To all following this thread:
Just read a significant chunk of the book Mr. Paleo recommended..."Guitar Zero" by Gary Marcus.
Based upon the author's premises and empirical conclusions, there is hope for those "old, feeble, or uncoordinated."
#1 All humans are born with the same approximate number of brain cells, absent a defect.
#2 There is inherent "talent" at birth, but that perceived "talent" is based upon the genetic allocation of "gray matter" that everybody has (see #1) to all bodily functions. Some functions and structures get more or less depending upon genes. A higher, relative allocation in a specific area or structure suggests
possible "talent."
#3 You can teach an "old dog" new tricks, but it requires smaller chunks of "new" material. Also, as an older person, you are essentially "reprogramming" your "gray matter" to align with the structures and functions required in guitar playing (hands, coordination, multi-tasking, etc.) It can be done but it is very practice, repetition-intensive and focusing on weak skills...not the guitar playing things that we might consider "fun" or easy. It takes longer than younger, birth "talent" (allocated "gray matter"), but can be done.
#4 Humans have no internal interval clock or rhythm except circadian recognition of light and dark. There isn't a clock anywhere on a human. Humans can be asked to count 12 seconds at a pace dictated by a metronome at 60BPM and can't repeat it accurately when the metronome is turned off. At 12 seconds they are ahead or behind in virtually every try with very rare exception. Interval rhythm is a "learned" function, not apparent at birth. Performing drummers generally have the most "refined" interval skill and even that is "off" to a certain degree, just not noticeable to the naked or untrained ear.
#5 The skills required to play the guitar fluently are quite "athletic" and "intellectual" in their own right (articulation, coordination, speed, imagination, etc.) and are equitable with those of a professional athlete, without the large muscle movement aspect.
#6 Keep practicing those things that are "weak," not necessarily "fun."
#7 Lastly,
@Griff must have read this book because counting and rhythm are everywhere in all his programs from day one.
So...for all in forum-land, there may be rough patches and slow spots, but it is still
fun as all get-out.
PCM