LAST MONTH, WE explored the practice approaches and routines of great players like Pete Thorn. We learned about the importance of going beyond the notes when learning a favorite piece of music, as well as the value of challenging oneself to play a new style. Let’s get right back into it!
I first heard Patrick Hay (fons.app/@patrickhay) play on singer/songwriter Matt Singer’s stellar 2008 EP, , and I was moved and inspired by his subtle creativity. More recently, Patrick has toured internationally and recorded with Brooklyn band Great Elk, and he currently teaches guitar virtually. Patrick recommends taking a lick you already know and learning it in as many different ways as you can find on the neck, even if the results are unorthodox. He explains, “This opens up your knowledge of the fretboard, and will illustrates how you can do this with a simple blues phrase you likely already know. (Time codes in the music notation refer to specific moments in the video.) Notice how Patrick’s outside-the-box thinking results in something unexpected and fun in the last bar. Also, be sure to take note of his recommended fingerings for the tricky spots!
