Unlock Your Steel Guitar Skills with the "Lakeside" Learning Pack for my 2024 Original Tune
- 1barphill
- Apr 16
- 3 min read
If you want to improve your steel guitar playing and learn a fresh, original tune, the Lakeside Steel Guitar Learning Pack is designed just for you. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced player, this pack offers everything you need to master my 2024 original tune, "Lakeside," step by step. You will find clear guidance, detailed charts, and helpful audio and video tools that make learning enjoyable and effective.
What You Get in the Lakeside Learning Pack
The pack is carefully structured to support your learning process. Here’s what you will find inside:
Song and player introductory notes
This tune is in the key of E Major (modulates to F Major then back to E Major) with a tempo of 100 bpm. It has an Hawaiian style ballad feel & should be playable by intermediate to advanced players.
The Steel tuning is in 8 string C6 - GECAGECA & minimal slants are rquired. No harmonics are needed, although some are included on the backing track. The key issue with "Lakeside" is effectively managing the key changes (modulations) from E to F, then back to E again in a smooth manner. Note that several 6 string chords are required in the piece.
"Lakeside" is an original tune recorded on my third album in 2024, "Where Tears Go". A rockier, amost surf-feel, version renamed "Horseshoe Bend Hula" can also be found on the 2025 compilation CD, "The Maitland Sound".
Full musical notation chart with C6 tab
The song chart includes both standard musical notation and tablature for the C6 tuning (8-string GECAGECA). This makes it easier to follow along, especially if you prefer reading tabs or standard notation options.
Chord chart & Arrangement - this provides a quick overview of the song structure & is particularly useful for any accompanying musicians.
Video of C6 fretting and slide work
The MP4 video demonstrates the exact frets and slide techniques used in the tune. Watching this will help you see how to play each phrase, along with the video backing track.
Backing track MP3
A professionally recorded backing track lets you practice playing along with a full band sound. This builds your timing and feel for the tune.
Demonstration performance track MP3
Listen to a complete performance of "Lakeside" to hear how all the elements come together. This track serves as a start-point for your own interpretation of the melody line.
How to Use the Lakeside Learning Pack Effectively
To get the most out of this pack, follow these steps:
1. Start with the Introductory Notes
Read the song and player notes carefully. Understanding the tune’s mood and style will guide your interpretation. The Hawaiian Steel Guitar has a unique voice, and knowing the story behind "Lakeside" will help you express it fully.
2. Study the Song Chart and Chord/Arrangement Chart
Review full song chart & accompanying C6 tab whilst listening to the "Performance Track" - fret areas & inversions will become obvious.
3. Watch the Video One Bar At A Time
The video breaks down the tune into manageable sections. Focus on one bar at a time, repeating each phrase until you feel confident.
4. Practice with the Backing Track
Once you can play the tune slowly, start playing along with the backing track. This helps you develop timing and rhythm. Try to match the feel and dynamics of the demonstration perfprmance track as a start point.
5. Listen to the Demonstration Track
Use the demonstration track as a reference for tone, phrasing, and expression. Compare your playing and adjust your technique to get closer to the sound you want.
Why C6 Tuning and Hawaiian Steel Guitar Matter
The C6 tuning is a classic choice for Hawaiian Steel Guitar players. It offers a rich harmonic palette and smooth slide possibilities that fit perfectly with the style of "Lakeside." Learning this tuning will open new doors for your playing and allow you to explore a wide range of traditional and modern steel guitar music.
The Hawaiian Steel Guitar itself has a warm, singing tone that stands out in any musical setting. By mastering the techniques shown in the Lakeside Learning Pack, you will improve your control over slides, vibrato, and chord voicings.
Tips for Success with the Lakeside Learning Pack
Take your time: Learning One Bar At A Time helps you avoid frustration and builds solid skills.
Use a metronome: This keeps your timing steady when practicing with the backing track.
Record yourself: Listening back reveals areas to improve.
Experiment with tone: Adjust your slide pressure and picking dynamics to find your unique sound.
Stay consistent: Daily practice, even for short sessions, leads to steady progress.
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