Tips For Guitar Playing Success

Tablature is such a fun way to play guitar, and easy tabs are the perfect place to start—especially when there’s a theme involved! In today’s episode. Marlene will show you how to play a spooky, Halloween-inspired instrumental tune. No lyrics, just eerie vibes—and. best of all, you’ll be able to play it right away! Start Your Free 7-day  Yo-Guitar Video Library  Trial! Join our  Guitar Tips Commun...

Exciting news... the Yo-Guitar Video Library just keeps growing. There are more than 28 unique practices for you to explore - plus, 2 brand-new videos dropping this month! In this episode, Marlene describes the latest additions - a video that helps you boost your creativity and another that's great for singers and anyone wanting to breathe a little easier. You'll learn how these practices can supp...

What do you think of when you hear the words bends and slides? You might think of a "bend" as part of your workout routine, or a "slide" like a baseball player diving into home plate—but on the guitar, bends and slides are techniques that add emotion to your playing. In this episode, Marlene breaks down what bends and slides are, how to play them, and why they’re such a cool (and not-too-difficult...

No time like the present to prep for your Halloween gigs! In this episode, Marlene shares 13 Halloween themed songs – a mix of musical tricks and treats - for you to explore on your guitar. Pick your favorites and lock in your setlist of tunes for those haunting parties or Halloween jams! Song Episode Links:  Monster Mash, Witchy Woman Nightmare Before Christmas, Time Warp, Somebody's Watching Me...

It’s officially fall, and that means crisp air, changing leaves, and music that captures the season’s mood. In this episode, Marlene dives into the beautiful song Autumn Leaves by Ed Sheeran. She will talk about the inspiration behind the song, and she'll share her tips for playing this seasonal tune. You’ll probably fall (pun intended!) in love with this song! Want to hear this song? Here's the o...

Are you ready to replace those worn-out nylon strings but not sure where to start? In this episode, Marlene breaks down a simple, step-by-step process for changing nylon guitar strings. With her five easy steps, you’ll be able to change your own strings—and in no time at all, you'll be back to playing! Link to the Remove Strings & Clean/Polish Guitar episode Start Your Free 7-day  Yo-Guitar Vi...

Ever heard of the Nashville Number System and wondered what it’s all about? In this episode, Marlene breaks down exactly what it is, why it's useful, and how you can start using it to play music more confidently—especially when playing with others. She'll even walk you through easy examples so you can begin playing it today! Link to the Chord Progressions episode Start Your Free 7-day  Yo-Guitar V...

Unwinding tension and stress from your mind & body before diving into your guitar playing session can make a huge difference. A Restorative Yoga practice is just the thing to make that happen! In this episode, Marlene talks about the essence of Restorative Yoga and introduces you to the newest Yo-Guitar video, a relaxing Restorative Yoga practice to help you ease into your guitar playing.  Sta...

It's that time again...for a dose of themed music! This month we're diving into songs inspired by the month of September.  In this episode, Marlene talks about a couple of September songs, their backgrounds and her playing recommendations. YouTube links Marlene talked about in this episode! September by Daughtry September by Corb Lund September by Earth, Wind & Fire Start Your Free 7-day  Yo-G...

One of the most popular topics on this podcast show is the great debate: acoustic vs electric guitars. And if you've ever wondered what sets them apart, then this episode is for you! In this episode, Marlene will break down the key similarities and differences between acoustic and electric guitars to help you understand and appreciate both.   Link to the previous AG vs. EG episode Marlene talked a...

When it comes to country music, y’all don’t need a million fancy chords to strum along. In fact, there are just a handful that show up over and over again. In this episode, Marlene will share 7 go-to chords and point out some classic country tunes where ya’ll can hear (and play) ’em loud and proud! Link ya'll might like to mosey over to! Mastering I - IV - V Chord Progressions Start Your Free 7-da...

Exciting things are happening! Acoustic Guitar magazine is featuring Marlene’s article Yoga for Guitarists, and two brand-new Yo-Guitar videos have just been released. In this episode, Marlene shares the details about her magazine feature and introduces the new videos, which take a deeper dive into essential yoga fundamentals for guitarists. Links you'll want to check out! Acoustic Guitar (magazin...

It's fun to lean into a seasonal theme - and today is a good time to be diving into the...Dog Days of Summer! In this episode, Marlene will explore what this classic phrase really means and show you how to bring that vibe to life on your guitar! Marlene mentioned these during the show! Bar Chord episodes: How to Play Bar Chords & Strengthening for Bar Chords   Dog Days of Summer official video...

Ever wondered how chord progressions work and why they're important to music? In this episode, Marlene breaks down what chord progressions are, why they're important for songwriting and performance, and how to use them to create smoother transitions and memorable tunes!  In this episode, Marlene mentions the Thursday Tips blog   Start Your Free 7-day  Yo-Guitar Video Library  Trial! Join our  Guit...

Got sore fingertips? You’re definitely not alone—it's one of the most common struggles for beginners and seasoned players alike. But don’t fret, there are simple ways to ease the pain and keep the music going. In this episode, Marlene shares 5 super easy hacks to help reduce fingertip soreness so you can enjoy longer, more comfortable playing sessions. Your fingers will thank you! Start Your Free...

Changing to newer guitar chords quickly, while maintaining accuracy, is one of the biggest hurdles for guitar players—at any level. But it doesn't have to be your experience forever! In this episode, Marlene will share some of her most effective strategies to help you move through your chord changes with more ease, confidence and speed. Start Your Free 7-day  Yo-Guitar Video Library  Trial! Join o...

These Yo-Guitar videos can:    ~ Relieve tension in your neck and shoulders    ~ Support your arms and wrists    ~ Ground yourself with mindful breathing and meditation Ultimately improving your guitar playing and overall well-being! In this episode, Marlene described the four new Yo-Guitar practices she created to help you deepen your Yo-Guitar and guitar playing journeys! Start Your Free 7-day ...

Tomorrow is the 4th of July—a celebration filled with patriotism, family, friends and fireworks. What better way to enjoy the festivities than by strumming some patriotic inspired tunes on your guitar? In this episode, Marlene shares ten 4th of July-themed songs that are perfect to play at your backyard BBQ, beach gathering, or fireworks show. You'll be able to... Let freedom ring, with your guita...

Today we're celebrating the musical genius of the late Brian Wilson. A founding member of the 60s surf rock group, The Beach Boys, his groundbreaking lyrics and melodies have shaped generations and defined an era. In this episode, Marlene dives into his musical legacy by looking at one of the band’s most iconic hits: Surfin’ USA.  She'll talk about the inspiration behind the song, how the band bro...

Starting your guitar journey can be overwhelming, but it doesn't have to be. Take it chord by chord—beginning with a few simple ones—and you'll be playing in no time. In this episode, Marlene talks about the first 10 chords every beginner should learn. She explains why these chords are the perfect foundation, how they can open the door to countless songs. and she shares her tips for practicing the...

In this episode, Marlene introduces two brand-new Yo-Guitar videos designed to support your guitar playing journey. One video focuses on improving hand and finger dexterity, while the other helps release overall body tension and improves circulation. Tune in as Marlene explains how these exercises can enhance your practice sessions and contribute to your growth as a guitarist. Start Your Free 7-da...

Playing music that fits the season is fun, and there's a wealth of summer vibe songs that are not just fun, but also easy to play on guitar. In this episode, Marlene shares five fun and simple-to-play summer themed songs—so grab your guitar and get into the laid-back summer spirit! Watch a Marlene's medley of these songs on YouTube Start Your Free 7-day  YoGuitar Video Library  Trial! Join our  Gu...

There are many benefits to jamming with other guitar players - most importantly, it's just plain ole fun! And, if you're feeling intimidated, the best way to overcome those doubts is to just jam!  In this episode, Marlene inspires you to give it a try as she shares her very first jam experience - she'd only been playing for 6 months! Plus, you'll learn about previous jam episodes that can help you...

Planning a trip? Take your guitar along for the ride—it's fun to play wherever your travels take you! In this episode, Marlene talks about her own guitar travel experiences, along with her tips and tricks so your beloved instrument arrives in tip top shape and ready to be played! Road Trip Guitar Advice episode Airplane Travel with Your Guitar episode How to Play 3 Cool Vacation Themed Songs episo...

Playing guitar is more fun - and definitely easier - when your mind and body are relaxed and flexible. The Yo-Guitar videos help you with that, and the newest one gets your blood pumping too! In this episode, Marlene describes the latest Yo-Guitar video, Sun Salutations 2. She talks about the 12 asanas (poses), which include Child's Pose, and shares their Sanskrit names too!  Start Your Free 7-day...