Dotted Quarter Notes
A dotted quarter note is worth 1½ counts. It has the same time value as a quarter note tied to an eighth note, as seen in the first diagram here. When a dotted quarter note is followed by an eighth note, as in Greensleeves, the count is written the same as in the second diagram.
This song features some difficult left hand fingering passages which will require special attention. In any music you play, be sure to isolate difficult sections and practice them thoroughly.
The eighth notes in Greensleeves are played with an up pick, as indicated.
The "High" A Note
The "high" A note is located on the 5th fret of the first string, and is played using the fourth finger.
Practice the following exercise slowly and carefully. Watch the music!
Scarborough Fair uses the high A note in bars 6, 8 and 9. The abbreviation rit, in bar 15, stands for ritardando, which means to gradually slow down.
Troubleshooting
- Revise all pieces so far studied. This revision should become the "warm up" of your practice sessions.
- Keep your left hand fingers as close as possible to the strings. They should "hover" no more than a half inch (1cm) above the strings.
- Always play with a pick.
