Learn how to quickly boost your guitar playing skills with these easy tips, tricks and helpful hints from successful guitarist, instructor, author and producer, Marlene Hutchinson. Known for her popular Learn to Play Guitar in a Day! program, as seen by millions on PBS, and featured on NPR and CBS, Marlene has a wonderfully simple way of helping you move through your challenges and advance your guitar playing skills.
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Though Christmas and Hanukkah are still a few days away, it's never too early to start thinking about the music for your New Year's Eve celebration. And what better way to ring in 2025 than with the timeless classic, Auld Lang Syne? In this episode, Marlene will share three creative ways to put a fresh spin on this beloved tune. Whether you're host…
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Christmas songs are a joy to play, and even more fun when you get creative with them! In this episode, Marlene will walk you through three unique patterns that combine strumming and drumming techniques to use while playing The Little Drummer Boy. So tune in and discover how to bring an extra layer of rhythm and creativity to this holiday favorite! …
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In this episode, Marlene introduces her latest Yo-Guitar video, designed to help you tap into your creativity and find relaxation through a simple, mindful breathing technique. Best of all, you don’t need anything but your breath to get started! Tune in to discover how this easy practice can help unlock your creative potential and bring a sense of …
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Get all the latest Tips For Guitar Playing Success news and insights including upcoming episodes and other guitar happenings! In this newsletter Marlene describes December's upcoming episodes; more music for the holidays, you'll learn about the newest Yo-Guitar video, plus guitar goal setting for 2025. She also talks about an inspiring new Elvis Pr…
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It's here, Marlene's 2024 Guitar Player Holiday Gift Guide! Whether you're adding to your own wish list or shopping for your favorite guitar buddy, you'll find something useful and fun for the holiday season! In this episode Marlene will share her carefully curated guitar gift list which includes must have items like strings, as well as novelty ite…
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Yep, it’s not even Thanksgiving yet, but now’s the perfect time to get a jump on your holiday music and learn to play these two festive tunes to make your holiday season musical and fun! In this episode, Marlene shares two easy-to-learn holiday favorites, Jingle Bells and Oh Hanukkah, to kick off your seasonal practice. Each song comes with chords …
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Thanksgiving in the United States is just around the corner! Here's three easy-to-play songs that can help you add a warm, musical touch to your Thanksgiving gathering. In this episode Marlene will discuss how to play Thanksgiving Prayer by Johnny Cash, The Thanksgiving Song by Ben Rector and Over the River and Through the Wood (traditional). Over …
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Discover the benefits of Marlene’s latest Yo-Guitar video, featuring over 17 minutes of focused yoga exercises for your neck and shoulders. In this episode, Marlene shares how this extended session can help you ease tension, boost your guitar-playing comfort, and bring relaxation into your daily routine. Tune in to learn more about this new resourc…
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Get all the latest Tips For Guitar Playing Success news and insights including upcoming episodes and other guitar happenings! In this month's newsletter Marlene describes November's upcoming episodes, plus you'll learn about a new innovative guitar design by Furch Guitars! Start Your Free 7-day YoGuitar Video Library Trial! Join our Guitar Tips Com…
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Happy Halloween! In today’s festive episode, we’re diving into the classic hit "Monster Mash." Marlene will share the story behind this spooky song and break down how to play it using just four simple chords. Stick around, because she'll play it for you at the end of the episode. Get ready to add some fun to your Halloween celebrations! Start Your …
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Get ready to celebrate Halloween with a country twist! Here's three hauntingly fun country songs to play on guitar that will have you tapping your boots and getting into the Halloween spirit! In this episode, Marlene dives into the spooky spirit of the season as she explores Howlin' at the Moon by Hank Williams, Bones by Little Big Town, and Monste…
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A hygrometer can help you monitor both humidity and temperature in your guitar’s environment, but what should you do if those levels aren’t ideal? In this episode Marlene describes various solutions, including in-room humidifiers, guitar case humidifiers, and even a hybrid option that combines the best of both worlds. Here's the link for the Hygrom…
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In some locations the trees are changing and the air is crisp, signs that fall has arrived. Why not celebrate the season with some autumn themed songs? In this episode Marlene will dive into three familiar fall inspired songs that are perfect to play on guitar! Start Your Free 7-day YoGuitar Video Library Trial! Join our Guitar Tips Community TODAY…
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Bar chords can be both fun and challenging to play, that's why it's important to learn effective strengthening techniques that will prepare your fingers, hands, wrists and forearms for this essential guitar skill. In this episode Marlene describes her latest Yo-Guitar video focused on strengthening those body parts to help you improve your bar chor…
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Get all the latest Tips For Guitar Playing Success news and insights including upcoming episodes and other guitar happenings! In this month's newsletter Marlene describes October's new episodes, plus she'll describe a beautiful new Martin Guitar design, and more! Start Your Free 7-day YoGuitar Video Library Trial! Join our Guitar Tips Community TOD…
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Guitar posture is your body's frame while you're holding your guitar and good guitar posture can make a difference in your music and comfort. In this episode I'll describe good guitar posture, some Yo-Guitar videos that can help you and posture improving ideas. Start Your YoGuitar Video Library Free 7-day Trial TODAY! Join our Guitar Tips Community…
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Do you know the humidity level in the room where your guitar lives? What about in it's case? Learn how to accurately measure the humidity levels using a simple hygrometer. In this episode Marlene will dive into why humidity matters and how to measure it with her review of 5 easy-to-use hygrometers. Start Your YoGuitar Video Library Free 7-day Trial…
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Get ready to rock out this September with three fantastic songs featuring "September" in the title and lyrics. Spoiler alert: one of these tunes is a breeze to play, while the other two offer more of a challenge. In this episode, Marlene will explore the backstory of each song and share her expert playing recommendations to help you tackle them all…
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YoGuitar is transforming guitar players' practice routines and playing sessions with its focus on reducing tension and enhancing flexibility! In this episode, Marlene introduces 8 videos from the YoGuitar Library and shares glowing feedback from guitarists who have experienced these positive effects firsthand. Start Your Free 7-day YoGuitar Video L…
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Get all the latest Tips For Guitar Playing Success news and insights including upcoming episodes and other guitar happenings! In this month's newsletter Marlene describes September's new episodes and a unique songwriters panel that you can attend! Here's the She Rocks Pro Songwriter event link Start Your Free 7-day YoGuitar Video Library Trial! Joi…
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With the dog days of summer upon us, keep those summer vibes going with these three country songs that have "summer" in the title! In this episode, Marlene will share three fun summer country songs you can easily play on your guitar. Join our Guitar Tips Community TODAY! Our next community jam session is 8/28 at 5 pm, don't miss out! Marlene's Guit…
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In just 7 days, the YoGuitar video library will be live! This unique new guitar player resource will be an invaluable tool to elevate your playing skills and boost your overall wellbeing. In this episode, Marlene will familiarize you with the YoGuitar video library, showing you how to make the most of this special guitar player resource. Join our G…
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Here's how to play the 3 of John Denver's most popular songs. They're easy to play, they get everyone in the sing-along mood and are great for jamming with your guitar playing friends. In this episode Marlene describes how to play Rocky Mountain High, Country Roads and Leaving on a Jet Plane, including the background of each song. Join our Guitar T…
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Unlock greater hand and finger flexibility and dexterity with this quick and effective 5-minute YoGuitar session. Give your hands and fingers the care they deserve, it can streamline your music flow! In this episode, Marlene guides you through a simple 5-minute YoGuitar practice with specialized yoga poses and mindful breathing techniques focusing …
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Get all the latest Tips For Guitar Playing Success news and insights including upcoming episodes and other guitar happenings! In this month's newsletter Marlene describes August's new episodes which are focused on new songs to play and YoGuitar. Plus she talks about current news, including the Olympics as it relates to guitar! Here's the Olympics T…
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In Part 2 of the Introduction to YoGuitar, you'll have the opportunity to give it a try. See for yourself how beneficial YoGuitar can be for both your playing and your life! In this episode, Marlene guides you through a simple 5 minute YoGuitar practice focused on relieving tension and improving flexibility and movement in your neck and shoulders. …
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Imagine being able to play guitar with less stress and more flexibility. Well, imagine no more, introducing YoGuitar, Yoga for Guitarists, a unique approach to improving you guitar playing skills. In this episode, the first in a two part episode, Marlene will discuss the essence of her new YoGuitar program. She'll describe how targeted yoga poses a…
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Whether you're lounging by the beach or daydreaming of a getaway, here's some vacation themed songs for you to play on your guitar. So tune in and turn up your vacation vibes! In this episode Marlene breaks down her rhythmic suggestions for these 3 tunes, Take It Easy, Pontoon and Island in the Sun. You'll learn the chords, feel the rhythm and in n…
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These 3 easy to play songs are perfect for today! Their familiar patriotic songs that are certain to liven up your 4th of July festivities. In this episode Marlene shares and demonstrates playing options for America the Beautiful, You're a Grand Old Flag and Living in America. Join our Guitar Tips Community TODAY! Our next community jam session is …
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Get all the latest Tips For Guitar Playing Success news and insights including upcoming episodes and other guitar happenings! In this month's newsletter Marlene describes July's 4 episode, including Patriotic songs, fun jam session songs her new YoGuitar, Yoga For Guitarists program. Plus she talks about current news, spoiler alert, Taylor Sift is …
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Want to play a cool patriotic song for your 4th of July festivities? If so, then you're in the right place. You can easily learn to play the The Star Spangled Banner using tablature - and it's sure to wow and delight one and all! In this episode Marlene guides you note-by-note, demos too, so you can comfortably play the United States' national anth…
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Make Music Day is tomorrow, June 21st! It's a celebration of music on the same day worldwide. So the big question is - how will you celebrate World Make Music Day? In this episode Marlene shares how to find local events and also how to host your own Make Music Day celebration. Join our Guitar Tips Community TODAY! First Community Jam session is Wed…
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Join our first ever Guitar Tips Community jam session on Wednesday, June 26th at 4 pm (PDT). It's an opportunity to connect, play and create music together! Marlene will host this fun and exciting jam with our new community of guitar enthusiasts. BTW...one of the group songs will be Jimmy Buffetts's Margaritaville! Don't miss out, join our new Guit…
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Father's Day is a wonderful occasion to honor your dad, and what better way to celebrate than by gifting him the cool sounds of your guitar music? In this episode Marlene will share 3 country songs with a Father/Dad theme you can play on your guitar. Join our Guitar Tips Community TODAY! First Community Jam session is 6/26 at 4 pm, don't miss out! …
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Tips for Guitar Playing Success, the podcast, is your go-to guitar playing resource for endless inspiration to boost your skills. And now... you can join our exclusive Guitar Tips Community! You'll enjoy bonus content, insider access to our super fun jam sessions*, be supporting this show and more. Don't miss out, click this link to join today and …
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It's not just a cool musician word, jamming has numerous benefits to help you gain skills and abilities. In this episode Marlene talks about the 7 valuable benefits of playing guitar in a jam session with other guitar players. Join our Guitar Tips Community TODAY! Jam Session How-to's links: Finding a Jam & Hosting a Jam Marlene's Guitar Courses & …
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Get all the latest Tips For Guitar Playing Success news and insights including upcoming episodes and other guitar happenings! In this Newsletter Marlene describes June's 4 episodes, plus she talks about Taylor Guitar's 50th Anniversary and the launch of her new Guitar Tips Community! Join the Guitar Tips Community TODAY! Taylor Guitars' Interview w…
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Pre-show jitters are normal, even seasoned professionals wrestle with them. But don't fret (ha, ha), you just need some simple calming strategies to help settle those pesky nerves. In this episode Marlene will share her soothing techniques to help you conquer the jitters and deliver a great performance! Marlene's Guitar Courses & Learning Resources…
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Picture this; you're sitting around a campfire surrounded by family and friends, there's a warm glow from the fire and you start strumming your guitar. You play familiar tunes and before you know it you're all singing and creating fun memories. This could be you! In this episode Marlene will share 15 simple yet timeless songs that are sure to have …
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Ever wonder what it's like to hit the road with your trusty six string? Whether you're planning a cross-country road trip or jet-setting to parts unknown, it's good to know the ins and outs of bringing your musical companion along for the ride. In this episode Marlene will take you on a journey through her firsthand experiences of traveling with he…
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Mother's Day is this Sunday and gifts from the heart are the best. So, what better gift for your mom, grandmother, or any mom figure in your life than the gift of your music! In this episode Marlene describes 3 easy to play songs by popular artists Taylor Swift, Meghan Trainor & Sugarland - all with a sweet mom themed message. Marlene's Guitar Cour…
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Cinco de Mayo is this Sunday. It's a great day to celebrate Mexico's victory in the Battle of Puebla - and it's also a great day to play a themed song on your guitar! In this episode Marlene describes how to play the song Tequila on your guitar! Marlene's Guitar Courses & Learning Resources Learn to Play Guitar in a Day! Coaching Sessions Marlene's…
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Get all the latest Tips For Guitar Playing Success news and insights including upcoming episodes and other guitar happenings! In this Newsletter Marlene describes May's 5 episodes including Cinco de Mayo and Mother's Day songs, plus she talks about a cool acoustic guitar exhibit in Nashville featuring John Lennon's legendary Framus 12 string guitar…
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Should you play a guitar with nylon strings or steel strings? That depends on both your sound preferences and playing style - and your fingers! In this episode Marlene breaks down each string's uses and playability, as well as the core and winding materials, to help you decide! Marlene's Guitar Courses & Learning Resources Learn to Play Guitar in a…
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Here's a great way to celebrate both Earth Day (4/22) and Arbor Day (4/26), you can 'get into the woods' - the guitar woods that is! In this episode Marlene discusses the unique tree species used in acoustic guitar construction for optimal sound and durability. Link to the other episode Marlene mentioned! Marlene's Guitar Courses & Learning Resourc…
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Besides the sound, have you ever wondered what the differences are between an acoustic guitar and an electric guitar? And the similarities? Well wonder no more! In this episode Marlene will do a quick rundown of both types of guitars; how they are related and their unique individual qualities. Here's the link Marlene mentioned in this episode! Marl…
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Discover the captivating journey of acoustic guitars, spanning from ancient echoes in 3500BC to the cutting-edge instruments of today! Join Marlene as she unravels the fascinating evolution of the acoustic guitar in this enlightening episode. Marlene's Guitar Courses & Learning Resources Learn to Play Guitar in a Day! Coaching Sessions Marlene's Ti…
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Get all the latest Tips For Guitar Playing Success news and insights including upcoming episodes and other guitar happenings! In this Newsletter Marlene describes April's 4 International Guitar Month themed episodes, plus she talks about a cool acoustic guitar exhibit she experienced (an you should too) in Scottsdale, AZ! Musical Instrument Museum …
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Celebrate Easter Sunday, March 31st by adding a musical touch to your festivities with your guitar. Here's a couple of themed songs that will resonate with one and all. In this episode Marlene will share two timeless Easter themed songs that are beautiful when played on guitar - and they're easy too! Other Easter themed episode links: 4/14/22 & 4/6…
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It's spring here in the Northern Hemisphere and it's the perfect time to give your guitar some extra attention and care! In this episode Marlene will share her 8 step 'spring cleaning' your guitar guide. Marlene's Guitar Courses & Learning Resources Learn to Play Guitar in a Day! Coaching Sessions Marlene's Tips For Guitar Playing Success book Thur…
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