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@robertlambe302@gmail.com, I read where you want to play like Billy Strings. I looked up his Biography and found that he was born in 1992. His father and uncle were both a great influence as they were accomplished musicians and surrounded him with acoustic music practically from birth. When he was 4, Billy asked for a guitar, his wise dad bought him one that cost a mere $25 which he learned to play. When he turned 6 years, he joined his dad at bluegrass picking parties. He got the nickname Billy Strings from his aunt. He was playing an electric guitar in middle school in a heavy metal band, but realized it was leading him down the wrong road. He’s only 28 now and if my math is right he’s been around playing for 22 years. Most people want to play well right away. Have faith. My recommendations are
1) take heart stay determined… don’t let your expectations defeat your desire.
2) Stay on the path. Lessons that don’t seem logical to a beginner will turn out to be treasured as you progress in understanding.
3) Enjoy each day of playing. Find something little that you did differently than the day before and keep a journal.
4) Each lesson, listen attentively to instructions re: fretting hand as well as the picking hand. I make notations under the music that I print out and practice them one measure at a time. It may not seem at the moment that it applies to me, but just followed the good guidance and encouragement others give… Then suddenly, the magic happens.
I noticed how my playing has improved and how I can recognize chords I couldn’t imagine even 9 months ago. This is because of TAC. Do take advantage of the skills that are offered. And find simple songs at first to use what you are learning. I hear so many different levels of achievement at the VOMs… and so many different styles of playing and songs.
By the way, we’ve all gone through slumps… Falling into that hole wasn’t fun, but climbing back out, was the best thing I’ve ever done.