Learning How to Riff
Want to riff like a pro? We got you.
Check out Michael’s easy method to learn how to riff. You’ll get it in no time!
The best way to learn how to riff
Are you a singer wanting to learn how to riff? In this video, teacher Michael Leyte-Vidal, walks us through riffing, breaking it down into easy and simple steps that you can try at home. You'll be riffing like a pro in no time.
Step 1: Slow it down
Find your favorite riff on YouTube and use the playback speed tool to slow it down. Listen to every single note. Once you’ve learned it at the slower speed, match each note, and repeat it over and over again until you’ve got it down.
Step 2: Speed it up
After you’ve got each note down, take a metronome and go a tick faster each time. Do this repeatedly on different speeds until you feel comfortable. Be patient with yourself and go back to step 1 as needed.
Step 3 : Make adjustments
As you speed it up, notice where you’re making mistakes, or where you feel like you lose control in the riff. Isolate each section and slow it down until you refine it. Repetition is key with riffing, so prioritize the basics and focus on technique.
Step 4: Make it into a vocal exercise
Slow the section down and make into a vocal exercise that you can warm up with and repeat. Isolate the main notes and sing them as legato as possible. Don’t worry about the in-between notes, your brain will learn how to fill in the gaps. This repetition and practice will help ensure that you feel comfortable riffing in different keys at different speeds.
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