Music Lesson: Finding Note C

Introduction to Note C

In this example, we will find the new note C. To play this note, we will:

• Play the third fret on the A string.

Recap of Previously Learned Notes

So, let's recap what we've learned so far from rock and pop examples:

• E: Open E string
• F: First fret on the E string (played with our first finger)
• G: Third fret on the E string (played with our third finger)
• A: Open A string (second thickest string)
• B: Second fret on the A string (played with our middle finger)
• C: Third fret on the A string (played with our third finger)

Practice Recommendations

It would be good to practice these notes slowly, trying to memorize all six positions and their names in order:

• E, F, G, A, B, C

You can also practice them backward.

Connecting the Fretboard to Music Reading

In addition to practicing these notes on the fretboard, it's beneficial to locate them on the stave as well. Remember to refer back to our music reading section to find the notes on the stave and make the connection between the fretboard and what you're seeing on the music.

Example Three: Rhythm and New Note

In Example Three of the pop section, we see quarter note rests again, as well as our new note C.

• Bar 1:

  • Start off the phrase with the third fret on the E string.
  • The rest is on beat two.
  • On beat three, play A note followed by a rest.
  • Then, play the open A string and fret two (which is B on the A string).
  • Sounds like this: 1, 2, 3, 4.

• Bar 2:

  • A change in rhythm with half notes lasting for two beats.
  • Introduce our brand new note C (third fret on the A string).
  • Open up to the open A string for two beats.

Focus on Technique

In this section, we are focusing on:

• Playing two notes on the third fret: G (E string) and C (A string).

• Practice these two bars while keeping your third finger (ring finger) around this area.

• Tip: Try to keep your finger in position to maintain a smooth flow between the two notes without lifting too high.

Bar Changes and Counting

• Bar 3:
  • Similar notes as before, but the rest has moved.
  • Count carefully as this may take some time to adjust from the rest being on beat two to beat three.

Getting Comfortable with New Techniques

• For the new notes:
  • Third fret on the E string (G) to second fret on A string (B).
  • Practice moving between these two notes, playing both notes simultaneously in terms of the left hand and plucking different notes with your pick.

Structure of Bar 3

• Bar 3:

  • G (third fret on the E string)
  • B (second fret on the A string)
  • Rest
  • B again

• Final Bar:

  • C (third fret)
  • Open A string
  • G on the E string (lasting for two beats)

Conclusion: Bringing It All Together

This is a great example of maintaining finger position and not moving too far away from the frets.

Here's the whole line, nice and slowly for us to play together:

1, 2, 3, 4.

Clapping Exercise

To clap the rhythm, do the following:

1, 2, 3, 4.

Take your time adjusting to the different positions of the rests, and practice everything together before moving on to the backing track.