Written by Danny Poole | 04 May 2009

This is a common way I categorise my lessons. If you hate being put into molds or categories then don't read on, just keep on learning what ever you feel like. I find this a good guide to filling in the gaps when lessons skip certain topics.

First I group student into 3 main levels (Beginners, Intermediate & Advanced). Then each of those main groups into sub groups (Level 1, Level 2 & Level 3). Then each of those sub groups into sections (Theory, Chords & Rhythm then Melody & Riffs), melody & riffs are split into two sections (Notation & Tablature).

View All 3 Category Summaries

Advanced - Level 1

Theory

• Understands the theory behind the Major, Minor & 5 Pentatonic scale
• Knows how many sharps and flats are in any key signature
• Understands the theory behind relative minors & majors

Chords & Rhythm

• Can work out any rhythm pattern quickly by ear or visually
• Can write out any rhythm pattern
• Play rhythms using extra note hammer ons, pull aways or slides

Melody & Riffs

• Has memorised the Major, Minor & 5 Pentatonic scale
• Can play scale exercise patterns fluent (should be able to see the scale note placing on the fretboard before you place the fingers down)
• Can play a basic riff or solo with ease within a 1/2 hour
• Can place all notes of one kind (e.g. F) on every string, every fret in under 10 seconds (Octaves)

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Advanced - Level 2

Theory

• Can work out any diatonic scale (major/minor) by ear
• Knows all the chords to use in any key (Major 1st, Minor 2nd, Minor 3rd, Major 4th, Major 5th, Minor 6th, Diminished 7th)
• Knows at a glance (or a least to work it out quickly) what every note on the guitar is

Chords & Rhythm

• Fully understands the CAGED chord system on the guitar (major & minor)
• Can link chords with key correct bass runs
• Can finger pick at least a few songs

Melody & Riffs

• Has the ability to work out solos by ear on his/her own
• Can improvise around a Major, Minor & Pentatonic Scale without hitting too many off notes
• Can visually see what key another guitarist is soloing in and can jam easily with another player

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Advanced - Level 3

Theory

• Understands the theory behind modes
• Can construct any chord in any position on the fret board when given the chord formula (eg.1-3-5-7)
• Can transpose to and from any key (without capo)

Chords & Rhythm

• Knows all the scale notes around any of the 5 CAGED chord shapes (Major & Minor)

Melody & Riffs

• Can place a diatonic scale over every chord in the CAGED system

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