Saturday, March 19, 2016

Poll: Fretboard markers

Thank you, everyone, for participating in the fretboard marker poll.


For many of us, the traditional fretboard marker placement is still our preferred navigation reference. We started with guitars bearing such a feature, we are used to these visual markings, many of our preferred brand names out there feature such references any way. It's a 'safe' reference, it works, it's the way to go.


There are some of us who prefer a half-way mark reference only. Visually, this helps us divide the neck into two particular portions, we are less confused this way. We are not entirely comfortable with a blank but this bare minimum is definitely a plus as opposed to many markings.


There is a sizeable number of players who prefer a totally blank fretboard, many citing the ease of transposing fingering patterns without a visual limitation. These people are very familiar with positions & placements, looking at what one plays is actually optional.


In any case, we have our side dots to help us navigate a blank landscape should our bearings fail us. Whatever the case may be, the human element here means we have different visual preferences. We stick to what works for us. However, my dear friends, do not let differences in features prevent us from learning how to play better. In many instances, that wee bit of struggle helps shape us into better learners; labour now, smile later. Also, do not let others dictate the features you should have in your instruments, "Hey, you WILL play better with a blank fretboard." There is no definite outcome when there are differences across individuals; what works for the rest might not work for you.

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