Learning guitar is an exciting journey, and at LEARNS.EDU.VN, we often get asked, Can You Learn Guitar Without Reading Music? Absolutely! While traditional sheet music offers a structured approach, many guitarists thrive by learning through alternative methods that focus on practical skills and musicality. Discover how ear training, tablature, and music theory can unlock your guitar-playing potential. Explore resources and guidance available at LEARNS.EDU.VN to enhance your musical journey and discover your unique playing style.
1. The Debate: Reading Music vs. Playing Guitar
The question of whether guitarists need to read sheet music is a long-standing debate. Unlike instruments in orchestras where sheet music is essential, the guitar occupies a unique space in the music world. Many iconic guitarists, such as Jimi Hendrix and Jimmy Page, achieved legendary status without the ability to read traditional notation. This isn’t to say they lacked musical knowledge, but rather that they found alternative methods more suited to the instrument and their creative processes.
1.1 Historical Context
The guitar’s historical journey has influenced its relationship with sheet music. While guitars were used in early 20th-century jazz, they weren’t always considered “serious” instruments. This perception contributed to a less formal approach to guitar education, with a greater emphasis on learning by ear and improvisation.
1.2 Modern Relevance
Even today, in an era where the guitar dominates many music genres, reading sheet music remains uncommon among guitarists. This is partly due to the guitar’s versatility and the diverse ways it’s used in different musical styles.
2. The Power of Ear Training
Instead of focusing solely on reading sheet music, beginner guitarists can benefit more from developing their ear training skills. Ear training involves learning to identify notes, intervals, chords, and rhythms by listening. This skill is invaluable for any musician, regardless of their instrument.
2.1 Developing Your Ear
Ear training is the cornerstone of musical development. When I was growing up, I dedicated countless hours to listening to my favorite guitarists and trying to replicate their parts. This process, though time-consuming, significantly improved my ability to recognize and understand musical patterns.
2.2 By Copy Playing Method
At LEARNS.EDU.VN, we advocate the “By Copy Playing” method, where students learn by imitating their favorite musicians. This method not only trains the ear but also helps develop technique and musical expression.
2.3 Music Theory Fundamentals
Combine ear training with essential music theory concepts, such as scales, chord progressions, and note durations. A comprehensive understanding of these elements can greatly enhance your musical abilities.
3. Alternative Notation: Tablature
Guitar tablature, or “tabs,” is a popular alternative to traditional sheet music for guitarists. Tabs provide a visual representation of the guitar fretboard, indicating which frets and strings to play. This system is easy to learn and allows guitarists to quickly grasp the basic notes and chords of a song.
3.1 How Tablature Works
Tablature consists of six lines representing the six strings of a guitar, with numbers indicating the fret to be played on each string. This visual approach is intuitive for guitarists, making it easier to learn songs without the complexities of standard notation.
3.2 Who Uses Tablature?
Tablature isn’t limited to guitarists; bassists, ukulele players, mandolin players, and banjo players also use this notation system. Its simplicity and effectiveness make it a preferred choice for many multi-stringed instrumentalists.
4. The Value of Sheet Music for Guitarists
While not essential for all guitarists, learning to read sheet music can offer significant benefits, particularly for those interested in jazz or classical guitar. Sheet music provides a comprehensive understanding of musical structure and can improve sight-reading skills.
4.1 Jazz and Classical Guitar
Jazz and classical guitarists often rely on sheet music to perform complex compositions and arrangements. Learning to read music allows them to interpret and execute these pieces accurately.
4.2 Fundamental Concepts
Sheet music can help you understand fundamental music concepts, such as rhythm, harmony, and melody. This knowledge can enhance your overall musicianship and improve your ability to communicate with other musicians.
4.3 Optimize Your Learning Journey
We at LEARNS.EDU.VN believe that it is important to focus on basic guitar techniques, chords, and scales early on. Then, you can decide if studying sheet music is the best way to spend your time.
5. Making the Right Choice
Ultimately, the decision of whether to learn sheet music depends on your individual goals and musical preferences. If you’re interested in playing classical or jazz guitar, or if you want to deepen your understanding of music theory, learning to read sheet music can be a valuable investment. However, if you’re primarily interested in playing rock, pop, or blues, focusing on ear training and tablature may be a more efficient way to achieve your goals.
5.1 Personal Goals
Consider your personal goals as a guitarist. What kind of music do you want to play? What skills do you want to develop? Your answers to these questions will help you determine whether learning sheet music is right for you.
5.2 Musical Preferences
Your musical preferences also play a role in deciding whether to learn sheet music. If you enjoy playing music that is typically written in standard notation, such as classical or jazz, then learning to read sheet music may be beneficial.
5.3 Efficient Learning
For guitarists primarily interested in contemporary genres, focusing on ear training and tablature can be a more efficient approach. These methods allow you to quickly learn songs and develop your improvisational skills.
6. Mastering Guitar: Alternative Paths to Success
Discovering alternative pathways to excel at guitar is essential in today’s diverse musical environment. Not everyone learns best through traditional methods, and for many guitarists, focusing on ear training, tablature, and practical music theory proves more effective.
6.1 Embracing Diverse Learning Styles
Recognizing that students have diverse learning styles, LEARNS.EDU.VN promotes individualized learning paths. Our courses cater to visual, auditory, and kinesthetic learners, ensuring every student finds a method that resonates with them.
6.2 Practical Music Theory
Incorporating practical music theory is crucial for guitarists aiming to understand the underlying structure of music without getting bogged down in complex notation. This includes learning scales, chord progressions, and basic harmonic principles applicable to everyday playing.
6.3 Tailored Techniques
At LEARNS.EDU.VN, we emphasize tailoring techniques to suit personal preferences and goals. Whether it’s mastering fingerpicking, shredding solos, or crafting compelling chord progressions, our instructors provide personalized guidance.
7. Enhancing Guitar Skills: A Holistic Approach
A holistic approach to guitar education encompasses various elements that foster a well-rounded musician. Integrating technology, understanding music history, and promoting creativity can enrich the learning experience.
7.1 Technology Integration
Incorporating technology enhances the learning experience. At LEARNS.EDU.VN, we provide access to interactive apps, software, and online resources that facilitate ear training, composition, and performance.
7.2 Understanding Music History
Exploring music history enriches context and appreciation. Our curriculum includes insights into the evolution of guitar music, from classical to contemporary genres, inspiring students to connect with the rich heritage.
7.3 Promoting Creativity
Creativity is fundamental to musical expression. At LEARNS.EDU.VN, we encourage students to compose original music, experiment with improvisation, and develop a unique voice on the instrument.
8. Maximizing Your Guitar Learning Journey
To maximize your guitar learning journey, it’s essential to establish clear goals, practice consistently, and seek feedback from experienced instructors. These steps will help you stay motivated and progress efficiently.
8.1 Setting Clear Goals
Setting clear goals is the first step toward success. Whether it’s mastering a specific song, learning a new technique, or composing an original piece, having defined objectives keeps you focused and motivated.
8.2 Consistent Practice
Consistent practice is key to improvement. At LEARNS.EDU.VN, we recommend establishing a regular practice schedule, breaking down complex tasks into manageable segments, and tracking your progress.
8.3 Seeking Feedback
Seeking feedback from experienced instructors is invaluable. At LEARNS.EDU.VN, our instructors provide constructive criticism, identify areas for improvement, and offer guidance to help you reach your full potential.
9. Unlocking Potential: The Role of Passion and Dedication
Passion and dedication are the driving forces behind every successful musician. Cultivating a love for music, staying committed to your goals, and embracing challenges are essential for unlocking your full potential.
9.1 Cultivating Passion
Cultivating a passion for music is essential. At LEARNS.EDU.VN, we encourage students to explore diverse genres, attend concerts, and connect with fellow musicians to fuel their enthusiasm.
9.2 Staying Committed
Staying committed to your goals requires resilience and perseverance. At LEARNS.EDU.VN, we provide ongoing support, encouragement, and resources to help you overcome obstacles and stay on track.
9.3 Embracing Challenges
Embracing challenges is part of the learning process. At LEARNS.EDU.VN, we encourage students to view setbacks as opportunities for growth, learn from their mistakes, and celebrate their achievements.
10. The Future of Guitar Education
The future of guitar education is dynamic and innovative. As technology advances and learning methods evolve, guitarists can look forward to more personalized, accessible, and engaging learning experiences.
10.1 Personalized Learning
Personalized learning tailors education to individual needs and preferences. At LEARNS.EDU.VN, we leverage data analytics and adaptive technologies to customize learning paths, ensuring optimal outcomes.
10.2 Accessible Education
Accessible education removes barriers to learning. At LEARNS.EDU.VN, we offer online courses, mobile apps, and flexible scheduling options, making guitar education available to students worldwide.
10.3 Engaging Experiences
Engaging learning experiences captivate and inspire students. At LEARNS.EDU.VN, we integrate gamification, virtual reality, and interactive simulations to make guitar education more immersive and enjoyable.
11. Overcoming Common Challenges
Many guitarists face challenges such as lack of time, frustration with progress, and difficulty staying motivated. Addressing these issues proactively can significantly improve your learning experience.
11.1 Managing Time Constraints
Effective time management is crucial. At LEARNS.EDU.VN, we recommend breaking practice sessions into shorter, focused intervals, prioritizing tasks, and integrating guitar practice into your daily routine.
11.2 Dealing with Frustration
Frustration is normal. At LEARNS.EDU.VN, we encourage students to take breaks, celebrate small victories, and seek support from instructors or peers when facing difficulties.
11.3 Maintaining Motivation
Staying motivated requires variety and engagement. At LEARNS.EDU.VN, we suggest setting new goals, learning new songs, joining a band, or performing for others to keep the learning process fresh and exciting.
12. Connecting with the Guitar Community
Connecting with the guitar community provides invaluable support, inspiration, and learning opportunities. Engaging with fellow musicians can enhance your skills and broaden your musical horizons.
12.1 Joining Online Forums
Online forums are a great way to connect with other guitarists. Share your experiences, ask questions, and learn from the collective wisdom of the community.
12.2 Attending Workshops
Attending guitar workshops can provide hands-on learning and networking opportunities. Learn new techniques, meet instructors, and jam with fellow musicians.
12.3 Collaborating with Others
Collaborating with other musicians can enhance your creativity and performance skills. Form a band, write songs together, and perform live to gain invaluable experience.
13. Essential Gear for Guitarists
Having the right gear can greatly enhance your playing experience. From guitars and amplifiers to accessories and recording equipment, choosing the right tools is essential.
13.1 Selecting a Guitar
Choosing the right guitar depends on your style and budget. Consider factors such as body type, tonewood, pickups, and playability when making your selection.
13.2 Choosing an Amplifier
Selecting the right amplifier is crucial for shaping your tone. Consider factors such as wattage, speaker size, and features when choosing an amp.
13.3 Essential Accessories
Essential accessories such as picks, strings, straps, and tuners are indispensable. Invest in quality accessories to enhance your playing experience and protect your instrument.
14. Exploring Guitar Genres
Exploring different guitar genres can broaden your musical horizons and enhance your versatility. From classical and jazz to rock and blues, each genre offers unique challenges and rewards.
14.1 Classical Guitar
Classical guitar emphasizes fingerstyle technique and intricate compositions. Learning classical guitar can improve your dexterity, coordination, and musicality.
14.2 Jazz Guitar
Jazz guitar emphasizes improvisation and harmonic complexity. Learning jazz guitar can enhance your understanding of music theory and your ability to create spontaneous melodies.
14.3 Rock Guitar
Rock guitar emphasizes power chords, riffs, and solos. Learning rock guitar can improve your rhythm playing, lead guitar skills, and stage presence.
14.4 Blues Guitar
Blues guitar emphasizes emotional expression and soulful melodies. Learning blues guitar can enhance your bending, vibrato, and improvisational skills.
15. Common Myths About Learning Guitar
There are many myths about learning guitar that can discourage aspiring musicians. Separating fact from fiction can help you approach your learning journey with confidence and realistic expectations.
15.1 Myth: You Need Natural Talent
Fact: Anyone can learn to play guitar with practice and dedication. Natural talent can be helpful, but it’s not essential for success.
15.2 Myth: You Need Expensive Gear
Fact: You can start learning guitar with affordable gear. As your skills improve, you can upgrade your equipment gradually.
15.3 Myth: You Need to Practice for Hours Every Day
Fact: Consistent, focused practice is more effective than long, infrequent sessions. Even 30 minutes of daily practice can yield significant results.
16. Sheet Music Alternatives: A Detailed Look
Sheet music isn’t the only option for learning guitar. Tablature, chord charts, and ear training offer viable alternatives for guitarists of all levels.
16.1 Tablature (Tabs)
Tablature, or tabs, is a simplified notation system that shows you which frets and strings to play. It’s easy to learn and widely used by guitarists of all genres.
16.2 Chord Charts
Chord charts provide a visual representation of chords, showing you where to place your fingers on the fretboard. They’re useful for learning basic chord progressions and accompanying songs.
16.3 Ear Training
Ear training involves developing your ability to recognize notes, intervals, and chords by ear. It’s an invaluable skill for guitarists who want to learn songs without relying on written notation.
17. Effective Practice Routines
Creating an effective practice routine is essential for maximizing your progress on the guitar. A well-structured routine should include warm-ups, technique exercises, chord practice, song learning, and improvisation.
17.1 Warm-Up Exercises
Warm-up exercises prepare your hands and fingers for playing. Examples include scales, arpeggios, and finger stretches.
17.2 Technique Exercises
Technique exercises improve your dexterity, speed, and accuracy. Examples include alternate picking, hammer-ons, pull-offs, and string skipping.
17.3 Chord Practice
Chord practice builds your chord vocabulary and improves your chord transitions. Focus on learning common chord progressions and practicing smooth changes between chords.
17.4 Song Learning
Learning songs is a fun and rewarding way to improve your guitar skills. Choose songs that challenge you but are still within your reach.
17.5 Improvisation
Improvisation allows you to express your creativity and develop your musical instincts. Start by improvising over simple chord progressions and gradually increase the complexity.
18. The Benefits of Playing Guitar
Playing guitar offers numerous physical, mental, and emotional benefits. From improving your coordination and memory to reducing stress and boosting your self-esteem, playing guitar can enrich your life in many ways.
18.1 Physical Benefits
Playing guitar can improve your coordination, dexterity, and finger strength. It can also help you develop better posture and hand-eye coordination.
18.2 Mental Benefits
Playing guitar can improve your memory, concentration, and problem-solving skills. It can also help you reduce stress and anxiety.
18.3 Emotional Benefits
Playing guitar can boost your self-esteem, creativity, and emotional expression. It can also help you connect with others and find a sense of community.
19. The Importance of a Good Teacher
Having a good guitar teacher can greatly accelerate your progress and prevent you from developing bad habits. A qualified teacher can provide personalized instruction, constructive feedback, and guidance to help you achieve your goals.
19.1 Finding the Right Teacher
Finding the right teacher is essential. Look for a teacher who is experienced, knowledgeable, and patient.
19.2 Personalized Instruction
Personalized instruction tailors the learning experience to your individual needs and goals. A good teacher will assess your current skills, identify areas for improvement, and create a customized learning plan.
19.3 Constructive Feedback
Constructive feedback is invaluable for improving your guitar skills. A good teacher will provide honest, specific feedback on your playing and offer suggestions for improvement.
20. Advanced Techniques and Styles
As you progress on the guitar, you can explore more advanced techniques and styles. These can help you expand your musical vocabulary and develop your own unique playing style.
20.1 Fingerstyle Guitar
Fingerstyle guitar involves playing melodies, harmonies, and bass lines simultaneously using your fingers instead of a pick. It’s a challenging but rewarding technique that allows you to create complex and beautiful arrangements.
20.2 Slide Guitar
Slide guitar involves using a slide (a metal or glass tube) to glide along the strings, creating smooth, expressive melodies. It’s commonly used in blues, country, and rock music.
20.3 Tapping
Tapping involves using your fingers to tap on the fretboard, creating fast, fluid melodies and arpeggios. It’s a popular technique in rock and metal music.
21. Setting Up Your Guitar for Optimal Playability
A well-setup guitar is easier to play and sounds better. Proper setup includes adjusting the action, intonation, and neck relief.
21.1 Adjusting the Action
The action refers to the height of the strings above the fretboard. Lower action makes the guitar easier to play, while higher action can prevent buzzing.
21.2 Adjusting the Intonation
Intonation refers to the accuracy of the notes as you move up the fretboard. Proper intonation ensures that the guitar plays in tune across the entire neck.
21.3 Adjusting the Neck Relief
Neck relief refers to the amount of curvature in the guitar neck. Proper neck relief ensures that the strings don’t buzz against the frets.
22. Recording Your Guitar Playing
Recording your guitar playing can help you track your progress and share your music with others. Basic recording equipment includes a microphone, an audio interface, and recording software.
22.1 Choosing a Microphone
Choosing the right microphone depends on your budget and recording needs. Dynamic microphones are durable and versatile, while condenser microphones offer higher fidelity.
22.2 Choosing an Audio Interface
An audio interface connects your microphone to your computer and provides high-quality audio input and output. Look for an interface with low latency and good preamps.
22.3 Choosing Recording Software
Recording software, also known as a digital audio workstation (DAW), allows you to record, edit, and mix your guitar tracks. Popular DAWs include Ableton Live, Logic Pro, and Pro Tools.
23. Tips for Staying Motivated
Staying motivated on the guitar requires setting realistic goals, celebrating your progress, and finding ways to make practice fun.
23.1 Setting Realistic Goals
Setting realistic goals ensures that you don’t get discouraged by setting your sights too high. Start with small, achievable goals and gradually increase the challenge.
23.2 Celebrating Your Progress
Celebrating your progress, no matter how small, can boost your motivation and reinforce positive habits. Reward yourself for reaching milestones and acknowledge your achievements.
23.3 Making Practice Fun
Making practice fun can help you stay engaged and motivated. Experiment with different techniques, learn new songs, and jam with friends to keep the learning process fresh and exciting.
24. The Role of Technology in Learning Guitar
Technology has transformed the way we learn guitar, offering a wealth of resources, tools, and apps to enhance your skills and knowledge.
24.1 Online Resources
Online resources such as websites, YouTube channels, and online courses provide access to a vast library of guitar lessons, tutorials, and resources.
24.2 Guitar Apps
Guitar apps offer a variety of tools to help you learn chords, scales, and songs. Popular apps include Guitar Tuna, Yousician, and Ultimate Guitar.
24.3 Virtual Lessons
Virtual lessons connect you with experienced guitar teachers from around the world. Virtual lessons offer personalized instruction and feedback from the comfort of your own home.
25. Understanding Music Theory
Understanding music theory can greatly enhance your guitar playing, allowing you to create more interesting and expressive music. Basic music theory concepts include scales, chords, intervals, and harmony.
25.1 Scales
Scales are a sequence of notes arranged in a specific order. Learning scales can help you understand the relationships between notes and create melodies and solos.
25.2 Chords
Chords are a combination of notes played simultaneously. Learning chords can help you accompany songs and create harmonic textures.
25.3 Intervals
Intervals are the distance between two notes. Learning intervals can help you understand the relationships between notes and create melodies and harmonies.
25.4 Harmony
Harmony refers to the way chords and melodies interact to create a musical texture. Understanding harmony can help you create more interesting and expressive music.
26. Improvisation Techniques
Improvisation allows you to express your creativity and spontaneity on the guitar. Basic improvisation techniques include playing over chord progressions, using scales and arpeggios, and creating melodic phrases.
26.1 Playing Over Chord Progressions
Playing over chord progressions involves creating melodies and solos that complement the underlying chords. Start by identifying the key of the song and choosing scales and arpeggios that fit the chords.
26.2 Using Scales and Arpeggios
Scales and arpeggios provide a framework for creating melodies and solos. Experiment with different scales and arpeggios to find sounds that you like.
26.3 Creating Melodic Phrases
Melodic phrases are short, memorable sequences of notes that form the basis of your solos. Pay attention to rhythm, dynamics, and phrasing to create expressive and engaging melodies.
27. The Importance of Listening
Listening is an essential skill for guitarists. By listening to a wide variety of music, you can develop your ear, expand your musical vocabulary, and gain inspiration for your own playing.
27.1 Developing Your Ear
Developing your ear involves training your ability to recognize notes, intervals, and chords by ear. Practice transcribing melodies and chord progressions to improve your ear.
27.2 Expanding Your Musical Vocabulary
Expanding your musical vocabulary involves learning new scales, chords, and techniques. Listen to a wide variety of music to expose yourself to different sounds and styles.
27.3 Gaining Inspiration
Gaining inspiration involves listening to music that inspires you and motivates you to improve your playing. Pay attention to the musicianship, creativity, and emotional expression of your favorite artists.
28. Guitar Maintenance and Care
Proper guitar maintenance and care can prolong the life of your instrument and ensure that it plays its best. Basic maintenance tasks include cleaning the guitar, changing the strings, and storing the guitar properly.
28.1 Cleaning the Guitar
Cleaning the guitar involves wiping down the body, neck, and fretboard with a soft cloth. Use a guitar polish to remove fingerprints and smudges and protect the finish.
28.2 Changing the Strings
Changing the strings regularly can improve the tone and playability of your guitar. Replace the strings every few months, or more often if you play frequently.
28.3 Storing the Guitar Properly
Storing the guitar properly can protect it from damage and maintain its condition. Store the guitar in a case or gig bag when not in use, and keep it away from extreme temperatures and humidity.
29. The Importance of Rhythm
Rhythm is an essential element of music. Developing a strong sense of rhythm is crucial for playing guitar effectively.
29.1 Understanding Time Signatures
Understanding time signatures will help you understand how the music is structured. Time signatures tell you how many beats are in each measure and what type of note gets one beat.
29.2 Using a Metronome
Using a metronome will help you develop your timing. A metronome produces a steady beat that you can use to practice your rhythm.
29.3 Counting Rhythms
Counting rhythms will help you understand the different note values. Practice counting rhythms out loud to improve your timing.
30. Playing with Other Musicians
Playing with other musicians is a great way to improve your guitar skills and have fun. You can learn from other musicians and get feedback on your playing.
30.1 Finding Other Musicians to Play With
Finding other musicians to play with can be done through online forums, music schools, and local music events.
30.2 Playing in a Band
Playing in a band is a great way to improve your guitar skills. You can learn from other musicians and get feedback on your playing.
30.3 Jamming with Other Musicians
Jamming with other musicians is a great way to have fun and improve your skills. You can try out new ideas and get feedback from other musicians.
By focusing on these alternative paths and adopting a holistic approach to guitar education, you can unlock your full potential as a guitarist. Remember, the journey is just as important as the destination, so embrace the process, stay curious, and never stop exploring the endless possibilities of music.
Whether you choose to learn with or without sheet music, LEARNS.EDU.VN offers comprehensive resources and expert guidance to help you achieve your musical aspirations. Visit us at LEARNS.EDU.VN or contact us at 123 Education Way, Learnville, CA 90210, United States, or Whatsapp: +1 555-555-1212 to explore our courses and unlock your guitar-playing potential.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is it possible to become a proficient guitarist without reading sheet music?
Yes, many successful guitarists have achieved mastery through ear training, tablature, and understanding music theory.
2. What are the benefits of learning to read sheet music for guitar?
Reading sheet music can enhance your understanding of music theory, improve sight-reading skills, and open doors to playing classical and jazz guitar.
3. What is tablature, and how does it help guitarists?
Tablature is a visual representation of the guitar fretboard, making it easier to learn songs without the complexities of standard notation.
4. How can ear training improve my guitar playing?
Ear training helps you identify notes, intervals, chords, and rhythms by listening, improving your ability to learn songs and improvise.
5. What are some essential music theory concepts for guitarists?
Essential concepts include scales, chord progressions, and note durations, which enhance your overall musical understanding.
6. Can I learn guitar online, and what resources are available?
Yes, platforms like LEARNS.EDU.VN offer online courses, interactive apps, and personalized instruction for guitarists of all levels.
7. What gear do I need to start learning guitar?
Essential gear includes a guitar, amplifier (optional), picks, strings, strap, and tuner.
8. How important is it to have a good guitar teacher?
A good teacher can provide personalized instruction, constructive feedback, and guidance to help you achieve your goals more efficiently.
9. What are some common challenges faced by beginner guitarists, and how can they be overcome?
Challenges include lack of time, frustration with progress, and difficulty staying motivated. These can be overcome by setting clear goals, practicing consistently, and seeking feedback.
10. How can I stay motivated and make the learning process enjoyable?
Stay motivated by setting realistic goals, celebrating your progress, exploring different genres, and connecting with other musicians.
Ready to unlock your guitar-playing potential? Visit learns.edu.vn today for comprehensive resources, expert guidance, and personalized learning paths tailored to your needs. Contact us at 123 Education Way, Learnville, CA 90210, United States, or Whatsapp: +1 555-555-1212 to start your musical journey now!