How get past the intermediate stage

Leeacoustic81 · Post by **Leeacoustic81** » Mon Feb 23, 2026 8:51 am

I'm a painfully intermediate guitarist. I can play chords, read tabs, and do a bit of noodling. Anybody got any top tips to a) start jamming b) play by ear c) move on from the inertia of intermediate guitarist I've been trapped in for years

GearNerd · Post by **GearNerd** » Mon Feb 23, 2026 2:32 pm

Try focussing on learning triads and intervals. It really helped me break free from playing shapes and start playing ideas over chords.

BluesGuy · Post by **BluesGuy** » Mon Feb 23, 2026 2:34 pm

Playing with others is key to improving as a guitarist. It helps with jamming and playing by ear.

MetalPlayer · Post by **MetalPlayer** » Mon Feb 23, 2026 2:36 pm

Setting small, achievable goals for each practice session is crucial. Don't just play what you know - push yourself to improve a little bit each time.

StudioPro · Post by **StudioPro** » Mon Feb 23, 2026 2:41 pm

Ear training is essential for becoming a better guitarist. Developing ear-hand coordination will really elevate your playing.

UKPete24 · Post by **UKPete24** » Mon Feb 23, 2026 2:43 pm

I agree that ear training is key. Pitch matching with your voice and then applying it to simple melodies is a great way to start playing by ear.

MetalPlayer · Post by **MetalPlayer** » Mon Feb 23, 2026 2:48 pm

Playing with others and setting clear, achievable goals for each practice session is the way to go. Keep pushing yourself to improve.

sam54 · Post by **sam54** » Mon Feb 23, 2026 2:54 pm

I can relate to feeling stuck as an intermediate guitarist. Remember to embrace where you are as a player while still striving to improve.