How did I develop my chops? (and "improvisational thinking")

Introduction

This tutorial explores the development of musical chops and improvisational thinking, as shared by Tory Slusher in his video. Whether you're an aspiring musician or looking to enhance your guitar skills, this guide will provide you with practical steps to improve your playing and improvisation techniques.

Step 1: Understand Your Musical Foundation

To develop your chops, start by solidifying your understanding of music theory and guitar techniques. This includes:

• Learning scales and modes.
• Understanding chord progressions.
• Familiarizing yourself with different musical genres.

Practical Tips

• Practice scales daily to develop muscle memory.
• Experiment with various chord progressions to see how they influence your improvisation.

Step 2: Focus on Selective Picking

Selective picking is a technique that allows you to play notes more cleanly and with precision. Here’s how to practice it:

1. Start with a simple melody or riff.
2. Focus on picking only the notes you want to emphasize.
3. Gradually increase the complexity of the phrases as you become more comfortable.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Avoid trying to play too fast before mastering the technique.
• Don’t neglect the importance of dynamics; vary the volume of your picked notes for expression.

Step 3: Develop Your Improvisational Thinking

Improvisation is about spontaneity and creativity. Here are steps to enhance your improvisational skills:

• Listen Actively: Pay attention to how other musicians improvise.
• Jam with Others: Collaborate with fellow musicians to practice real-time improvisation.
• Experiment with Different Ideas: Try altering melodies, changing rhythms, or shifting keys during your practice sessions.

Step 4: Incorporate Two-Handed Tapping

Two-handed tapping can add a unique flair to your playing. To set up your guitar for this technique:

1. Ensure your guitar is properly tuned.
2. Adjust the action to make it easier to tap notes.
3. Practice tapping patterns with both hands to develop coordination.

Resources

You can find a comprehensive guide to set up your guitar for two-handed tapping here.

Step 5: Record and Reflect

Recording your practice sessions can provide valuable insights. Here’s how to do it effectively:

• Use a simple recording device or software.
• Record different improvisational sessions.
• Listen back to identify areas for improvement and new ideas.

Conclusion

Developing your chops and improvisational skills takes time and dedication. Focus on building a strong musical foundation, mastering selective picking, and practicing improvisation techniques. Don’t forget to record your progress and reflect on your playing. For further learning, explore Tory Slusher's other videos and consider the resources provided to enhance your skills. Happy playing!