5 10
6
7
13 9
10
11
3 8
4
10 6
11
13 9
14
6
7
13 9
14
6 11
13 9
10
11 7
12
9 14
10
11 7
12
12
9 14
14
12 8
14 10
10
12 8
14 10
14
12 8
11
10 14
10
12 8
11
10 14
10
12 8
7
14 10
13
8
8 11
7
14 10
13 9
8 11
10
8 4
11 7
10
9
9
11 7
6
8 4
7
7 10
9
7
7 10
8 4
3
10 6
5
3
10 6
9
8 4
7
6
6 9
5
9
6 2
8 4
7 3
2
9 5
4 7
3 6
5
5
7 3
6 2
1
5
3 6
2
5 1
5
The 1-2-3-4 Guitar System, Part 1
Exercise (74) ascend the string-to-string shape in 2½ step- perfect 4th intervals.
1
6
1
2
6
1 1
5
10
5
6
10
5 5
10
5
6
10
8
13
8
7
13
8 8
13
8
7
13
4
9
4
3
9
4 4
9
4
3
9
6
1
7
2
6
1
7
2
8
6
1
7
2
8
3
1
7
2
8
10
7
2
8
3
10
5
2
8
3
9
10
5
11
8
3
9
4
10
5
11
6
10
5
11
6
12
10
5
11
6
12
7
5
11
6
12
13
11
6
12
7
13
8
6
12
7
13
13
8
12
12
7
13
8
13
8
12
7
13
8
12
7
11
13
8
12
7
11
6
8
12
7
11
9 9
12
7
11
6
9
4 4
7
11
6
10
9
4
8 8
11
6
10
5
9
4
8
3 3
9
4
8
3
7 7
4
8
3
7
2 2
8
3
7
2
6 6
3
7
2
6
1 1
7
2
6
6
1
7
6
1
6
Exercise (75) descend the string-to-string shape in 2½ step- perfect 4th intervals.
1
6
2
1
7
6
7
6
7
6
2
1
2
10
2
6
5 5
10 5
10
7 7
8
13 8
7
8
4
7 13
9 4
3 9
4 4
9 4
9
3
52
6 1
6 1
6 1
7
10
6 1
7 2
10 5
1 7
2 8
11
7 2
8
5
7 2
10
11
7 2
8 3
5
6
2 8
3
10
11
12
8 3
9
10 5
6
8 3
9 4
10 5
11 6
7
13
5 11
12
13 8
11 6
12
13
8 12
6 12
13
12
6
7
13 8
7
12
13
13 8
7
12
13 8
13 8
12
11
9
8 12
11
9 4
12 7
6
13 8
12 7
6
4 8
7 11
9
8
7 11
6
9 4
3
11 6
10
8
7
6 10
5
9 4
8 3
11
10 5
9 4
8 3
7
6
4 8
3 7
6 1
8 3
2
1
5
3
2
1
6 1
6
Exercise (76) ascend the string-to-string shape in 3 step- flat 5th intervals.
1
7
1
2
7
1 1
7
2
8
5
11
5
6
11
5 5
6
11
8
14
8 8
14
8
7
14
8
4
10
4
3
10
4 4
10
4
3
10
7
1
8
2
7
1
8
2
9
7
1
8
2
9
3
1
8
2
9
11
8
2
9
3
11
5
2
9
3
10
11
5
12
9
3
10
4
11
5
12
6
11
5
12
6
13
11
5
12
6
13
7
5
12
6
13
7
14
14
12
6
13
14
8
6
13
7
14 14 14 14
8
13
13
7
14
8 8 8 8
13
7
7
14
8
13 13 13
7
12
10 10
13
7
12
6
4
7 7
12
10
4
7
12
6
11
5
9
12
6
11
10
4
9
12
6
11
5
3
10
4
9
3
10
4
9
3
8
4
9
3
8
2
9
3
8
2
7
3
8
2
7
1
8
2
7
1
7
1
8
7
1
7
Exercise (77) descend the string-to-string shape in 3 step- flat 5th intervals.
1
7
2
1
8
7
2
1
2 2
1
11 5
6 11
5 5 5
14 8 8
14
10 4
3 10
4 4
10 4
3 10
9 3
53
7 1
7 1
8
7 1
8
11
7 1
8 2
11 5
1 8
2 9
12
8 2
11 5
8 2
9
5 12
6
2 9
3
11
12
2 9
3 10
11 5
6 13
9 3
10 4
6
7
11 5
12
13
14
5 12
13
14 8
12 6
7
14 8
13
6
7 14
14 8
13
6 13
14 8
14 8
7
13 7
14 8
13 7
13 7
14
10
8 13
12
10 4
13
12
7 14
8
13 7
6
4 9
7
6
10
9
7 12
11
4
7 12
10 4
3
12 6
11
8
8
6 11
10 4
9 3
12 6
11 5
8
8 2
10 4
9 3
2 7
4 9
3 8
7 1
9 3
8
7
5
3 8
7 1
7 1
7
The 1-2-3-4 Guitar System, Part 1
Exercise (78) ascend the string-to-string shape in 3½ step- perfect 5th intervals.
1
8
1
2
8
1 1
8
2
9
5
12
5
6
12
5 5
6
12
4 4
13
5
1
9
8
1
9
2
8
1
9
2
8
1
9
2
10 10
12 12
9
2 2
10
3 3
12 12 12 12
5
2
10 10
3
11 11
5 5 5 5
13
10
3 3
11
4 4
13 13 13
6
3
11 11
11 11
13
6
13
11
4 4
6 6
13
6
4
6
13
11
4
6
13
6
12
5
10
13
6
12
11
4
10
13
6
12
5
3
11
4
10
3
11
4
10
3
9
4
10
3
9
2
10
3
9
2
8
3
9
2
8
1
9
2
8
1
8
1
9
8
1
8
Exercise (79) descend the string-to-string shape in 3½ step- perfect 5th intervals.
1
8 1
2
9
8 1 1
12 5 5 5
6 12
4
11 4 4
11 4
11
3
9
10
54
8 1
9 2
8 1
9
8 1
9
12
8 1
9 2
12 5
1 9
2 10
12 5
13
2 10
3
6
2 10
3
12 5
13
2 10
3 11
6
10 3
11 4
12 5
13
13
3 11
4
6
12 5
13 6
13
11
5 13
6 13
12
4
13 6
13 6
11
10
6 13
6 12
4
3
13 6
12 5
11
10
9
6 12
5
11 4
3
2
11 4
10
9
8
4 10
3
2
11
10 3
9
8
4
3 9
2
1
10
9 2
8
5
3
2 8
1
8 1
8
Exercise (80) ascend the string-to-string shape in 4 step- minor 6th intervals.
1
9
1
2
9
1 1
9
2
10
5
13
5
6
13
5 5
13
5
4 4
6
12
14
3
11
13 13
10
2
1
10
2 2
9
1
10
9
1
10
2
9
1
10
2
11
13
5 5
2
11 11
13 13 13
5
14
11
3
5 5 5
14
11
3 3
12
14 14
6
3
12 12
14
6
3
12 12 12
4
6
14 14
12
4 4 4
4
6
14
6 6
12
4
6
14
6
13 13
11
14
6
12
4
11
14
6
13
5
3
12
4
11
3
12
4
11
3
10
4
11
3
10
2
11
3
10
2
9
3
10
2
9
1
10
2
9
1
9
1
10
9
1
9
Exercise (81) descend the string-to-string shape in 4 step- minor 6th intervals.
1
9 1
2
10
9 1
2 2
1
2
13 5 5 5
6
12 4 4
12 4
3 12
10
3
55
9 9 1
10
9 1
10
13
9 1
10 2
13
1 10
2 11
13 5
1 10
2 11
13 5
14
2 11
13 5
6
2 11
3
13 5
14
2 11
3 12
12
5 14
6
11 3
12 4
5 14
14
3 12
4
6
12 4
14 6
14
13
4
14 6
14
12 4
11
6 14
6 13
11
6 14
6 13
12 4
3
14 6
13 5
3 10
6 13
5
12 4
11
10 2
12 4
11 3
2 9
4 11
3 10
9 1
11 3
10
9
5
3 10
9 1
9 1
9
The 1-2-3-4 Guitar System, Part 1
Exercise (82) ascend the string-to-string shape in 4½ step- Major 6th intervals.
1
10
1
2
10
1 1
10
2
11
5
14
5
6
14
5 5
6
14
4 4
15
5
1
11
10
1
11
2
10
1
11
2
10
1
11
2
12 12
14 14
11
2 2
12
3 3
14 14 14 14
5
2
12 12
3
13 13
5 5 5 5
15
12
3 3
13
4 4
15 15 15
6
3
13 13
13 13
15
6
15
13
4 4
6 6
15
6
4
6
15
13
4
6
15
6
14
5
12
15
6
14
13
4
12
15
6
14
5
3
13
4
12
3
13
4
12
3
11
4
12
3
11
2
12
3
11
2
10
3
11
2
10
1
11
2
10
1
10
1
11
10
1
10
Exercise (83) descend the string-to-string shape in 4½ step- Major 6th intervals.
1
10
2
1
10 1
11 2
10 1 1 1
2
14 14 5
14
4
3 13
4 4
13 4
3 13
3
56
10 1
11
10 1
11 2
10 1
11 2
14
1 11
2 12
14 5
11 2
12
5 15
2 12
14
15
2 12
3
14 5
6
12 3
13
14 5
6
12 3
13 4
14 5
15
15
13
5 15
15
13 4
15 6
6
13 4
15 6
15 6
4 12
6 15
13
12
6 15
6
13 4
3
15 6
5
3 11
6 14
13 4
12
11
6 14
5
13 4
12 3
2
14 5
4 12
3 11
10
5
12 3
11 2
10
5
3 11
2 10
10 1
11
10 1
10
Exercise (84) ascend the string-to-string shape in 5 step- flat 7th intervals.
1
11
1
2
11
1 1
11
2
12
5
15
5
6
15
5 5
15
5
4 4
14
3
1
12
11
1
11
1
12
2
11
1
12 12
2
13
15 15
12
2 2 2
13
3
15
5 5
2
13 13 13
15 15 15
5
16 16
13
3 3
5 5 5
16
6
3
14
16 16
6
3
14 14
14 14
16
6
16
14
4
6
16
14
4 4 4
4
6
16
6 6
14
4
6
16
6
15 15
13
16
6
14
4
13
16
6
15
5
3
14
4
13
3
14
4
13
3
12
4
13
3
12
2
13
3
12
2
11
3
12
2
11
1
12
2
11
1
11
1
12
11
1
11
Exercise (85) descend the string-to-string shape in 5 step- flat 7th intervals.
1
11
2
1
12
11 1
2 2
1
2 2
15 5
2
5
15 5
15 5
6 15
4
14 4 4
14 4
14
3
13
57
11 1
12
11 1
12 2
11 1
12 2
15
1 12
2 13
15 5
12 2
3
5 16
2 13
15
16
2 13
3
15 5
6
13 3
14
6
13 3
14 4
15 5
16
16
3 14
4
6
6
15 5
16
16
14
5 16
6 16
14 4
16 6
6
4 13
6 16
14
13 3
16 6
14 4
3
16 6
15
14 4
13
12
6 15
5
14 4
13 3
12
11
4 13
3 12
11 1
13 3
12
11
5
3 12
11 1
11 1
12
11 1
11
The 1-2-3-4 Guitar System, Part 1
Exercise (86) ascend the string-to-string shape in 5½ step- Major 7th intervals.
1
12
1
2
12
1 1
12
2
13
4
15
4
3
15
4 4
3
15
2
13
1
13
12 12
1
13
2
12
1 1
13
2
14
15 15
13
2
14
3
4
2
14
15
4
2
14
3
15
4
14
14
3
15
15
4
14
14
3
15
4
3
15
4
14
3
15
4
14
3
13
4
14
3
13
2
14
3
13
2
12
3
13
2
12
1
13
2
12
1
12
1
13
12
1
12
Exercise (87) descend the string-to-string shape in 5½ step- Major 7th intervals.
1
12 1
2 12
1
13 2
12 1 1 1
2
15
13
3
4
13
15
3 15
1
14
12 12 1
13 2
14
15
1 13
2
3
15 4
13 2
14
15 4
14
2
3
4
14
2 14
15 4
3
14
15 4
3
14 3
15 4
14
13
3 15
15 4
14 3
2
15 4
4 14
3 13
12
4
14 3
13 2
12
4
3 13
2 12
12 1
13 2
12 1
13
12 1
12
Exercise (88) ascend the string-to-string shape in 6 step- Octave intervals.
1
13
1
2
13
1 1
13
2
14
4
16
4
3
16
4 4
3
16
2
14
1
14
13 13
1
14
2
13
1 1
14
2
15
16 16
14
2
15
3
4
2
15
16
4
2
15
3
16
4
15
15
3
16
16
4
15
15
3
16
4
3
16
4
15
3
16
4
15
3
14
4
15
3
14
2
15
3
14
2
13
3
14
2
13
1
14
2
13
1
13
1
14
13
1
13
Exercise (89) descend the string-to-string shape in 6 step- Octave intervals.
1
13 1
2 13
1
14 2
13 1 1 1
13
4 4
3 16
58
13 1
13 1
14
13 1
14
16
13 1
14 2
16 4
1 14
2 15
15
14 2
16 4
14 2
15 3
3
2 15
16 4
15
2 15
3 16
14
15 3
16
16 4
15 3
15 3
16 4
2
16 4
15 3
14
3 16
4
4 15
3 14
2
16 4
15 3
14 2
13
4
3 14
2 13
13 1
13
So there you have it. That concludes part 1 & 2 of the PARALLEL MOTION section. If you’ve taken the time and put forth the effort to run through all of these exercises with each of your fingers, then you should have gotten a good feel for what this whole book is about. The more you do this, the more you will notice a strong and steady improvement in your position shifting & slide technique (which are both crucial in getting around the fretboard). And likely you’ll feel some muscles in your hands working more than they are accustomed to, and that’s definitely a good thing! There are a lot of frets on the guitar, plenty of notes that are there for you to experiment with. If you find you don’t generally play the full scale of the neck as much as you’d like to, then this book will definitely get you moving more in that direction. This is one great way of getting familiar with each and every fret on your guitar neck. Of course there’s nothing wrong with playing in one position all the time. And just because you have the ability to play all over the neck, that doesn’t necessarily mean that you should. Music is about style, taste, and having a healthy imagination (among many other things). But one of the greatest things is having the freedom to play whatever you want, however you like to do it. Self expression can be an extremely rewarding & powerful ‘thing’ for any musician. The main idea in this book is to strengthen your hands, your technique/chops, but mostly your ability- to play anything that you want to play without your hands holding you back from doing it. Of course you can always SAY something simply in one clear way, and get straight to the point. That bluntness is often a favorable way to go about things. But having the option of variety (multiple perspectives/ points of reference) at your disposal is invaluable for enriching so many elements of music that can easily become boring, predictable, & lifeless.
“Variety is the spice of life” The following sections: REVERSE MOTION & ALTERNATING MOTION are formatted almost identically to the PARALLEL MOTION section. So let’s take a look forward into the next sections at some different ways you can phrase these one finger exercises. 59
The 1-2-3-4 Guitar System, Part 1
60
“The only way we could remember would be by constant re-reading, for knowledge unused tends to drop out of mind. Knowledge used does not need to be remembered; practice forms habits and habits make memory unnecessary. The rule is nothing; the application is everything.” -Henry Hazlitt
61
The 1-2-3-4 Guitar System, Part 1
REVERSE MOTION
((part 1)
This section is formatted exactly the way that the PARALLEL MOTION section is. For example: all of the exercises ascend & descend through each of the frets (1-2-3-4-5-6-7, etc...12+). And they all have single, double, triple, & quadruple string skipping variations in the same manner as in the PARALLEL MOTION section. It’s the same basic flow of ascending from string to string, but this time you are reversing the motion on the return of each exercise. ************************************************************************* Execute each fret fingering properly as explained in the ‘FORM & PRACTICE TIPS’ sections. *************************************************************************
1
2
2
1
1
2
2
1
1
2
2
1
1
2
2
1
1
2
2
1
1
2
2
1
2
1
1
2
2
1
1
2
2
1
1
2
2
1
1
2
2
1
1
2
2
1
1
2
Notice in Exercise (1) and (2) that you ascend from string to string from your low E6 string to your high (E1) string exactly how you did for all of the PARALLEL MOTION section. But then you descend from the (E1) string to the (E6) string with the reverse fretting pattern. You can see how it works clearly in the TAB & notation examples, but to clarify: you ascend from string to string with a (1-2) fretting pattern & descend from string to string with a (2-1) fretting pattern. And you do this all one finger at a time. The rest of the REVERSE MOTION section continues the same way. 62
1
2
3
3
2
1
3
2
1
1
2
3
1
2
3
3
2
1
3
2
1
1
2
3
1
2
3
2
2
3
3
2
1
2
3
3
2
1
1
2
3
3
2
1
3
2
1
1
2
3
3
1
3
2
1
1
2
3
63
1
1
3
2
1
1
2
3
3
2
1
1
2
3
The 1-2-3-4 Guitar System, Part 1
1
2
3
4
4
3
2
1
4
3
2
1
1
2
3
4
1
2
3
4
5
5
4
3
2
1
1
2
3
4
4
3
2
1
4
3
2
1
1
2
3
4
1
2
3
4
5
5
4
3
2
1
1
2
3
4
4
3
2
1
4
3
2
1
1
2
3
4
1
2
3
4
5
5
4
3
2
1
64
1
2
3
4
4
3
2
1
4
3
2
1
1
2
3
4
1
2
3
4
5
5
4
3
2
1
1
2
3
4
4
3
2
1
4
3
2
1
1
2
3
4
1
2
3
4
5
5
4
3
2
1
1
2
3
4
4
3
2
1
4
3
2
1
1
2
3
4
1
2
3
4
5
5
4
3
2
1
5 5 5 5 5 5
4
3
2
1
1 2
3
4
5
4
3
2
1
1 2
3
4
5
4
3
2
1
1 2
3
4
5
4
3
2
1
1 2
3
4
5
4
3
2
1
1 2
3
4
5
4
3
2
1
1 2
3
4
5
1 2 3 4 5 6 1 2 3 4 5 6 1 2 3 4 5 6 1 2 3 4 5 6 1 2 3 4 5 6 1 2 3 4 5 6
6 5 4 3 2 1 6 5 4 3 2 1 6 5 4 3 2 1 6 5 4 3 2 1 6 5 4 3 2 1 6 5 4 3 2 1
6 6 6
5
4
3
2
1
1 2
3
4
5
6
6
5
4
3
2
1
1
2
3
4
5
6
5
4
3
2
1
1 2
3
4
5
6
65
6
5
4
3
2
1
1
2
3
4
5
6
5
4
3
2
1
1 2
3
4
5
6
6
5
4
3
2
1
1
2
3
4
5
6
The 1-2-3-4 Guitar System, Part 1
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 1 2 3 5 5 6 7
7 6 5 4 3 2 1 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 7 6 5 4 3 2 1
7 6 5 4 3 2 1 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 7 6 5 4 3 2 1
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
For Exercise (13x), continue up through frets 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, +, etc... Ascend & descend just like in the previous exercises. These above the 7th fret (__x) exercises continues exactly the same way through the remainder of this book.
12 11 10
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10 11 12
66
9
8
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
Exercises (14) through (26x) are based on all the previous exercises. The only difference here is that you apply single string skipping. *Just the same as before*
1 1
2
2
2 2
1
1
1 1
1
2
2 2
1
2
2
2
1
2
1
2
1
1
1 1
2
1 2
2 2
2
2
1
1
2
1
2
2
1
1
1
1
2
2 1
1 1 1 1
2
3
3
2
1 3
2
2
2
2
3
3
2
1
1 3
2
1
2
3
3
2
1
3 3 3
2
1
1
2
3 1
2
2
2
2
1
1
2
3
3 1
2
3
2
1
1
2
3 2
1
1
2
2
2
1
1 2
1
1
2
2
1
2
3
1
2
3
3
2
1 3
2
1
3
2
1
1
2
3
1
3 1
67
2
2
1
1
1 3
2
1
3
1 3
3
2
1
2
3
3 1
2
1
3
2
1
1
2
3
3
The 1-2-3-4 Guitar System, Part 1
1 1 1 1
2
3
4
4
3
2
1
2
4
3
3
2
3
2
2
3
4
4
3
2
1
1 4
3
2
1
2
3
4
4
3
2
1 3
4 4 4
3
2
1
1
2
3
4
3
1
2
2
3
2
3
2
1
1
2
3
4
4 1
2
3
3
2
1
1 2
3
4
1 1
2
3
4
2
2
3
4
4
2
3
4
2
2
3
4
5
4
3
2
4
2
3
4
4
3
2
1 4
3
2
1
4
3
2
1
1
2
3
4
1
3
3
2
1
1 2
3
4
4
1
2
3
4
5
4
3
2
5
5
5 1
3
1
2
3
4
5
5
4
3
2
1
5
5
1 1
3
2
4 1
1
1
4 4
3
2
1
1
1 4
2
3
1 4
1 4
4
3
4
4 1
2
2
3
4
5
1
5
5
5
4
3
2
4
3
2
1
1 5 5
4
3
2
4
3
2
1
1 5
68
4
3
2
1
1
5 5
4
3
2
5 5
4
3
2
1
5
4
3
2
1
5
4
3
4
2
1
4
1
3
2
2
2
3
2
3
4
4
2
3
4
2
3
4
1
2
3
4
5
2
1
4
3
2
1
1
2
3
4
5 1
2
3
4
5
2
3
4
1
2
5
5
1
2
3
4
5
2
1 2 3
4
5
3
4
5
3
4
5
6
6
6 1 2
5
3
5
1
4
4
5
1
3
5
5 1
1 2
5 1
1
1
1
3
1
3
4
5
6
6
6
1 2 3 4 5 6
6 5 4 3 2 1 6 5 4 3 2 1
1 2 3 4 5 6
6 5 4 3 2 1 6 5 4 3 2 1
6 5 4 3 2
1 6 5 4 3 2 6 5 4 3 2
1
1 6 5 4 3 2
69
1
The 1-2-3-4 Guitar System, Part 1
6 6 6
5
4
3
2
4
3
2
4
3
2
4
3
2
5
4
3
2
1
1 6 5
6 5 6 5
5
1
4
3
2
1
1
1
6 5 4 3 2 1
1 2 3 4 5 6 1 2 3 4 5 6
6 5 4 3 2 1
1 2 3 4 5 6 1 2 3 4 5 6
1 2 3 4 5 6 1 2 3 4 5 6 1 2 3 4 5 6 1 2 3 4 5 6
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
1 2 3 4 5 6 7
1 2 3 4 5 6 7
7 6 5 4 3 2 1 7 6 5 4 3 2 1
1 2 3 4 5 6 7
7 6 5 4 3 2 1 7 6 5 4 3 2 1
7 6 5 4 3 2 1 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 7 6 5 4 3 2 1
70
7 6 5 4 3 2 1 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 7 6 5 4 3 2 1
7 6 5 4 3 2 1 7 6 5 4 3 2 1
7 6 5 4 3 2 1
7 6 5 4 3 2 1
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
7 6 5 4 3 2 1
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
For Exercise (26x), continue up through frets 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, +, etc... Ascend & descend like in the previous exercises. Etc...Etc..Etc...Etc...Etc...Etc.. Etc...Etc........
12 11 10
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
9
8
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
10 11 12
71
The 1-2-3-4 Guitar System, Part 1
Exercises (27) through (39x) are based on all the previous exercises. The only difference here is that you apply double string skipping. *the same as before*
1 1
1
2 1
2
2 2
1
2
2
1 2
1
1
2
2
1 1
3
3
2
2
1
1
2
1
2
1
3
2
2
3
3
2
1
1
2
2
2
2
1
1
1 2
3
2
1
1
2
72
1
2
1
2
3
3
3 1
1
2
3 1
1
3
3
1 2
2
1
1 3
1
1 3
3
3
2
1
1
3
3 2
2
2
3
3 2
1
2
3 1 2
3
1
1
1
3 1 2
1 2
2
1
1 2 1 2
1 2
2 2
1 2
2
2
1
1
2
2
3
1 1 1
2
3
4
4
3
2
1
2
4
3
3
2
2
1
2
4
3
3
4
3
2
1
1
2
3
4 1
2
2
3
2
1
2
3
4
5
5
4
3
2
1 5
4
3
3
4
2
4
1
2
3
4
4
3
2
1 4
3
2
1
4
3
2
1
1
2
3
4
1 3
3
2
2
1
1
1 4
3
2
1
1
2
3
4
4
3
2
1
1
2
3
4
4
1 2
3
1
1
1
2
4
4 3
1 4
4
4
4
3
2
2
3
3
4
4
1
2
3
4
5
5
4
3
2
1
5
5 1
2
3
4
5
5
4
3
2
1
1
2
3
4
5
5
4
3
2
1
1 5
73
4
3
2
1
The 1-2-3-4 Guitar System, Part 1
5 5
4
3
2
4
3
2
4
3
2
1
1
2
3
4
5
5
4
3
2
1
1
2
3
4
5 1
1
2
3
4
4
3
2
1
1
2
3
4
5
1 5
5
5 1 4
3
2
1
2
3
4
5
5 1
2
3
4
5
1 1 1
2
3
4
5
2
3
4
5
1 2 1 2 1 2
3
4
5
6
6 5 4 3 2
1
2
3
4
5
6
6
6 3
4
5
6
6 5 4 3 2
1
3
4
5
6
6 5 4 3 2 1 6 5 4 3 2
1 6 5 4 3 2
1 6 5 4 3 2 1
6 6 6
5
4
3
2
5
4
3
2
6 6 6
5
4
3
2
5
4
3
2
1
1
1 5
4
3
2
5
4
3
2
1
1
1
1 2 3 4 5 6 1 2 3 4 5 6 1 2 3 4 5 6 1 2 3 4 5 6 1 2 3 4 5 6 1 2 3 4 5 6
74
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
7 6 5 4 3 2
1 7 6 5 4 3 2
1 7 6 5 4 3 2
7 6 5 4 3 2
7 6 5 4 3 2
7 6 5 4 3 2 7 6 5 4 3 2
1
1 1 1
7 6 5 4 3 2
1
1
1 7 6 5 4 3 2 7 6 5 4 3 2
7 6 5 4 3 2
7 6 5 4 3 2
1
1
1
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
For Exercise (39x), continue up through frets 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, +, etc... Ascend & descend like the previous exercises. Etc...Etc..Etc...Etc...Etc...Etc.. Etc...Etc........
12 11 10
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
9
8
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
10 11 12
75
The 1-2-3-4 Guitar System, Part 1
Exercises (40) through (52x) are based on all the previous exercises. The only difference here is that you apply triple string skipping. *same as before*
1 2
1 2
2
1
2
1 2
1 2
2
1
1
2
1 1
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
1 2 1 2
3
3
2
1
1
2
2
1
1
2
1
1
1 2 3
4
4
3
2
2
2
2
4
4
3
2
1
1 2
3
3
2
3
2
1
1 2
76
3
2
4
3
2
1
1 2
3
4
1
4 1 2
4 3
2
1
1
1
1
1 4
4 3
1
3
4
4
2
3
4 1 2 3
3
3 1
2
1 2
1
1
1 2 3
2
3
1
1 3
4 3
3
2
1
1 2
3
3
1 2 3
2
1
3
3 3
1
2
1
3 1
1
2
3
3
4
4
1 1
2
3
4
5
5
4
3
2
1
2
5
4
5 5
4
3
2
1
1
2
3
4
5
1
2
3
4
5
6
6
5
4
3
2
1 6
5
2
3
2
2
4
3
4
1
1
3
2
3
3
4
4
3
4
5
2
77
1
2
3
4
5
5
4
3
2
1
5
4
3
2
1
1
2
3
4
5
5 1
2
3
4
5
5
4
3
2
1
1
1 5
4
3
2
1
1
2
3
4
5
5
1
2
3
4
5
6
6
5
4
3
2
1
6 1
2
3
4
5
6
6
5
4
3
2
1
1
The 1-2-3-4 Guitar System, Part 1
6 6
5
4
3
2
1
1
2
3
4
5
6
5
1
1 1
2
3
4
5
6
7
7
6
5
4
3
2
1 7
7
4
2
2
6
6
3
3
3
5
5
2
4
4
4
4
5
3
3
5
6
2
2
6
5
4
3
2
1
1
2
3
4
5
6
6
5
4
3
2
1
1
2
3
4
5
6
7 2
3
4
5
6
4
3
2
1
1
2
3
4
5
6
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
7 1
2
3
4
5
6
7
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
1
1
1 1
5
6
7 7
6 1
6
5
4
3
2
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
7
78
For Exercise (52x), continue up through frets 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, +, etc... Ascend & descend. Etc...Etc..Etc...Etc...Etc...Etc.. Etc...Etc........
12 11 10
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
9
8
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
10 11 12
Exercises (53) through (65x) are based on all the previous exercises. The difference here is that you apply quadruple string skipping.
1
1
2
3
1
2
2
2
3
3
2
4
4
4
3
2
2
2
1
3
2
2
79
1
4 3
2
1
2
2
1
1
2
1
3
2
1
1 2
2
3
1
4
3
1
1
1
4
1
1
3
3
3
1
1
3
1 2
1 2
2
2
1
1
2
3
2
3
4
1 2
3
4
The 1-2-3-4 Guitar System, Part 1
1
1
2
3
4
2
4
3
2
2
3
4
5
5
4
3
4
2
4
5
2
6
5
4
3
2
4
3
2
1
2
1
1
2
3
4
5
4
3
2
1
1
2
3
4
5
5
4
5
6
6
5
4
3
2
1
5
4
3
2
1
1
2
3
4
5
4
5
6
7
7 6
5
4
3
2
6
5
4
3
2
1
1
2
3
4
5
6
6
1
1
7
7
7
7 6
3
3
1 2 3
1 2 3
5
6
6
6
5
1
1
1
4
5
5
5
3
6
5
4
3
2
1
1
80
1 2 3
4
5
6
6
5
4
3
2
1
1 2 3
4
5
6
7
7
For Exercise (65x), continue up through frets 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, +, etc... Ascend & descend just like in the previous exercises. Etc...Etc..Etc...Etc...Etc...Etc.. Etc...Etc........
12 11 10
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
9
8
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
10 11 12
************************************************************************* Again, unless you have 7 or more strings on your guitar, this will exhaust most all fret to fret combinations in the 1st part of the reverse motion sequences.
It’s easy to play any musical instrument: all you have to do is touch the right key at the right time and the instrument will play itself.
-J.S.Bach
81
The 1-2-3-4 Guitar System, Part 1
REVERSE MOTION
((part 2)
Exercise (66) through (89) are different than the previous exercises in that they make use of arpeggio, or sweep phrasing from ‘string to string’ instead of the linear phrasing ‘fret to fret’. They do carry the same ascending/ descending approach, as well as moving up and down in position. This section is similar to the PARALLEL MOTION ((part part 2) section. But this time, what would you guess that we are about to do? Right you are; we are going to reverse the pattern in the same way that we did with the exercises in the last ((part part 1) REVERSE MOTION section. So you will be ascending each string on the same fret from the top (E6) string to the bottom (E1) string & then you will move up a given interval and descend back from (E1) string to the (E6) string. Just like in the PARALLEL MOTION section, you should pay attention to the fret intervals as you play through the following sequences. Exercises (66) and
(67) both move up in position one fret at a time, chromatically (minor ( 2nd intervals or by ½ tones). tones). But this time you change frets (intervals) every time you reach the top & bottom strings. As you move forward through the following arpeggio exercises, the intervals from fret to fret will get wider apart from each other. Those are the intervals you should pay attention to the most, not the ones that are from string to string so much. The intervals from string to string are all still mostly Perfect 4th’s throughout the next section. Again, you should experiment with other string to string intervals on your own too. For example, to experiment further, you could try ascending (and also descending) patterns like this:
6
11
5 4
21
13
7
3
17
10
5
2 1
16
9
13
7
3
9
4
1
1
5 1
Keep in mind that the intervals from the G to the B string will be flat a 1/2 step in standard guitar tuning. So pay attention to that as well. 82
Exercise (66) ascend the string-to-string shape in ½ step- minor 2nd intervals.
1
2
1
3 2
1 1 1
2
4 4
9
12 12
14
15 16 15
14
7 8 8
13
5 6
3 4
1 2
1 2
3 4
1 2
3 4
9
2
3 3
5
9 10
4
5 6
9 10
4
5 6
11
4
5
7
9 10
12 11
5
7
9 10
11 12
6
7
9 10
11 12
6
7
16
11 12
6
7 8
16
11 10 12
14 13
8
8
12
13
16 15
16
15 14 15
13 14
16
15 14
13 14
15
16
15 14
13
13
15 16
15 14
13
15 14 16
8
14
13
10 11
16
8
7
15 16
13 13 12
11
9
8
7 6
12
11 10
8
6
5
12
11 10
8
7
13 14
11 10
16
6
11 12 10
8
7
5 4
8
7 6
5
3
10
9 9
7 6
5
3 2
6
5 4
3
1
9
5 4
3 2
9
4
3 2
1 2
3
1 2
1
Exercise (67) descend the string-to-string shape in ½ step- minor 2nd intervals.
1
2 1
3
4
2 1
3
1
3 3 3 3
9 9
11
16 15 16
13
14 15
16 16
8 8
14
8 8
6 7
6 7
6 7
6 7
4 4 4 5
4 4
83
4
9
10
9
11 10
5 5
9
10 11
5
6
9
10 11
12
5
9
10 11
5
6 7
10 11
12 13
16 15 16
12 13
7
16 15
12 13
15 14
8
14
12 13
14 15
16 15
12 11 13
14 15
16 15
13 14
14 13 15
16
16 15
14
11 12
16
8
14 15 14 14 13
12
10
8 7
13
12
10 9
8 7
13
12 11
7
6
13
12 11
10
8
6 5
11
10 9
8 7
6 5
12
10 9
8
5
4
10 11 9
8 7
6
4
2
7
6 5
4
2 1
6 5
4
2 1
5
4
2
9
3
2 3
2 3
2 3
2 3
2 3
2
1 1 1 1 1 1
The 1-2-3-4 Guitar System, Part 1
Exercise (68) ascend the string-to-string shape in 1 step- Major 2nd intervals.
1
3
2
1
3 3 3 3
2
6 7 7
6
5
7
9
6
10 11
9
11
9
12 12
8
7 10
8
4 4 4 4
6
7
6
3 6
3 6
3 6
3 6
3 6
3
5
2 2 2 2 5
2 5
84
2
7 7
5 8
5
7
5 5
6
5
7
5 8 8
5
11
8
5
11
8
6 9
11
9
8
6 6 9
11
9 12
6
7 10
10
9
11
9 12
9
7
11
9 12
9
7
9 9 12
9
7
14
12
10 13
10
8
4
11
10
14
10 12 10 10 10 13
10
8 8
14
12 13 12
13
10
8
11
13
11 14
14
12 13
13
11 14
14
12 13
11 13 11 11 14
12 14 12 13
11 12
14
10
13
11 12
14
10
8
11 13 11
10
12 14 12 12
10
8 9
11 12
11 10
12
10
8
7
12
10
10
8 9 9
12
10 11
8 10 8 9
10 12 11
6
9
7 8
6
4
9
7 8
11
9 9 9
4
7 7 7 8
6
4 5
8
6
5
3
8
6 7
6
4 5
8
6 7
6
4 5
3 4
6
4 5
3 4
7
5 5
4 5
3 4
2
1
5
3 4
2
1
5
3 4
2 3
5
4
2
1 1
7
5
7
4
1 4
1 4
1 4
1 4
1 4
1
3 3 3 3 3 3
Exercise (69) descend the string-to-string shape in 1 step- Major 2nd intervals.
1
3 1
2
3 1
4 2
3 1 1
2
7 5 5
8 6 6 6
9
7
11 9
12 10
11 9 9
11 9
10
14 12 12
13 11 11
10 8
9
4
6 4
6 4
6 4
6 4
6 4
6
8
3
5 3
5 3
5 3
5
7 5
4 4 2
4 4 4 4
7 5
2 2
85
7 5
2 2
5
7 5
8
2
5 3
7 5
8 6
11
5
8 8 8 6
11 9
6
9
3
11 9
6
9 7
9
6
9 7
11
12
6
9 9
10
11 9
10 12
7
10
11 9
12 10
7
10 8
12 9 12 10
7
10 8
14 12 14
12
13
7
10 8
12
10
11 13
8
14
13
10
13
14
14 12
10
13 13
12 14
14 12
11 13
11
14 12
14 12
13 11
11
14
8
13 12 13
12
14 11 12
10 10 8 10
13 11
10 12
12
8 8
11
12
11
10
9
11
12 10
10 8
11
12 10
11
10 8
9 7
6
8
9 7
11 10 9
9 9 9
8
6 4
7
8
7
4
7
8
7 5
6
5
7
8 8
6 4
5 3
6
7 5
3
6
7
6 4
5
4
6
7 5
6 4
5 3
4 2
4
5 3
4
3
5
5 3
4 2
3 1
3
4 2
3
7
1
3 1
3 1
3 1
3 1
3 1
3
The 1-2-3-4 Guitar System, Part 1
Exercise (70) ascend the string-to-string shape in 1½ step- minor 3rd intervals.
1
4
1
2 4
1 1 1
5
5
6 8
5 5
9
9 9
12 10 12
9
12
9
8
13
7
8
11
8
4 4 4 4 4 4
6
7
7
3 7
3 7
3 7
3 7
3 7
3
5
6
2 2 2 6
2 6
2 6
2
8 8 8
5 9
6
8
5 5 5 9
6
12
9
6
12
9
6 10
12
9
6 10
12
9
9
6
12
9 13
6
7 11
10
10
12
9 13
10
7
9 9 9 13
10
7 11
11
13
10
7 11
11
13
10 13
11
11
8
10 13 10 10
10
11
8 8
11
8 10
10
12 10
8
7
13
11
8 10
13
10
11
8 10
13
10 12
8 8 10
10 13 12
9 9
7
10
7
6
7
4
10
7
6 8
9
7 7 7 9
7
4 6
9
6 8
3
9
6 8
7
4 6
9
6 8
7
4 6
3
2
7
4 6
3 5
8
5
4 6
3 5
2 4
6
3 5
2 4
5
3 5
2 4
5
5
2 4
1
8
5
8
5
1 5
1 5
1 5
1 5
4 4 4 4
1 5
4
1
“We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit.” -Aristotle (384 BC-322 BC) 86
4
Exercise (71) descend the string-to-string shape in 1½ step- minor 3rd intervals.
1
4 1
2
4 1
5 2
4 1
4 1
2
8 5
9
5
6 6
9 12 9
13 10
12 9 9
12 9
10
12
8
11 8
10
11 8
7
4
7 4
7 4
7 4
7 4
7 4
7
9
9
6 3
6 3
6 3
6 6
8 5
5 5 2
5 5 5 5
8 5
2 2
8 5
2 2
87
8 5
9
2
6
8 5
9 6
12 12
5
9 9 9 6
3
3
12 9
6
10
3
13
6
10 7
12 12 9
6
10
11
12 9 9
6
10 10 7
11
9
10 13
7
11 8
13 13 13 10
7
11 8
11 8
13
13
7
11 8
8
10
10 13
11
10
10
13
11 8
10
13 10
11 8
10
13 10
12
11 8
10 7
7
8
10 7
12 10 9
10 10 10 7
9
7 4
7
9
8
7 4
7
9
8 5
4
6
7
9 9 6
7
6 3
6
8
7 4
6 3
6
8 5
3
5
6
8 5
7 4
6
5 2
4
6 3
5 2
4
5
6 3
5
4 1
3
5 2
8
1
4 1
4 1
4 1
4 1
4 1
4
The 1-2-3-4 Guitar System, Part 1
Exercise (72) ascend the string-to-string shape in 2 step- Major 3rd intervals.
1
5
1
2 5
1 1 1
6
6 9
5 5
6 9
9
7
6
13 10 13
9
13
9
7
8 8
12
4 4 4 4 4
7
11
3 8
3 8
3 8
3 8
3 8
3
13 13
5 10
2 2 7
2 7
2 2
88
9
5
9
10 5
7 2
9
5 10
7
7
9
5
6
7
9
5 10
6 11
8
13
10
6
12 7
4
13
9
6 10 6 11
13
9 14
6
7
8
10
11
13
9 14
11
7 12
9 9 9 14
11
7
12
14
10 14
12
12
14
10 14
12
12
8
10 14 10 10
10
8 12 8
12
8 11
14
13 10
8
7
14
10
12
8 11
14
10 13
12
8 11
10 14 13
9 9
8 8 11
7 10
8
11
7 10
8
4
11
7 7 10
8
4 7
10
6 9
9
3
10
6 9
8
4 7
6 10 9
8
4 7
3
2
8
4 7
3 6
9
5 5
4 7
3 6
2 5
7
3 6
2 5
5
3 6
2 5
5
6
2 5
1
9
6
1 6
1 6
1 6
1 6
1 6
1
5 5 5 5 5 5
Exercise (73) descend the string-to-string shape in 2 step- Major 3rd intervals.
1
5 1
2
5 1
6 2
5 1
5 1
2
9 5
10
5
6
9 13 9
14 10
13 9 13 9
10
13
8 12 8
10
11
8
12
7
12
4
8 4
8 4
8 4
8 4
8 4
8
9 5
9 5
10
9 5
6 10
7 7 3
7 3
7
2
6 2
6 2
6 6 2
7
6 2
89
6
9 5
2
7 3
9 5
10 6
3
13
10 5 6
3
13 9
10
11
3
13 9
10
11 7
14
6
11 7
13 13 9
6
11
8 12
13 9 9
6
11 7
12 12
9
10 14
7
12 8
14 14 14 14
14
12 7 8
8 8
10
10 14
12
11
10
14
12 8
10
14 10
12 8
10
14 10
13
12 8
11 7
8
8
11 7
13 10 9 9
11 11 11 7
6 10
8 4
7
10
9
8 4
7
10
9 5
4
7
7
10 10 6
8
7 3
6
9
8 4
7 3
6
9 5
3
6
6
9 5
8 4
7
6 2
4
7 3
6 2
5
5
7 3
6
5 1
3
6 2
9
1
5 1
5 1
5 1
5 1
5 1
5
The 1-2-3-4 Guitar System, Part 1
Exercise (74) ascend the string-to-string shape in 2½ step- perfect 4th intervals.
1
6
2
1
6 6
1
6 6
5
7
2
6 10
5
10 10
8
6
7 13
8 8
13
8
4
7
9
3
4
9 9
4
9
4
2
3
10 10
1
6
1 7
6
1 7
6
1
2 8
10
7
2 8
10
5
7
2
3 9
11
2 8
10
5
6
8
3
10
5 11
8
3 9
5 5 5 11
8
3
4 4
13
11
6 12
13
11
6 12
13
8
11
6 6
7 13
12
6
13
8
7
12
13
8 12
12
7
13
8 12
12
7 13
8 8 12
12
7 13
8
9
12
7 11
9
4
12
7 11
13
8
7 7
6
5
8
7 11
9
4
3
11
6
9
4 8
11
6 10
8
11
6 10
9
4
3 7
9
4 8
3 7
10
5
4 8
3
2
1
8
3 7
2 6
5
3 7
2
1
5
7
2
1
7
6
1
2
7
6
1
6
Exercise (75) descend the string-to-string shape in 2½ step- perfect 4th intervals.
1
6 1
2
7
6 1
2 2 2 2 2
5
10 5
11
10 5
6
10
8
13 8
12 7
8
7 7 7 7
4
9 4
9 4
9 4
9 4
9 4
9
8 8 3
7 7 7 7 2
7 2
90
10 5
2 2
8
5
7
10 5 10
2
8 3
10
11
2
8
10 5
11 6
8 3
10 5
11 6
3
13
11 5 6
3
13 8
11
12
3
8
11
12
13
13
12
6
12
13 8
13 8
6
12
13 8
13 8
6
12
13
13 8
12 7
9
8
12 7
7
13 8
12 12 12 7
11
9 4
7
11 6
4
7
11
9
8
7
11 11 6
9 4
8 3
6
10 5
3
6
10 5
9 4
8
7
6
10 5
9 4
8 3
7
6
4
8 3
7
6 1
8 3
7
6 1
3
7
6 1
1
6 1
6 1
6 1
6 1
6 1
6
Exercise (76) ascend the string-to-string shape in 3 step- flat 5th intervals.
1
7
2
1
7 7 7
8
6
5
11
5
8
6
7 14
8 8
14
8
4
7
3
4
10
2
4
10
3
11 11
1 8
7
1 8
7
1 8
7
1
2 9
11
8
2 2 2 9
11
12 5
9
3
11
5
6
9
11
5 12
9
3
5 5 5 12
9
3 3 10
14
12
6 13
10
14
12
6 13
10
14
8
6 12 13
10
4 4 4
13
6
7 14
14
8
7
6
7 14
14
8 13
13
14
8 13
13
7
8
8 8 13
13
7 14
10
13
7 12
10
4
13
7 12
14
8
7 7 7 12
6 11
9
12
6
10
4
3
12
6 11
10
4 9
12
6 11
10
4 9
3
2
11
4 9
3 8
11
5 5
4 10 9
3 8
2 7
9
3 8
2
1
5
3 8
2 7
5
8
2
1 1
8
7
1
2
8
7
1
7
Exercise (77) descend the string-to-string shape in 3 step- flat 5th intervals.
1
7 1
2
8
7 1
2 2 2 2 2
5
11 5
12
11 5
6 6
8
14 8
13
8
7 7 7
4
10 4
10 4
10 4
10 4
10 4
10
11 5
11 5
11
12
5
6 12
9 9 3
9 9
8 2
8 2
8 8 2
9
8 2
91
8
11 5
2 2
9 3
11 5
12 6
3
14
12 5 6
3 3
14 8
12
13
3
8
12
13
14
14
13
6
13
14 8
14 8
6
13
14 8
14 8
6
13 7
14 8
13 7
7
14
8
13 7
7
14 8
13 13 13 7
12
10 4 10
7
12
11
4
7
12
10
9
7
12 12 6
10 4
9 3
6
11 5
3
6
11 5
10 4
9
8
6
11 5
10 4
9 3
8
7
4
9 3
8
7 1
9 3
8
7 1
3
8
7 1
11
1
7 1
7 1
7 1
7 1
7 1
7
The 1-2-3-4 Guitar System, Part 1
Exercise (78) ascend the string-to-string shape in 3½ step- perfect 5th intervals.
1
8
1
2 8
1
8 8
5
9
6 12
5
12
5
4
13
3 11 11 11 11
4
11
10
3
12
1
8
1 9
8
1 9
8
1
2 10
12
9
2
3
12
5
9
2 10
12
5 13
2
3
4
6
2
12
5 13
10
12
5 13
10
3
4
5 5 13
10
3
4
11
13
6
6
11
4
13
6 13
11
4
6 6 6 13
6 12
10
13
6
11
4
3
13
6 12
11
4 10
13
6 12
11
4 10
3
2
11
4 10
3 9
12
5
4 10
3 9
2
1
10
3 9
2
1
5
3 9
2 8
5
9
2 8
1
9
8
1
2
9
8
1
8
Exercise (79) descend the string-to-string shape in 3½ step- perfect 5th intervals.
1
8 1
2
9
8 1
2
1
2 2 2 2
5
12 5
13
5
6 6
4
11 4
11 4
11 4
11 4
11 4
11
13
10 3
10 3 3
5
2
9 9 9 9 2
10
9 2
92
9
12 5
2
10 3
12
13
2
10
12 5
2
10 3
12 5
13 6
3
12 5
13 6
11
5
13 13 6
13
11 4
6
13
12
11 4
6
13
12 5
4
10
6
13 13 6
11
10 3
6
12
11 4
10 3
6
12 5
3
9
6
12 5
11 4
10
9
8
4
10 3
9
8 1
10 3
9
8 1
3
9
8
12
1
8 1
8 1
8 1
8 1
8 1
8
Exercise (80) ascend the string-to-string shape in 4 step- minor 6th intervals.
1
9
1
2 10 9
1
2 9
1 1 1
5
10
6 13
5
13
5 5
4
14 14
12
4
3 12
4
12
4
2
11
13 13
1 10
9
1 10
9
1 10
2
3
13
5
10
2 2 2 11
13
5 14
11
3 12
6
11
3
13
5 14
11
3 12
13
5 14
11
3 12
4
5 5 14
6
6
12
14
6 14
12
4
14
6 6
6 13
4
6
12
4 11
14
6 13
3
14
6
12
4 11
14
6 13
12
4 11
3
2
12
4 11
3 10
13
5
4 11
3 10
2 9
11
3 10
2 9
5
3 10
2 9
9
1 10
2
9
1 10
9
1
9
Exercise (81) descend the string-to-string shape in 4 step- minor 6th intervals.
1
9 1
2
10
9 1
2 2 2 2
13 5
14 6 6
4
12 4
12 4
12 4
12 4
12 4
12
14 6
11 3
11 3
11 3
11 3
13 5
10 2
10 2
10 10 10 2 10
93
13 5
2 2
11
13 5
14
2
11 3
13 5
14 6
3
13 5
14
14
12
5
14 14 6
14
13
12 4
6
14
13 5
4
6
14 6
12
11
6
14 6
13
12 4
11 3
6
13 5 5
3
6
13 5
12 4
11
2 10
5
12 4
11 3
10
9
4
11 3
10
9 1
11 3
10
9 1
3
10
9 1
13
1
9 1
9 1
9 1
9 1
9 1
9
The 1-2-3-4 Guitar System, Part 1
Exercise (82) ascend the string-to-string shape in 4½ step- Major 6th intervals.
1
10
1
2 10 10 10 10
11
6 14
5 5
6 14
4
6
3 13
4
13
4
13
12
3
14
1 10 1 11
10
1 11
2 12
14
11
2
3 13
14
5
11
2 12
14
5 15
2
3
4
6
2
14
5 15
12
14
5 15
12
3
5 5 15
12
3 13
13
15
6 15
13
4
15
6 15
13
4 4
6 6 6 15
13
4 12
15
6 14
3
15
6 14
13
4 12
15
6 14
13
4 12
3
2
13
4 12
3 11
14
5 5
4 12
3 11
2
1
12
3 11
2
1
5
3 11
2 10
5
11
2
1 1
10
1 11
2
10
1 11
10
1
10
Exercise (83) descend the string-to-string shape in 4½ step- Major 6th intervals.
1
10 1
2
10 1
11 2
10 1 1
2
14 5
15
14 5
6
14
4
13 4
13 4
13 4
13 4
13 4
13
15
12 3
12 3
12 3 3
5
2
11 2
11 11 11 11 2
94
14 5
2
12
14
15
2
12 3
14 5
2
12
14 5
15 6
3
14 5
15 6
11
13
5
15 15 6
15
13 4
6
15 6
4
6
15
13
12
6
15 15 6
13 4
12 3
6
14 5
3
6
14 5
13 4
12
11
6
14 5
13 4
12 3
11 2
4
12 3
11
10
5
12 3
11 2
10 1
3
11 2
10
14
1
10 1
10 1
10 1
10 1
10 1 10
Exercise (84) ascend the string-to-string shape in 5 step- flat 7th intervals.
1
11
2
1
11
1
12
2 11
1 1 1
2
3 14
4 4
4
3
3
4 4
11
1
11
12 1
11
2 12 2
1 11 12
2 13
3 14
2
13
3 14
11
1 12
13
3 14
11
1 12
13
3 14
1 11 1 12
2 13
14
14
12
2 13
14
4 4
14
4
2 12 2 2 13
14 3
4
13
13
3 14
14
4
3
13
3 14
14
4 13
3 13 14
14
4 13
3 12
14
4 13
3 12
4 14 4 4
4 13
3 12
2 11
13
3 12
2 11
4
3 12
2 11
1 12
13
3
12
11
1
2 13
11
1
2
12
2
11
1
11
12 1
11
Exercise (85) descend the string-to-string shape in 5 step- flat 7th intervals.
1
11 1
2
12
11 1
2 2 2 2 2
5
15 5 5
16 6
15 5
4
14 4
14 4
14 4
14 4
14 4
14
16 6
13 3
13 3
13 3
13 3
13 3
5
15 5
15 5
2
15
12 1 2
12 2
12 2
12 12 2 12
95
15
16
2
13
15 5
16 6
3
15 5
16 6
14
5
16 16
16
14 4
6
16 6
4
6
16 6
15
14
13
6
16 16
14 4
13 3
6
15 5
3
6
15
14 4
13
12
6
15 5
14 4
13 3
12
11
4
13 3
12
11 1
13 3
12
11 1
3
12
11 1
11 1
11 1
11 1
11 1
11 1 11
The 1-2-3-4 Guitar System, Part 1
Exercise (86) ascend the string-to-string shape in 5½ step- Major 7th intervals.
1
12
1
2 12
1 1 1
4
2
3 15
4
2
4
3 15
3
1
12
1 13
12
1 13
2 14
15
13
2 14
15
4
13
2 2 14
15
4 14
14
3 15
3
14
3 15
15
4 14
14
3 15
15
4 14
3 13
15
4 14
3 13
15
4
4 14
3 13
2 12
14
3 13
2 12
4
3 13
2 12
4
13
2 12
1
12
1 13
2
12
1 13
12
1
12
Exercise (87) descend the string-to-string shape in 5½ step- Major 7th intervals.
1
12 1
2
12 1
13 2
12 1 1
2
15 4 4
14 3
15 4
13 2
12 1
12 1
13 2
12 1
13 2
15
1
13 13
14
15 4
2
14 3
4
2
14 3
15
15
14
2
14 14
15 4
14 3
3
15 4
3
3
15
15 4
14
13
3
15 4
15 4
14 3
13 2
4
14 3
13
12
4
14 3
13 2
12 1
3
13 2
12
12 1
13
12 1
12
Exercise (88) ascend the string-to-string shape in 6 step- Octave intervals.
1
13
1
2 13
1 1 1
4
2
3 16
4
2
4
3 16
3
1
13
1 14
13
1 14
2 15
16
14
2 15
16
4
14
2 2 15
16
4 15
15
3 16
3
15
3 16
16
4 15
15
3 16
16
4 15
3 14
16
4 15
3 14
16
4
4 15
3 14
2 13
15
3 14
2 13
4
3 14
2 13
4
14
2 13
1
13
1 14
2
13
1 14
13
1
13
Exercise (89) descend the string-to-string shape in 6 step- Octave intervals.
1
13 1
2
13 1
14 2
13 1 1
2
16 4
16 4
16 4
16 4
16 4
16
3
15
14 14 14 2
15 3
14 2
15
14 2
96
14
16 4
2
15 3
4
2
15 3
16
15
2
15 3
16 4
15 3
3
16 4
15
14
3
16 4
15 3
14 2
4
15 3
14
13
4
15 3
14 2
13 1
3
14 2
13
16
1
13 1
13 1
13 1
13 1
13 1
13
That concludes part 1 & 2 of the REVERSE MOTION section! You are now 2/3 of the way through this book. Good job! Hang in there just a little longer, there’s only one more section left for you to go through. When I do exercises like these myself, I find it’s easy to lose focus. If I’m not careful, I’ll end up just ‘noodling’ all over the fretboard with no rhyme or reason. And I find that this is especially true if I am not looking at TAB or notation to keep my attention. That’s another plus to actually reading through what may seem repetitive or redundant material; instead of you wandering off into some day-dream mode, reading helps you to retain that focus! These exercise aren’t exactly ‘brand new’, but the format is presented to you in a way that makes it easy to stay on track, and not lose focus. “KEEP YOUR EYES ON THE PRIZE”, as we sometimes hear, is a good way to look at it. The whole reason to practice in the 1st place is so that you can improve. The sense of accomplishment you get from learning something new, surpassing obstacles you’ve been stuck on in the past, etc.. those are great motivating , confidence building factors that you earn from time spent diligently on improving your ability. And sure proof that you are evolving in a forward direction. I remember when I was 16 years old, (naively) thinking how great of a player I was because I could play sweep arpeggios. And then thinking : “if I’m this good now, I can’t wait to see how good I am 10 years from now”. It’s almost 20 years since then, and I still ask myself the same question. And that keeps me practicing still to this day! Nothing helps you improve like repetition does. If you do something once or twice, then you kind of get it. But if you do something 1,000 times I guarantee it will be a LOT better than the 1st 100, or so trys. So it’s said that: “anything worth doing is worth doing right”. Very true, but also:
“Anything worth doing is worth doing twice”
...10, 50, 100, 1,000 times, etc... Practice doesn’t really make ‘perfect’ (is there
such a thing?), but it DOES make you more consistent! And being great consistently is better than being ‘perfect’ just once anyway. So keep at it! The following section: ALTERNATING MOTION, is formatted exactly like the previous sections. It’s the last one so let’s check it out! 97
The 1-2-3-4 Guitar System, Part 1
ALTERNATING MOTION
((part 1)
This section is formatted exactly the way the PARALLEL & REVERSE MOTION sections were. For example: all of the exercises ascend & descend through each of the frets (1-2-3-4-5-6-7, etc...12+). And they all have single, double, triple, & quadruple string skipping variations in the same manner as in the other sections. It’s the same basic flow of ascending from string to string, but this time you are reversing the motion every time you change a string in a zig-zag sort of way. ************************************************************************* Execute each fret fingering properly as explained in the ‘FORM & PRACTICE TIPS’ sections. *************************************************************************
1
2
2
1
2
1
1
2
1
2
2
1
2
1
1
2
1
2
2
1
2
1
1
2
1
2
2
1
2
1
1
2
1
2
2
1
2
1
1
2
1
2
2
1
2
1
1
2
Notice in Exercise (1) and (2) that you ascend, again string to string from your low (E6) string to your high (E1) in the same way that you have been doing. You can see how it works clearly in the TAB & notation examples, but to clarify: In Exercise (1) you play the (1-2) fretting pattern on one string, then the (2-1) fretting pattern on the next string. You continue this alternating fretting flow through the rest of this final section. And, of course, you do this all one finger at a time the same way as the PARALLEL & the REVERSE MOTION sections were done. 98
1
2
3
1
2
3
3
2
1
3
2
1
3
2
1
3
2
1
1
2
3
1
2
3
1
2
3
1
2
3
3
2
1
3
2
1
99
3
2
1
3
2
1
1
2
3
1
2
3
1
2
3
1
2
3
3
2
1
3
2
1
3
2
1
3
2
1
1
2
3
1
2
3
The 1-2-3-4 Guitar System, Part 1
1
2
3
4
1
2
3
4
4
3
2
1
4
3
2
1
1
2
3
4
5
1
2
3
4
5
4
3
2
1
4
3
2
1
1
2
3
4
1
2
3
4
5
4
3
2
1
5
4
3
2
1
1
2
3
4
1
2
3
4
4
3
2
1
4
3
2
1
1
2
3
4
5
1
2
3
4
5
100
4
3
2
1
4
3
2
1
1
2
3
4
1
2
3
4
5
4
3
2
1
5
4
3
2
1
1
2
3
4
1
2
3
4
4
3
2
1
4
3
2
1
1
2
3
4
5
1
2
3
4
5
4
3
2
1
4
3
2
1
1
2
3
4
1
2
3
4
5
4
3
2
1
5
4
3
2
1
5
4
3
2
1
5
4
3
2
1
1 2
3
4
5
1
3
4
5
2
5
4
3
2
1
5
4
3
2
1
1 2
3
4
5
1
3
4
5
2
5
4
3
2
1
5
4
3
2
1
1 2
3
4
5
1
3
4
5
2
6 5 4 3 2 1 1 2 3 4 5 6 6 5 4 3 2 1 1 2 3 4 5 6 6 5 4 3 2 1 1 2 3 4 5 6
1 2 3 4 5 6 6 5 4 3 2 1 1 2 3 4 5 6 6 5 4 3 2 1 1 2 3 4 5 6 6 5 4 3 2 1
1 1 1 6
5
4
3
2
1
6
5
4
3
2
1
2
3
4
5
6
1 2
3
4
5
6
6
5
4
3
2
1
6
5
4
3
2
1
101
2
3
4
5
6
1 2
3
4
5
6
6
5
4
3
2
1
6
5
4
3
2
1
2
3
4
5
6
1 2
3
4
5
6
The 1-2-3-4 Guitar System, Part 1
7 6 5 4 3 2 1 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 1 2 3 5 5 6 7
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 7 6 5 4 3 2 1
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 7 6 5 4 3 2 1
7 6 5 4 3 2 1 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
For Exercise (13x), continue up through frets 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, +, etc... Ascend & descend just like it has in all the previous exercises. These above the 7th fret (__x) exercises continue exactly the same way through the remainder of this book.
12 11 10
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10 11 12
102
9
8
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
Exercises (14) through (26x) are based on all the previous exercises. The only difference here is that you apply single string skipping. *Just the same as before*
2 1
1
2
1 2
2
1
2 1
1
2
1 2
2
1
2
1
2
2
1
1
2
1
2 1
1
1
2
2
2
1 2
2
2
1
1
2
1
1
1
2
2
2
1 1
3 3 3 1
2
3
1
2
3 3
2
2
2
2
3
1
2
3
1 3
2
1
2
3
1
2
3
1 1 3
2
1
3
2
1 1
2
2
2
2
1
3
2
1
3 1
2
3
2
1
3
2
1 2
1
1
2
1
1
2
2 2
1
1
2
1
1
2
3
3
2
1
1
2
3 3
2
1
1
2
3
1
2
3
3
3 1
103
2
2
1
3
3 3
2
2
1
1 3
1
2
2
2
1
1 1
1
1
3
2
1
3
2
1
3
The 1-2-3-4 Guitar System, Part 1
4 4 4 1
2
3
4
1 2
3
4 4
3
3
2
3
2
2
3
4
1
2
3
4
1 4
3
2
2
3
4
1 2
3
4
1 4
3
1 1 1 4
3
2
1
4
3
2
1
2
1
3
2
2
3
3
3
2
1
4
3
2
1
4 1
2
3
4
3
2
1
4
3
2
1
5 5 1
2
3
4
4
2
3
4
2
4
3
2
2
2
3
4
5
1
2
3
4
5
1
2
3
4
1 2
3
4 4
3
2
1
1
2
3
4
1
2
3
4
4
3
4
3
2
1
4
3
2
1
4
5
4
3
2
1
5
4
3
2
1
1
1 1
2
1
2
3
4
5
1
2
3
4
5
5
5 1
3
3
4 1
3
1
4
4 4
2
2
4 1 1 1 2
2
1
1 1
3
4
3
2
1
5
5
1
2
3
4
4
3
2
1
5 1 5
4
3
2
2
3
4
5
1 5
104
4
3
2
1
1 1
2
3
4
5 5
4
3
2
1
5
4
3
2
1
1
2
3
4
2
5
4
5
3
4
3
2
1
2
1 1
5
4
3
3
4
2
2
3
1
2
3
4
5
1
2
3
4
5
5
5
4
5
4
3
2
1
5
4
3
2
1
5
1 5 1
2
3
4
4
3
2
1
5 1
2
3
4
5
6 6 6
5
4
3
2
3
4
5
4
3
2
1 2 3
4
5
5
4
3
2
1
1
1 1 2
1 2
5
3
4
5
6
6
6
6 5 4 3 2 1
1 2 3 4 5 6 1 2 3 4 5 6
1 2 3 4 5 6
6 5 4 3 2 1 6 5 4 3 2 1
1 2 3 4 5 6 1 2 3 4 5 6 6 5 4 3 2
1 6 5 4 3 2
105
1
The 1-2-3-4 Guitar System, Part 1
1 2 1 2 1 2
3
4
5
4
3
2
4
5
4
3
2
3
4
5
6
6 6 5
6 5 6 5
3
6
4
3
2
1
1
1
1 2 3 4 5 6
6 5 4 3 2 1 6 5 4 3 2 1
6 5 4 3 2 1
1 2 3 4 5 6 1 2 3 4 5 6
6 5 4 3 2
1 6 5 4 3 2
1
1 2 3 4 5 6 1 2 3 4 5 6
7 6 5 4 3 2 1 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 7 6 5 4 3 2 1
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
1 2 3 4 5 6 7
7 6 5 4 3 2 1
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
1 2 3 4 5 6 7
7 6 5 4 3 2 1 7 6 5 4 3 2 1
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 7 6 5 4 3 2 1
106
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
7 6 5 4 3 2 1 7 6 5 4 3 2 1
7 6 5 4 3 2 1
1 2 3 4 5 6 7
7 6 5 4 3 2 1 7 6 5 4 3 2 1
7 6 5 4 3 2 1
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
7 6 5 4 3 2 1 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
For Exercise (26x), continue up through frets 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, +, etc... Ascend & descend like in previous exercises. Etc...Etc..Etc...Etc...Etc...Etc.. Etc...Etc........
12 11 10
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
9
8
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
10 11 12
107
The 1-2-3-4 Guitar System, Part 1
Exercises (27) through (39x) are based on all the previous exercises. Only here you apply double string skipping.
2 1
1 1
2
1 2
2
1
2
1
2 2
1
2
1
2
1
1
2
1
2 1
2
2
1
1
2
2
1
1
2
2
1
1 2 3
3
2
2
1
2
3
3
2
2
2
3
1
3
2
3
2
1
1
2
108
1
2
1
2
3
1
3 1
1
2
1 3
1
3
1
3 2
2
3
3 3
1
1 3
2
1
3
1
3
1 2
2
1
3
1 2
2
2
1 1
3
1
1 1 2
1 2
2
1
3 2
2 2
1 2
3 3
1
2
2
1
1
2
3
4 4 1
2
3
4
1
2
3
4
3
4
3
2
2
3
1
2
3
4
1
2
3
4
4
3
2
1
4
3
2
1 1
2
3
3
3
4
3
2
1
4
3
2
1
3
2
2
3
4
5
1 2
3
4
5 5
4
3
2
2
3
4
1
2
3
4 4
3
2
1
2
3
1
2
3
4
1
2
3
4
1
4
2
4
3
3
4
3
2
1
4
3
2
1
2
4
5
4
3
2
1
5
4
3
2
1
1 1
2
1
1 1
1
1
4
5 4
2
4
1
5
3
1
1 2
4 1
1
4
1
2
2
3
4
5
1 2
3
4
5
2
3
4
5
1 2
3
4
5
1 5
109
4
3
2
1
The 1-2-3-4 Guitar System, Part 1
1 1 5
4
3
2
1
5
4
3
2
1
2
1
3
2
3
4
4
2
3
4
1
2
3
4
5
1
2
3
4
5
5
5 5
4
3
2
1
5
4
3
2
1
5
4
3
2
1
5
4
3
2
1
5 1
2
3
4
5
6 6 6
5
4
3
2
5
4
3
2
1 2 1 2 1 2
3
4
5
5
4
3
2
1
1
1 3
4
5
3
4
5
6
6
6
1 2 3 4 5 6 1 2 3 4 5 6 1 2 3 4 5 6 6 5 4 3 2
1 6 5 4 3 2
1 6 5 4 3 2 1
1 1 1
2
3
4
5
2
3
4
5
6 6 6
5
4
3
2
1
6 5 4 3 2
1
2
3
4
5
6
6
6 5
4
3
2
1
6 5 4 3 2
1
5
4
3
2
1
6 5 4 3 2 1 1 2 3 4 5 6 1 2 3 4 5 6 1 2 3 4 5 6
110
7 6 5 4 3 2 1 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 7 6 5 4 3 2 1
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 7 6 5 4 3 2 1
7 6 5 4 3 2 1 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
For Exercise (39x), continue up through frets 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, +, etc... Ascend & descend. Etc...Etc..Etc...Etc...Etc...Etc.. Etc...Etc........
12 11 10
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
9
8
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
10 11 12
111
The 1-2-3-4 Guitar System, Part 1
Exercises (40) through (52x) are based on all the previous exercises. Apply triple string skipping.
2
2
1
1
1 2
1 2
1 2
1 2 2
1
2
3 3
2
2
2
2
2
3
2
1 2
2
3
2
3
2
2
2
3
1
2
1
1 2
3
2
2
4
4
4
4
3
2
3
2
2
1
1 2
112
3
3
4
3
4 2
1
1 2 3
4
1 4 3
4 3
2
1
4
1
1
4 1 2
1 2 3
1
1
4
1 2 3
2
3
1 3
3
1
1
3
1 2
1
3
1 2
2
3
1
3
3
4
4 3
2
2
1
4 3
1
1
3 3
1 2
1
2
1
1
1
2
2
1
3
1 3
1
2
1 1
1
1 2
1 2
3
2
1
4
5 1
2
3
4
5
1
2
3
4
5
4
5
4
1 5
4
3
2
1
5
4
3
2
1
3
2
1
6
3
3
2
5
3
4
3
2
2
4
4
2
1
2
3
4
5
1
2
3
4
5
2
3
4
5
6
1 2
3
4
5
6 6
5
4
3
2
113
4
3
2
1
5
4
3
2
1
1
2
3
4
5
1
2
3
4
5
1
5 5
4
3
2
1
5
4
3
2
1
5
6
5
4
3
2
1
6
5
4
3
2
1
1 1
1
5 1
2
3
4
5
6
1 2
3
4
5
6
1
The 1-2-3-4 Guitar System, Part 1
1 6
5
4
3
2
1
6
5
4
3
2
1
2
1
7 1
2
3
4
5
6
7
1
2
3
4
5
6
7 7
1
3
2
6
6
2
4
3
5
5
3
4
4
4
4
3
3
5
5
5
2
2
6
6
5
4
3
2
1
6
5
4
3
2
1
6
5
4
3
2
1
7
6
5
4
3
2
1 2
3
4
5
6
3
4
5
6
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
1 1
2
3
4
5
6
7
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
1
7
7 1
2
6
7 7
1 6
6
6
5
4
3
2
1
5
4
3
2
1
7
114
For Exercise (52x), continue up through frets 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, +, etc... Ascend & descend. Etc...Etc..Etc...Etc...Etc...Etc.. Etc...Etc........
12 11 10
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
9
8
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
10 11 12
Exercises (53) through (65x) are based on all the previous exercises. Apply quadruple string skipping.
2
1
2
3
2
1
2
2
1
1
2
4
2
1
1 2
3
2
2
1
3
2
2
115
1
4 3
1
1
2
2
3
3
2
1
3
4
4 3
2
1
1
1 2
3
2
1
4
4
2
1
1
3
3
1
3
3
4
1 2
1
2
3
1
1
2
2
3
1
1 2
3
4
The 1-2-3-4 Guitar System, Part 1
5
1
2
3
4
4
4
3
2
2
3
4
5
5
4
3
4
5
2
6
5
4
3
2
3
4
2
4
3
3
2
3
4
5
5
5
4
3
2
5
4
3
2
1
1
2
3
4
5
1
2
1
1
2
3
4
5
6
4
5
6
6
5
4
3
2
6
5
4
3
2
1
1 2 3
4
5
6
1
2
3
4
5
6
1
2
3
4
5
6
1
1
7
7
7
1 2 3
7 6
1
6
7
1 2 3
2
5
1
6
1
1
6
1
2
5
1
5
3
4
5
6
7
1
116
7 6
5
4
3
2
6
5
4
3
2
1
1 2 3
4
5
6
7
1
For Exercise (65x), continue up through frets 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, +, etc... Ascend & descend. Etc...Etc..Etc...Etc...Etc...Etc.. Etc...Etc........
12 11 10
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
9
8
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
10 11 12
************************************************************************* Again, unless you have 7 or more strings on your guitar, this will exhaust most fret to fret combinations in the 1st part of the Alternating Motion sequences.
“Men succeed when they realize that their failures are the preparation for their victories.” -Ralph Waldo Emerson
117
The 1-2-3-4 Guitar System, Part 1
118
119
The 1-2-3-4 Guitar System, Part 1
ALTERNATING MOTION
((part 2)
Exercise (66) through (89) are different than the previous exercises in that they make use of arpeggio phrasing instead of linear phrasing. They carry the same ascending/ descending approach as well as moving up and down in position. This section is similar to the PARALLEL & REVERSE MOTION ((part part 2) sections. But this time it gets a little crazier and you’ll find that your position shifting will be put to the test here. You will be changing position, interval, & string every time you play a new note. And as the intervals grow, this section starts to get pretty tough to play. I mentioned earlier in the “THOUGHTS “THOUGHTS ON SLIDING” SLIDING section a little about applying BOTH ‘sliding & non-sliding techniques’ to all of these exercises. Well that certainly applies here. Try to make all of your shifts without sliding at all. Concentrate on ‘snapping’ ‘snapping ‘snapping snapping’’ from one fret to the next without making any fret noises. Then try it also with a lot of emphasis on getting full slides from position to position. You’ll notice a really cool phrasing effect that you get from sliding around the fretboard that way. For Example, if you were to apply the sliding technique to the upcoming; Exercise (86), it might look like this:
((1) 1) 1
((12) 12 12
(1) 1
(12) 12
(1) 1
12
1 (1)
12 (12)
1 (1)
12 (12)
1 (1)
12
2
13
2
13
2
13
2
13
2
13
2
13
The notes in parenthesis ( ), would be where you start your slide to the next note. The / indicates a slide up & the \ indicates a slide down. I left the ( ) symbols out of the 2nd half of the measure (so it wouldn’t look so cluttered). Just like in the PARALLEL & REVERSE MOTION sections, Exercises (66)
and (67) both move up in position one fret at a time, chromatically (minor 2nd intervals or by ½ tones). But this time it happens every time you fret a new note! This section is probably the most challenging one to play in this whole book, especially as the intervals grow wider apart. But take your time, stay cool, and play them all as accurately as possible, with one finger at a time. 120
Exercise (66) ascend the string-to-string shape in ½ step- minor 2nd intervals.
2
1
1
4 2 1
1
6 4 3
2
1
4 3 4
9 10
5
10
6
11
13 15
16 15
14
6
7
8
4
8
7
5
2
6
1
1 3
2
2 4
1
1
4
5
10
4
3
6 8
9
9
3
3 6
10
10 12
4
5
7
11
5
9
9 11
6
6
10
10 12
5
5 7
9
9 11
12 14
8
10 12
11 13
7
7
16
12 11 11 12 14
16 13
8
15
14 15
13
13 15
16
16
13
14
14 16
15
15 13
14 13 16
16
16 14
14 12
16 15 15 16
15 13
13
10 11
15
8
14
14 12
12
9
7
7
16 15
13 11
11 9
8
8
5
12
12 10
7
7
14 13
11 9
8
6
12 11
9 10 9
8
8
6
3
7
7 5
5
4 2
8 6
6
3
1
5
5
4 2
10
3
3
2
3
2
2
3
4
1
1
2
Exercise (67) descend the string-to-string shape in ½ step- minor 2nd intervals.
1
2 2
3
1 1
4 4
2
3 4 3 4
9
6
9 9
12
9
11
13
15 15
14 14
16 16 15
16
8 7 7
8 8
7 7
8 7
12
9 9
10 10
12
9 9
12 11
6 6
5 5
6 6
5
3
4 4
3 3
4 3 3
5
4 4
121
3
10 10
4
6 6
10 10
11 11
5 5
9
11 12
14
16 16 15
12
14 13
8
15 15
11
13 13
7
8
14
12
14 14
16 15
16 16
11
13 13
15
15 15
14 13
16 13 16
16 16
13
12 11
15
7
14 15 13 14 14
12
9
8 8
13
11
10 10
7 7
14
12 12
8
5
13
11 11
9
8
6 6
12
10 10
7 7
5 5
3
10 11 10
8 8
6
4
1
7
5 5
3
2 2
6 6
4
1 1
5
3
2
9
1
2 2
1 1
2 2
1 1
2 2
1
The 1-2-3-4 Guitar System, Part 1
Exercise (68) ascend the string-to-string shape in 1 step- Major 2nd intervals.
3
1
4
1
3 1 1 3
4
8 7
7
5 7
11
8
10 9
11
9
9
12
10
14 12 12
13 14
14 14 12
9
10 8
6 4 6 4 6
8
4
5 6
3 4
5 6
3 5 6
3
7
6
4 2 4 2 3
4 5
122
2
7 5 7
7 8
5
5
5 7 5 6
3
11
8
5
9
6
3
11
8
8 9
9
9
6
6 8 7
11
11 12
6
7
4
10
9
9
9 10
7
9 10
11 9 11 12
9
7 8
14
10
7
7 9 10
12
12
12 13
8
14
12 10 10 12 10
11
10
12
14 13 12
11
8
8 10 8
11
13
13 14
14
12 11
11
11 12
14 12 12 14 13
13
13 14
10
11
11
11 12
12
8
13
13 12
10
8
11
11 13 11
11 10
10
9
13
8
10
7
12
10
8 7
10
10
8
10 9
12
12 11
10 8 7
12 10 11
6
9
9
6
4
4
7
7 6
9
9 11 9
4
9 7 9 8
8
5
5
6
6
6
6
3
8
8 7
4
4 3
6
6 5
6
6 5
5
2
4
4 3
3 2
5
7 5
6 5
5 4
4
1
3
3 2
2
3
5
5 4
4 3
7
2
2
3 1
5
5
7
2
3 4
1 2
3 4
1 2
3 4
1
1 3 1 3 1 3
Exercise (69) descend the string-to-string shape in 1 step- Major 2nd intervals.
1
3 3
2
4
1 1
4 2 4 2 4
5
7 7 7
8 8 6 8
9
9
9 9
12 12
11 11 9
11 11
10
12 12
11
13
14
12 12
13 11
10 10
9 7
4
6 6
4 4
6 6
4 4
6 6
4
8 6
5 5
3 3
5 5
3 5
5 5
7 7
8
4 2 2
4 2 4 2
7 7
4 4
5 5
2 2
123
7 7
6
4
3
5
6 8 6 8
11 11 9
8
3
5
9 9
6
7
3
11
8
9 9
11
12
6
7 9 7
8
9 9
12 10
9
10 10
11 11
10 10
7
8 8
12 9 12
9
10 10
14 14 12
10
13
7
8 8
12
12
13 11
8
12
11
10
11
14
14 14
12
13
14 12
12 12
10
11 11
14 14
13 13
13
14
8
13 12 11 13 11
12
14 11 14
8 10 10
13
12 10
12
10 8
11
10
9
10
7
13
12 12
8 8
11
10 10
9
10 10
9 9
4
8
7 7
11 10 11
9 7 9
6
6 6
7
8
5
4
9
6
7 7
4
3
7
6 8
6 6
5 5
6
5 5
3
8
7
4 4
3
2
6
5 5
6 6
5 5
4
1
4
3 3
2
3 3
5 5
4
1 1
3
2
3 3
5
1
3 3
1 1
3 3
1 1
3 3
1
The 1-2-3-4 Guitar System, Part 1
Exercise (70) ascend the string-to-string shape in 1½ step- minor 3rd intervals.
4
1
1
5 4 1 1 4
8
5
9 8
8
5 8
12
10
9
9 12
12
10
10 11
11
8
8
7 4 4 7 4
7 10
4
6 7
3 4
6 7
3 4
6 7
3
8
5 2 5 2 3
5 6
124
2
5 8
8 9
3
8
8 5 6
3
5
5 6
6
6
12
9
6
9
9
9
7
12
9
6
6 9 6
10 11
13
9
9
12
10
10
12
9 10
7
7
9
9 12 13
10
10 11
11
10
7
7 8
8
13
13 13
8
8 11 8
11
8
12
10 13 10
12 10
7
10
13
13
9
8
11
7
10
10 9
11
7
13
13 12
11
8
13 10
10 9
8
11 10
13 10
9 12 9
11 8 7
10
6
7
10
7 6
4
4
7
7 10 9
9
5
6
6
6
7
7
3
9
9 8
4
4 3
6
6 5
7
7 6
6
2
4
4 3
3 2
5
5
7 6
6 5
5
1
3
3 2
2
4
8
6 5
5 4
5
2
2
4 1
5
5
8
2
4 5
1 2
4 5
1 2
4 5
1
1 4 1 4 1 4
Exercise (71) descend the string-to-string shape in 1½ step- minor 3rd intervals.
1
4 4
2
5
1 1
5
4
2 5 2 5
5
8 8
9
5
6 9
9 9 9
13 13
12 12 9
12 12
10
11 11
10
8
11
7
4
7 7
4 4
7 7
4 4
7 7
4
9 9
9 6
3
6 6
3 3
6 6
3 6
8 8
5 5
5 5
2 2
5 2 5 2
8 8
2
5
125
5 5
9
2
3
8 8
6
5
9
5
6 9 6 9
12 12
9
10
6
13
7
3
12 12
6
7 10
9 9
9
10 10
8
12 12
6
7 7
8
8
9
13 10
10
11 11 11
13 10 13 10
7
8 8
11 11
10
13 10
8
8
13
13
9
8
7
10
10
11 11
13
13 13
8 8
10
10 10
9
11 11
10 10
4
8
7 7
12 10 12
10 7 10 10
6
7 7
7
9
5
4 4
10
6
8 8
7
3
7
6 9 9
7
6 6
6
5
4 4
3 3
9
8 8
6
2
6
5 5
7 7
6
5
1
4
3 3
2
4 4
6 6
5
1 1
3
2
4
5
1
4 4
1 1
4 4
1 1
4 4
1
The 1-2-3-4 Guitar System, Part 1
Exercise (72) ascend the string-to-string shape in 2 step- Major 3rd intervals.
5
1
1
6 5
5 5 1
9
2
10 9
9 5
10 9
13
11
6
9 13
10 9
13
9
9
8 12
8
11
7
4 8 4
7 8
3 4
7 8
3 4
7 8
3
9 13
9 10
9
9
5
10 5
6 7
2 3
6 7
2 6 2
5
5 6
3
7
9
9
6
3
5
5 6
10 11
4
13
10
6
12 7
8
9
9
10 6 10 11
13
13 14
6
7
8
4
10
7
9
9 10
11
11 12
13 9 13 14
11 7 7
12
10
14 14
8
8
14
10 10
12
12
8
14 10 10 14
14
12 8 8 12
8
12 11
14
13 10
8
7
10
10
12
8 7
14
14 13
8
12 11
14 10
9 13 9
12 8 7
11 10
8
11
7 6
4
4
7
7 11 10
8
8 7
6
6 5
3
10
10 9
4
4 3
6
6 5
8
8 7
7 6
4
4 3
3 2
5
5
8 7
7 6
6 5
3
3 2
2 1
5
7 6
6 5
9
2
2 1
1
9
2
5 6
1 2
5 6
1 5 1
1 2
5 6
1
“Dig the well before you are thirsty.” -Chinese Proverb
126
5 1 5
Exercise (73) descend the string-to-string shape in 2 step- Major 3rd intervals.
1
5 5
2
2 1
6 6
5 5
2 1
6
9 9
10
5
9 9
6
9 9 9
14 14
13 13 9
13 13
10
9
8 8 8 12
11 11
12
8 8
4 4
8 8
4 4
8 4
5 5
9 9
10
5 5
10 6
7 3 3
7 7
3
2
6 6
2 2
6 2 2
3
6 2
127
2
9 9
6
7 7
9 9
6 6
7
9
10 5 10
3
13 13
6
11
3
9 9
10
11 7
4
14
6
7 7
13 13
10
11
12 8
9 9
6
7
8 8
13 13
14 10
7
12 8
9
10 10
11
12
8
14 10 14
14
12 7 12
8 12
14
14 10
8
7
10
10
12 12
14
14 14
8 8
10
10 10
9
12 12
11 11
4
8
7 7
13 10 13
11 7 11 11
6
8 8
7
10 10
4 4
11
6
5
8
3
7
6 10 10
8
7 7
6
5
4 4
3 3
10
9 9
7
2
6
5 5
8 8
7
6 6
4
3 3
2 2
2
5
7 7
6
5 5
3
2 2
5
1
5 5
1 1
5 5
1 1
5 5
1
The 1-2-3-4 Guitar System, Part 1
Exercise (74) ascend the string-to-string shape in 2½ step- perfect 4th intervals.
6
2
1
7 6
6 1
6
1
10
7 7
11 10
10
5 10
13
6 11
12 13 8 8
8
13
9
12
8 9 4
4
7
8
10 5 10
6 7
1
1 2
6
6 7
1
1
7
3
5
5
2
2 7 3
10
10 11
2
8 9
6
8
5
5 6
3
3
9
10 5 10 11
8
8 9
13
6
3
3 4
8
11
11
7
13
8
6
6 11 7
4
4 9 4
12
6
12
8
13
7
11
13
8 7
12
8
13 12
7
7
13
13 8 7
12
12 13
9
12
7
7
13 8
4
4
7
12
6
8
8
12 7 12 7
11
5
8
11
9
9
3
6
6
4
4 3
11
11 10
8
6
6 5
9
9
8
2
4
4 3
3 2
5
5
9 8
8
7 6
3
3 2
2 2
5
8 7
7
6
10
2
2 2
2
2
6
6 7
1
1
6
Exercise (75) descend the string-to-string shape in 2½ step- perfect 4th intervals.
1
6 6
2
1 1
7 7 2
1 1
2
10 10
11
10 10
6 11
8
13 13
12 12
13 13
8 8
12
4
9 9
4 4
9 9
4 4
9 9
4
10 10
5 5
6 6
10 10
11
5 5
11 6
8 8
3 3
2
7 2 2
3
7 7
8
2 2
3
7 7
128
2
10 10 5
7
8 8
8
11 5 11
3
8
13 13
6
7
3
8
11
12 12
8
7
6
7 7
8
13 13
11
12
13 13
8 8
6
7 7
13 13
12 12
4
8
7 7
7
8 8
12 7 12 12
6
9 9
7
11
5
4
12
6
4
3
7
6 11 11
9 9
8 8
6
5 5
3
11
10 10
4 4
3
2
6
5 5
9 9
8 8
7 7
4
3 3
2
1
5
8 8
7 7
6 6
3
2
6 6
1
6 6
1 1
6 6
1 1
6 6
1
Exercise (76) ascend the string-to-string shape in 3 step- flat 5th intervals.
7
1
8
1
7 1 1 7
8
12 11
11
5 11
14
12
13 14
8
14 14
10
13
9 4
4
10
8
5
3
11
2
7
2
8
1
1
8
2
7
7
2
8
1
1
8 9
11
12 5
9
3
5
11
6
3
9
11
5 6
9
3
10
11 5 5 11 12
3
3 9 10
14
6
12
7
4
8
12
6 7
10
14
8
12 6 13
4
4 10 4
13
6
13
8
8
14
7
12
7 8
14
8 7
7
8
14 13
13
13
14
14 8 7
7
7 8
10
13
13
6
4
4
7
7 6
8
8 14
13 7 13 12
12
5
9
6
6
10
10
3
12
12 11
4
4 3
6
6 5
10
10 9
9
2
4
4 3
3 2
5
11 5
10 9
9 8
8
1
3
3 2
2
7
5
9 8
8 7
11
2
2
7 1
2
7
7
2
8
1
1
7
Exercise (77) descend the string-to-string shape in 3 step- flat 5th intervals.
1
7 7
2
8
1 1
8 2 8 2 8
5
11 11
12
11 11
6 12
8
14 14
13 13
14 14
13
14 14
4
10 10
4 4
10 10
4 4
10 10
4
14 14
12
11 11
5 5
6 6
11 11
12
5 5
12 6
9 9
3 3
9 9
3 3
9
2
8 8
2 2
8 2 2
8 8
129
11 11 5
8
3
8
12 5 6
7
3
9
8
12
13 13
8
7
6
7 7
8
14 14
12
13
8 8
8 8
6
7 7
14 14
13 13
4
8
7 7
7
8 8
13 7 13 13
6
10 10
7
12
5
4
13
6
4
3
7
6 12 12
10 10
9 9
6
5 5
3
12
11 11
4 4
3
2
6
5 5
10 10
9 9
8
1
4
3 3
2
7 7
9 9
8
1 1
3
2
7 7
2
1
7 7
1 1
7 7
1 1
7 7
1
The 1-2-3-4 Guitar System, Part 1
Exercise (78) ascend the string-to-string shape in 3½ step- perfect 5th intervals.
8
1
9
1
8 1 1 8
9
13 12
12
5 12
11
13
10 11 4 11
11
4
10
11
10
12
8
1
1 2
8
8 9
1
1
9
3
5
9
2 3
12
5
2
9
10
4
13
2
3
5
12
6
9
12
5 6
3
5
12 13
10
10
4
12 5 6
3
3
11
11
13
13
6
4
4
6
6 6
4
4
13 6 13 13
13
5
10
6
6
11
11
3
13
13 12
4
4 3
6
6 5
11
11 10
10
2
4
4 3
3 2
5
12 5
11 10
10 9
9
1
3
3 2
2
8
5
10 9
9 8
12
2
2
8 1
2
8
8
2
9
1
1
8
Exercise (79) descend the string-to-string shape in 3½ step- perfect 5th intervals.
1
8 8
2
9
1 1
9 2
1 1
2
12 12
13
12 12
6 13
4
11 11
4 4
11 11
4 4
11 11
4
13
10 10
3 3 3
5
2
9 2 9 2 2
3
9 9
130
12 12
9
10 10
5
6
2
3
12 12
9
10 10
5 5
13 13
3
12 12
6 6
2
4
5
6 13 13
6
11 11
6
13
5
4
13
6
4
3
6
6 13 13
11 11
10 10
6
5 5
3
13
12 12
4 4
3
2
6
5 5
11 11
10 10
9 9
4
3 3
2
1
5
10 10
9 9
8 8
3
2
8 8
5
1
8 8
1 1
8 8
1 1
8 8
1
Exercise (80) ascend the string-to-string shape in 4 step- minor 6th intervals.
9
1
1
10 9
9 9 1
13
2
14 13
5
13
13 5
12
14 14
4
4
11 12
12
4
4
10
11
5 13
9 10
1
1 2
9
9 10
10
3
13
5
2
2 10 2 3
5
13 14
11
11 12
6
3
3
13
5 6
11
11 12
5
13 14
3
3 4
4
13 5 6
14
6
12
14
6 6
4
4
6
6 14
14 13
12
14
12
12 11
6
6 5
3
14
14
4
4 3
6
6 5
12
12 11
11 10
4
4 3
3 2
5
12 11
11 10
10 9
3
3 2
2 1
5
11 10
10 9
13
2
2 1
1
1
1 2
2
9
9 10
1
1
9
Exercise (81) descend the string-to-string shape in 4 step- minor 6th intervals.
1
9 9
2
1 1
10 10 2
1 1
2
13 13
14
13 13
6
5
4
12 12
4 4
12 12
4 4
12 12
4
14
11 11
3 3
11 11
3 3
11
10 2 2
10 2 10 2
13 13
10 10
5 5
2 2
131
13 13
6
10
11 3
5 5
14 14
3
13 13
6 6
4
5
6 14 14
6
12 12
6
14 14
4
14
6
4
3
6
6 14 14
12 12
11 11
6
5 5
3
14
13 13
4 4
3
2
6
5 5
12 12
11 11
10 10
4
3 3
2
1
5
11 11
10 10
9 9
3
2
9 9
5
1
9 9
1 1
9 9
1 1
9 9
1
The 1-2-3-4 Guitar System, Part 1
Exercise (82) ascend the string-to-string shape in 4½ step- Major 6th intervals.
10
1
1
11 10
10 10 1
14
2
15 14
14 5
15 14
13
6
12 13
4
13
13 4
12
13
3
14
10
1
1 2
10
10 11
11 12
5
11
2 3
14
5
2
11
12
5
14 15
11
3 4
6
2
14
5 6
3
5
14 15
12
12
14 5 6
3
3 4
13
15
15 15
4
4
6
6 6
4
4 13
15 6 15 15
13
13 12
6
6 5
3
15
15 14
4
4 3
6
6 5
13
13 12
12 11
4
4 3
3 2
5
5
13 12
12 11
11 10
3
3 2
2 1
5
12 11
11 10
14
2
2 1
1
1
1 2
2
10
10 11
1
1
10
Exercise (83) descend the string-to-string shape in 4½ step- Major 6th intervals.
1
10 10
2
1 1
11 11
10 10 1 1
14
5
5
14
14 14 5
4 13
4 4
13 4 13 4
15
15 14
6
13
3 12
15
6
12
2
15
12
2 11 2 2
11 11
132
2
14
5 14 5
5 6
2
3
4
14 15
11
13 13
5 6
11
12 3 12
6
15
3 3 3
15
4 4
6 6
12
3
15 15
13 13
12 12
6 6
4 4
3 3
6 5
13
6
15 14
4
15 6 5
13
2
13 13
12 12
11 11
4
3 3
2 2
5
12 12
11 11
10 10
3
2 2
1
14
14 15
5
11
1
5 14
10 10
1 1
10 10
1 1
10 10
1
Exercise (84) ascend the string-to-string shape in 5 step- flat 7th intervals.
11
1
1
12 11
11
13 12
12 11
11 1
12
5 15
5
6 16
16
13
14
4
4
5 15
15
5
16 5
15
12 2 2
11 12 2
2 3 13
11
11 12
1
1
12
3
1
1
12 13
13 14
6
3
3
15
5
6
13
13 14
16
3
3 4
15 5 5 15
16 16
14
12
6
6 6
4
14 4
2
2
16
16
15 6
14
13
6
6
5
4
3
16
16 15
12
12
16 6
6 5
2
2 3
16 6 15
12
12 13
13
2
2
2 3
3 2
15 5 15
12 13
13 12
12 11
3
3 2
2 1
5
2
2 1
1
2
2
11
11 12
1
1
11
Exercise (85) descend the string-to-string shape in 5 step- flat 7th intervals.
1
11 11
2
12
1 1
12
11 11 1
2
15 5
3
5
13
15 5
16
16
14 14
4 4
14 14
4 4
14 14
4
3
13 13
3 3
13 13
3 3
6
15
15
5
16 5
2
12 12
2 2
12 2 12 12 2
133
5
5 6
2
3
15
15 16
12
13 13
5 6
16 16
2
15 5 16
6 6
12 12
16
15 6
4
2
3
6 6
6 5
2
16 6 16
16 15
12 12
13
2
6 5
2 2
3
16 6 15
15
12 12
13 13
12 12
2
3 3
2
1
5
13 13
12 12
11 11
3
2 2
1
15
1
11 11
1 1
11 11
1 1
11 11
1
The 1-2-3-4 Guitar System, Part 1
Exercise (86) ascend the string-to-string shape in 5½ step- Major 7th intervals.
12
1
1
13 12
12 12 1
15
2
14 15
15
13
4
14 15
3
12
1
1 2
12
12 13
13 14
15
13
2 3
4
4
2
2 13 14
15
15 14
3
3 4
3
14
14 15
4
4 3
3
3 4
15
15 14
14 13
4
4 3
3 2
4
4
15 14
14 13
13 12
3
3 2
2 1
4
14 13
13 12
15
2
2 1
1
1
1 2
2
12
12 13
1
1
12
Exercise (87) descend the string-to-string shape in 5½ step- Major 7th intervals.
1
12 12
2
1 1
13 13
12 12 1 1
15
4
4
15
15
2
14
3
3 4
4
15
15
14
3 4
4
14
14
4
13
1
13
4 15
12 12
13
3
3
1 1
2 2
14
15
15
2 2
14 15
3
13 3
12 12
13 13
4
4
2 14
15
15 14
3
14
4
4 3
3
13 13
15 14
14
2 2
3
3
13 13
12 12
14
2 2
1
1 1
2
12 12
1
Exercise (88) ascend the string-to-string shape in 6 step- Octave intervals.
13
1
1
14 13
13 13 1
16
2
15 16
16
14
4
15 16
3
13
1
1 2
13
13 14
14 15
16
14
2 3
4
4
2
2 14 15
16
16 15
3
3 4
3
15
15 16
4
4 3
3
3 4
16
16 15
15 14
4
4 3
3 2
4
4
16 15
15 14
14 13
3
3 2
2 1
4
15 14
14 13
16
2
2 1
1
1
1 2
2
13
13 14
1
1
13
Exercise (89) descend the string-to-string shape in 6 step- Octave intervals.
1
13 13
2
1 1
14 14
13 13 1
2
16 16
4 4
16 16
4 4
16 16
4
3
15
14 2 14 14
15 15
2 2
3
14 14
134
2
16 16
2
3 3
4
14
15 15
4
3
2
3 3
16 16
15 15
15
4 4
3
2
3
16 16
15 15
14 14
4
3 3
2
1
4
15 15
14 14
13 13
3
2 2
1
4
1
13 13
1 1
13 13
1 1
13 13
1
“’
’ HAS MORE TALENT IN ONE FINGER THAN...
...than all of ________ combined”. Hahah, you can fill in the blanks with any childish antics that you can think of. But isn’t there a little merit in that way of thinking? What if you could play even a good portion of a J.S.Bach, Mozart, or Beethoven piece with just one finger? It’s a stretch considering the difficulty and use of chord tones involved in some of them. But I think you get the idea. What if you COULD do more with just one finger than most people can do with all of theirs? And more importantly; what if you had that kind of ability in ALL of your fingers & not just one or two? The answer seems pretty clear doesn’t it? By getting the very most out of each finger means that it’s freeing up your other fingers so they can be available to do ‘other musical tasks’. And let’s face it; if you really want to get better as a player, you should distribute an equal amount of attention to ALL of your fingers & strive to get as much out of each one as you can. It doesn’t matter what skill level you are at as a player. The logic in this study should be apparent as it is applicable across the whole spectrum of guitar playing & practice (and any stringed instrument for that matter). For example; try to apply this ‘One Finger’ method to all of the scales that you know or are learning. Try to play melodies & even solo lines with just one finger. Once you can do this easily, think about what else you COULD be doing with some of your idle fingers. You may stumble across some cool ideas that you may not have thought of if you had never tried it out. There is much to be drawn from the guitar, and music in general. If you look in the right places you never know what great thing you might discover next. And hopefully this book will (at the very least) give you some new paths to explore, a little bit of inspiration, and a promising means to unlock your own musical creativity. 135
The 1-2-3-4 Guitar System, Part 1
FINAL “ NOTES “ If you have made it through this book applying each finger separately as indicated, I applaud you for taking the time & these extra steps towards improving your playing. It’s one thing to WANT to get better as a player, but it’s another thing all together to actually make the effort & TRY to get better. I feel that this truly is an exhaustive study on the possible variations of fretting hand motion. And to apply these simple chromatic-based motions to other aspects of your playing (scales, chords, arpeggios, etc...) will no doubt expand your overall perspective of how you could play any musical phrase. In other words, your musical vocabulary and sense of direction will continue to grow depending on how much time you spend with your instrument & applying these motions to further studies & “real musical situations”. Application is where things really start to fall into place. It’s definitely good to look at things from an analytical point-of-view. There you can learn and understand what makes things ‘tick’. But put all these theories into practice as often as you can, see what works, and what doesn’t seem to work. Music expresses things that cannot be fully translated into words. That said, open your mind & ears while you play! And pay close attention to the overall effect your playing has from the smallest microcosm of nuance to the biggest picture you can possibly ‘see & hear’.
MY INTENTIONS
These studies were not initially designed to sell. This is just something that I feel inclined to share with those who have the same enthusiasm for stringed instruments as I do. This is my personal approach to improving my own playing, & how I work on weaknesses & flaws I see within myself. I have always felt that amongst all of the things I’ve learned through: books I’ve read, videos I’ve watched, concerts I’ve attended, people I’ve played with, and my own practice time; there are still a lot of ‘holes’ within my understanding of how things work, or don’t work. It’s these ‘gray areas’, these holes in my logic where my flaws seem to live. And I believe that if you can identify what your short-comings are, then you can devise a plan to not only strengthen those weaknesses, but build them into your strengths! 136
This System was mainly created to close in those gaps & holes I have in my understanding of how music ‘works’. I find the more I work on these same exercises, the more connected all these concepts about music seem to be. And ultimately the better player I become. I feel if these ideas and approaches work for me, then it has to be useful to other players as well. That’s when I decided to write these books and share my ‘1-2-3-4 System’. It always seems to me that when beginners start playing, they try to learn songs that they like, or maybe some relatively easy riff that they are being taught. While this does work eventually, there is a lot of headache and initial frustration when their fingers just won’t cooperate. So exercises like these would be ideal for giving them the freedom to move about the fretboard, getting them familiar with all of these shapes that they WILL inevitably be using. From that point they’ll know HOW to make their fingers move, then the next step would be to figure out WHAT notes they should play. That’s where learning scale & chord theory can be introduced with a more “ready mindset”. Sometimes we find ourselves trying to “run before we can walk”, and that will surely cause a bumpier road & lot more ‘falling’ along the way.
Before driving a car in traffic, don’t you think it’s a good idea to know a few basic road rules and where the accelerator, breaks, turn signals & mirrors are?
************************************************************************* The foundation of learning the “1-2-3-4 Finger System” will prove to be immensely helpful when applying the same principles to actual scales & chords. You will immediately recognize shapes and patterns for what they are and the intervals that they are made up of; because you will have already combed over every pattern with each & every finger many, many, MANY times. It really is a bullet-proof way to learn the guitar from its simplest to the most complex forms if you just stick to it. So the next logical step is to advance to the TWO FINGER, the THREE FINGER, & the FOUR FINGER Books. You will find that as you add more fingers to the routine, your fingering options and amount of exercises will increase exponentially. The fingerings will get much more difficult for you to execute. But by building up each finger individually in this One Finger study, you will find that you will progress much faster when you finally start adding additional fingers into the routine. I’ll see ya’ in the next one! 137
The 1-2-3-4 Guitar System, Part 1
138
139
The 1-2-3-4 Guitar System, Part 1
BONUS MATERIAL I wanted to give you a few more options to consider. While this book is aimed at the isolation and utilization of ONE FINGER only, I wanted to show you a few other ways you could look at these exercises. For example: you can apply all FOUR of your fingers to these exercises. Take a look at Exercise (1) from the PARALLEL MOTION section:
1
2
1
1
2
1
2
1
2
2
1
2
1
2
1
2
1
2
1
2
1
2
1
2
You could apply a 1-2, 1-2-3, or 1-2-3-4 fingering, using each of your fingers. You still move your 1st finger; as indicated by ( ) in the same way. But add the other fingers as well. This applies for the entire book!
(1)
(1)
2
2
3
(2)
(2)
3
(1) 2 3 4 (2) 3 4 5
(1)
3
4
(1)
2
2
3
(2)
(2)
3
3
4
(1) 2 3 4 (2) 3 4 5
140
(1)
(1)
2
2
3
(2)
(2)
(1)
3
3
4
(1) 2 3 4 (2) 3 4 5
(1)
2
2
(2)
3
(2)
3
3
4
(1) 2 3 4 (2) 3 4 5
Or you could play this literally, as written. For example, take a look at Exercise (1), (3), and (5) from the PARALLEL MOTION section.
1
2
1
2
1
1
2
1
2
2
1
2
1
2
1
2
1
2
1
2
1 1 1 1 1 1
2
2
2
2
2
3
1
2
1
2
3
4
3
3
3
1 1 3
2
3
1 2
1
3
1
1
2
2
3
2
3
2
3
3
2
4
4
4
4
4
For all 3 exercises, you could play 1 finger per fret as shown, this would be the most common approach anyway. But what about exercises that range from the 5th to the 12th and higher? Obviously, most of us only have 4 fingers and a thumb to work with. So this would be a cool time to explore odd time signature compounds. For example, you could take an exercise like (11) with 7 notes and apply various fingerings.
• • • • •
Two Grouping Compounds
Three Grouping Compounds
1-2-3 + 1-2-3-4 1-2-3-4 + 1-2-3 1-2 + 1-2 + 1-2-3 1-2-3 + 1-2-3 + 1 1-2-3-4 + 1-2 + 1
= = = = =
7 7 7 7 7
Those are just a few possible options. For a Two Compound Grouping/Fingering you would play in 2 positions. And for a Three Compound Grouping/Fingering you’d play in 3 positions. As you can see, there are so many possibilities in this direction!!!
*See Book Four in this Series for further Compound Grouping Exercises* 141
The 1-2-3-4 Guitar System, Part 1
REAL MUSIC I mentioned, only 1/2 jokingly, something along the lines of “what if you could play J.S.Bach, Beethoven, or Mozart with only one finger?”. Well, let’s put it to the test, I included some short “quotes” from some of my own guitar transcriptions of the above mentioned artists. Try this with some of the music you know and like as well. It’s best to find music with single line melodies and no chords, so you can play them fully with ONE FINGER. Try to play through these short clips with only ONE FINGER! And then follow suit by trying it with each of your other fingers. You’ll likely find that its not as hard as it might first seem, especially after spending a fair amount of time with this book! If you are not familiar with these selections, I encourage you to look them up and spend time with each of them. They are some of the greatest works by the greatest composers of all time! You can read the intended rhythms in the notation staff to help guide you through as well. If you can’t read rhythms very well, then you can still listen to a recording of them and try to pick it up by ear the best that you can. After all music is for listening to, so a great musician has to have an exceptionally good ear; the ablilty to listen! *************************************************************************
*And of course, feel free to play these with all four fingers at once as well*
142
Johann Sebastian Bach- Brandenburg Concerto in GMajor the Allegro- BWV 1048. (written around the year 1721.) Bach’s works are nothing short of pure musical genius! I can’t say enough about his music! His sense of melody and symmetry is truly amazing & undoubtedly inspirational! This is a great piece with all the instruments playing in cannon/ imitation style. The melodies flow with direction and purpose. This is a great example of melodic motion in music. You will find this is true in all of Bach’s music. It’s relatively easy to play. But take your time and try to make each note count, making sure that it sounds smooth & clean. You can push the tempo as much as you want to, the actual Concerto is played at a fairly fast tempo. But speed is not nearly as important as the quality and evenness of your tone. With the music of Bach, because it is written so well you can play slowly and it still sounds great. And also remember: you’re trying to do this with only ONE FINGER at a time, so go easy. Ludwig Van Beethoven- 5th Symphony in C minor, Opus #67. (written in the years: 1804-1808.) This is one of the most played pieces of music of all time! It’s amazing how well this music has stood the test of time; over 200 year and still as brilliant as ever! Just the 1st four notes alone demand your attention! And it remains as probably the most ‘catchy’, or memorable 4-note phrases ever written! Genius! Of course, we’re mainly focused on applying the one finger approach here. So this is just a ‘watered down’ version of the greater whole with its full instrumentation and its powerful dynamics. But with ONE FINGER, you can get through this without too much trouble. There is quite a bit of string skipping and position shifts, no doubt. But give it a try. I’ve added in ( ) some of the underlying bass notes; wherever you see 2 notes played at once. First, try to play just the main melody. And once you’ve got it, try to figure out how to add in those bass notes for a fuller sound. Wolfgang Amadaeus Mozart- Piano Sonata #16 in CMajor k545. (written around the year 1788.) Mozart died at the young age of 35. Imagine what he would have done had he lived a full life. Nevertheless, he managed to leave us a LOT of brilliant works for his short time lived! The opening melody is likely something you have heard before. The hammer-on/ legatos & trilling are not really something that you can do with one finger. However you can try to apply a rapid sliding technique in attempt to achieve the legato effect. Then following are a series of ascending then descending scales that move down diatonically. Then there is a really cool variation that leads into the closing cadence. The scale series is pretty fast to do with one finger, so go easy and slow it down a bit until you can play it through smoothly. The ending cadence makes use of a chord, as you can see in the ( ) in the final measure. It is the only notated chord, but the rest of this example makes for a really good ONE FINGER EXERCISE.
143
The 1-2-3-4 Guitar System, Part 1
“What I have achieved by industry and practice, anyone else with tolerable natural gift and ability can also achieve.” -J. S. Bach
S . J
H C A .B 144
5 4 5 7
4
0
7
7 8 7 5
8
7
5
8
7
4 5 7
7
7
8 7 5
7
5
5
7
6
5 7
7
5
7 5 4
7
7
5 7 8 5
4
6
7
6
7
5
7
8
7
7
5 7 5
5 7
7
4
7 8 7 5
7
8 7 5
6
7
5
7
6
5
7
5 7
7 6 7
5
7
8
7
7
5
7 5
5
5
8
7
7
5
7
145
The 1-2-3-4 Guitar System, Part 1
“Music is ... A higher revelation than all Wisdom & Philosophy” -Ludwig van Beethoven
N E V O H T
E E B
146
5
5
5
6
(6)
9 5 5
5
9
9
8
9
8
8
8
8
8
5
8
5
(5)
6 (8)
9
9
8
6
6
6
7
(7)
8
8
6
8
5 (7)
8 (7)
(5)
8
5 5 5
8
6
(8)
8
8
6
8 (8)
8
8
6
8
8
8
6
(7) (7) (7) (7)
3 8 (5)
5 (4)
(0)
3
(3) (0)
147
The 1-2-3-4 Guitar System, Part 1
“The sonatas of Mozart are unique; they are too easy for children, and too difficult for artists.” -Arthur Schnabel
T R A Z O
M
148
5
5
6 (5)
8
5
8
5
6
4
5
7
5 7
10
7
9 10
7
8
5
7
7
8 (7) (9)
8
5
10 9
7
8
7
8
9 10
10
7
10
7
10
8
6
5
7
10 9
9
10
7
9
6
8
7
10
7
9
6
5
8
8
5
10
7
7
6
9 10
9
5
9 10
7
9 10
10
7
7
7
7
4
8 10 8
9 10 9
9
7
6
7
8
5
8
8
5
10 9 7
7
10
7
8
7
8
7
10 8
7
6
9
5
10 9
10 9
8
5
5
10
149
The 1-2-3-4 Guitar System, Part 1
*Also available* • • • • •
2 FINGER EXERCISES FOR THE FRETTING HAND 3 FINGER EXERCISES FOR THE FRETTING HAND 4 FINGER EXERCISES FOR THE FRETTING HAND THE ‘1-2-3-4’ GUITAR SYSTEM COMPLETE SERIES J.S.BACH’s DOUBLE CONCERTO FOR 4 GUITARS *with many more titles available soon*
150
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The 1-2-3-4 Guitar System, Part 1
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