[Deki]

“HOW I TAC” by DEKI aka Fred Mandryk

1.) How many days per week do you play?

I am committed to practising 5 days per week. On weekends, I relax a little, but play a song or two throughout the day, during breaks around my chores, housework, if I’m watching a game baseBall/hockey I play during the ‘yakking’ or commercials; I have discovered my love for playing has increased over the last year tenfold. End result is I am becoming a daily player…and passionate about moving forward incrementally

2.) What time of day do you play?

I get my 10 minutes of practise in the mornings between 8:30 to 9:30 am. They always stretch into more time than 10. Coffee, make the bed, fire up the computer after reading the Tony’s mail is next. I play throughout the day as the opportunity arises. The routine augments my playing. In this case, I must add Covid-lock downs et al has made my music the perfect activity to fill in the time as there is plenty of it to play. No rush! No pressure!

3.) Where do you play?

In my corner of the family room. I check humidifier; read Tony’s email. There, are located my two treasures “Alfredo” my beloved acoustic and “Blackie” Fender Electric. A rug on the floor, music stand, guitar seat, my Peavey Amp, music books,,“TAC Binder” and table for my Lap top. I’m all set. Great spot.

4.) How has implementing a consistent guitar routine helped you? (if possible name 3 ways).

It certainly has. My commitment has increased 100%; it’s easy to keep when Tony’s Rationale is applied and even more so now that my wife has distinctly noticed a significant difference my playing. She’s an accomplished pianist as is our daughter.

* I use a timer to make sure I’m not cheating myself. I have noticed I’ve increased the time to 20 minutes over the last couple of months. Small win, eh?

* I like to have a paper copy of the daily challenge; as well I often read the comments at the end of sessions and pick up tips from others – then go back and try them out! I make notations on the printed version

* I continue to mark the X when completing the job. I love the longest streak feature. I see my progress and consider each session as a small win. I was overwhelmed in the beginning, but now I simply proceed and complete the challenge. I also go back and review and plan to continue doing this as part of my practise routine.

* Lastly, I don’t cry when I play many of my songs as I was so used to doing. I remember my former teacher and the fun we had playing as a duet before he passed away. He was my inspiration then…now Tony, you have taken his place.

5.) Bonus Question: What is one non-guitar item that is a must have in your guitar routine?

SOLITUDE:

Phone off, no distractions, staying focussed;…THIS TOO IS MEASURED…. I USE MY PHONE SET TO “ALARM” AND INSTEAD OF A RING, Johnny Cash breaks the silence with his version of “The Cat’s In The Cradle”! If I jump when it comes on, I have been focussed. If not, I may repeat that section or occasionally even the entire 10 minute session. Another small win.

PS

Tony, I am grateful to have the opportunity of learning your techniques and methods of playing the guitar. It’s a bonus meeting the group of like minded people and have access to the entire comment section. It adds to the package and reaffirms my belief in the acronym TEAM ..says it best Together Everyone Achieves More

GUITAR GEEKS UNITE