Here’s a quick lesson on how to play “The Star Spangled Banner” for acoustic guitar.
This version is played on the top 3 strings and is relatively simple. Using multiple strings confines the wide range melody to fewer frets.
If you’ve been playing for a while, you can try adding your own nuances to the melody by adding things like…
- Legato Techiniques (hammer-ons, pull-offs, slides, and tapping)
- String Bending
- Vibrato
I deliberately kept the melody simple to allow for my students to express themselves as their technique and musicality develops. Give me a shout out if you post it on social media; I’d love to hear how you play it. Happy shredding and woodshedding!