Frank Vignola

Building Guitar Finger Strength

In the Building Finger Strength section of this book, we will cover 12 different finger-strengthening exercises. Practice these exercises slowly and accurately before trying to build speed. On the optional practice-along recording you will find three different tempos for each individual exercise. This is to help you build up your speed and your finger strength one step at a time. Obviously beginners should start with the slow tempo. I also believe that the more advanced students should start with the slow tempo to build accuracy. I found when recording these exercises for the practice-along recording that the slowest tempo was the hardest to execute with no mistakes. Diligent practice will build flexibility and strength!
In the latter section of this book (26 ii-V-I Progressions), we will be looking at 26 different ways to play the ii - V - I chord progression. We will be working in the key of C. The ii chord is Dm7, the V chord is G7 and the I chord is C. It is recommended that you transpose these into other keys. These studies can be used for ear training and to facilitate improvisation on standard chord progressions.