Beginner Guitar Academy
Episodes
265 - The Most Common Beginner Frustrations of 2025 (And How to Fix Them in 2026)
19 Dec 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, Paul Andrews dives deep into the most common frustrations faced by beginner guitarists. Whether you're picking up the instrument for ...
264 -3 Must-Know Christmas Songs
12 Dec 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this festive episode, Paul Andrews guides you through three must-know Christmas songs for beginner guitarists. Building on last year’s list, this...
263 - The Beginner Guitarist’s Gift Guide (What’s Worth Buying… and What’s Not)
05 Dec 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Welcome to the festive edition of Beginner Guitar Academy! As we kick off December, Paul Andrews shares a comprehensive gift guide for beginner guitar...
262 - Keep Progressing on Guitar When You Can’t Play: Injury & Surgery Edition
29 Nov 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, Paul Andrews tackles a common challenge faced by many guitarists: how to keep developing as a musician when an injury or surgery keep...
261 - Free Guitar Lessons: Is ‘Free’ Good Enough?
21 Nov 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, Paul Andrews dives deep into the topic of free guitar lessons, exploring whether learning guitar from platforms like YouTube is truly...
260 - The Basic Eight Guitar Chords Every Beginner Should Know
14 Nov 2025
Contributed by Lukas
This week, Paul dives into the essential "Basic Eight" beginner open chords every guitarist needs to know. Whether you’re just starting out or want ...
259 - Electric or Acoustic? Which Guitar Should You Learn On?
06 Nov 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, Paul Andrews tackles one of the most common questions among beginner guitarists: Should you start learning on an electric or acoustic...
258 - Should You Keep a Practice Journal?
31 Oct 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, Paul Andrews tackles a common beginner guitarist question: Should you keep a practice journal? Inspired by a post in the Beginner Gui...
257 - Why Most People Never Learn Guitar (and How You Can Be the Exception)
24 Oct 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, Paul explores the most common reasons why so many aspiring guitarists never quite get started or give up too soon, despite having a l...
256 - Mastering the C to G Chord Change
17 Oct 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this week’s episode, Paul Andrews goes back to basics to tackle one of the trickiest and most important chord changes for beginner guitarists: mo...
255 - Finding Balance on Your Guitar Journey: Lessons from Baltazar
10 Oct 2025
Contributed by Lukas
This week, Paul dives deep into the emotional ups and downs of learning guitar, inspired by a heartfelt community post from member Baltazar. With Balt...
254 - 8 Common Mistakes Beginner Guitarists Make (and How to Avoid Them)
02 Oct 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, Paul Andrews breaks down the eight most common mistakes he sees beginner guitarists make and, most importantly, how you can avoid or ...
253-Demystifying Musical Intervals: Essential Ear Training for Beginner Guitar Players
26 Sep 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In episode 253 of the Beginner Guitar Academy Podcast, Paul Andrews explores the powerful—yet often overlooked—concept of musical intervals. Wheth...
252 - 5 Underrated Albums Every Guitar Player Should Listen To
20 Sep 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this special bonus episode, Paul Andrews takes a break from the last two weeks’ exploration of the “10 albums every guitar player should listen...
251 - 10 Albums Every Guitar Player Should Listen To – Part 2
12 Sep 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Episode SummaryIn this episode, Paul Andrews rounds out his two-part guide to the "10 Albums Every Guitar Player Should Listen To." Picking up from la...
250 - 10 Albums Every Guitar Player Should Listen To – Part 1
05 Sep 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Celebrating a huge milestone, Paul Andrews marks the 250th episode of the Beginner Guitar Academy Podcast by launching a brand-new two-part series: "1...
249 - Where to Find Accurate Guitar Tabs
29 Aug 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this week’s episode, Paul dives into a common question from students: “Where can I find decent, authentic tabs to learn songs?” Building on l...
248 - How To Learn Songs on Guitar: Simple System for Learning, Memorizing, and Improving
23 Aug 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this week’s episode, Paul Andrews addresses a common challenge among beginner guitarists: learning and actually remembering songs. Paul shares a ...
247 - How To Solo Over A Minor Blues Progression
15 Aug 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this week’s episode, Paul dives into the moody and expressive world of minor blues progressions. Building on last week’s look at soloing over m...
246 - How to Solo Over a Major Blues Progression
08 Aug 2025
Contributed by Lukas
This week, Paul continues the deep dive into blues guitar, building on foundation concepts from Episode 245. The focus shifts to soloing over a major ...
245 - Major vs. Minor Blues: What’s the Difference?
01 Aug 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this week’s episode, Paul tackles a common question from Beginner Guitar Academy members: What exactly does it mean when someone says “a blues”...
244 - 1990s: Britpop & the Indie Revival
25 Jul 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this week’s episode, Paul dives into the fourth part of the British Guitar Music series, spotlighting the vibrant era of Brit Pop and the indie r...
243 - 1980s: British Punk & New Wave
18 Jul 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In the third instalment of the special British Music Series, Paul Andrews takes us on a deep dive into the raw, rebellious, and energetic music scene ...
242 - 1970s: Rock Legends & the Birth of British Metal
12 Jul 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Welcome back to the Beginner Guitar Academy podcast with your host, Paul Andrews! In this second instalment of the British Guitar Music series, Paul t...
241 - British Guitar Music: The 1960s — The British Invasion
04 Jul 2025
Contributed by Lukas
This week, Paul kicks off a special month-long series delving into British guitar music, decade by decade. In this episode, the focus is on the iconic...
240 - 20 Ways to Be a Better Guitar Player
28 Jun 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Welcome to another value-packed episode with Paul Andrews! This week, we're focusing on something every guitarist—no matter what stage they're at—...
239 - Electric Guitar Guide for Beginners
21 Jun 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this week’s episode, Paul Andrews breaks down everything beginners need to know about transitioning to their first electric guitar. Suppose you’...
238 - Mastering the G Chord: Shapes, Songs, Progressions, and Common Struggles
14 Jun 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Episode Overview:This week, Paul dives into one of the most fundamental and beloved guitar chords, the G chord! Whether you're picking up the guitar f...
237 - Escaping the YouTube Rabbit Hole – Why Structure Beats Random Guitar Lessons
07 Jun 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Episode Summary:This week, host Paul Andrews dives deep into the world of learning guitar on YouTube—exploring the pros and cons, the pitfalls of un...
236 - Challenge Week Four Recap: Lead Guitar and Improvisation
30 May 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, Paul Andrews wraps up the Beginner Guitar Academy’s “Learn to Play Five Minutes a Day in May” challenge by recapping week four,...
235 - Challenge Week Three Recap: Mastering Strumming and Rhythm
22 May 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, Paul Andrews recaps week three of the “5 Minutes a Day in May Guitar Challenge,” focusing on strumming and rhythm, key skills for...
234 - Challenge Week Two Recap: Chords & Confident Changes
16 May 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Episode OverviewIn this episode, Paul Andrews recaps week two of the "Learn to Play Five Minutes a Day in May" challenge. If you're participating, con...
233 - Challenge Week One Recap: Master Your Picking
09 May 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Episode Overview:In this special episode, Paul Andrews recaps the first week of the “Five Minutes a Day Guitar Challenge,” which is designed to he...
232 - How Malte Became the First to Conquer All 5 BGA Levels
02 May 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this inspiring episode, Paul Andrews sits down with Malte, the very first student to complete all five levels of the Beginner Guitar Academy progra...
231 - From E Minor to Barre Chords: A Beginner’s Guide to Guitar Chords
25 Apr 2025
Contributed by Lukas
**Episode Summary:** Feeling overwhelmed by the sheer number of guitar chords to learn? Not sure which chords to start with, when to attempt barre ch...
230 - How Allegra Mastered All 5 Guitar Levels: Tips, Struggles, and Success from a Graduate
18 Apr 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Host: Paul Andrews Guest: Allegra Condon (Beginner Guitar Academy’s 2nd Graduate)Episode SummaryPaul welcomes the first guest on the Beginner Guita...
229 - What I Wish I Knew When I Started Playing Guitar
12 Apr 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Ever wondered what experienced guitar players wish they'd known when they first started? In this episode of the Beginner Guitar Academy Podcast, we're...
228 - Major Seven Chords Demystified: Progressions, Songs, and Playing Tips
04 Apr 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Are you ready to add some dreamy, atmospheric sounds to your guitar playing? In this episode of the Beginner Guitar Academy podcast, we're diving into...
227 - Getting the Right Gear to Master the Metal Sound on Guitar
29 Mar 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Are you ready to crank up the volume and dive into the world of metal guitar gear? In this final episode of our Metal March series, we're exploring th...
226 - Learn To Play 5 Metal Riffs
21 Mar 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Are you ready to crank up the volume and dive into some iconic metal riffs? In this episode of the Beginner Guitar Academy podcast, we're continuing o...
225 - Getting Started with Metal Guitar Techniques: A Beginner's Guide
13 Mar 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Are you ready to unleash your inner metal guitarist? In this electrifying episode of the Beginner Guitar Academy podcast, we're diving deep into the w...
224 - The Birth of Metal: How It All Began
08 Mar 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Are you ready to embark on a sonic journey through the history of metal music? In this episode of the Beginner Guitar Academy podcast, we're kicking o...
223 - Transform Your Guitar Skills: 5 Habits to Adopt Today
28 Feb 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Are you ready to take your guitar playing to the next level? In this episode of the Beginner Guitar Academy podcast, we're exploring five essential pr...
222 - Simplifying F Major From Beginner to Barre Chord Master
22 Feb 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this week's episode of the podcast, we're diving deep into mastering one of the most challenging chords for beginner guitarists: the F major bar ch...
221 - Highlights from NAMM Show: New Guitars, Effects, Amps
14 Feb 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Are you curious about the latest and greatest in the guitar world? Get ready for an exciting journey through the recent NAMM show, where the music ind...
220 - Lucille, Blackie, and Trigger: The Stories Behind Iconic Guitars
07 Feb 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Get ready to strum along with some of the most legendary guitars in music history! In this episode of the Beginner Guitar Academy podcast, we're takin...
219 - Levelling Up Your Jamming Skills
31 Jan 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Are you ready to take your guitar jamming skills to the next level? In this final episode of our five-part series on jamming, we're wrapping up with e...
218 - 5 Easy Songs Perfect for Beginner Jams
23 Jan 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Are you ready to take your guitar playing to the next level? In this episode of the Beginner Guitar Academy podcast, we're diving into five easy songs...
217 - How to Jam with Others: Tips for Your First Jam Session
18 Jan 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Are you ready to take your guitar playing to the next level? In this episode of the Beginner Guitar Academy podcast, we're diving into the exciting wo...
216 - How to Jam by Yourself: Tools and Techniques
10 Jan 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Are you ready to take your guitar playing to the next level? In this episode, we're diving deep into the world of solo jamming - a crucial skill for e...
215 - Why Jamming is Essential for Guitarists
04 Jan 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, Paul kicks off January with a special theme focused on jamming for guitarists. He discusses the importance of jamming and its benefit...
214 - How to Make the Most Progress on Guitar in 2025
28 Dec 2024
Contributed by Lukas
As we approach a new year, it's the perfect time to set our sights on success in 2025. In this episode, Paul shares seven essential tips and strategie...
213 - 2024 Wrapped: The 6 Most Downloaded Episodes (Part 2)
21 Dec 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this special episode, we continue looking back at the most downloaded episodes of 2024. Join me as we countdown the third, second, and most popular...
212 - 2024 Wrapped: The 6 Most Downloaded Episodes
13 Dec 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Welcome to another exciting episode of the Beginner Guitar Academy Podcast! In this episode, we're taking a look back at 2024 with a special "wrapped"...
211 - Five Must-Know Christmas Songs
06 Dec 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, we're diving into the festive spirit as host Paul Andrews takes you through five must-know Christmas songs on the guitar. Perfect for...
210 - Black Friday Guitar Deals: Tips and Top Picks
28 Nov 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this week's episode, we're diving into the excitement and potential pitfalls of the Black Friday shopping frenzy, specifically for guitar enthusias...
209 - Four-Year Anniversary of Beginner Guitar Academy: Achievements, Challenges, and Future Plans
22 Nov 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Welcome to Episode 209 of the Beginner Guitar Academy Podcast! Today we're celebrating a significant milestone—the 4th anniversary of BeginnerGuitar...
208 - Song Study: Summer Of '69
15 Nov 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode of the Beginner Guitar Academy Podcast, host Paul Andrews dives into a comprehensive song study of the classic hit "Summer of '69" by ...
207 - 7 Beginner Guitar Myths Exposed
07 Nov 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In Episode 207 of the Beginner Guitar Academy podcast, host Paul Andrews tackles some of the most pervasive myths surrounding the world of guitar play...
206 - Elevate Your Guitar Skills with Tone, Technique, and Timing
01 Nov 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this week's episode, we're diving deep into the "3 T's" that every aspiring guitarist should focus on: Tone, Technique, and Timing. These fundament...
205 - Five Rock Albums Every Aspiring Guitarist Needs to Hear
24 Oct 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this week's episode, we're exploring "Five Rock Albums Every Guitarist Should Hear." Join us as we uncover the classic rock albums that are essenti...
204 - Song Study: Stairway To Heaven
18 Oct 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In today's episode, we're turning our focus to one of rock music's most iconic songs—Stairway to Heaven by Led Zeppelin. Join us as we dive deep int...
203 - Power Chords 101: The Backbone of Rock
11 Oct 2024
Contributed by Lukas
This week, we're diving into the electrifying world of rock music with our second instalment of the Rocktober series. If you missed Episode 202...
202 - 7 Rock Riffs for Beginners
03 Oct 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Welcome to this week's episode of the Beginner Guitar Academy podcast, episode 202! I'm kicking off Rocktober with a bang by exploring 7 must-k...
201 - The Fender Stratocaster at 70: From Design Origins to Rock Legends
27 Sep 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In today's episode, we're celebrating a remarkable milestone in guitar history: the 70th anniversary of the Fender Stratocaster. Whether you're...
200 - The BIG 200!! + Surprise Merch Announcement...
20 Sep 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Today we are celebrating a special milestone—our 200th episode and our very first video podcast. Whether you're a longtime listener or just tun...
199 - Song Study: Wake Me Up When September Ends
12 Sep 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this week's episode, I dive deep into Green Day's iconic song "Wake Me Up When September Ends," dissecting its structure, guitar parts, and ri...
198 - How To Practise Scales
05 Sep 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In today's podcast episode, we delved into the world of scales—what they are, why they're essential, and how to master them effectively. Host...
197 - Discover Oasis: History, Iconic Songs, and Lead Guitar Techniques of Noel Gallagher
30 Aug 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Welcome to the Beginner Guitar Academy podcast, where we dive into all things guitar! In today's episode, we're taking a deep dive into the iconi...
196 - Beginner's Guide to the Major Pentatonic Scale
23 Aug 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode of the Beginner Guitar Academy podcast, host Paul Andrews delves deep into the importance and versatility of the major pentatonic...
195 - 5 Classic Guitar Effects And Famous Riffs That Use Them
17 Aug 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this week's episode of the Beginner Guitar Academy podcast, we take a deep dive into the world of guitar effects. Host Paul Andrews introduc...
194 - The 100 Hour Rule: Building Momentum in Guitar Practice
09 Aug 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Welcome to the Beginner Guitar Academy podcast, where we explore effective strategies for mastering the guitar. In today's episode, we delve in...
193 - July's Live Member Q&A
03 Aug 2024
Contributed by Lukas
This episode is the audio from our recent member Q&A. I cover an array of topics and listener questions, delving into everything from masteri...
192 - 5 Blues Songs To Get Ideas, Inspiration & Licks
26 Jul 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this week's episode of the Beginner Guitar Academy podcast, we're diving into the world of blues music. Host Paul Andrews takes us through 5...
191 - From The Vault: When To Learn The Notes On The Neck
19 Jul 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In today's episode, we dive into the topic of learning the notes on the guitar neck. Host Paul Andrews discusses the significance of understand...
190 - 10 Things Every Beginner Guitar Player Should Know
12 Jul 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Welcome to the Beginner Guitar Academy podcast! In this episode, we'll dive into the 10 essential things every beginner guitar player should know...
189 - 7 Must Know Strum Patterns
04 Jul 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this week's podcast episode, we're diving into the fundamentals of rhythm and timing. I go through the essential strum patterns every beginne...
188 - Mastering Improvisation: 5 Key Steps for Better Lead Guitar Playing
29 Jun 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, host Paul Andrews walks you through the essential steps to becoming a better lead guitar player and improving your improvisation...
187 - Top 5 Most Difficult Guitar Songs
21 Jun 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In today's episode, we delve into the hotly debated topic of the hardest guitar songs to play. Host Paul Andrews shares his thoughts on the top...
186 - Can You Teach Yourself Guitar? Pros, Cons, and Strategies for Success
13 Jun 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In today's episode, I delve into teaching yourself guitar versus seeking professional guidance. I break down the pros and cons of self-teaching...
185 - Master the A Major Chord: From Basics to Advanced Techniques
07 Jun 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, we deep dive into the A major chord, a staple for many songs and a fundamental chord for all guitar players. I take you throug...
184 - Stevie Ray Vaughan: A Musical Journey Through Triumph, Tragedy, and Resilience
31 May 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, we dive deep into the life and music of the legendary guitarist, Stevie Ray Vaughan. From his early influences to his groundbr...
183 - Should You Learn Multiple Instruments
24 May 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode of the Beginner Guitar Academy podcast, we'll explore the benefits and challenges of learning multiple musical instruments. I d...
182 - Was 1984 The Best Year For Guitar Albums
17 May 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, I take us through the fantastic albums released in 1984. From Steve Vai's debut album to classics by Van Halen, Queen, Prince,...
181 - From The Vault: 5 Ways To Become More Confident On Video
10 May 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this week's episode, we are taking a trip into the vault and dusting off episode 128; '5 Ways To Become More Confident On Video.' In the epis...
180 - April’s Live Member Q&A
03 May 2024
Contributed by Lukas
This week's episode features the audio from a recent member live Q&A. Some of the topics covered include; how many songs should you learn at ...
179 - From The Vault: 10 Awesome Acoustic Guitarists You Should Know About
26 Apr 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Welcome to episode 179 of the Beginner Guitar Academy podcast! Today, we're wrapping up our acoustic April series by spotlighting 10 awesome acou...
178 - Introduction To Open Tunings
18 Apr 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this podcast episode, I dive into the world of open tunings. I provide a clear definition of open tunings, explain their benefits, and share...
177 - Top 5 Acoustic Guitar Riffs
12 Apr 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, I count down the top 5 acoustic guitar riffs, offering insights and tips on mastering each one. From Bob Marley's "Redemption ...
176 - Acoustic Guitar 101
05 Apr 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Welcome to the Beginner Guitar Academy podcast episode 176. In this episode, host Paul Andrews takes a deep dive into all things acoustic guita...
175 - How Many Guitars Do You Actually Need
29 Mar 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, I delve into a common question among guitarists: "How many guitars do you actually need?" I share insights on why guitarists o...
174 - Understanding The Circle Of Fifths
22 Mar 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this week's episode 'Understanding the Circle of Fifths', I break down this important concept in a way that demystifies the complexities of th...
173 - 10 Easy Songs To Learn On Guitar
14 Mar 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this week's episode of the Beginner Guitar Academy podcast, I share 10 easy songs for beginners to learn on the guitar. From classic hits lik...
172 - The First 8 Things You Should Learn
07 Mar 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this week's episode of the podcast, I cover the first eight things that all beginner guitar players should learn. This comprehensive list inc...
171 - 7 Guitar Films Every Music Lover Should Watch
01 Mar 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this week's episode of the Beginner Guitar Academy podcast, host Paul Andrews takes us through a list of 7 amazing guitar-themed films to watc...
170 - How To Play Guitar In The Style Of Green Day
22 Feb 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this week's episode, we're diving into the iconic punk rock sound of Green Day. We'll discuss Green Day's guitarist Billie Joe Armstrong's g...
169 - How To Find The Right Guitar Teacher
16 Feb 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode of the podcast, we explore the essential factors for finding the right guitar teacher, whether you're considering online or offli...
168 - 10 Famous Guitar Chords
08 Feb 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this week's episode of the Beginner Guitar Academy podcast, we're diving into 10 famous guitar chords that you've definitely heard in various ...
167 - From The Vault: 5 Steps To Playing Guitar & Singing At The Same Time
02 Feb 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this week's episode, we are taking a trip into the vault and dusting off episode 68; '5 Steps To Playing Guitar & Singing At The Same Time...
166 - How To Practice Guitar
26 Jan 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, I share valuable insights on structuring practice sessions for better results. From the G4 GUITAR method's essential skills to p...