First Exercise on the E String by Mertz

This is one of those pieces that the entirety of the original work would be great to play through for any player. First Exercise on the E String comes to us from Johann Mertz’s guitar method. I have not been able to find a modern edition of the work but think it should find its way into the literature. I am sure there is one out there but I am not sure where to find it.

Publications of First Exercise on the E String

This little introductory piece comes from Schüle für die Gitarre by Johann Mertz. You can find the piece in almost every edition of the preparatory/introductory levels of the Royal Conservatory Guitar Series. I apologize for being neglectful in getting my videos up on the website. This video was originally published over 3 years ago! Enjoy!

About The Piece

It is among many beginning pieces that emphasize the alternation of the thumb with the fingers. The lovely and guitar-esque key of A minor keeps it interesting for most players. The alternation of the thumb and fingers is imperative for beginners. It’s short but quite sweet.

Check out some of our other articles:

• 3 Things I Am Learning From Beginner Guitar Scales in Open Position
• Stop Practicing And Intentionally Listen To Music
• Carrousel By Claude Gagnon
• Positives And Pitfalls Of Études
• First Exercise on the E String by Mertz

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Chadwick Becks

I have two degrees in guitar performance and was privileged to study under Aaron Shearer, Tom Kikta, David Skantar, Ken Karsh, Tim Bedner, and currently Christopher Berg. Outside my editorial work on this blog, I teach full-time across many genres including classical, jazz, blues, rock, funk, and metal.