Rob Luft on how to practice exercises

The Importance of Slow Practice

One thing I've always thought about practicing is that if you do the slower tempo, practice first with a metronome, really nail it, and be accurate. You will develop the faster tempos without hesitation.

Key Takeaway:
Practice things slowly and accurately, and the faster tempos will take care of themselves.

Example: The C Major Scale

Let me give you an example. Let's take the C major scale , C Ionian, the simplest scale on an instrument like the piano. Here we are.

Practicing with a Metronome

1. Set Up:

   • Use a metronome app on your phone.
   • Set it at a slow tempo (e.g., 60 beats per minute).

2. Playing the C Major Scale:

   • Try playing this scale now with:
     • Two strokes per note
     • Three notes per stroke
     • Four notes per stroke
     • Double it up
     • Five notes per stroke, etc.

If you take care of these slower tempos and work on things at the base tempo, when it comes to playing fast, these things will take care of themselves.

Faster Tempos with Slow Practice

In relation to these grades and the songs in this course, I really have to say: if you work on them at a slower tempo, the faster tempos found on the records and recordings will be so much easier for you.

When I was at an earlier stage in my development and I was looking at a piece such as Dark Matter, I would work on each phrase very slowly and methodically.

Now, at my current stage of development, I can simply look at the piece, and I'm able to play it straight away. This is extremely helpful.

Final Thoughts:
When you're a professional guitarist facing new music all the time, it's crucial to have developed this skill. So just take it slow, enjoy yourselves, and develop at your own pace.