Finger Patterns vs. Harmonic Patterns

If you had limited time to practice, which type would you work on and why?

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Did you know?
What often shocks me is that many classical guitarists aren't even aware that there are harmonic patterns to practice (that's why my hair is so curly and frizzy).

Books like Pumping Nylon are almost completely devoid of any harmonic exercises - but there are some great finger pattern exercises in there.

I recently found a comment from someone on Facebook, in response to the post I did on the shifting 3rds (from last email).

The Foundations
This person makes a good point - lots of modern classical guitar music does use much more than a limited set of chords and intervals.

But you need to start at the foundations - without the foundations, the more evolved styles of music will be harder to understand.

I've been lucky to have direct correspondence with living composers, one of whom is US composer William Bland. This is what William very kindly said about my eBook, Fundamental Harmony:

"I began looking at your book yesterday and it's fascinating... the juxtapositioning of the paintings and literary quotes among the musical examples - which are beautifully chosen - the fingering and chords... all are artistic and thought-provoking.

For the composer, it's a compendium of practical chordal possibilities, ready for contemporary extensions, while for the student, it seems to me to be practical and methodical, while musically emotional."

William's music is stunningly crafted and communicates right to your heart and soul. Stay tuned to hear some of his music very soon!

What I'm trying to say here is that the foundations of harmony on guitar serve composers of today.

Here's another living composer demonstrating very clearly the power of knowing one of harmony's most basic ingredients - the triad.

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Try This

I want to challenge you to watch the video below and follow along with the exercises. You'll play harmonic patterns that teach you major triads in root position all over the fretboard.