The subject matter is too vast to be covered entirely in a single article. However, after receiving numerous requests for guidance on the development of guitar speed, it is high time that an article be dedicated to this topic. As a guitar teacher, training advanced guitar players to become virtuosos is a gratifying and enjoyable experience, and I’m sure that most guitar teachers teaching highly skilled students feel the same way.

If you are seeking a specific strategy to improve your guitar speed development, the answer may vary from player to player. It depends on the player’s current abilities and musical goals, among other factors. Nevertheless, I usually recommend a variation of the following guitar practice approach:

Firstly, when learning a new guitar technique, you should use a metronome to determine your maximum clean playing speed. Write this speed down in your guitar practice log.

Secondly, practice the technique at 20%-35% of your maximum speed for five consecutive sessions. During this stage, it is crucial to avoid the temptation of playing faster and ensure that everything remains clean. You must have no unnecessary movements or excessive tension in any part of your body, including your arms, hands, wrists, shoulders, neck, head, or any other place. For some guitarists, this stage can be tedious, but it is essential to be patient and persistent to develop the proper muscle memory for the technique. If you have a great guitar teacher, your progress will be much faster, easier, and better than if you attempt to do it on your own. Once you have mastered this stage, you can move on to the next stage.

Thirdly, practice the technique at 50% of your maximum speed for three consecutive sessions, again ensuring that everything is clean and relaxed.

Fourthly, practice the technique at 60%-65% of your maximum speed for three consecutive sessions, with total relaxation and no unnecessary movements.

Fifthly, practice the technique at 80% of your maximum speed for five consecutive sessions.

Sixthly, practice the technique at 85% of your maximum speed for one practice session only.

Seventhly, practice the technique at 90% of your maximum speed for the next ten practice sessions.

Eighthly, DRILL IT at 100% speed for an entire week!

After this week, assess your new maximum guitar speed (which should be higher than in stage one).

In the final stage, rotate every three practice sessions as follows: Session 1 = 60%, Session 2 = 85%, Session 3 = 95%. At the end of each practice session, DRILL IT at 100% for a few minutes.

Once a week, measure your new maximum guitar speed and adjust your metronome speeds accordingly.

A warning: Never play or practice your guitar in pain, as serious injuries can occur. This is not a joke.

Manuel Marino

Manuel Marino is a seasoned Senior Producer, Music Composer, and Artist with over a decade of experience. He specializes in branded entertainment across various mediums, including video games, films, and advertising campaigns. With 20+ years as a game music composer, Manuel has worked on numerous platforms, creating diverse orchestral soundtracks. HIRE ME

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