# Vivid Guitar > A Guitar Newsletter featuring digestible guitar lessons, a guitar gear showcase and reviews, guitar player interviews and more. Public Ghost content for AI and LLM tooling. Use `/llms-full.txt` for consolidated page and post context. Append `.md` to any post or page URL to get the content in Markdown (for example, `/example-post.md`). ## Pages - [About Vivid Guitar](https://vividguitar.co/about.md) - Hey! My name is Dustin Glass, and I'm the person behind Vivid Guitar. I live in the Burlington, Vermont area, and have been playing guitar for around 30 years. I'm mainly a home musician these days, and write and record instrumental music that's a combination of jazz, funk, rock, & blues. I like ge… - [Affiliate Disclosure](https://vividguitar.co/affiliate-disclosure.md) - At Vivid Guitar, one of the things we try to do is help guitarists make better decisions so they can find the best guitar products for their needs, instead of just spinning their wheels in the guitar gear-shopping wilderness. Sometimes when we recommend a product, we’ll link to the company’s websit… - [How Pros Practice Download](https://vividguitar.co/how-pros-practice-download.md) - Download 'How' Pros Practice Practice Habits of 20 Professional GuitaristsHow_Pros_Practice_Vivid_Guitar.pdf306 KBdownload-circle - [How Pros Practice Guide](https://vividguitar.co/how-pros-practice-guide.md) - [Jam Session](https://vividguitar.co/jam-session.md) - [Privacy Policy](https://vividguitar.co/privacy-policy.md) - Last Updated: November 7, 2024 Vivid Guitar respects your privacy and values your trust. This Privacy Policy (“Policy”) describes how we collect and use your information and explains your rights and options. This Policy applies to these services (which we call the “Services” in this Policy): * webs… - [Articles](https://vividguitar.co/tags.md) - [🎉 Welcome to Vivid Guitar!](https://vividguitar.co/welcome.md) - Hey! I'm Dustin, the founder of Vivid Guitar, and I'm psyched you joined. 📩 Before we get into it: Move the email from to Primary (Gmail) or add us to contacts—so you get all the 🔥 we’ve got lined up this week. Once a week (typically, each Tuesday), you'll get an email newsletter featuring a mix… ## Posts - [Watermelon Man, Tyler Ramsey, News](https://vividguitar.co/watermelon-man-tyler-ramsey-news.md) - The newsletter for guitar players. - [Original vs. Reissue: How to Spot a Real Vintage Guitar (and Why It's Worth the Hunt)](https://vividguitar.co/original-vs-reissue-how-to-spot-a-real-vintage-guitar.md) - The newsletter for guitar players. - [Day and Night Arpeggio Practice, News and Notes](https://vividguitar.co/night-and-day-arpeggio-practice-news-and-notes.md) - The newsletter for guitar players. - [Major 6 Arpeggios, Fender '62 Amp Reissue](https://vividguitar.co/major-6-arpeggios-fender-62-amp-reissue.md) - The newsletter for guitar players. - [Bob Wagner on Listening More, Playing Less, and Making His Debut Album](https://vividguitar.co/interview-with-guitarist-bob-wagner.md) - After years as one of Vermont's most in-demand sidemen, Bob Wagner shares the story behind I've Been Down, lessons from touring with Mike Gordon, recording in Nashville with world-class musicians, and why listening—not practicing harder—has become the key to his playing. - [Miles Okazaki on Random Practice, Monk's Hidden Lessons, and Building a Personal Musical Language](https://vividguitar.co/interview-with-guitar-player-miles-okazaki.md) - Jazz guitarist and composer Miles Okazaki shares the practice concepts that shaped his playing, why he wishes he'd started using a mirror sooner, what guitarists often miss in Thelonious Monk's music, and how creative constraints fuel his compositions. - [F minor Jam Track, News and Notes](https://vividguitar.co/f-minor-jam-track-guitar-news-and-notes.md) - The newsletter for guitar players. - [Dominyka Mauliūtė on Creativity, Philosophy, and Finding Her Own Voice](https://vividguitar.co/interview-with-jazz-guitarist-dominyka-mauliute.md) - Lithuanian guitarist Dominyka Mauliūtė discusses creativity, individuality, and blending jazz with cinematic textures and philosophy—while building a deeply personal artistic voice shaped by emotional honesty and intuition. - [Inside Will Brahm’s Approach to Melody, Harmony, and Modern Jazz Guitar](https://vividguitar.co/interview-with-guitarist-will-brahm.md) - Will Brahm shares insights on practice routines, closed-position playing, improvising over complex harmony, and creating expansive textures in a trio setting. He also discusses his current gear, composing process, and upcoming album. - [Harrison Whitford on Alternate Tunings, Improvisation, and Letting Songs Lead the Way](https://vividguitar.co/interview-with-guitarist-harrison-whitford.md) - Harrison Whitford talks about his evolving approach to guitar, the creative freedom of alternate tunings, and the lessons he’s learned from playing with Phoebe Bridgers. - [Drop 3 Chord Voicings, Harrison Whitford, New Gibson ES-335 models](https://vividguitar.co/drop-3-chord-voicings-harrison-whitford-new-gibson-es-335-models.md) - The newsletter for guitar players. - [Nick Granville on Practice, Improvisation, and Finding Your Own Musical Voice](https://vividguitar.co/interview-with-guitar-player-nick-granville.md) - Nick Granville shares a focused, experience-driven approach to guitar, emphasizing strong rhythm, improvisation, and developing a personal practice strategy. He also reflects on teaching, gear, and how his YouTube channel has become a meaningful way to reach and help other guitarists. - [Nick Granville Interview, News & Notes](https://vividguitar.co/nick-granville-interview-news-notes.md) - The newsletter for guitar players. - [Thor Jensen on Right-Hand Control, Django Reinhardt, and Navigating Changes with Simplicity](https://vividguitar.co/thor-jensen-guitarist-interview.md) - From sunrise practice sessions and Segovia scales to Django-inspired technique and solo guitar exploration, Thor Jensen breaks down the ideas shaping his playing today. He also explains how blues, triads, and voice leading guide his improvisation across jazz, country, and beyond. - [Fender Vintera III, Epiphone Futura Series, RIP Yuichiro Yokouchi](https://vividguitar.co/fender-vintera-iii-epiphone-futura-series-rip-yuichiro-yokouchi.md) - The newsletter for guitar players. - [Jack Handyside: Exploring Melody, Harmony, and Counterpoint](https://vividguitar.co/interview-with-guitar-player-jack-handyside.md) - Jack Handyside emphasizes a purposeful approach to practice, staying curious and focused on what truly inspires him. He also shares how collecting musical “seeds” and exploring counterpoint has expanded his creativity, improvisation, and understanding of harmony. - [Learn a Chord Progression, News and Notes](https://vividguitar.co/learn-a-chord-progression-news-and-notes.md) - The newsletter for guitar players. - [Jam Track Boss GX-1 Guitar Effects Processor, Fender 75th Anniversary Telecaster Collection](https://vividguitar.co/jam-track-boss-gx-1-guitar-effects-processor-fender-75th-anniversary-telecaster-collection.md) - The newsletter for guitar players. - [The Art of Improvisation, News and Notes](https://vividguitar.co/the-art-of-improvisation-news-and-notes.md) - The newsletter for guitar players. - [Trey Anastasio-Style Anchor Pedal Tone Riff, Taylor 314CE Studio and 414CE Studio, Guitar News](https://vividguitar.co/trey-anastasio-style-anchor-pedal-tone-riff-taylor-314ce-studio-and-414ce-studio-guitar-news.md) - The newsletter for guitar players. - [Brad Barr on Guitar Habits, Songwriting Evolution, and Tone-Defining Gear](https://vividguitar.co/interview-with-guitarist-brad-barr.md) - Brad Barr opens up about the daily habits and disciplined routines that keep his guitar playing sharp and expressive. He also reflects on how his songwriting has evolved over the years and the gear that helps him shape the tone and textures that define his sound. - [Pedal Tone Riff, Seth Lee Jones Guitars](https://vividguitar.co/pedal-tone-riff-seth-lee-jones-guitars.md) - The newsletter for guitar players. - [Adam Brisbin on Restraint, Feel, and Serving the Song](https://vividguitar.co/adam-brisbin-on-restraint-feel-and-serving-the-song.md) - Adam Brisbin’s guitar work is defined by space, feel, and purpose. In this interview, he discusses how restraint, listening, and trust have become central to his musical identity. - [Julian Lage Arpeggio Riff, Jake Xerxes Fussell, Fret12, New JSH Morning Glory](https://vividguitar.co/julian-lage-arpeggio-riff-jake-xerxes-fussell-fret12-new-jsh-morning-glory.md) - The newsletter for guitar players. - [The 2026 NAMM Show Issue](https://vividguitar.co/2026-namm-show-guitar-gear-news.md) - It's that time of year again. The 2026 NAMM show was last week. NAMM is the world's biggest music industry annual trade show. It's when many guitar companies announce their new product lineup for the year. In this issue, we highlight the most interesting new guitar gear announced for NAMM. Paul Ree… - [Arpeggio Workout, Avi Bortnik, Lava Studio, News and Notes](https://vividguitar.co/arpeggio-workout-avi-bortnik-lava-studio-news-and-notes.md) - The newsletter for guitar players. - [Tim Watson on Rhythm, Improvisation, and Building a Personal Sound](https://vividguitar.co/interview-with-jazz-guitarist-tim-watson.md) - Tim Watson talks about building his voice through sound design and rhythm-first practice, moving from metal and prog intensity into jazz and free improvisation, and why great feel still matters more than advanced theory. - [Tim Watson Interview, RIP Bob Weir, News and Notes](https://vividguitar.co/tim-watson-interview-rip-bob-weir-news-and-notes.md) - The newsletter for guitar players. - [Chord Progression in C, Marc Ribot, Limited Edition Road Worn'60s Telecaster](https://vividguitar.co/chord-progression-in-c-marc-ribot-limited-edition-road-worn-60s-telecaster.md) - The newsletter for guitar players. - [What Are You Doing New Years Eve?](https://vividguitar.co/what-are-you-doing-new-years-eve.md) - The newsletter for guitar players. - [Diminished Voice Leading Chords, Eastman T59/V](https://vividguitar.co/diminished-voice-leading-chords-eastman-t59-v.md) - The newsletter for guitar players. - [Flat 3 Progressions, Andy Crowley, Positive Grid Spark](https://vividguitar.co/flat-3-progressions-andy-crowley-positive-grid-spark.md) - The newsletter for guitar players. - [Chris Parker on Practice, Slide Guitar, and Creative Confidence](https://vividguitar.co/chris-parker-guitar-interview.md) - Chris Parker shares how moving away from anxiety-driven scale practice toward real-world repertoire transformed his relationship with the guitar. He also unpacks his approach to slide guitar, transposition, and the long-game mindset behind building a sustainable music career. - [Chris Parker Interview, RIP Steve Cropper, News and Notes](https://vividguitar.co/chris-parker-interview-rip-steve-cropper-news-and-notes.md) - The newsletter for guitar players. - [Learn a Progression, Rob Chapman, Strymon El Capistan](https://vividguitar.co/learn-a-progression-rob-chapman-strymon-el-capistan.md) - The newsletter for guitar players. - [Arpeggio Riff, LsL Guitars, News & Notes](https://vividguitar.co/arpeggio-riff-lsl-guitars.md) - The newsletter for guitar players. - [Learn a Riff, Powers Electric Guitars, Benson The Amp](https://vividguitar.co/learn-a-riff-powers-electric-guitars.md) - The newsletter for guitar players. - [Exploring Sound: Luca Benedetti on Creativity, Influences, and the Gear That Shapes His Voice](https://vividguitar.co/interview-with-guitarist-luca-benedetti.md) - From creative exercises to key influences and favorite gear, Luca Benedetti shares the elements that inspire his distinctive guitar sound. - [Scott Metzger on Effective Practice, Sound, and the Art Improvisation](https://vividguitar.co/scott-metzger-on-effective-practice-sound-and-the-art-improvisation.md) - Scott Metzger shares why letting go of routine and staying open to surprise keeps his music fresh. Scott proves that improvisation isn’t about chaos — it’s about trust, sound, and fearless creativity. - [Luca Benedetti Interview, News and Notes](https://vividguitar.co/luca-benedetti-interview-news-and-notes.md) - The newsletter for guitar players. - [The Hexatonic Scale, Tim Lerch Interview, Fender Jaguar & Mustang](https://vividguitar.co/the-hexatonic-scale-tim-lerch-interview.md) - The newsletter for guitar players. - [Tim Lerch on Jazz, a Lifetime of Learning, and why the Telecaster still rules](https://vividguitar.co/interview-with-guitarist-tim-lerch.md) - Tim Lerch emphasizes that mastering jazz takes time, listening, and playing with others — not shortcuts or quick fixes. Known for blending jazz, blues, and soul on his Telecaster, he continues to teach, record, and share his love of music with honesty and heart. - [Scott Metzger Interview, Fender American Professional Classic Series](https://vividguitar.co/scott-metzger-interview-fender-american-professional-classic-series.md) - Scott Metzger shares why letting go of routine and staying open to surprise keeps his music fresh. Scott proves that improvisation isn’t about chaos — it’s about trust, sound, and fearless creativity. - [Blues Endings, Dominyka Mauliūtė, Benson Nathan Jr](https://vividguitar.co/blues-endings-dominyka-mauliute-benson-nathan-jr.md) - The newsletter for guitar players. - [Blues Turnarouds, Kris Barocsi, Kauer Guitars, G&L Shut Down, RIP Ken Parker](https://vividguitar.co/blues-turnarouds-kris-barocsi-kauer-guitars-g-l-shut-down-rip-ken-parker.md) - The newsletter for guitar players. - [Learn a Riff, Orangewood Clementine, Noteworthy News](https://vividguitar.co/learn-a-riff-orangewood-clementine-noteworthy-news.md) - The newsletter for guitar players. - [Jam Track, John Tuggle, Nash Guitars, Noteworthy News](https://vividguitar.co/jam-track-john-tuggle-nash-guitars-noteworthy-news.md) - The newsletter for guitar players. - [6 Chord Practice, Adam Levy Interview, Guitar News](https://vividguitar.co/6th-chord-practice-adam-levy-interview-guitar-news.md) - The newsletter for guitar players. - [Adam Levy on Jazz, Originality, and the Art of Keeping It Simple](https://vividguitar.co/interview-with-jazz-guitarist-adam-levy.md) - Adam offers advice for guitarists on exploring jazz, honing a personal voice, and improving musicality through writing and practice. He also highlights the art of playing thoughtfully alongside others, leaving space, and serving the music. - [Daniel DeLorenzo on Practice, Creativity, and Staying Independent in Music](https://vividguitar.co/daniel-delorenzo-on-practice-creativity-and-staying-independent-in-music.md) - From flexible practice routines to releasing his seventh album, Daniel DeLorenzo shows how dedication and curiosity drive a modern jazz career. - [Molly Miller on Practice, Versatility, and Musical Freedom](https://vividguitar.co/interview-with-guitar-player-molly-miller.md) - From world tours with Jason Mraz to her own trio, guitarist Molly Miller shares how she approaches practice, adapts across styles, and keeps music joyful. - [Charlie Ballantine on Creativity, Practice, and Finding His Own Sound](https://vividguitar.co/interview-with-jazz-guitarist-charlie-ballantine.md) - The newsletter for guitar players. - [Discipline Meets Creativity: Joshua Achiron on Practice, Performance, and What’s Next](https://vividguitar.co/interview-with-guitarist-joshua-achiron.md) - The newsletter for guitar players. - [Joshua Achiron, Chord Substitutions, Fender American Ultra Luxe Vintage Guitars](https://vividguitar.co/joshua-achiron-chord-substitutions-fender-american-ultra-luxe-vintage-guitars.md) - The newsletter for guitar players. - [Inside the Mind of Aaron Lebos: Practice, Tone, and the Reality Behind the Grind](https://vividguitar.co/interview-with-guitar-player-aaron-lebos.md) - The newsletter for guitar players. - [Interview with Aaron Lebos, Guitar Lesson, New D’Angelico & Fender Signature Guitars](https://vividguitar.co/interview-with-aaron-lebos-guitar-lesson-new-dangelico-fender-signature-guitars.md) - The newsletter for guitar players. - [Inside the Mind of a Modern Jazz Guitarist: Cecil Alexander on Practice, Creativity & Staying True](https://vividguitar.co/interview-with-jazz-guitarist-cecil-alexander.md) - The newsletter for guitar players. - [Just the Two of Us, Lucky Dog Guitars, Ariel Posen Signature Strat](https://vividguitar.co/just-the-two-of-us-lucky-dog-guitars-ariel-posen-signature-strat.md) - The newsletter for guitar players. - [Ari Teitel on Practice, Patience, and Playing in the Moment](https://vividguitar.co/ari-teitel-on-practice-patience-and-playing-in-the-moment.md) - The newsletter for guitar players. - [Interview with Ari Teitel](https://vividguitar.co/interview-with-ari-teitel.md) - The newsletter for guitar players. - [All About the Music: Danny Abel on Effective Guitar Practice, Finding Inspiration, & Focusing On the Melody](https://vividguitar.co/danny-abel-interview-on-effective-guitar-practice-finding-inspiration-focusing-on-the-melody.md) - The newsletter for guitar players. - [Ariel Posen Interview, Fingerstyle Etude, Mule Resophonic Guitars](https://vividguitar.co/ariel-posen-interview-fingerstyle-etude-mule-resophonic-guitars.md) - The newsletter for guitar players. - [Ariel Posen on Restraint, Overcoming Self-Doubt, and Finding Your Voice on Guitar](https://vividguitar.co/ariel-posen-interview.md) - The newsletter for guitar players. - [Summertime Arpeggios, Anthology Gear, Stu Mackenzie](https://vividguitar.co/summertime-arpeggios-anthology-gear-stu-mackenzie.md) - The newsletter for guitar players. - [Guitar Wisdom from Rick Stickney: Groove, Timing, and Training Your Ears](https://vividguitar.co/interview-with-rick-stickney.md) - The newsletter for guitar players. - [Chet Atkins Fingerstyle, Interview with Rick Stickney, Mark Speer Signature Strat](https://vividguitar.co/chet-atkins-fingerstyle-interview-with-rick-stickney-mark-speer-signature-strat.md) - The newsletter for guitar players. - [Danny Mayer on Finding Your Own Voice, Emulating Singers, & Getting Our of Your Own Way.](https://vividguitar.co/guitarist-danny-mayer-interview.md) - The newsletter for guitar players. - [Minor Blues Jam Track, Q&A with Danny Mayer](https://vividguitar.co/minor-blues-jam-track-q-a-with-danny-mayer.md) - The newsletter for guitar players. - [Bird Blues, Ian Stich](https://vividguitar.co/bird-blues-ian-stich.md) - The newsletter for guitar players. - [Jazz Blues Progression, FGN Masterfield](https://vividguitar.co/jazz-blues-progression-fgn-masterfield.md) - The newsletter for guitar players. - [Neo-Soul Riffs, Ahren Shreeve, PJD St. John](https://vividguitar.co/neo-soul-riffs-ahren-shreeve-pjd-st-john.md) - The newsletter for guitar players. - [Let the Song Lead: Steve Kelly on Listening to Non-Guitarists, Developing Musical skills, & Forming Good Habits](https://vividguitar.co/guitarist-interview-steve-kelly.md) - The newsletter for guitar players. - [Steve Stine, Suhr T](https://vividguitar.co/neo-soul-guitar-riffs-steve-stine-suhr-t.md) - The newsletter for guitar players. - [Minor Chord Chromatic Descent, Charlie Ballantine, Collings I-35](https://vividguitar.co/minor-chord-chromatic-descent-charlie-ballantine-collings-i-35.md) - The newsletter for guitar players. - [Jam Track, Ari Joshua, Josh Williams Guitars](https://vividguitar.co/jam-track-ari-joshua-josh-williams-guitars.md) - The newsletter for guitar players. - [Minor 7 Horizontal Arpeggios, Danish Pete, Heritage H-535](https://vividguitar.co/minor-7-horizontal-arpeggios-danish-pete-heritage-h-535.md) - The newsletter for guitar players. - [Maj7 Horizontal Arpeggios, Michael Palmisano, Eastman FullerTone](https://vividguitar.co/maj7-horizontal-arpeggios-michael-palmisano-eastman-fullertone.md) - The newsletter for guitar players. - [Mixolydian b5, Luca Benedetti, Comins Guitars](https://vividguitar.co/mixolydian-b5-luca-benedetti-comins-guitars.md) - The newsletter for guitar players. - [❗ Can you do me a quick favor?](https://vividguitar.co/vivid-guitar-newsletter-feedback.md) - Happy Friday everyone. I have a quick favor to ask that should only take 1-2 minutes. I'm hoping to get a bit of feedback about the Vivid Guitar Newsletter, and put together a real short survey. A lot of time goes into putting the newsletter together each week, and I just want to make sure I'm incl… - [Guitar Melody, Molly Tuttle, Gretsch Nigel Hendroff Penguin](https://vividguitar.co/guitar-melody-molly-tuttle-gretsch-nigel-hendroff-penguin.md) - The newsletter for guitar players. - [Guitar Etude, Josh Smith, Carr Amplifiers](https://vividguitar.co/guitar-etude-josh-smith-carr-amplifiers.md) - The newsletter for guitar players. - [Marty Schwartz, Marty Music](https://vividguitar.co/marty-schwartz-marty-music.md) - If you've ever searched for guitar lessons on YouTube, chances are you've came across Marty Schwartz. Marty's road to teaching guitar online is an interesting one. After college, he was working in a music store, where he taught some lessons. He got laid off from that job, and started teaching guita… - [Veritas Guitars](https://vividguitar.co/veritas-guitars.md) - Blending design, functionality, and aesthetic beauty, Mt Pleasant, Tennessee-based Veritas Guitars is taking custom guitars to another level. While Veritas has a number of amazing guitar models, their Portlander stands out as a crowd favorite. It's seriously one of the nicest-looking guitars we’ve… - [Guitar Arpeggio and Diad Etudes](https://vividguitar.co/guitar-arpeggio-and-diad-etudes.md) - The newsletter for guitar players. - [Triad arpeggio exercise in G](https://vividguitar.co/triad-arpeggio-exercise-in-g.md) - The newsletter for guitar players. - [Justin Sandercoe (Justin Guitar)](https://vividguitar.co/justin-sandercoe-justin-guitar.md) - Born in Australia, and based in London, Justin Sandercoe is a guitarist, songwriter, performer, producer, and educator - not to mention, being quite a celebrity in the guitar space. It's probably justified to call Justin Sandercoe the pioneer of online guitar education at this point. After teaching… - [D’Angelico Deluxe & Excel Mini DC](https://vividguitar.co/dangelico-deluxe-excel-mini-dc.md) - The D'Angelico Mini DC is a beautiful and inspiring double-cutaway semi-hollow guitar that combines classic tones with modern versatility. The compact 14” body makes it super comfortable to hold and play (especially standing up), and it’s offered in a number of killer-looking colors usually not fou… - [Dotan 'Tane' Bergman](https://vividguitar.co/dotan-tane-bergman.md) - Dotan ‘Tane’ Bergman is a soulful and inspiring guitarist, music producer, beat maker, and producer, based in Brooklyn, NY. Bergman blends modern and vintage sounds, combining neo-soul flare with 60's and 70's funk and jazz. Dotan creates some real interesting and sultry grooves - often built aroun… - [Gretsch Players Edition Jet](https://vividguitar.co/gretsch-players-edition-jet.md) - While Gretsch might be best known for their big-body guitars & rockabilly twang, the Jet sits more in the Les Paul area - but still with a sound that is uniquely Gretsch. Gretsch makes a variety of Jet models at different price points (including in their Electromatic line), today, we’re taking a lo… - [Julian Lage Guitar Practice Idea](https://vividguitar.co/julian-lage-guitar-practice-idea.md) - Guest post by Darren Rodney I took a private lesson with Julian Lage once and he gave me some great advice when it comes to practicing improvisation. He said to take something to improvise over, whatever it may be - a set of chord changes, a one key modal jam, whatever.... And don't stop improvisin… - [I IV V I Guitar Arpeggio Practice](https://vividguitar.co/i-iv-v-i-guitar-arpeggio-practice.md) - The newsletter for guitar players. - [Let's learn a chord riff](https://vividguitar.co/lets-learn-a-chord-riff.md) - Guitar Practice Let's learn a chord riff Below, we have an underlying chord progression of B minor> A minor > G. While we could of course just play those chords for each beat, let's jazz it up by using a different chord voicing/variation on each beat for the Bm and Am chords. Bm Am G Chord Riff0:00… - [Ariel Posen](https://vividguitar.co/ariel-posen.md) - Combining soulful guitar playing and captivating vocals, Canadian-born Ariel Posen has been quickly gaining a following while touring worldwide. I first discovered Ariel a number of years ago from Anderton's Music videos on YouTube. Like many people, I tuned into their gear demo videos while resear… - [Eastman Thinline](https://vividguitar.co/eastman-thinline.md) - Eastman’s electric guitars often fly under the radar of a lot of guitar players, but since starting as a violin maker in the early 1990’s; and then moving into acoustics, they've been making high-quality electric guitars for many years now. While there's no shortage of ES-style guitars out there, t… - [Monica Valli](https://vividguitar.co/monica-valli.md) - With a refreshing guitar style that oozes with soul and authenticity, Nashville + Austin-based Monica Valli has been making a name for herself within the guitar community and beyond. Monica’s path has been interesting and inspiring… She was first introduced to guitar at 8 years old. She took lesson… - [Brown Bear Guitars](https://vividguitar.co/brown-bear-guitars.md) - Brown Bear Guitars is the work of Ontario, Canada-based luthier Jesse Brown. Jesse specializes in building traditional designs of the ‘50s, with a modern touch. Probably best known for his killer take on vintage-inspired telecaster®-style guitars, Brown also hand-builds guitars in the style of the… - [Jam Track in A Minor](https://vividguitar.co/jam-track-in-a-minor.md) - Let's work on the Dorian mode in the key of A minor. This is a pretty straightforward progression, using all triads, with common chord shapes. Am Em D C Jam Track0:00/194.7361× Below is an example of the A Dorian Mode (which is the G Major scale, but starting with and focusing on the 2nd note - A),… - [Danny Mayer](https://vividguitar.co/danny-mayer.md) - Rooted in Funk, rock, and psychedelic blues, Danny Mayer's guitar playing blends creative rhythm playing with soulful lead lines - always bringing something unique to each musical situation. As the guitarist for On The Spot Trio, the Alan Evans Trio, Star Kitchen, the Eric Krasno Band, the Danny Ma… - [Kelton Swade Guitars](https://vividguitar.co/kelton-swade-guitars.md) - This gear showcase is a bit different, in that they're no longer being produced, as luthier Kelton Swade sadly passed away from Covid a couple years ago. I had the opportunity to check out one of Kelton's t-style guitars in a store recently, and was blown away by the quality and playability, and th… - [Let's Learn a riff](https://vividguitar.co/lets-learn-a-riff.md) - Today, let's learn a cool and ominous riff inspired by the theme song from a somewhat obscure Italian crime film from 1969, The Sicilian Clan (Il clan dei siciliani). This isn't meant to be an exact note-for-note transcription, and the goal isn't necessarily to memorize it, but it uses a picking pa… - [Jay Leonard J](https://vividguitar.co/jay-leonard-j.md) - As a popular YouTube personality, producer, songwriter, and an outstanding award-winning guitar player, Vancouver, BC-based Jay Leonard Jay has been creating a buzz on stages and computer screens around the world. Jay Leonard J earned a from the Berklee College of Music, has performed at some of th… - [Fender Limited Edition American Professional II Thinline Telecaster and Stratocaster](https://vividguitar.co/fender-limited-edition-american-professional-ii-thinline-telecaster-and-stratocaster.md) - Fender's American Professional II line has been very popular since it's release in 2020, but their recently-released limited edition Thinlines seem to have largely flown under people's radar. While thinline Strats might not be everyone's thing from a visual standpoint, thinline Tele's have been sta… - [Let's Learn a Chord Progression](https://vividguitar.co/lets-learn-a-chord-progression.md) - The goal here is to learn some jazzy chord voicings you might not be familiar with (or that your fingers might not naturally gravitate towards). The audio example is played at 85bpm, but start by playing it as slowly as you need to. These voicings are most easily played finger style (or a combinati… - [Rock Choi](https://vividguitar.co/rock-choi.md) - Originally from Seoul, South Korea, and currently studying at Berklee College of Music in the U.S., Rock Choi is an up-and-coming guitar player that needs to be on your radar. Rock’s creative rock and blues-inspired guitar playing caught the eyes of D’Angelico Guitars, and they frequently use him i… - [Patrick James Eggle Guitars](https://vividguitar.co/patrick-james-eggle-guitars.md) - With over 30 years of building guitars under his belt, Oswestry, England-based Patrick Eggle has perfected the craft, and is one of the premier luthiers in the world. Working with a small team of craftsmen, Patrick James Eggle Guitars produces a limited number of high-end electric guitars each year… - [F Minor Guitar Practice](https://vividguitar.co/f-minor-guitar-practice.md) - Let's practice over a jam track in the key of F minor. The Fm7, Gm7, & Ab chords are all in the key of Eb major, so the F Dorian mode would work well for soling over this. The C7#9 at the end of the phrase is a bit of an outlier. The C chord in the key of Eb is typically a minor chord, but playing… - [Kellen Boersma](https://vividguitar.co/kellen-boersma.md) - Seamlessly bouncing between chunky rhythm work, to The Meters-style melodic lines - Kellen Boersma blends elements of rock, blues, r&b, and funk, into catchy, energetic and soulful grooves. Chicago-based Kellen Boersma has been making a name for himself in recent years as the guitar player in Neal… - [Levinson Blade Guitars](https://vividguitar.co/levinson-blade-guitars.md) - Switzerland-based Blade Guitars has been producing high-quality guitars and bass guitars since the 1980's, and is still going strong more than 3 decades later. Luthier Gary Levinson started repairing guitars in 1964, and what began as a hobby quickly grew into a passion. After doing guitar and viol… - [ii V I in C Major Lesson](https://vividguitar.co/ii-v-i-in-c-major-lesson.md) - Let's practice the popular 'ii V I' chord progression. ii V I is the single most common chord progression used in jazz, and can be heard in standards like Autumn Leaves, Perdido, and countless others. The ii Chord wants to move forward to the V Chord, and the V Chord wants to resolve to the I chord… - [Arpeggio Practice, Eddie Roberts, Maxey Archtops](https://vividguitar.co/arpeggio-practice-eddie-roberts-maxey-archtops.md) - The newsletter for guitar players. - [Jam Track, Daniel Ögren, DiPinto Guitars](https://vividguitar.co/jam-track-daniel-ogren-dipinto-guitars.md) - The newsletter for guitar players. - [Double Stops, Brad Barr, Moar Guitars](https://vividguitar.co/double-stops-brad-barr-moar-guitars.md) - The newsletter for guitar players. - [Dynamic Double Stops, Jack Waugh, Yamaha SA2200](https://vividguitar.co/dynamic-double-stops-jack-waugh-yamaha-sa2200.md) - The newsletter for guitar players. - [Chord Progression, Billy Strings, Snark Tuner](https://vividguitar.co/chord-progression-billy-strings-snark-guitar-tuner.md) - The newsletter for guitar players. - [Minor over Major, Anthony Wilson, CMG Guitars](https://vividguitar.co/minor-over-major-anthony-wilson-cmg-guitars.md) - The newsletter for guitar players. - [Improvisation Idea, Oz Noy, Harmony Guitars](https://vividguitar.co/improvisation-idea-oz-noy-harmony-guitars.md) - The newsletter for guitar players. - [2025 NAMM Gear Rundown](https://vividguitar.co/2025-namm-gear-rundown.md) - The newsletter for guitar players. - [Jam Track, Molly Miller, Furch Guitars](https://vividguitar.co/jam-track-molly-miller-furch-guitars.md) - The newsletter for guitar players. - [Fingerstyle Groove, Rick Beato, Knaggs Guitars](https://vividguitar.co/fingerstyle-groove-rick-beato-knaggs-guitars.md) - The newsletter for guitar players. - [The Greg Koch Issue](https://vividguitar.co/the-greg-koch-issue.md) - The newsletter for guitar players. - [Chord Practice, Delicate Steve, PJD Guitars, Ibanez 2025 Guitars](https://vividguitar.co/chord-practice-delicate-steve-pjd-guitars-ibanez-2025-guitars.md) - The newsletter for guitar players. - [ii V I Arpeggios, Rick Mitarotonda, Patrick James Eggle Macon](https://vividguitar.co/ii-v-i-arpeggios-rick-mitarotonda-patrick-james-eggle-macon.md) - The newsletter for guitar players. - [2025 NAMM Show Wish List](https://vividguitar.co/2025-guitar-wish-list.md) - The world's biggest guitar trade show, the NAMM (National Association of Music Merchants) Show runs from Tue, Jan 21, 2025 – Sun, Jan 26, 2025 in Anaheim, CA - expanding from 3 days to 5. 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This post digs into the very best online guitar teachers. 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While we could of course just play those chords for each beat,… - [Jam Track, Monica Valli, Brown Bear Guitars](https://vividguitar.co/jam-track-monica-valli-brown-bear-guitars.md) - 💬“The beautiful thing about learning is that nobody can take it away from you.” ― B.B. King Guitar Practice Last week, we had a jam track in F minor/Dorian. Let's revisit the Dorian mode again, but this time in the key of A minor. This is a pretty straightforward progression, using all triads, wit… - [Learn a riff, Kelton Swade, Danny Mayer](https://vividguitar.co/learn-a-riff-kelton-swade-danny-mayer.md) - 💬It's taken me all my life to learn what not to play. ― Dizzy Gillespie Guitar Practice Let's learn a riff Today, let's learn a cool and ominous riff inspired by the theme song from a somewhat obscure Italian crime film from 1969, The Sicilian Clan (Il clan dei siciliani). This isn't meant to be a… - [Chord Progression, Fender Thinlines, Jay Leonard J, PRS CE-24 Limited Edition](https://vividguitar.co/chord-progression-fender-thinlines-jay-leonard-j.md) - 💬"We’re not striving for perfection. We are just trying to have fun. None of the music that we like is perfect. It’s good, and real. We just want to make real records, flaws and all." - Dan Auerbach Guitar Practice Let's learn a progression. The goal here is to learn some jazzy chord voicings you… - [End of an era for Guitar Player Magazine, Patrick James Eggle Guitars](https://vividguitar.co/end-of-an-era-for-guitar-player-practice.md) - 💬"Being familiar with your gear is more important than having really good gear." - Trey Anastasio Guitar Practice Today, let's practice over a jam track in the key of F minor. The Fm7, Gm7, & Ab chords are all in the key of Eb major, so the F Dorian mode would work well for soling over this. The C… - [Jazz Practice, Fender American Ultra II announced, Blade Guitars](https://vividguitar.co/jazz-practice-blade-guitars.md) - The newsletter for guitar players. - [The Art of Effective Guitar Practice](https://vividguitar.co/the-importance-of-mastering-one-thing-at-a-time.md) - While our focus is on our free guitar email newsletter, we sometimes take deeper dives into things. In this article, we'll dive into some tips to get the most out of our guitar practice sessions. Do you ever feel like you're practicing guitar a lot, but not making progress? While any practice is be… - [The Best Semi-Hollow Guitars](https://vividguitar.co/best-semi-hollow-guitars.md) - While our focus is on our free guitar email newsletter, we sometimes take deeper dives into things like guitar gear. Semi-hollow guitars take all the great things you love about solid body electric guitars, but typically have a bit of an 'airy' acoustic tone, and are usually lighter weight (which y… - [The Best Offset Guitars](https://vividguitar.co/the-best-offset-guitars.md) - While our focus is on our guitar email newsletter, we sometimes take deeper dives into things like guitar gear. In this article, we'll dig into the best offset guitar models. Offset body electric guitars are known for their distinctive shapes that set them apart from more traditional designs (such… - [The Best Telecaster-Style Guitars Not Made By Fender](https://vividguitar.co/best-telecaster-style-guitars-not-made-by-fender.md) - While our focus is on our free guitar email newsletter, we sometimes take deeper dives into things like guitar gear. This post digs into the best Telecaster-style guitar makers that aren't named Fender. Used by guitarists across virtually every genre of music, the Fender Telecaster is one of the mo… - [D'Angelico Deluxe Mini DC Review](https://vividguitar.co/dangelico-deluxe-mini-dc-guitar-review.md) - Review of the D'Angelico Deluxe Mini DC semi-hollow guitar in Matte Walnut finish. - [G&L ASAT Classic Custom Guitar Review](https://vividguitar.co/g-and-l-asat-classic-custom-guitar-review.md) - While our focus is on our free guitar email newsletter, we sometimes take deeper dives into things like guitar gear. Check out my review of the new G&L ASAT Classic Custom Guitar, offered as a limited edition model through Sweetwater. Overview G&L typically produces 3 different versions of their po… ## Optional - [RSS Feed](https://vividguitar.co/rss/) - [Sitemap](https://vividguitar.co/sitemap.xml) - [Full content of pages and posts](https://vividguitar.co/llms-full.txt)