DianeB

Neil, I believe you are correct. The VII in G is F# half diminished (= F#m7b5). The IV in C is F major. I use the term “passing chord” here ver-r-ry loosely because in this section the bass is descending under Am. The chords are held a full measure, not the way we normally think of a passing chord.

By popular request, from Neil! As long as we're squashing fifths, we'll keep it up for September. Here's a passing chord from "As My Guitar Gently Weeps" that can't be passed over: F#m7b5 (F#-A-C-E = F# half-diminished 7). You can go the "Autumn Leaves" route, 202210 (as shown) or take my cheap shortcut, xx4210. Just make sure the bass player gets the memo.

Bernhard, here's a review from the latest issue of Acoustic Guitar on one kind of option: Power Pins 2.0 from Bigrock Innovations. The reviewer's acoustic analysis is intriguing.

I’m pleased to say the Major Scales Workout is not quite as tough as quantum mechanics. Mmm, true, but a high uncertainty Steve would go for that. I used to cry every few months over my slow progress. After two years on the Speed and Agility Workouts, I’m much faster. Now I cry at least once a week. Ewww, that didn’t come out quite right. With the Speed and Agility Workout, you can use out-of-network physical therapists. Or maybe not. C’mon, girl, Steve needs some cheerfulness and optimism here. Steve’s Major Scale Mastery Fretboard Workout has markedly improved my skills in three essential areas: melody lines, soloing, and fretboard geography. The graduated lessons will benefit the beginner through intermediate student. The Speed and Agility Workout is similarly designed to improve finger strength, dexterity, and independence. You might find similar tutorials elsewhere, but it’s unlikely you will find such a great value from so outstanding an instructor. Better. But now you’ve done it: he's going to expect you to play a solo at the next Gathering. Get your scaly carcass to the woodshed.

Darin, that's impressive on all counts: melody, lyrics, guitar, vocal articulation, and the entry of the keyboards. I liked the stronger "Alright" in the later choruses, and the bridge is just right. The only weak spot I heard was the final "Alright" where there's a brief, awkward silence between the last guitar note and the final keyboard chord. But, wow, you're hitting on all cylinders these days. ?

Way to go, Henk! Well done! ?

@fluidguitar“Need to know music theory to play?” No, as Randy suggests. But do you want to understand what you’re playing, and why? Do want to learn to play your solos in the most time- and physically efficient way possible? Then I say, yes, you need to know a certain amount. Steve’s Learn and Master course introduces music theory in minimum doses as the lessons progress. You can ignore it, but only for so long, until inevitably you will reach a point where Steve, or other musicians, simply can’t communicate with you. Then, you really will be playing solo. Don’t let that happen. Learn the scales, intervals, and chords, as much as you can. Here’s a good place to start (I hope).

Hi, Randy @randyh1953 I’ve subscribed to AG for several years now, and I agree with Neil and Bryan. If you’re around Learn & Master sessions 4/5, yes, much of the tutorial material in AG will appear intimidating or opaque. That’s true for me, and I’m not much farther along than you in my learning. But I look forward to every issue. I learn about artists, their music and recordings, history, gear, and other topics that I would not otherwise hear about. It’s not an exam booklet. But the magazine is not the real issue here. Whether you find it encouraging or discouraging in your journey is a reflection of how you see yourself. There is no shame in being a beginner. There was a time when you could not walk on your own two feet. You had to crawl, stumble, fall, get up, and try again. And sometimes it hurt. Learning guitar is not different. Not motivated? Sorry, I can’t help you there. Nor can anyone else, I dare say. You can do it or you can't do it; either way, you're right. You have to want it. Along the way, the universe will ask you many times, how much? My best wishes!

Kansas wins this one. I've seen Pat four times, but Kansas only on the documentary "Miracles Out of Nowhere" (twice). I snagged the last seat in the front half of the house. ? Pat won't miss me. He'll probably sell out the Mirriam Theater, as he's very popular in this area. Thanks for nudging me, guys.

Pat will be on Broad Street, and Kansas will be in Glenside (a Philly suburb) the same night! I can't decide! Auuggghh! If I don't make up my mind soon, I'll miss them both! ?‍♀️

Mark, thanks so much for the back story. There are some valuable lessons in there: the long hours of practice, playing even when you're scared, having a backup plan, playing through mistakes but staying in time, and knowing your role for the occasion. That's a professional. Well done!

What an inspiring story, Mark. I'm with Greg: I'd like to hear more about how you progressed toward playing professionally.

Steve apparently likes it, too, if the August 7 live lesson is an indication. ? A b5 is enharmonic with a #11.

Well done, Zeus! This is where the chords become colorful. ?

Happy birthday, Ian! ?? ?

Here’s a mild seasoning I found in the outro of k. d. lang’s “Constant Craving”. Trade up your Cadd9 to a C6/9#11 (1-3-6-9-#11; C-E-A-D-F#). Just slip this transposable honey into “Yesterday” or “Happy Birthday” when you crave a little tension or puzzled stare. “Craving" 's original recording is in F minor, so cheat along with me and capo up a notch to play along. We can deal with the D13sus in the intro later — it must be a Canadian thing — Am7 works fine in E minor. Bonus resource! If you flat that E (good luck) the whole burrito collapses into a Cdim9 (= Cdim7add9, 1-b3-b5-bb7-9; C-Eb-Gb-Bbb-D), a flatbread Phantom-of-the-Opera sandwich that you will probably never hear Steve, or anyone else, play on a guitar. Try x30242 to get the general drift. Once should be enough.

Heck yeah! Way to go, Greg. Loved it! ?

Amen! Pick up a pen, and write in the table of contents next to Session 1: "28 July 2018". ?

Happy birthday, Steve! Best wishes! ? ? ? ?

You've got this, Greg. If barbecue isn't sweet inspiration, I don't know what is. Go get 'em!

Wow, Ian, that was terrific! I especially loved the bridge and the finish. Bravo! ?

I'm so sorry, Randy. That really is dispiriting. I hope you heal quickly.