HOW TO PASS GRADE 1
IMPORTANT OBJECTIVES
PART 1: Changing between common chords
PART 2: Playing chord progressions
PART 3: Memorizing easy tabs
PART 4: Ear training: playing with metronome
PART 5: Take mock test
PART 6: Grade 1 Review, Please
Guidelines
SOMEONE'S ABOUT TO BECOME A GRADE 1 GUITAR PLAYER! :)
Congratulations!
All your hard work and efforts have brought you here. Now let's make sure you get what you deserve.
As we wrap up Grade 1 of the Guitar Hands Academy Course, let's recap what you've learned so far. This guide will give you an idea of what you should be confident doing before moving on to Grade 2. Focus on practicing the things you struggle with the most.
Use this to guide your practice as you prepare for the exam. Track your progress by practicing these elements in your alone time with the guitar.
Let's first check out 4 things you should focus on to pass Grade 1.
HOW TO PASS GRADE 1
#1 Memorize and play the 9 essential beginner chords on the guitar.
The goal is to say the chord's name and play it straight away - without even thinking! These 9 essential beginner chords are A, D, E, Am, Dm, Em, C, G, F,
In the exam
- You will create and play 2 chord progressions with these chords
Important Points
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CLARITY - Aim to play all 9 chords perfectly.
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Make sure they all ring out correctly.
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You should be able to play them from memory, in any order, straight away.
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Get the right sound from these chords at least 70 % of the time.
#2 Play harmonious chord progressions.
The goal is to play lovely chord progressions using the chords from part1. You must be able to merge chords seamlessly.
In the exam
- You will be given 2 minutes to practice each progression.
Important Points
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CLARITY - Aim to play all progressions perfectly.
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CONTRAST - Chords should sound unique from each other.
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You should be able to pair chords in such a way that they sound good together.
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Demonstrate your ability to change between chords without delay.
#3 Memorizing easy tabs.
The goal is to play easy tablatures that you will get in the exam.
In the exam
- You will be given 5 minutes to practice each tab.
Important Points
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CLARITY - Aim to play all tabs perfectly.
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INTONATION - The quality of your notes.
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You should be able to play easy tabs in a melodious way, without any drastic delays or dramatic stops.
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Try to flow as you play the tabs with some rhythm.
#4 Ear Training: Playing with metronome
We all have a love-hate relationship with the metronome! The goal is to play chords and tabs under timing.
In the exam
- You get 2 tabs and 2 progressions.
- Then, you will be given 5 minutes to practice each piece.
Important Points
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CLARITY - Aim to play all chords and tabs perfectly.
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TIMING - Play each note/chord in sync with the timer.
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Take time to sync with the metronome in your mind before you begin playing the piece
#5 Bonus Points
Because I really want you to pass your Grade 1 exam with the highest marks here are some extra tips for you.
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You should be able to tune your guitar with a digital tuner
The worst thing to do is to take the exam with a guitar that's out of tune. Tune your guitar and all your notes will be perfect
sounding.
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Rhythm
Whenever you play any piece without the metronome maintain a constant beat in your mind so that your music is
melodious, also play timed strumming techniques.
GRADE 1: KEY REMINDER FOR GUITAR PLAYERS
When learning the guitar, always be kind and forgiving with yourself. I know it can be frustrating at times, but remember, it's a fun journey! This guide is a list of things you want to do. The test is an assessment tool and with guitar goals you'd like to accomplish :) Watching yourself progress should be an incredible and rewarding feeling!
With smart practice you'll master all the tools to pass Grade 1 with confidence :) See you there!