Page 28 - Fretband Vol.1

Notes On The

First String

In this lesson you will learn to recognize the notes of the first string as they are found on the guitar.

E F F # G G # A A # B C C # D D # E

As you know, the 1st string is called the E string. This is because when tuned to its standard pitch
it produces the E note when plucked. If the E string is pressed at any point along its length howev-
er, the note that is produced will change. The chart above shows you which notes would be pro-
duced if you were to press the 1st string in each fret.
Take this time to familiarize yourself with the chart. One of the first things you will notice is
that the alphabet of guitar notes repeats itself beginning on the twelfth fret. This is good news for
the new guitar player as it means that once you know your fret-board to the twelfth fret you need
only repeat what you know to learn the notes to the end.
Another thing you will notice is that in between some of the notes, there is a repeated note
with the # symbol added. These are called sharps and if you were saying them out loud you would
say G sharp or C sharp. There is no sharp between E and F or between B and C.
Take this time to pluck 1st string while pressing it at each fret. Say each note aloud as you
play it to ingrain it into your memory. Be sure to place your finger as close to the fret as possible
but not actually on top of the fret itself. This will produce the clearest note, avoiding the buzzing
sound that would be produced if you played further from the fret.