Paul Gilbert and ArtistWorks will launch Rock Guitar School with Paul Gilbert on May 23. The online school will enable students of all ages and ability levels to watch, question and learn with Gilbert.

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.

Paul Gilbert has announced the first annual Paul Gilbert’s Great Guitar Escape, set for July 9 to 13, 2012, at Full Moon Resort in Big Indian, New York. Guitar players of all ages, levels and styles are invited to join Paul Gilbert and other expert musicians for this five-day experience focused on the techniques, styles and life of the modern working musician.

I build and repair guitars and basses professionally, and I’ve also played guitar in a number of bands over the years. If your instrument is difficult to play or you want to hotrod your favorite guitar, this is where I can help. And from time to time, I will be sharing tips for getting the sound that you want to hear out of your gear or alerting you to new toys that I find irresistible.