How 1-on-1 guitar lessons helped Ethan overcome coordination issues and master complex chords

Like many guitar learners, Ethan hit a wall when trying to improve finger independence and move smoothly through complex chords. 

Ethan was facing challenges with transitioning between chords and keeping up with the tempo while playing songs like “Nothing Else Matters” and “Highway to Hell.” Despite regular practice, he found himself stuck, particularly with chord transitions and syncing both hands in time with the music. 

With the help of his 1-on-1 guitar lessons with Giacomo Favitta, Ethan was able to break through these barriers and make real progress.

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Real class insight: Ethan’s one-on-one guitar session

In their recent live lesson, Ethan worked with Giacomo on improving finger coordination, transitioning between chords, and fine-tuning his playing. Here’s a breakdown of their session:

Improving finger coordination – visualizing the Fretboard

Ethan had been practicing for a while but was still struggling to visualize and play across the fretboard, particularly when transitioning between open chords and barred chords. Giacomo spotted this right away and prioritized visual fretboard awareness.

What Ethan learned:

“Giacomo helped me get past my confusion with the fretboard. He showed me how to visualize chord shapes and use my fingers more effectively when switching between different positions,” Ethan explained.

With Giacomo’s guidance, Ethan was able to play through difficult sections of songs more fluidly, without hesitating during transitions.

Mastering complex chords – understanding finger shapes and transitions

Ethan also struggled with complex chord shapes, especially barred chords and sliding chords like G major and F major. Giacomo demonstrated how these chords should be played with proper hand positioning and fingering to make them easier to play and transition.

What Ethan learned:

“Giacomo showed me how to play F major using the E major shape on the fretboard,” Ethan recalls. “I had never thought about it this way, and it really helped my fingering become more comfortable.”

These small shifts in understanding helped Ethan gain the confidence to move smoothly through even the more challenging sections.

Focus on timing and right-hand picking – using a metronome for precision

During the lesson, Giacomo noticed that Ethan’s right-hand picking wasn’t as precise as it could be, especially when playing at faster tempos.  

Giacomo introduced the metronome as a tool to build a steadier rhythm and practiced alternate picking patterns to help Ethan stay relaxed and accurate.

What Ethan learned:
“By using the metronome, I was able to play at a consistent tempo,” Ethan explained. “Giacomo also helped me correct my alternate picking to ensure my right hand stayed relaxed and in control.”

Why this matters: you can learn faster with personalized guidance

Ethan’s experience highlights what makes 1-on-1 guitar lessons so effective. With an instructor like Giacomo providing real-time feedback and clear, actionable tips, Ethan was able to master complex chord shapes and improve his coordination between his left and right hands.

“I didn’t realize how much of a difference hand placement and picking control could make,” Ethan said after the session. “Now I play with way more confidence and precision.”

Want to master coordination and complex chords like this?

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• Help with finger coordination, chord transitions, and timing
• Offer real-time feedback and tailored guidance for your playing
• Provide structured lessons that are focused on your progress

Book a lesson with a guitar tutor today – your first lesson is on us!

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See more transformation stories

Every learner’s path is unique – but the impact of personalized 1-on-1 lessons is consistent in making all the difference in achieving their guitar goals. 

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These success stories highlight how students progressed thanks to tailored 1-on-1 lessons. Explore how personalized tutoring can help you break through and enhance your playing skills.

Link to Giacomo Favitta’s profile

Giacomo Favitta

Footnote: The student’s name has been changed for privacy reasons.