Cheers, Angie. Glad to hear you like the lesson. Keep coming back to it too. π
Admin
Dan Thorpe
5 years ago
Hi, everyone. I wanted to start us off with a comment to get the ball rolling. I would LOVE it if you could leave a short comment introducing yourself to the other members. ο»ΏIβm Dan Thorpe, from Birmingham, UK (not Alabama!). I love fingerpicking – Paul Simon, James Taylor, Tommy Emmanuel and about a gazillion others! My favourite thing about playing guitar is having some quiet time to play for myself (music is a great outlet for everything in life) and to jam with my 4 year old boy, Archie! I used to be terrible at guitar but after years… Read more »
Last edited 5 years ago by Dan Thorpe
Admin
Dan Thorpe
5 years ago
Hey everyone, I would love to know what lessons you would like to learn. More on fingerpicking, Travis picking, chord changes, theory, jamming???… you name it, leave your ideas below!! This is the place to do so.
Hi Dan, I am an intermediate player, but am fascinated about finger style, and very anxious to get started. But i must admit i do struggle a bit with the dreaded Barr Chords, but am improving a bit. I am a Viet Nam vet, who suffers from PTSD, I am very private, so if you don’t hear much from me please understand. Thanks
Steve
Hi Steve, thanks for getting in touch. It`s great to have you here. Barre chords are tough but do make sure you take your time and use good technique with them.
No problem at all regarding being private and I hope you are doing well regarding the PTSD. Just know that the comments section and the mini-forum is there for you when needed. All the best.
Cool, for sure, let us know some more details. What sort of slaps and slides? The crazy stuff or solid on beats 2 and 4 type thing? What sort of guitarists have inspired this? (I ask, so I know I’m on the right path). π
No particular artist comes to mind but I would say on beats 2 and 4 nothing crazy (yet). Slapping all the strings I find okay, it’s the thumb slap I have trouble with on the low E A strings.
I have come across slaps in the odd piece of music, done right sounds amazing. Just something I would like to add to my repertoire.
Ah, okay cool, thanks for letting me know. The slaps on beats 2 and 4 are very cool. The grooves these can add are great. Will get something ready on this. π
Admin
Dan Thorpe
5 years ago
If you would like to submit a video, you can add it to your comment by including a video LINK (for example, a YouTube, Vimeo, or Dropbox link). (Email Dan for help if you get stuck uploading a video)
YouTube and Vimeo links are the preferred video format. Make sure that your links are set to unlisted (not private!) and then only we will see it.
Post your video below…
Admin
Dan Thorpe
5 years ago
Hopefully, you have all noticed the new comments section at the bottom of each page in the DTAA! I would love for you to comment, ask questions and say “hi”!
RoxanneHobbs
5 minutes ago
Iβm going to stay on this lesson for awhile. I really need to focus on doing the inwards and outward patterns. I need to improve my finger dexterity!
DeniseGillard
28 minutes ago
Hi! Iβm Denise Gillard. Iβve been with the DTAA four years in February 2026. Itβs been a great journey and Iβm looking forward to learning all about the SSLA. I moved to Washington state in 2020 ( in the middle of COVID) but was born in Southern California. My family and I have lived a bit in Denver and Cincinnati but spent 25 years in Overland Park, KS. To those who arenβt familiar with the area, it is a wonderful place to live. As far as my guitar playing goes, Iβd like to become good at everything, and thatβs my… Read more »
DeniseGillard
1 hour ago
I printed out the 5 Star requirements for all five stars a year ago from the DTAA. Are they the same in the SSLA?
DonMehan
4 hours ago
Pretty cool sound obviously. I decided to use a thumb pick. And I was using a differing fingering but switched to yours since lβm guessing yours is easier overall. As always, now just have to get the muscle memory set.
Thanks, Don. Yeah, thumb picks can work great and in terms of fingerings, it is well worth trying one or two for sure. Sometimes you may find a different fingering easier or more practical, but I recommend when someone tries two, after experimenting, you stick with one. Anyway, do keep enjoying the lesson and hope you have loads of fun with it. π
LoganHager
6 hours ago
Great Lesson Dan!! I especially love how you break it down and add to it step by step!! It’s going to be a lot of fun nailing this one…. Great kick off to the new academy!! Cheers!
Cheers, Logan. That’s great to know. Yeah, breaking things down in to methodical chunks has always been helpful for me learning anything, and very much for students too. Glad you like the structure and thanks for the kind words. π
JeffreyTomasi
10 hours ago
Hiβ just joined up over from DTAA. 20/20 here on Quiz 1.
Great stuff, Jeffrey, and well done! Off to a super start. π
rogercreagh
12 hours ago
in Ex3 it sounds much better to me if during the intro I also walk down the low E string one fret each bar as well as the high E. Have you specified repeating the low E (actually a C with capo 5) so as to make us work out a fingering that works for the high E string while holding the E (C) on the low E string?
Having got my fingering as per the Tab worked out I now prefer to play my version as it sounds nicer to me.
Susan C.
13 hours ago
I feel like this first lesson was written specifically for me. Impatient, forgetful, rush, too fast. I squirrel off from your lesson or song I’m learning. I had the same issue 40 issues ago but gave up. This time is different. I’m still impatient but I’m persistent and determined now. x
It’s so common so please don’t be hard on yourself. Just be aware of it happening and try to pre-empt it happening. Even writing a word down like “commit” or even “no squirreling” (I love how you use the word “squirrel” in this context) and keep it in front of you can help. This course will help in many ways too. π
RoxanneHobbs
19 hours ago
Hi, Dan. I joined Six String Life Academy as soon as you made it available. I think I own all your stuff and first joined up with you in 2020. Iβm wondering if your assistant can look at my account and let me know of any courses I donβt have? Thank you in advance for your help.
Hi Roxanne, delighted you are here. I’ve always enjoyed your comments and enthusiasm. Yes, for sure. I will get Sofija to do that for you. As for now, have a look around and enjoy the new academy. Welcome aboard! π
Susan C.
1 day ago
Howdy! I’m Susan and have been playing for 6 years. I’ve taken one on one lessons, and probably have tried many of the same online resources as you have – and ALWAYS stick with Dan. There’s something about Dan’s technique, isn’t there? I’ve been with Dan for a few years now. I live in Florida and lived in Maine off and on for a few years. I will be changing my full time work status to part time in January 2026. That means… more guitar! WOOT WOOT. I look forward to this new journey w everyone. Nice to meet you… Read more »
Hi Susan, delighted you are here. Welcome aboard. Pleased to hear how much you enjoy the lessons and thanks ever so much for the kind words. Happy to hear them. 2026 will be ace for you then with more time to play. Let’s make the end of this year and then next an epic one for you. π
TomHerder
1 day ago
I see that the Bm is found in the key of G major, but I don’t see that the D major chord is found in that key… I’m confused. I need work on both keys and scales.
No worries, Tom. Theory can be confusing. I might have to do a lesson on theory I did create a cheat sheet for the key of G Major which you can see HERE. I hope this helps? π
Actually I think I just got more confused! I have a cheat sheet on chord progressions in the keys (from A through G), and I can’t reconcile that to your cheat sheet… I’ll look forward to the lesson on theory. I work through the scales intuitively and with a decent ear when I’m improvising, but I don’t have ANY memorized (yet)!
LoganHager
1 day ago
Great piece for working on coordination as well. So glad you put this piece in… and especially love how you walk us through it!!! Thanks Dan!
Pleased you like this piece. It makes for an exciting challenge and benchmark at the beginning of this course. Keep working on it as it will help develop many subtle and not-so-subtle skills. Enjoy! π
LoganHager
1 day ago
Hi Dan, I really loved these lessons, a lot of great ideas and techniques to help memory and learning! I especially like the theater of the mind one – I want to start implementing that one immediately! Also…. I loved the dark version of deck the halls (ha ha)!! Thanks for putting these lessons together… very powerful!!
Cheers, Logan. Glad to hear it. The way the mind works, especially in relation to things like memory (and motivation) is something I find fascinating. Glad you enjoyed it and deck the halls (haha). Thanks π
JamesNevins
1 day ago
I am retired. Semi-retired! I am 69 years old. I have been on and off since 2016. My head keeps getting in the way! Anyway, I have to get on board and ride this train out! I truly want to be able to pick up my guitar and just jam! Thanks for reading!
Hi James, welcome aboard. Delighted to see you here. I have faith you will, and the Academy will help you get there. I know you’ve made some great progress at various points over the last few years and I’m sure this will be the time it truly sticks. Keep at it and keep enjoying the lessons. π
TomHerder
2 days ago
I am a retired 70-yr-old marine biologist/surfer/endurance athlete living in Mobile, AL, with my cool wife Rhoda and my two Aussie dogs, Scout and Storm. Iβve played guitar since I was 14, but never with much commitment until the orthopods shut down running and surfing in my mid-60s. When I started getting more serious, I found Fingerpicking 101, and it was on. I joined the DTAA about a year ago and have loved it. I subscribe to Ultimate Tabs and have more than 200 favorites, most of which I can play more-or-less competently. While it was rock, especially southern, when… Read more »
Thanks for sharing that, Tom. Enjoyed reading it. Sounds like youβve had an incredible life and a great journey with the guitar so far. Youβve clearly put in the work, and the range of music youβre tackling is impressive. Glad to have you in the Academy, and Iβm looking forward to seeing where you take things next. π
TomHerder
2 days ago
Dan, after finishing our Zoom meeting, I signed up for the SSLA. Is there anyway I can take a look at the content, or do I have to wait until Monday. Thanks!
Tom
MiriamGarner Gerrard
2 days ago
Hi, I’m Miriam here in sunny Florida. I’ve been playing guitar for the past couple of years since I retired and am looking forward to moving beyond simple strumming and progressing with finger style techniques.
Hi Miriam, welcome to the course. Pleased you are here. You are in the right place. Part 1 will really help with the techniques of guitar playing which most people miss so I hope you enjoy that, and then the rest of the course. Must be a nice feeling relaxing in the Florida sun with the guitar. (I’m writing this from a damp, cold England, haha). π
RichAugugliaro
2 days ago
Hello,
I was a DTAA member was about 2 years, I have been playing guitar for a bit more than 6 years and I have been learning bass guitar for the past 6 months as well.
i live in southern New Hampshire. My goals are to continue to learn songs that I love, be as smooth as possible while playing (with a pick as well as finger picking, electric and acoustic ) and to gain confidence in my playing.
Hi Rich, and thanks for the introduction. Glad you have made the switch. I think you will love this new Academy. That’s cool how you have added the bass to your repertoire too. Good goals and pleased you are here to enjoy and conquer them! Keep us posted with how you get on. π
TeresaHalvorson
2 days ago
Ok, this piece is also new to me and I really love both it and the story behind it. My daughter had a baby in March and she plays her guitar for him often. He loves it. We were on FaceTime this morning and when she picked up the guitar he screamed with delight and turned around from crawling after his dad and came flying back to her so he could listen to her play. I love that she started him with music as early as possible just like I did with her. Music is so good for brain development… Read more »
Thanks. That’s great to know, and how lovely. It’s very special being able to play music for our kids. I imagine you must be proud knowing your daughter plays too and I’m sure all that will make your grandson want to play too one day. π
TeresaHalvorson
2 days ago
I have been in the DTAA for two and a half years and have somehow missed this. I am really sorry about that too because this is a really great practice bit. And fun to work on too!
Oh, yeah, that was an old lesson you wouldn’t have seen before, but it’s a really good one, which I’m glad you enjoyed. That’s one of the reasons why I wanted to make it prominent here in the In Focus and the Academy. Hope you keep enjoying it. π
TeresaHalvorson
2 days ago
A Note From Dan
βMany students try to look at everything before they begin. You do not need to do that. Follow these steps and you will make smoother, faster progress than you may have in years.β
This is totally describing me and needs to be on every page as a reminder to stick to the path and not take every side road that appears.
Is there a message board where notes and reminders show up? Like when is the next group lesson is going to be?
We can definitely add reminders around the Academy, think that will help you and others for sure. The Member’s area is the place for the reminders and group call sessions. I will send out emails on those too. We will get a monthly schedule for the group calls to ideally have them at the same time and day each month. π
DavidSmith
2 days ago
Very good video full of advise and learning it will help me with my bad habits which creeps in now again I will definitely be watching the video again. Thanks Dan
Glad to hear it, David. Yeah, watching the lesson at least a few times over the next week or two will really help you fix those bad habits. Good stuff getting involved already and enjoy. π
RobertReynolds
3 days ago
Hello,
I am complete beginner to guitar looking forward to learning a lot and having fun while doing so. I hail from Bristol, TN.
Hi Robert, thanks for the comment and welcome aboard. I’m delighted you are here and ready to enjoy your playing. Do keep us posted with how you get on or if you have any questions. π
MichaelTenbus
3 days ago
Thank you for the comments on how to fix the shuttering video.
No problem, I think the issues are resolved now. I hope all is good for you and you enjoy the course. Thanks. π
DavidSmith
3 days ago
Thank you Dan your video was great Iβm hoping that Iβll be able to make progress in my learning as Iβve been a having a lot negative results with my lessons So thank you Dan for everything
Cheers David
MichaelTenbus
3 days ago
Videos are basically unwatchable, since they try to reload every few seconds. I have no idea what is wrong, but I am about to abort the course.
Hi Michael. Vimeo, which is our video host, are having issues. They usually sort them within 12 hours. You can download Fingerstyle 101 here for now. Please let us know if you have any issues.
RichAugugliaro
3 days ago
Hi Dan, I just took the first star quiz. I scored 20 out of 20.
Awesome, Rich, thanks for letting us know and a very big well done to you. π
TeresaHalvorson
4 days ago
Came here to revisit this course – when I first went through it before I joined DTAA, I found it to be super helpful even though I was not a brand new beginner. I noticed the bonus section had not been completed so I went to look at it. I was particularly interested in the Foundations of the Fretboard course as I had not seen that before. I clicked the link and it goes to the FotF home page but if I click any of the links on that page, I get the βSorry you donβt have access to thisβ… Read more »
Glad you enjoyed this course before. I’ve just fixed the links – sorry about that. They should all work for you now. Do let us know if you have any issues though, and enjoy. π
rogercreagh
4 days ago
2 things – the link to the quiz is broken https://eliteguitarist.net/fingerstyle-101-quiz-p1/?course_id=183 just delivers a blank page whichever you click – “Next Lesson” or “HERE” or on the Start button
Possily related – today the video are being really slow to load and freezing stuttering during playback. Applies to all videos on this site but not YouTube or other video sites – so not by internet connection, but specific to EliteGuitarists Vimeo links.
Hi Roger, thanks for the heads up. The quiz link has been fixed. Vimeo, which is our video host, are having issues. They usually sort them within 12 hours. You can download Fingerstyle 101 here for now. Please let us know if you have any issues.
Thanks Dan. Today (Monday 1st) videos are working ok again
LoganHager
5 days ago
Love the opening video Dan! I am SO looking forward to this and plan on using the entire program as you have it laid out instead of my normal jumping around. Cheers to you and your team for putting this together… I know it is no small task! okay…. here we go……
Cheers, Logan. Delighted to hear it. I hope you love it here and I am sure you will. Thanks, and I look forward to hearing about your ace progress. π
MichaelTenbus
6 days ago
Hi, I am Michael from Knoxville, Tennessee. I have taken several group lessons over the years at a local community college.The group lessons get you interested, but once the lessons are done, I have no idea how to practice or what to practice. I have no path/plan on how to move forward. The good that came out of the courses is that I learned how to read tablature and was able to learn the chords. One of the biggest problems that I have is remembering songs. I need to have the music in front of me. My playing is also… Read more »
DeniseGillard
14 days ago
I love this piece, and it is so much fun to play!!! Thanks Dan!
Hi, they are ghost notes. You can ignore them completely or pluck them softer. These are just step 3 (optional notes) that fill out the sound. Step 1 (the melody) and step 2 (the bass) are the most important. Do let us know if that helps and enjoy. Cheers π
That’s great, Jim. A challenge that gives you progress and enjoyment is great to hear. Keep having fun with it. π
rogercreagh
19 days ago
Roger CO in Cornwall UK. Learnt to read music and play simple clarinet badly for 2 years at school 60 years ago. Now 73 and never really picked up an instrument since (flirted briefly with a keyboard but too busy with children and work). A year ago decided the time had come and bought a guitar. Have had in person lessons locally and covered some basics. Tutor and/or me are away for 2 months so need some structure to fill the gap. Technique poor (maybe 3 or 4/10), Enjoyment maybe 7 or 8, specific plan 3, time management 8 or… Read more »
Hi Roger, welcome to the course. You have some good numbers there and now, with this course, you will improve your technique for sure. Do stick with it and keep having fun. Would love to know how you get on. All the best. π
RichAugugliaro
21 days ago
Dan, really nice pieceβ¦lots to work on. I have struggled to strum clearly with my fingers, so hopefully this lesson helps. Thanks.
Cheers, Rich. Pleased you are enjoying it. Hopefully it will help and I’m sure it will. Do let us know how you get on and have fun. π
TheShirlz
22 days ago
Hi, Iβve played bass on and off for quite a few years and at 56 decided to get a guitar. Iβve tried other courses and basically got bombarded by upselling emails, I do hope this course is different.
Hi and welcome. Delighted you are here. I hope you enjoy the course and learn plenty. I’m sure you will find it is different. If you have any questions, let us know in the comments. Happy to help. Enjoy! π
EricMorton
23 days ago
OMG why is this not the first lesson for any guitar school! i have used the death grip since i started thinking that was the way, it has to hurt! Build callouses!! Ty
My pleasure. Pleased it was so helpful right away. It never ceases to amaze me that no one else teaches this stuff. From what I have gathered over the years I reckon only about 10% of tutors really know the importance of this. That always shocks me. Keep us posted with how you get on. π
EricMorton
23 days ago
hi im 55 tried guitar for 6 months now but hardly pick it up now because my fingers are stiff and cant reach chords. ive tried soo many courses and i cant get passed the first 10 mins without struggling heres hoping this course is different!
Hi Eric, welcome aboard. Your history with the guitar is common with others too, unfortunately. I am certain you will love this course and it will show you things no one else ever seems to teach. Enjoy and let us know how you get on. π
BobYeo
24 days ago
Enjoying the finger picking, and the cup position will help me greatly.
I hooked my acoustic electric up to a ditto looper for the bass and then went to town strumming D, G and E. Going to try other chords with it next, like Eminor and Am
Good stuff, Roxanne. Sounds like you’ve been having lots of fun! Keep up the good practice π
DonMehan
1 month ago
Thatβs very cool, Dan. In fact, I saw James Taylor for the first time in concert a few months ago. Definitely hear some James Taylor style in this piece. Will be fun to learn.
I bet that was a great gig, Don! Inspiring too no doubt. Hope you have lots of fun with this. π
LoganHager
1 month ago
Wow Dan… That really sounds GREAT…. The beginning reminds me of Walking Down a Country Road by James Taylor. I love the way you put the strumming and picking together. I have trouble strumming without as pick, so this will be a good number to make me work on that. Thanks for another piece of beautiful music! Cheers
Cheers, Logan. Glad you enjoyed it and it’s always nice to show a bit of the James Taylor influence. Have fun with it! π
Admin
Dan Thorpe
1 month ago
Well done to the Leaderboard winners for October 2025. The winners were Gold β Jim Davis, Silver β Teresa Halvorson-Fox, and Bronze β Logan Hager.(Plus, the best comment prize goes to Tom Herder for his super interesting comment HERE). I’ll be in touch with the prizes! Cheers and well done everyone! π
RoxanneHobbs
1 month ago
Hi, Dan. I learned Eggs Fried. Bacon Crispy to re remember that these notes are right next to each other without the accidentals or sharps, flats. Sometimes mnemonic devices are helpful.
Great tips Dan super duper π
Cheers, Angie. Glad to hear you like the lesson. Keep coming back to it too. π
Hi, everyone. I wanted to start us off with a comment to get the ball rolling. I would LOVE it if you could leave a short comment introducing yourself to the other members. ο»ΏIβm Dan Thorpe, from Birmingham, UK (not Alabama!). I love fingerpicking – Paul Simon, James Taylor, Tommy Emmanuel and about a gazillion others! My favourite thing about playing guitar is having some quiet time to play for myself (music is a great outlet for everything in life) and to jam with my 4 year old boy, Archie! I used to be terrible at guitar but after years… Read more »
Hey everyone, I would love to know what lessons you would like to learn. More on fingerpicking, Travis picking, chord changes, theory, jamming???… you name it, leave your ideas below!! This is the place to do so.
Hi Dan, I am an intermediate player, but am fascinated about finger style, and very anxious to get started. But i must admit i do struggle a bit with the dreaded Barr Chords, but am improving a bit. I am a Viet Nam vet, who suffers from PTSD, I am very private, so if you don’t hear much from me please understand. Thanks
Steve
Hi Steve, thanks for getting in touch. It`s great to have you here. Barre chords are tough but do make sure you take your time and use good technique with them.
No problem at all regarding being private and I hope you are doing well regarding the PTSD. Just know that the comments section and the mini-forum is there for you when needed. All the best.
I would love to see some lessons on guitar slaps and slides please. That is if you possibly find time in your busy schedule.
Cool, for sure, let us know some more details. What sort of slaps and slides? The crazy stuff or solid on beats 2 and 4 type thing? What sort of guitarists have inspired this? (I ask, so I know I’m on the right path). π
No particular artist comes to mind but I would say on beats 2 and 4 nothing crazy (yet). Slapping all the strings I find okay, it’s the thumb slap I have trouble with on the low E A strings.
I have come across slaps in the odd piece of music, done right sounds amazing. Just something I would like to add to my repertoire.
Ah, okay cool, thanks for letting me know. The slaps on beats 2 and 4 are very cool. The grooves these can add are great. Will get something ready on this. π
If you would like to submit a video, you can add it to your comment by including a video LINK (for example, a YouTube, Vimeo, or Dropbox link). (Email Dan for help if you get stuck uploading a video)
YouTube and Vimeo links are the preferred video format. Make sure that your links are set to unlisted (not private!) and then only we will see it.
Post your video below…
Hopefully, you have all noticed the new comments section at the bottom of each page in the DTAA! I would love for you to comment, ask questions and say “hi”!
Iβm going to stay on this lesson for awhile. I really need to focus on doing the inwards and outward patterns. I need to improve my finger dexterity!
Hi! Iβm Denise Gillard. Iβve been with the DTAA four years in February 2026. Itβs been a great journey and Iβm looking forward to learning all about the SSLA. I moved to Washington state in 2020 ( in the middle of COVID) but was born in Southern California. My family and I have lived a bit in Denver and Cincinnati but spent 25 years in Overland Park, KS. To those who arenβt familiar with the area, it is a wonderful place to live. As far as my guitar playing goes, Iβd like to become good at everything, and thatβs my… Read more »
I printed out the 5 Star requirements for all five stars a year ago from the DTAA. Are they the same in the SSLA?
Pretty cool sound obviously. I decided to use a thumb pick. And I was using a differing fingering but switched to yours since lβm guessing yours is easier overall. As always, now just have to get the muscle memory set.
Thanks, Don. Yeah, thumb picks can work great and in terms of fingerings, it is well worth trying one or two for sure. Sometimes you may find a different fingering easier or more practical, but I recommend when someone tries two, after experimenting, you stick with one. Anyway, do keep enjoying the lesson and hope you have loads of fun with it. π
Great Lesson Dan!! I especially love how you break it down and add to it step by step!! It’s going to be a lot of fun nailing this one…. Great kick off to the new academy!! Cheers!
Cheers, Logan. That’s great to know. Yeah, breaking things down in to methodical chunks has always been helpful for me learning anything, and very much for students too. Glad you like the structure and thanks for the kind words. π
Hiβ just joined up over from DTAA. 20/20 here on Quiz 1.
Great stuff, Jeffrey, and well done! Off to a super start. π
in Ex3 it sounds much better to me if during the intro I also walk down the low E string one fret each bar as well as the high E. Have you specified repeating the low E (actually a C with capo 5) so as to make us work out a fingering that works for the high E string while holding the E (C) on the low E string?
Having got my fingering as per the Tab worked out I now prefer to play my version as it sounds nicer to me.
I feel like this first lesson was written specifically for me. Impatient, forgetful, rush, too fast. I squirrel off from your lesson or song I’m learning. I had the same issue 40 issues ago but gave up. This time is different. I’m still impatient but I’m persistent and determined now. x
It’s so common so please don’t be hard on yourself. Just be aware of it happening and try to pre-empt it happening. Even writing a word down like “commit” or even “no squirreling” (I love how you use the word “squirrel” in this context) and keep it in front of you can help. This course will help in many ways too. π
Hi, Dan. I joined Six String Life Academy as soon as you made it available. I think I own all your stuff and first joined up with you in 2020. Iβm wondering if your assistant can look at my account and let me know of any courses I donβt have? Thank you in advance for your help.
Hi Roxanne, delighted you are here. I’ve always enjoyed your comments and enthusiasm. Yes, for sure. I will get Sofija to do that for you. As for now, have a look around and enjoy the new academy. Welcome aboard! π
Howdy! I’m Susan and have been playing for 6 years. I’ve taken one on one lessons, and probably have tried many of the same online resources as you have – and ALWAYS stick with Dan. There’s something about Dan’s technique, isn’t there? I’ve been with Dan for a few years now. I live in Florida and lived in Maine off and on for a few years. I will be changing my full time work status to part time in January 2026. That means… more guitar! WOOT WOOT. I look forward to this new journey w everyone. Nice to meet you… Read more »
Hi Susan, delighted you are here. Welcome aboard. Pleased to hear how much you enjoy the lessons and thanks ever so much for the kind words. Happy to hear them. 2026 will be ace for you then with more time to play. Let’s make the end of this year and then next an epic one for you. π
I see that the Bm is found in the key of G major, but I don’t see that the D major chord is found in that key… I’m confused. I need work on both keys and scales.
No worries, Tom. Theory can be confusing. I might have to do a lesson on theory I did create a cheat sheet for the key of G Major which you can see HERE. I hope this helps? π
Actually I think I just got more confused! I have a cheat sheet on chord progressions in the keys (from A through G), and I can’t reconcile that to your cheat sheet… I’ll look forward to the lesson on theory. I work through the scales intuitively and with a decent ear when I’m improvising, but I don’t have ANY memorized (yet)!
Great piece for working on coordination as well. So glad you put this piece in… and especially love how you walk us through it!!! Thanks Dan!
Pleased you like this piece. It makes for an exciting challenge and benchmark at the beginning of this course. Keep working on it as it will help develop many subtle and not-so-subtle skills. Enjoy! π
Hi Dan, I really loved these lessons, a lot of great ideas and techniques to help memory and learning! I especially like the theater of the mind one – I want to start implementing that one immediately! Also…. I loved the dark version of deck the halls (ha ha)!! Thanks for putting these lessons together… very powerful!!
Cheers, Logan. Glad to hear it. The way the mind works, especially in relation to things like memory (and motivation) is something I find fascinating. Glad you enjoyed it and deck the halls (haha). Thanks π
I am retired. Semi-retired! I am 69 years old. I have been on and off since 2016. My head keeps getting in the way! Anyway, I have to get on board and ride this train out! I truly want to be able to pick up my guitar and just jam! Thanks for reading!
Hi James, welcome aboard. Delighted to see you here. I have faith you will, and the Academy will help you get there. I know you’ve made some great progress at various points over the last few years and I’m sure this will be the time it truly sticks. Keep at it and keep enjoying the lessons. π
I am a retired 70-yr-old marine biologist/surfer/endurance athlete living in Mobile, AL, with my cool wife Rhoda and my two Aussie dogs, Scout and Storm. Iβve played guitar since I was 14, but never with much commitment until the orthopods shut down running and surfing in my mid-60s. When I started getting more serious, I found Fingerpicking 101, and it was on. I joined the DTAA about a year ago and have loved it. I subscribe to Ultimate Tabs and have more than 200 favorites, most of which I can play more-or-less competently. While it was rock, especially southern, when… Read more »
Thanks for sharing that, Tom. Enjoyed reading it. Sounds like youβve had an incredible life and a great journey with the guitar so far. Youβve clearly put in the work, and the range of music youβre tackling is impressive. Glad to have you in the Academy, and Iβm looking forward to seeing where you take things next. π
Dan, after finishing our Zoom meeting, I signed up for the SSLA. Is there anyway I can take a look at the content, or do I have to wait until Monday. Thanks!
Tom
Hi, I’m Miriam here in sunny Florida. I’ve been playing guitar for the past couple of years since I retired and am looking forward to moving beyond simple strumming and progressing with finger style techniques.
Hi Miriam, welcome to the course. Pleased you are here. You are in the right place. Part 1 will really help with the techniques of guitar playing which most people miss so I hope you enjoy that, and then the rest of the course. Must be a nice feeling relaxing in the Florida sun with the guitar. (I’m writing this from a damp, cold England, haha). π
Hello,
I was a DTAA member was about 2 years, I have been playing guitar for a bit more than 6 years and I have been learning bass guitar for the past 6 months as well.
i live in southern New Hampshire. My goals are to continue to learn songs that I love, be as smooth as possible while playing (with a pick as well as finger picking, electric and acoustic ) and to gain confidence in my playing.
Hi Rich, and thanks for the introduction. Glad you have made the switch. I think you will love this new Academy. That’s cool how you have added the bass to your repertoire too. Good goals and pleased you are here to enjoy and conquer them! Keep us posted with how you get on. π
Ok, this piece is also new to me and I really love both it and the story behind it. My daughter had a baby in March and she plays her guitar for him often. He loves it. We were on FaceTime this morning and when she picked up the guitar he screamed with delight and turned around from crawling after his dad and came flying back to her so he could listen to her play. I love that she started him with music as early as possible just like I did with her. Music is so good for brain development… Read more »
Thanks. That’s great to know, and how lovely. It’s very special being able to play music for our kids. I imagine you must be proud knowing your daughter plays too and I’m sure all that will make your grandson want to play too one day. π
I have been in the DTAA for two and a half years and have somehow missed this. I am really sorry about that too because this is a really great practice bit. And fun to work on too!
Oh, yeah, that was an old lesson you wouldn’t have seen before, but it’s a really good one, which I’m glad you enjoyed. That’s one of the reasons why I wanted to make it prominent here in the In Focus and the Academy. Hope you keep enjoying it. π
A Note From Dan
βMany students try to look at everything before they begin. You do not need to do that. Follow these steps and you will make smoother, faster progress than you may have in years.β
This is totally describing me and needs to be on every page as a reminder to stick to the path and not take every side road that appears.
Is there a message board where notes and reminders show up? Like when is the next group lesson is going to be?
We can definitely add reminders around the Academy, think that will help you and others for sure. The Member’s area is the place for the reminders and group call sessions. I will send out emails on those too. We will get a monthly schedule for the group calls to ideally have them at the same time and day each month. π
Very good video full of advise and learning it will help me with my bad habits which creeps in now again I will definitely be watching the video again. Thanks Dan
Glad to hear it, David. Yeah, watching the lesson at least a few times over the next week or two will really help you fix those bad habits. Good stuff getting involved already and enjoy. π
Hello,
I am complete beginner to guitar looking forward to learning a lot and having fun while doing so. I hail from Bristol, TN.
Hi Robert, thanks for the comment and welcome aboard. I’m delighted you are here and ready to enjoy your playing. Do keep us posted with how you get on or if you have any questions. π
Thank you for the comments on how to fix the shuttering video.
No problem, I think the issues are resolved now. I hope all is good for you and you enjoy the course. Thanks. π
Thank you Dan your video was great Iβm hoping that Iβll be able to make progress in my learning as Iβve been a having a lot negative results with my lessons So thank you Dan for everything
Cheers David
Videos are basically unwatchable, since they try to reload every few seconds. I have no idea what is wrong, but I am about to abort the course.
Hi Michael. Vimeo, which is our video host, are having issues. They usually sort them within 12 hours. You can download Fingerstyle 101 here for now. Please let us know if you have any issues.
Hi Dan, I just took the first star quiz. I scored 20 out of 20.
Awesome, Rich, thanks for letting us know and a very big well done to you. π
Came here to revisit this course – when I first went through it before I joined DTAA, I found it to be super helpful even though I was not a brand new beginner. I noticed the bonus section had not been completed so I went to look at it. I was particularly interested in the Foundations of the Fretboard course as I had not seen that before. I clicked the link and it goes to the FotF home page but if I click any of the links on that page, I get the βSorry you donβt have access to thisβ… Read more »
Glad you enjoyed this course before. I’ve just fixed the links – sorry about that. They should all work for you now. Do let us know if you have any issues though, and enjoy. π
2 things – the link to the quiz is broken https://eliteguitarist.net/fingerstyle-101-quiz-p1/?course_id=183 just delivers a blank page whichever you click – “Next Lesson” or “HERE” or on the Start button
Possily related – today the video are being really slow to load and freezing stuttering during playback. Applies to all videos on this site but not YouTube or other video sites – so not by internet connection, but specific to EliteGuitarists Vimeo links.
Hi Roger, thanks for the heads up. The quiz link has been fixed. Vimeo, which is our video host, are having issues. They usually sort them within 12 hours. You can download Fingerstyle 101 here for now. Please let us know if you have any issues.
Thanks Dan. Today (Monday 1st) videos are working ok again
Love the opening video Dan! I am SO looking forward to this and plan on using the entire program as you have it laid out instead of my normal jumping around. Cheers to you and your team for putting this together… I know it is no small task! okay…. here we go……
Cheers, Logan. Delighted to hear it. I hope you love it here and I am sure you will. Thanks, and I look forward to hearing about your ace progress. π
Hi, I am Michael from Knoxville, Tennessee. I have taken several group lessons over the years at a local community college.The group lessons get you interested, but once the lessons are done, I have no idea how to practice or what to practice. I have no path/plan on how to move forward. The good that came out of the courses is that I learned how to read tablature and was able to learn the chords. One of the biggest problems that I have is remembering songs. I need to have the music in front of me. My playing is also… Read more »
I love this piece, and it is so much fun to play!!! Thanks Dan!
My pleasure, Denise. Delighted to hear you are enjoying it so much. Keep it up. π
hello Dan, what do the numbers in brackets mean? Do you just play them as is? Thank you
Hi, they are ghost notes. You can ignore them completely or pluck them softer. These are just step 3 (optional notes) that fill out the sound. Step 1 (the melody) and step 2 (the bass) are the most important. Do let us know if that helps and enjoy. Cheers π
I am so excited to start with this course
Glad to hear it and I hope you have lots of fun with it. Do let us know how you get on π
Nice piece, Dan! A challenge for me but sticking with it and seeing progress.
That’s great, Jim. A challenge that gives you progress and enjoyment is great to hear. Keep having fun with it. π
Roger CO in Cornwall UK. Learnt to read music and play simple clarinet badly for 2 years at school 60 years ago. Now 73 and never really picked up an instrument since (flirted briefly with a keyboard but too busy with children and work). A year ago decided the time had come and bought a guitar. Have had in person lessons locally and covered some basics. Tutor and/or me are away for 2 months so need some structure to fill the gap. Technique poor (maybe 3 or 4/10), Enjoyment maybe 7 or 8, specific plan 3, time management 8 or… Read more »
Hi Roger, welcome to the course. You have some good numbers there and now, with this course, you will improve your technique for sure. Do stick with it and keep having fun. Would love to know how you get on. All the best. π
Dan, really nice pieceβ¦lots to work on. I have struggled to strum clearly with my fingers, so hopefully this lesson helps. Thanks.
Cheers, Rich. Pleased you are enjoying it. Hopefully it will help and I’m sure it will. Do let us know how you get on and have fun. π
Hi, Iβve played bass on and off for quite a few years and at 56 decided to get a guitar. Iβve tried other courses and basically got bombarded by upselling emails, I do hope this course is different.
Hi and welcome. Delighted you are here. I hope you enjoy the course and learn plenty. I’m sure you will find it is different. If you have any questions, let us know in the comments. Happy to help. Enjoy! π
OMG why is this not the first lesson for any guitar school! i have used the death grip since i started thinking that was the way, it has to hurt! Build callouses!! Ty
My pleasure. Pleased it was so helpful right away. It never ceases to amaze me that no one else teaches this stuff. From what I have gathered over the years I reckon only about 10% of tutors really know the importance of this. That always shocks me. Keep us posted with how you get on. π
hi im 55 tried guitar for 6 months now but hardly pick it up now because my fingers are stiff and cant reach chords. ive tried soo many courses and i cant get passed the first 10 mins without struggling heres hoping this course is different!
Hi Eric, welcome aboard. Your history with the guitar is common with others too, unfortunately. I am certain you will love this course and it will show you things no one else ever seems to teach. Enjoy and let us know how you get on. π
Enjoying the finger picking, and the cup position will help me greatly.
That’s great, Bob. Pleased to hear it. Do keep us posted with how you get on. π
My favorite bit too.
Glad to hear it, Martin. Enjoyed that part myself π
Beautiful!!! Definitely has a James Taylor sound! Can’t wait to learn it!!
Glad to hear it, Denise. Hope you enjoy it! π
Nice!
Lovely, lovely, lovely!
Glad to hear it, Susan. π
I hooked my acoustic electric up to a ditto looper for the bass and then went to town strumming D, G and E. Going to try other chords with it next, like Eminor and Am
Good stuff, Roxanne. Sounds like you’ve been having lots of fun! Keep up the good practice π
Thatβs very cool, Dan. In fact, I saw James Taylor for the first time in concert a few months ago. Definitely hear some James Taylor style in this piece. Will be fun to learn.
I bet that was a great gig, Don! Inspiring too no doubt. Hope you have lots of fun with this. π
Wow Dan… That really sounds GREAT…. The beginning reminds me of Walking Down a Country Road by James Taylor. I love the way you put the strumming and picking together. I have trouble strumming without as pick, so this will be a good number to make me work on that. Thanks for another piece of beautiful music! Cheers
Exactly. I’m pretty excited. I did ok with the outwards bass flow last month. This looks cool.
Glad you enjoyed last month’s lesson, Tom, and hope you have lots of fun with this one too. π
Cheers, Logan. Glad you enjoyed it and it’s always nice to show a bit of the James Taylor influence. Have fun with it! π
Well done to the Leaderboard winners for October 2025. The winners were Gold β Jim Davis, Silver β Teresa Halvorson-Fox, and Bronze β Logan Hager.(Plus, the best comment prize goes to Tom Herder for his super interesting comment HERE). I’ll be in touch with the prizes! Cheers and well done everyone! π
Hi, Dan. I learned Eggs Fried. Bacon Crispy to re remember that these notes are right next to each other without the accidentals or sharps, flats. Sometimes mnemonic devices are helpful.
Hi Roxanne, good stuff, I like that too. I love mnemonics. Fun and great for helping things to stick. π