Originally Posted by: meharbrar12

Hi!

So I'm complete beginner when it comes to song writing, I'm currently trying to write one and I was wondering if anyone had any tips when it comes to notating a melody down on paper. Right now I have the metrenome going, I hummed something I liked, and I figured out the pitches and key I will be working in etc. However, trying to get the melody written down on paper I'm finding challenging. I'm notaing on a staff but I can't figure out what the notes are doing rhythmically if that makes sense. Just wondering if anybody has tips when it comes to notating on paper and better understanding what the notes are doing rhythimcally. Or is this something I shouldn't worry about and just carry on writing.

Thanks

This is a welcome question here! Most guitarists avoid notation, when it is such a powerful tool. That's awesome you are going down that path.

It sounds to me like your question is notation of rhythm. Is that right?

Lisa breaks down some very basic rhythmic notation in Guitar Fundamentals 2:

https://www.guitartricks.com/lesson.php?input=24857

Are there more specific questions you have? We'd be happy to answer them.

You might also consider a private lesson with our GT instructor Dave Celentano. http://www.guitartricks.com/pro

He is way into reading and notation (he's published several books and used to transcribe for guitar magazines) and I have taken some sight-reading lessons from him myself. He's one of those guys who writes out everything he plays.

-Carl.