It’s about time you learn to shred

If you want to be the life of the party, the envy of your friends, and the absolute ruler of the guitar, then you need to learn to shred. Shredding isn’t just about playing fast – it’s about playing with passion, precision, and panache.

But if you’re a beginner, the prospect of shredding might seem daunting. Fear not, dear reader, for I, the great Anton, am here to guide you on your journey to becoming a guitar legend.

Alternate Picking

One of the key techniques in shredding is alternate picking. This means using a down-up motion with your pick to play each note, even when changing strings! It might feel awkward at first, but with enough practice, you’ll be able to play lightning-fast solos with ease.

Use a Metronome

Remember to use a metronome and start slow!  You can read about it in one of my favorite blogs, written by none other than one of my favorite guitarists and instructors, Dan Mumm!

Legato

Another important technique is legato playing, which involves using your fingers to smoothly transition between notes without using the pick. This will give your solos a fluid, graceful quality.

Play with Feeling

Of course, shredding isn’t just about playing fast – it’s also about playing with feeling. Don’t be afraid to put your own spin on things and let your emotions shine through your playing. Use the standard techniques that can be found in most electric guitar styles such as bending.  And don’t forget that phrasing is everything, even for Shred Guitar!

So, if you want to learn how to shred, you need to practice alternate picking and legato playing, play with feeling, and never forget that the guitar is a musical instrument. Playing fast and flashy techniques isn’t enough to be a great Shred guitarist. It also has to sound good!

Shred on!

-Anton