The song uses four simple open chords in the key of G – Gmajor, Eminor, Cmajor and Dmajor. To learn this tune – or any tune – in private guitar lessons with Des, get in touch!

“Perfect” by Ed Sheeran is like a musical love story for the younger crowd. Ed paints a picture of sweet, simple romance that feels straight out of a teen dream. The lyrics are a blend of innocence and infatuation, describing moments that make young hearts skip a beat. With lines like “dancing in the dark” and “barefoot on the grass,” it’s a song that captures the carefree spirit of young love. The catchy melody and Ed’s earnest delivery make it a go-to anthem for those navigating the maze of teenage emotions. “Perfect” speaks a language that resonates with the butterflies-in-the-stomach feeling, making it a soundtrack for the highs and lows of young love, and a reminder that sometimes, perfection is found in the simplest moments.

This is a nice version of Wild Wood by Paul Weller – the Modfather himself – of The Jam and Style Council fame. The song is 30 years old, which is hard to believe, but it’s a beautiful one to add to your acoustic guitar repertoire, whether you are a Paul Weller fan or not.

“Wild Wood” by Paul Weller is a sonic journey through rustic landscapes and introspection. Released in 1993, the song blends folk, rock, and soul, showcasing Weller’s musical versatility. The acoustic guitar’s warm embrace complements Weller’s soulful vocals, creating a nostalgic and contemplative atmosphere. With lyrics that evoke nature’s beauty and the passage of time, “Wild Wood” becomes a timeless anthem, inviting listeners to wander through the wild landscapes of memory and emotion. Weller’s melodic craftsmanship and poetic storytelling make this song a cherished gem in his diverse musical repertoire.

This is a short and simple beginners lesson on Fisherman’s Blues using just four chords – Gmajor, Fmajor, Aminor and Cmajor – with a couple of slight variations from Des and an easy beginners rhythm. If you would like to have beginners guitar lessons with Des in Galway, get in touch today – lessons are adapted to suit guitarists of all levels and playing preferences.

“Fisherman’s Blues,” a celestial ballad by The Waterboys, is a sonic journey that dives deep into the soul. Released in 1988, this track encapsulates the band’s transition to a folk-inspired sound. Mike Scott’s vocals, both haunting and heartfelt, navigate the listener through a sea of emotions. The swirling combination of fiddles, accordion, and Scott’s introspective lyrics creates an ethereal atmosphere. It’s a hymn to the restless spirit, a call to the open waters of self-discovery. “Fisherman’s Blues” remains an enduring anthem, resonating with those who seek solace and inspiration in the vast, uncharted realms of their own existence.

Learn to play Happy Birthday on the acoustic guitar with this 1-minute video! It’s a simple tune and one absolutely every guitarist should be able to play, whatever level you play at.

In this video Des explains how to play Happy Birthday on acoustic guitar with simple chord changes and standard chords – Gmajor, Dmajor and Cmajor – and a simple rhythm that beginners can follow.

Here’s an alternative way of playing this classic 1960’s tune by the Animals. This is aimed at Intermediate level guitar players – with a capo on the second fret. No matter what level of guitar you are currently playing at, Des can give you a variation of this tune (or any tune) to suit your playing level and style. Get in touch to enquire about private guitar lessons in the Galway area – online lessons via Skype also offered if you are outside of the area.

“The House of the Rising Sun” by The Animals, a 1964 hit, is a soulful journey through blues and rock history. The haunting vocals of Eric Burdon tell a tale of regret and redemption in New Orleans. The song’s distinctive guitar riff, played by Hilton Valentine, is instantly recognizable. Its simplicity and raw emotion set it apart, making it a timeless classic. The narrative unfolds with a sense of melancholy, drawing listeners into the mysterious allure of the infamous house. With its powerful vocals and iconic guitar work, “The House of the Rising Sun” remains a pivotal piece in rock and blues storytelling.

This is a simplified step-by-step guide for playing the classic Eagles acoustic tune without needing to learn barre chords. This is the perfect song for beginners to expand their repertoire, learn more about the fretboard and different chord shapes and find easier ways to play barre chords. This version uses Bminor, F#maj7, Aminor, Gmajor, Dmajor, Eminor7, F#maj7, Asus2 with an easy rhythm to suit early stage guitarists. If you would like to have one-to-one guitar lessons with Des in Knocknacarra, Galway please get in touch. All styles of music covered with song variations to suit different levels of learner.

This video has been viewed by more than 60,000 people on YouTube – enjoy!

Here’s a nice fingerpicking version of Black is the Colour by Christy Moore for Intermediate guitar players looking to advance their playing. For one-to-one acoustic guitar lessons, get in touch!

“Black is the Colour” by Christy Moore, a haunting folk rendition, paints an emotional canvas with its poignant lyrics and soul-stirring melody. Moore’s evocative voice, accompanied by delicate acoustic guitar, weaves a tale of love and loss. The simplicity of the arrangement heightens the emotional impact, allowing the timeless beauty of the traditional Irish ballad to shine. Moore’s interpretation captures the essence of longing and melancholy, making “Black is the Colour” a captivating journey into the depths of human emotion through the vessel of folk music.