Tips For Guitar Playing Success
Learn how to quickly boost your guitar playing skills with these easy tips, tricks and helpful hints from successful guitarist, instructor, author and producer, Marlene Hutchinson. Known for her popular Learn to Play Guitar in a Day! program, as seen by millions on PBS, and featured on NPR and CBS, Marlene has a wonderfully simple way of helping you move through your challenges and advance your guitar playing skills.
Episodes
It's that time again...for a dose of themed music! This month we're diving into songs inspired by the month of September. In this episode, Marlene talks about a couple of September songs, their backgrounds and her playing recommendations.
YouTube links Marlene talked about in this episode! September by Daughtry September by Corb Lund September by Earth, Wind & Fire
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One of the most popular topics on this podcast show is the great debate: acoustic vs electric guitars. And if you've ever wondered what sets them apart, then this episode is for you!
In this episode, Marlene will break down the key similarities and differences between acoustic and electric guitars to help you understand and appreciate both.
Link to the previous AG vs. EG episode Marlene talked about!
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When it comes to country music, y’all don’t need a million fancy chords to strum along. In fact, there are just a handful that show up over and over again.
In this episode, Marlene will share 7 go-to chords and point out some classic country tunes where ya’ll can hear (and play) ’em loud and proud!
Link ya'll might like to mosey over to! Mastering I - IV - V Chord Progressions
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Exciting things are happening! Acoustic Guitar magazine is featuring Marlene’s article Yoga for Guitarists, and two brand-new Yo-Guitar videos have just been released.
In this episode, Marlene shares the details about her magazine feature and introduces the new videos, which take a deeper dive into essential yoga fundamentals for guitarists.
Links you'll want to check out! Acoustic Guitar (magazine) article, Yoga for Guitarists Aco...
It's fun to lean into a seasonal theme - and today is a good time to be diving into the...Dog Days of Summer!
In this episode, Marlene will explore what this classic phrase really means and show you how to bring that vibe to life on your guitar!
Marlene mentioned these during the show! Bar Chord episodes: How to Play Bar Chords & Strengthening for Bar Chords Dog Days of Summer official video
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Ever wondered how chord progressions work and why they're important to music? In this episode, Marlene breaks down what chord progressions are, why they're important for songwriting and performance, and how to use them to create smoother transitions and memorable tunes!
In this episode, Marlene mentions the Thursday Tips blog
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Got sore fingertips? You’re definitely not alone—it's one of the most common struggles for beginners and seasoned players alike. But don’t fret, there are simple ways to ease the pain and keep the music going.
In this episode, Marlene shares 5 super easy hacks to help reduce fingertip soreness so you can enjoy longer, more comfortable playing sessions. Your fingers will thank you!
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Changing to newer guitar chords quickly, while maintaining accuracy, is one of the biggest hurdles for guitar players—at any level. But it doesn't have to be your experience forever!
In this episode, Marlene will share some of her most effective strategies to help you move through your chord changes with more ease, confidence and speed.
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These Yo-Guitar videos can: ~ Relieve tension in your neck and shoulders ~ Support your arms and wrists ~ Ground yourself with mindful breathing and meditation Ultimately improving your guitar playing and overall well-being!
In this episode, Marlene described the four new Yo-Guitar practices she created to help you deepen your Yo-Guitar and guitar playing journeys!
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Tomorrow is the 4th of July—a celebration filled with patriotism, family, friends and fireworks. What better way to enjoy the festivities than by strumming some patriotic inspired tunes on your guitar?
In this episode, Marlene shares ten 4th of July-themed songs that are perfect to play at your backyard BBQ, beach gathering, or fireworks show. You'll be able to... Let freedom ring, with your guitar strings!
Today we're celebrating the musical genius of the late Brian Wilson. A founding member of the 60s surf rock group, The Beach Boys, his groundbreaking lyrics and melodies have shaped generations and defined an era.
In this episode, Marlene dives into his musical legacy by looking at one of the band’s most iconic hits: Surfin’ USA. She'll talk about the inspiration behind the song, how the band brought it to life and her playing rec...
Starting your guitar journey can be overwhelming, but it doesn't have to be. Take it chord by chord—beginning with a few simple ones—and you'll be playing in no time.
In this episode, Marlene talks about the first 10 chords every beginner should learn. She explains why these chords are the perfect foundation, how they can open the door to countless songs. and she shares her tips for practicing them effectively.
In this episode, Marlene introduces two brand-new Yo-Guitar videos designed to support your guitar playing journey. One video focuses on improving hand and finger dexterity, while the other helps release overall body tension and improves circulation.
Tune in as Marlene explains how these exercises can enhance your practice sessions and contribute to your growth as a guitarist.
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Playing music that fits the season is fun, and there's a wealth of summer vibe songs that are not just fun, but also easy to play on guitar.
In this episode, Marlene shares five fun and simple-to-play summer themed songs—so grab your guitar and get into the laid-back summer spirit!
Watch a Marlene's medley of these songs on YouTube
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There are many benefits to jamming with other guitar players - most importantly, it's just plain ole fun! And, if you're feeling intimidated, the best way to overcome those doubts is to just jam!
In this episode, Marlene inspires you to give it a try as she shares her very first jam experience - she'd only been playing for 6 months! Plus, you'll learn about previous jam episodes that can help you get started on your jamming advent...
Planning a trip? Take your guitar along for the ride—it's fun to play wherever your travels take you! In this episode, Marlene talks about her own guitar travel experiences, along with her tips and tricks so your beloved instrument arrives in tip top shape and ready to be played!
Road Trip Guitar Advice episode Airplane Travel with Your Guitar episode How to Play 3 Cool Vacation Themed Songs episode
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Playing guitar is more fun - and definitely easier - when your mind and body are relaxed and flexible. The Yo-Guitar videos help you with that, and the newest one gets your blood pumping too! In this episode, Marlene describes the latest Yo-Guitar video, Sun Salutations 2. She talks about the 12 asanas (poses), which include Child's Pose, and shares their Sanskrit names too!
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One of the best gifts you can give your mom is the gift of your guitar music — a gift from your heart and your strings!
In this episode, Marlene describes how to play the heartfelt ballad Mother Like Mine by The Band Perry - have a box of Kleenex handy for your performance!
Plus, here's a few more Mother's Day themed song inspirations: The Best Day, Mom and Mother Mother, Thank You Mom and Wind Beneath My Wings
Get all the latest Tips For Guitar Playing Success news and insights including upcoming episodes and other guitar happenings!
In this newsletter, Marlene talks about what you can expect to learn in the upcoming May episodes, plus the Best Acoustic Guitar Brands in 2025, and so much more!
Cinco de Mayo song episode links:
How to play Tequila
How to play Viva Mexico & La Piel
How to play Cielito Lindo & La Bamba
Think changing your own guitar strings is a daunting task? Think again! It's not hard, it just takes a little patience. In this episode, Marlene breaks it down into 7 simple steps that anyone can easily follow, yes, even if you've never done it before. So grab your guitar, a new set of strings and let's do this together!
Guinness World Record for string changing video link!
Now Available on YouTube Podcasts link:MarlenesMusic1
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