MIONLINE SHORT COURSE

Guitar Technique Fundamentals

i COURSE OVERVIEW

Starting Date
April 20, 2026
Tuition
$575
Level
Beginner
Duration
4 weeks
This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the essential techniques and concepts for beginner guitarists. Students will learn the basics of fretting and picking techniques, including how to position the fingers effectively on both hands to produce clear, consistent notes and chords. The course also covers the layout of the guitar fretboard, helping students become familiar with note placement and patterns across the neck. Students will be introduced to fundamental chord shapes, how to transition between chords smoothly, and how to play common chord progressions used across various musical styles. Additionally, the course offers a broad overview of both rhythm and solo guitar approaches, providing students with the tools to play simple strumming patterns, as well as introductory techniques for playing lead lines and basic improvisation. By the end of the course, students will be equipped with a solid set of foundational skills, enabling them to play basic songs, accompany themselves or others, and continue building their abilities on the guitar with confidence.

i YOU’LL LEARN TO

- Demonstrate proper fretting and picking techniques for clear and accurate playing.
- Identify notes and navigate the guitar fretboard with confidence.
- Play a variety of basic chord shapes and transition between them smoothly.
- Perform common chord progressions used in popular music.
- Apply strumming patterns to accompany songs with rhythm guitar.
- Play simple lead lines using introductory solo guitar techniques.
- Experiment with basic improvisation over familiar chord progressions.
- Develop a personal practice routine to continue building technique and musicality.
- Perform simple songs independently or in a group setting.
- Recognize the role of both rhythm and lead guitar in different musical styles.

i LESSON GUIDE

This week, we will begin learning basic guitar fundamentals. Start by tuning the instrument using a tuner, a piano, or by matching the strings to each other. Then, focus on proper sitting technique for comfort and posture. Learn fretting-hand basics with the video "Basics of the Fretting Hand," followed by picking-hand skills through "Pick Grip" and "Picking Technique." Finally, practice finger placement and smooth chord transitions using the videos "Open Position Chords," "Finger Placement and Chord Transitions," and "Chord Transition Exercises."

  • Tune a guitar accurately using a tuner, a piano, or by tuning the strings to each other.
  • Demonstrate correct sitting posture while holding and playing the guitar.
  • Apply proper fretting-hand technique to produce clean and accurate notes.
  • Hold and use a guitar pick correctly with effective picking-hand technique.
  • Place fingers accurately on the fretboard and transition smoothly between open position chords.

i INSTRUCTOR

BHARGAV CHOUDHURY

BHARGAV CHOUDHURY

Bhargav Choudhury is a Los Angeles based guitarist, awarded one of the winners in ‘Ibanez Flying Finger Contest, USA 2017’ by guitar virtuoso Paul Gilbert. He’s performed live with three-time Grammy winning guitarist Steve Vai for a benefit...
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