Here's an exclusive GuitarWorld.com lesson by Paul Gilbert, who launched Rock Guitar School With Paul Gilbert on May 23.

One of the especially cool things about a guitar is the fact that there are almost always at least a few ways to play the same notes. This fact allows (and forces) us guitarists to explore the different possibilities available through experimentation with alternate fingerings, picking strategies and phrasing. Often, while there are many ways to play the exact same notes, there is usually a “magic” fingering and picking pattern that allows for the easiest and most effective execution of the phrase.

The 9th Annual Guitar Geek Festival, which takes place this Friday and Saturday nights at the Anaheim Plaza Hotel, will feature a performance by the reunited Hellecasters, who will be playing their first show together in more than 10 years.