[Thomas]

Originally Posted by JJ Rodriguez

I don't know, learning modes and theory and a bunch of crap like that IMO isn't the best way to start, because when you first start you want the instant gratification of playing riffs that you love. Learning theory is awesome for the long run, it just doesn't have that instant gratification that I think is important for new guitar players so they stick with the instrument. Just my 2 cents though.

What he said.

[Kakaka]

That's actually not much theory. It's lots of practice, so that he could get used to the most common melodic shapes on contemporary tunes, so it would be easier for him to approach some by-ear-playing.

But I agree with you 2^, if you're looking for fun, most common people won't be much pleased in playing greek modes for hours.

[bostjan]

The first thing I started with was Hal Leonard's Guitar Method. There are better ways to start out than I started, though. By the time I was practicing the modes of the diatonic scale, I was able to play just about any riff. For me, that's when I really started to develop.

I guess that's pretty much where I am now, I just have more scales of which to practice modal fingerings and more techniques in the toolbox, but I still can't just sit down and play a solo I'm 100% happy with.

[Alex-D33]

Originally Posted by JJ Rodriguez

I don't know, learning modes and theory and a bunch of crap like that IMO isn't the best way to start, because when you first start you want the instant gratification of playing riffs that you love. Learning theory is awesome for the long run, it just doesn't have that instant gratification that I think is important for new guitar players so they stick with the instrument. Just my 2 cents though.

well said JJ
do not fear !! my good man you are at the right place , lots of good peeps on this FORUM to answer your questions . WELCOME & keep in mind that patience & practice is the key to your DREAMS