Growing up and even now, I sensed there was a secret within the music community that catapults intermediate players way, way, way ahead. And whatever that secret is, I ain’t got it. Does that make sense? It probably sounds silly to those who’ve already surpassed the intermediate level but I cannot be the only person who feels this way. And ya know, maybe that’s why me and others have quit instruments but return to it? Who knows.
I hope I’m not getting ahead of myself but I feel like I’m finally bridging the gap in this journey. The gap that I always take a starting sprint towards but never gain enough momentum to leap over. Ya know, that “aha!” moment, light bulb, that secret.
It’s as if everything Danny taught me (but did not stick) is now 100% clear now that Alek reexplained it in different terms. This doesn’t mean Danny’s not a good teacher–he’s hands down, one of the best–it’s simply beneficial to hear and see a concept multiple times and in various ways.
As you may or may not already know, Alek teaches me theory in every single lesson. Everything I’ve learned so far explains “why” for literally every teensy-weensy guitar concept that I honestly was never interested in to begin with… but it made a huge difference. Recently, the material fell into my lap as one entity with a note,
Kristen, open your eyes and pay attention. This is how you use everything you’ve been taught. This, right here, is what’s been missing. Stop overlooking it.
At the time I didn’t understand why I needed to know all those technical concepts but now it makes perfect sense.
For that reason, I am currently fixated on music theory. I can’t get enough of it. It’s so complex but when you place all the puzzle pieces together you get one of those, “ohhhh!” moments–it’s addicting. And because of that, I’m thirsty to know more and more. I wish people weren’t so afraid of theory or think it’s boring. I suppose it’s like an acquired taste that must develop over time.
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