Strum like a pro

Sidharth Kadadi

Guitarist Sidharth Kadadi, the first heavy metal guitarist from India to become a published Author, is lending a hand to amateur guitarists with a new instruction manual to master the instrument. The idea for his just-released book, The Guitar Journal Volume 01, says Kadadi, came from the realisation that there wasn't enough material to inspire first-time guitar learners.

"To excel at any art form, you need to have a strong foundation. I wanted to compile everything that my teachers have taught me, and what I have learnt over the years in a book," he shares. While writing the book, he visualised himself as a student, who is keen to learn rather than a professional tutor. This technique, he says, helped him explain the concepts better and also shed light on the mistakes he made during his initial years of learning.

Kadadi, who went to the Musicians Institute in California, says that formal music education in India is not as sophisticated as it is in the West. "Firstly, music education and other forms of performing arts need to be introduced as core classes in academic schools and colleges. It will help the youth understand and experience music and art better, and in a safer environment." He says that there are many bright and talented musicians, actors and artistes struggling in the corporate world, only because they are not sure where a career in the arts would take them. Having a strong foundation influences their life decisions, he feels.

The Mumbai-based musician explained that while content available on platforms like YouTube and Facebook and also professional courses like Udemy are garnering eyeballs, they often miss out on some sacred knowledge. "When you are learning how to play an instrument via online platforms, you need to have some serious discipline as there are so many distractions out there. It is also a bit confusing for a beginner to grasp and choose an instructor. But when you read about the art of playing the guitar and then try all those tutorials, you understand and enjoy the learning process as well," he says.

The chapters in the book are supported by skeleton diagrams, images, and step-by-step guidance on how to place your fingers on the right fret thereby helping the readers visualise each and every chapter to learn better. The book is not only aimed at guitarists, but also guitar teachers who are willing to share their knowledge but don't know how to start.

When asked about his plan for the next books in the series, Kadadi said that he has already drafted a second volume and is hoping to release it soon. For now, he is busy creating the third album with his band Zygnema, which will release by the end of this year.