The Steel Guitar Forum

Mike Neer wrote:This is the one thing I would tell a beginner, and Ira Glass has told it so well, so listen to him:

http://youtu.be/PbC4gqZGPSY

Wow...........I've never seen that before.
He is exactly right and he explained in simple terms
why I am having a bit of trouble and disappointments.
It helps to know why and it made me feel better just hearing it.

We always think we are "the only one". I guess I'm not.....

Thanks Mike

Cool, Mike.
Scuse me I have to get back to work.

Man! Just perfect, Ira. Thanks for the link, Mike.

Your question is too vague for the context of learning an instrument so you'll only get vague answers.

Fact is you are a beginner in the UK so that makes your pool of teachers and resources slightly shallow. Therefore you have to use what you can get to easily. This Forum is one of them but you're there already. The other is Scotty's "Basic C6th Nonpedal Lap Steel Method", Mel Bay. It's often twee and annoying if you don't like the music played in there but for starting out from nothing, there's nothing comparable 'cos everything you're going to use later is in there.

Everything else you need is (hopefully) already attached to your body.

\ paul

First I would say you need "The Drive" to enjoy what you are trying to accomplish. I've been taking lessons for 4 years, and sometimes I feel it's a waste. Then something happens and "I get it!" I'm determined to master that sound that I hear so many professionals play, being Hawaiian, or Country. I've learned so much, keeping my left hand quiet, soft picking, moving up and down with the strings not anchoring my hand to the guitar, etc. Myriads of good habits to perfect the wonderful, melodious steel guitar! Keep pushing, practice, learn good habits, and eventually it starts to fall in place!

Thanks Mike. That video is just what I needed to hear. Awesome.

I am going tongue in cheek and repeat Hank Marvin's reply to this question:

Make sure your guitar has strings on it.....

Kay

Get a 10/12 string instrument

Learn chords, scales and songs

Play what music you enjoy. Challenge yourself and use a metronome