A practical guide to learning how to play guitar and bass for a worship band as well as for personal worship

The guitar is one of the most beautiful and easiest instruments to learn to play. It provides immense enjoyment for personal musical appreciation and for worshiping God. The purpose of this book is to help young and beginning students develop a basic understanding and love for using the guitar in worship. I aim to raise up worship leaders and prepare students to use their gifts and talents for the glory of God. This booklet will not guarantee success, but it will be a tool that can help a beginning player discover a love and talent for music.

When I was growing up, no one ever showed me how easy it was to learn to play the guitar and reach the point where I could lead groups in worship. When I first picked up the guitar and began seeking help from friends and learning on my own, I couldn't believe how easy it was. It made me feel that I had missed out. So, I aim to help as many interested guitarists as I can to discover the joy and excitement of playing the guitar.

As you begin this new challenge, please remember a few things:

• You must practice. Once you learn to strum and play a few chords, you will have all the necessary information to play hundreds of songs. However, you will only improve as you struggle through the pain of practice.

• Your little pinky and ring finger will hurt at first. (Well, all of your fingers that touch the fretboard will hurt. Let’s be honest!) You have to play through the hurt until those calluses are built up on the tips of your fingers. After a few weeks of sore fingers and working on positioning the chords, you will begin reaping the benefits.

• It will take time to get really good, but that does not mean that you cannot start playing for groups as soon as you feel confident. Master one song and play it for your family. Playing in front of others will help you develop confidence.

Click on the pictures below to navigate to the different learning pages.

Parts 2 and 4 are coming soon