Hindsight is 20-20 Vision!

We asked 20 Top guitarists three things they regret not learning earlier; one technique-based, One theory-based and one about music in general.

With GT reaching its 300th issue we’ve been reflecting on the vast amount of tuition we’ve presented you since March 1994. To augment this, we’ve been in touch with a colourful array of our celebrity friends to reflect on their early developments as musicians. Looking back, what areas did they feel could have improved their early years of playing? Read on to check out their fascinating replies...

1 John McLaughLin Founding father of jazz-rock fusion guitar

1) A technique based ‘I wish’. I wish I could have had either a drum kit and teacher, or the possibility to learn and be able to articulate the fundamentals of rhythm. In improvised music, 99% of the time we play with drummers, and to fully understand what they are playing is essential in this world.

2) A theory based ‘I wish’ The harmonic foundation that is used in contemporary jazz for the past 60 years is founded upon the music of Ravel, Satie, Fauré, Scriabin and others such as Bartok and Stravinsky. It would have been extremely useful to have had an opportunity to learn the harmonic techniques of these composers.

3) One thing related to music I wish I had done earlier. I should have taken singing lessons!

2 Joe Satriani: New York’s titan of instrumental rock