Sixteenth Notes
This is a sixteenth note. It lasts for one quarter of a beat. There are four sixteenth notes in one beat. There are 16 sixteenth notes in one bar of * time.
Play the sixteenth notes slowly and evenly using rest stroke. Count out loud as you play. Notice that there is a different sound for each part of the count - "One ee and ah, Two ee and ah", etc. Once you are comfortable with the exercise, play it free stroke as well.
This melody can be played either rest stroke or free stroke. It is recommended that you practice it both ways. Take it slowly at first and count as you play.
Tap your foot on each beat and remember that there are four sixteenth notes per beat.
As a final challenge, here are two fast pieces in the key of D minor. The Study in D Minor features exclusive use of sixteenth notes. Take it slowly until you have both hands under control and then gradually increase the tempo.
A common tuning variation when playing in the key of D or D minor is to tune the low E string down a tone to D and leave the other strings in standard tuning. This is often referred to as dropped D tuning. The low D note is written on the fourth ledger line below the staff. This tuning is indicated with the symbol 6 = D. You should now be playing confidently and be ready to advance to Progressive Complete Learn to Play Classical Guitar Manual.
