Go Unplugged

Explore new styles and sounds with us as we show you just how diverse acoustic playing can be with our easy lessons

- Chris Bird, Richard Barrett, Rob Laing

This month our aim is to not just inspire you to get playing some acoustic guitar but also change your perception of what you can play. Whether you’re a seasoned acoustic guitarist or a dedicated electric player with a steel string gathering dust in the house, there’s something for everyone. We’re kicking off our lessons with some fingerstyle basics before we get stuck in with a mix of style studies. You can even have a bash at the percussive guitar with our easy tutorial. Need to plug in? No problem! From preamps and pickups to amps and fx, we’ve distilled down the best gear on the market in our guide to getting your acoustic guitar rig giggable. Turn the page and let’s get started.

FINGERSTYLE BASICS

Ditch your pick and get some fingerpicking fundamentals down with this easy primer lesson

Whether you’re a regular fingerstyle player or it’s a technique you’ve never tried, we always recommend paying attention to the basics. This short lesson shows you the best ways to approach fingerpicking, but with one vital caveat – these are general ‘rules’ that you’ll often find yourself breaking when you play. Still, get the fundamentals down and you’ll be covered for a multitude of playing situations. Read on as we help you get started.

MELODIC FINGERPICKING

Single-note melodies have a different sound to arpeggios – and this picking approach is ideal. Rest your thumb on a bass string to hold you in place as your first, second and occasionally third fingers outline a melody.

ACOUSTIC STYLES

Explore a selection of acoustic guitar styles with TG’s tab lessons on some fundamentals