Technique, chops, speed, or whatever you want to call it, is an essential part of playing any instrument. While there are different styles of guitar, all require good technique. For instance, if you plan on playing jazz guitar you'd better get your hands in shape because jazz music demands fast playing from time to time. Classical music is another example where you have to have developed a lot of facility with your hands to play well.

Have you ever watched a video of your favorite player and said, “It looks so easy,” because the notes just seem to stream effortlessly from the player's hands? It looks easy because it is easy to that player. You've probably also seen some less experienced players who make the process look very difficult. The whole point of good technique is playing effortlessly, no matter how slow or fast you play. Many players equate technique with speed, but speed is just a byproduct of great technique.

In different decades, guitar technique has taken different twists. In the 1980s, there was an explosion of “shredders” who reinvented what could be played on the guitar. These players pushed the boundaries of guitar playing to places never before dreamed of. These guys played faster than anyone had previously, so fast that they “shredded” the notes to pieces.