The Fundamentals section provides a structured way to develop core skills in rhythm, theory, improvisation, chords, dynamic techniques, and more. If you're unsure where to begin, this guide explains the simplest and most effective starting points.
1. Identify Your Weakest or Most Important Skill Area
The best place to start is by selecting the category that represents your current biggest challenge.
For example:
Struggling with tightness or timing? Start with Rhythm.
Want to understand scales, modes, or harmony? Start with Theory.
Want to improve your soloing or phrasing? Start with Improvisation.
Need better chord voicings or progressions? Start with Chords.
Want to expand your expressive, percussive playing? Start with Dynamic Techniques.
Interested in advanced rhythmic concepts? Start with Polymeters and Polyrhythms.
Each category provides lessons designed to help you improve in a focused and measurable way.
2. Follow the Lessons in Order Within a Category
Inside each Fundamentals category, lessons are arranged from simpler concepts to more advanced material.
To get the best results:
Start at the top of the category
Work through each lesson in order
Spend time on each exercise before moving to the next
Post your playing in the forum if any staff members or your peers can help you improve.
This creates natural, steady progress in the skill area you’ve chosen.
3. Rotate Between Categories for Balanced Growth
If you prefer a versatile approach, you can rotate between several categories each week.
For example:
Monday: Rhythm
Wednesday: Theory
Friday: Improvisation
This helps you stay well-rounded while still having structure.
4. Use the Members Lounge for Support
Many students post updates or questions in the Members Lounge to stay accountable and get feedback.
You can access the community here:
https://app.modernmetalacademy.com/spaces/11273548/discovery
Other members often share tips, progress clips, and suggestions that help reinforce the lessons.
5. Recommended Starting Points
If you are completely unsure where to begin, these two categories are the most universally helpful for all players:
Rhythm — improves tightness, timing, accuracy, and control. The backbone of EVERYTHING you'll ever do with the guitar.
Theory — helps you understand scales, chords, and melodic choices
Starting with these builds a strong foundation that supports everything else.
6. Where to Access the Fundamentals
You can access all Fundamentals content here:
https://app.modernmetalacademy.com/collections/2461267?sort=by_hosts
If any content appears missing, check your membership status:
https://app.modernmetalacademy.com/your-access