Playing the guitar can be a rewarding experience, but what happens when you’re left-handed and the guitar is designed for right-handed players? At guitarplayers.net, we understand this challenge and offer solutions to help you learn how to play a right-handed guitar left-handed, covering everything from basic techniques to advanced strategies. Discover the best way to approach this unique situation, ensuring your musical journey is both enjoyable and successful with specialized tips and resources.
1. Understanding Hand Dominance and Guitar Playing
Is it possible to learn guitar if you are left-handed, but the guitar is right-handed?
Yes, it’s entirely possible to learn guitar, even if you’re left-handed and the guitar is designed for right-handed players. Hand dominance plays a role, but with the right approach and techniques, you can successfully adapt to playing a right-handed guitar left-handed.
Hand dominance is a complex trait, with most people exhibiting a preference for one hand over the other. According to research, approximately 85-90% of the world’s population is right-handed. However, this doesn’t mean left-handed individuals are at a disadvantage when it comes to playing musical instruments.
1.1. The Role of Hand Dominance
Hand dominance influences motor skills and coordination. Typically, the dominant hand excels at fine motor tasks, while the non-dominant hand provides support and stability. However, the brain is adaptable, and with practice, the non-dominant hand can develop the necessary skills for complex tasks like fretting chords on a guitar.
1.2. Ambidexterity in Guitarists
Ambidexterity, the ability to use both hands equally well, is rare among guitarists. Most players have a dominant hand that naturally takes on specific roles. The key is to understand how to leverage your hand dominance to your advantage, rather than trying to force yourself into a mold that doesn’t fit.
1.3. Dominant Hand for Strumming
The dominant hand often takes on the role of strumming because rhythm and timing are crucial. Studies suggest the dominant hand can maintain a faster and more consistent beat. This is similar to a drummer’s coordination, where the dominant hand handles the faster beat on the high-hat while the non-dominant hand keeps a slower beat.
2. The Uncommon Choice: Playing Right-Handed Guitar Left-Handed
Is it weird to play a right-handed guitar left-handed?
While it’s less common, it’s not weird to play a right-handed guitar left-handed. Many famous guitarists have successfully adopted this approach. The key is to find what feels most comfortable and natural for you.
Playing a right-handed guitar left-handed without restringing means the strings are “backwards” compared to the standard configuration. The thickest string (low E) is on the bottom, and the thinnest string (high E) is on top. While this might seem awkward, many guitarists have made it work.
2.1. Famous Guitarists Who Play “Upside Down”
Several iconic guitarists have famously played right-handed guitars left-handed without restringing. Here are a few examples:
- Albert King: Known for his blues style, King played a right-handed guitar upside down.
- Dick Dale: The “King of the Surf Guitar” also played right-handed guitars flipped over, contributing to his unique sound.
- Elizabeth Cotten: A legendary folk and blues musician, Cotten developed her unique fingerpicking style playing a right-handed guitar left-handed.
These guitarists demonstrate that unconventional methods can lead to distinctive styles and sounds.
2.2. Advantages of Playing Upside Down
Playing a right-handed guitar upside down offers certain advantages:
- Unique Sound: The reversed string order can create a different tonal quality, as the vibrations interact differently with the guitar’s body.
- Personal Style: It can lead to the development of a unique playing style, as you’re forced to find unconventional solutions to standard techniques.
- Accessibility: In a pinch, you can pick up any right-handed guitar and play it, without needing to make modifications.
2.3. Challenges of Playing Upside Down
Despite the advantages, playing a right-handed guitar upside down also presents challenges:
- Learning Curve: It can be more difficult to learn standard chord shapes and scales, as they are all oriented for right-handed players.
- Intonation: The guitar’s intonation might be off, as it’s designed for the standard string order. This can be adjusted, but it requires specialized knowledge.
- Ergonomics: The guitar’s contours and controls are designed for right-handed players, which might feel awkward when playing upside down.
3. Restringing a Right-Handed Guitar for Left-Handed Play
Should I restring a right-handed guitar to play left-handed?
Restringing a right-handed guitar to play left-handed is often the best option. This allows you to play with the thicker strings on top and the thinner strings on the bottom, which is more ergonomic for most left-handed players.
Restringing involves reversing the order of the strings so that the low E string is on the top and the high E string is on the bottom. This configuration mirrors a standard left-handed guitar.
3.1. Steps to Restring a Guitar for Left-Handed Play
Here’s how to restring a right-handed guitar for left-handed play:
- Gather Your Tools: You’ll need a string winder, wire cutters, and a tuner.
- Remove the Old Strings: Use the string winder to loosen the strings, then cut them with the wire cutters.
- Re-String the Guitar: Starting with the thickest string (low E), thread the string through the bridge, over the saddle, and up to the tuning peg.
- Wind the Strings: Wind the string around the tuning peg, making sure the string winds downwards.
- Tune the Guitar: Use a tuner to bring each string up to the correct pitch.
- Stretch the Strings: Gently stretch the strings to help them settle in and maintain their tuning.
3.2. Adjusting the Nut and Saddle
After restringing, you might need to adjust the nut and saddle. The nut is the slotted piece at the headstock that guides the strings, while the saddle is the piece on the bridge that supports the strings.
- Nut Adjustment: The nut slots might need to be widened to accommodate the thicker strings. A guitar technician can perform this task.
- Saddle Adjustment: The saddle might need to be adjusted to ensure proper intonation. Again, a guitar technician can help with this.
3.3. Benefits of Restringing
Restringing a right-handed guitar for left-handed play offers several benefits:
- Standard Playing Experience: You can use standard chord shapes and scales, making learning easier.
- Improved Ergonomics: The string order is more natural for left-handed players, reducing strain and fatigue.
- Better Intonation: With proper adjustments, the guitar will have better intonation, resulting in more accurate pitch.
4. Buying a Left-Handed Guitar
Is buying a left-handed guitar a better option?
Yes, buying a left-handed guitar is often the best long-term solution. These guitars are specifically designed for left-handed players, offering optimal comfort and playability.
Left-handed guitars are mirror images of right-handed guitars, with the nut, bridge, and body contours designed for left-handed players. This ensures the guitar feels comfortable and plays in tune.
4.1. Advantages of a Left-Handed Guitar
Left-handed guitars offer several advantages:
- Ergonomic Design: The guitar is designed to fit your body and playing style, reducing strain and fatigue.
- Proper Intonation: The nut and saddle are designed for the correct string order, ensuring accurate intonation.
- Standard Learning Experience: You can learn and play standard chord shapes and scales without modification.
4.2. Factors to Consider When Buying a Left-Handed Guitar
When buying a left-handed guitar, consider the following factors:
- Body Style: Choose a body style that fits your playing style and preferences. Common body styles include dreadnought, concert, and auditorium.
- Tonewood: The tonewood affects the guitar’s sound. Common tonewoods include spruce, mahogany, and maple.
- Electronics: If you plan to play amplified, consider a guitar with built-in electronics.
4.3. Where to Find Left-Handed Guitars
Left-handed guitars are available at most music stores and online retailers. Guitarplayers.net offers a wide selection of left-handed guitars to suit every style and budget.
5. Learning Resources for Left-Handed Guitarists
Where can left-handed guitarists find learning resources?
Left-handed guitarists can find learning resources at guitarplayers.net. We provide lessons, reviews, sheet music, and a community forum.
5.1. Online Lessons
Online guitar lessons are a great way to learn at your own pace. Many websites offer lessons specifically for left-handed players.
- Video Tutorials: Video tutorials demonstrate techniques and songs step-by-step.
- Interactive Exercises: Interactive exercises provide feedback on your playing.
- Personalized Instruction: Some websites offer personalized instruction from experienced guitar teachers.
5.2. Books and Sheet Music
Books and sheet music provide structured learning and song collections. Look for books and sheet music specifically designed for left-handed guitarists.
- Method Books: Method books cover the fundamentals of guitar playing, from basic chords to advanced techniques.
- Songbooks: Songbooks contain collections of popular songs, arranged for guitar.
- Tablature: Tablature (tab) is a simplified form of musical notation that shows you where to place your fingers on the fretboard.
5.3. Guitar Teachers
Working with a guitar teacher can provide personalized instruction and feedback. Look for a teacher who has experience teaching left-handed players.
- In-Person Lessons: In-person lessons provide face-to-face interaction and immediate feedback.
- Online Lessons: Online lessons allow you to learn from anywhere in the world.
- Group Lessons: Group lessons offer a social learning environment and can be more affordable than individual lessons.
6. Essential Techniques for Playing Guitar Left-Handed
What are some essential techniques for playing guitar left-handed?
Essential techniques for playing guitar left-handed include mastering basic chords, learning scales, developing finger strength, and practicing alternate picking.
6.1. Mastering Basic Chords
Basic chords are the foundation of guitar playing. Start by learning open chords like E, A, D, G, and C.
- Finger Placement: Pay attention to the placement of your fingers on the fretboard. Use the tips of your fingers and apply enough pressure to produce a clear sound.
- Strumming: Develop a smooth and consistent strumming pattern. Experiment with different strumming patterns to add variety to your playing.
- Chord Changes: Practice changing between chords smoothly and efficiently. This will allow you to play songs more easily.
6.2. Learning Scales
Scales are essential for understanding music theory and improvising. Start by learning the major and minor scales.
- Finger Patterns: Learn the finger patterns for each scale. Practice playing the scales up and down the fretboard.
- Scale Variations: Experiment with different scale variations, such as pentatonic scales and blues scales.
- Improvisation: Use scales as a basis for improvising solos and fills.
6.3. Developing Finger Strength
Finger strength is essential for playing chords and scales cleanly and accurately.
- Finger Exercises: Practice finger exercises to build strength and dexterity.
- Hand Stretches: Perform hand stretches before and after playing to prevent injury.
- Proper Posture: Maintain good posture to reduce strain on your hands and wrists.
6.4. Practicing Alternate Picking
Alternate picking is a technique where you alternate between downstrokes and upstrokes when picking notes.
- Consistent Motion: Maintain a consistent picking motion, using your wrist rather than your arm.
- Even Rhythm: Practice playing scales and arpeggios with even rhythm.
- Speed Control: Gradually increase your picking speed as you become more comfortable.
7. Overcoming Challenges When Playing Left-Handed
What are some common challenges when playing guitar left-handed, and how can I overcome them?
Common challenges when playing guitar left-handed include finding suitable guitars, adapting to right-handed instruction, and developing finger strength. These can be overcome through dedication and practice.
7.1. Finding Suitable Guitars
Finding a left-handed guitar can sometimes be challenging, as they are not as readily available as right-handed models.
- Online Retailers: Online retailers offer a wide selection of left-handed guitars. Guitarplayers.net has a comprehensive inventory to choose from.
- Specialty Stores: Specialty guitar stores often carry left-handed models.
- Custom Orders: Consider ordering a custom-made left-handed guitar to get exactly what you want.
7.2. Adapting to Right-Handed Instruction
Most guitar instruction is geared towards right-handed players. Left-handed players need to adapt this instruction to their playing style.
- Mirror Imaging: Mentally mirror the instructions to fit your left-handed orientation.
- Left-Handed Resources: Seek out instruction specifically designed for left-handed players.
- Personalized Instruction: Work with a guitar teacher who understands the needs of left-handed players.
7.3. Developing Finger Strength
Developing finger strength can be a challenge for any guitarist, but it can be especially difficult for left-handed players who are using their non-dominant hand to fret chords.
- Finger Exercises: Practice finger exercises regularly to build strength and dexterity.
- Hand Grips: Use hand grips to strengthen your fingers and hands.
- Proper Technique: Focus on using proper technique to minimize strain and maximize efficiency.
8. The Benefits of Joining a Guitar Community
Why should I join a guitar community?
Joining a guitar community offers numerous benefits, including support, motivation, and opportunities to learn from other players.
8.1. Support and Motivation
A guitar community provides a supportive environment where you can share your experiences and get encouragement from other players.
- Online Forums: Online forums allow you to connect with other guitarists from around the world.
- Local Groups: Local guitar groups provide opportunities to meet and play with other musicians in your area.
- Social Media: Social media platforms offer guitar communities where you can share your progress and get feedback.
8.2. Learning Opportunities
A guitar community offers numerous learning opportunities, including tips, advice, and feedback from experienced players.
- Workshops: Attend guitar workshops to learn new techniques and styles.
- Masterclasses: Take masterclasses from renowned guitarists to improve your skills.
- Jam Sessions: Participate in jam sessions to learn how to play with other musicians.
8.3. Performance Opportunities
A guitar community can provide opportunities to perform in front of an audience.
- Open Mics: Perform at open mic nights to gain experience playing in front of a crowd.
- Band Formation: Form a band with other musicians to play gigs and concerts.
- Online Performances: Share your performances online to reach a wider audience.
9. Exploring Different Guitar Styles Left-Handed
What guitar styles can I explore playing left-handed?
You can explore various guitar styles playing left-handed, including blues, rock, jazz, country, and classical. Each style offers unique challenges and rewards.
9.1. Blues
Blues guitar is characterized by its soulful melodies, improvisational solos, and use of techniques like bending and vibrato.
- Blues Scales: Learn the blues scales and use them to improvise solos.
- Bending: Master the art of bending strings to create expressive melodies.
- Vibrato: Develop a smooth and controlled vibrato to add emotion to your playing.
9.2. Rock
Rock guitar is known for its high-energy riffs, powerful chords, and virtuosic solos.
- Power Chords: Learn to play power chords and use them to create driving rhythms.
- Lead Techniques: Develop your lead playing skills by learning techniques like tapping and sweep picking.
- Effects Pedals: Experiment with effects pedals to create unique and interesting sounds.
9.3. Jazz
Jazz guitar is characterized by its complex harmonies, improvisational solos, and use of chord melody arrangements.
- Jazz Chords: Learn to play jazz chords and use them to create sophisticated harmonies.
- Improvisation: Develop your improvisation skills by learning jazz scales and modes.
- Chord Melody: Arrange songs for solo guitar using chord melody techniques.
9.4. Country
Country guitar is known for its twangy tone, fingerpicking patterns, and use of steel guitar techniques.
- Fingerpicking: Learn to play fingerpicking patterns to create intricate arrangements.
- Chicken Picking: Master the art of chicken picking to create a distinctive country sound.
- Steel Guitar: Explore steel guitar techniques to add a unique flavor to your playing.
9.5. Classical
Classical guitar is characterized by its delicate fingerpicking, intricate arrangements, and use of nylon strings.
- Fingerstyle Technique: Develop your fingerstyle technique to play complex classical pieces.
- Reading Music: Learn to read music to interpret classical scores accurately.
- Repertoire: Explore the classical guitar repertoire and learn pieces by composers like Bach and Tarrega.
10. Maintaining Your Guitar
How should I maintain my guitar to ensure it lasts long and plays well?
To maintain your guitar, regularly clean it, change the strings, adjust the action, and store it properly.
10.1. Cleaning
Regular cleaning helps keep your guitar looking and sounding its best.
- Body Cleaning: Wipe down the body with a soft cloth after each playing session.
- Fretboard Cleaning: Clean the fretboard with a specialized fretboard cleaner.
- Hardware Cleaning: Polish the hardware with a metal polish to prevent corrosion.
10.2. Changing Strings
Changing your strings regularly improves your guitar’s tone and playability.
- String Type: Choose the right type of strings for your guitar and playing style.
- String Gauge: Experiment with different string gauges to find what feels best.
- Changing Frequency: Change your strings every 1-3 months, depending on how often you play.
10.3. Adjusting Action
Adjusting the action (the height of the strings above the fretboard) can improve your guitar’s playability.
- Action Height: Adjust the action to a comfortable height that allows you to play without buzzing.
- Truss Rod Adjustment: Adjust the truss rod to correct the neck’s curvature.
- Professional Setup: Consider getting a professional setup to ensure your guitar is playing its best.
10.4. Proper Storage
Proper storage protects your guitar from damage and maintains its condition.
- Case Storage: Store your guitar in a case when you’re not playing it.
- Humidity Control: Use a humidifier to maintain proper humidity levels.
- Temperature Control: Avoid exposing your guitar to extreme temperatures.
By following these tips and resources, you can successfully learn how to play a right-handed guitar left-handed. Whether you choose to play upside down, restring your guitar, or invest in a left-handed model, the key is to find what feels most comfortable and natural for you. Remember to visit guitarplayers.net for lessons, reviews, sheet music, and to join our community forum.
FAQ
1. Can left-handed people learn to play a right-handed guitar?
Yes, left-handed people can learn to play a right-handed guitar. Many successful guitarists have done so. It may require some adaptation and practice, but it is certainly achievable.
2. Is it better for a left-handed person to play a left-handed guitar?
For most left-handed individuals, playing a left-handed guitar is more comfortable and natural. These guitars are designed to fit the ergonomics of a left-handed player, making it easier to learn and play.
3. What are the advantages of playing a right-handed guitar left-handed without restringing?
Some advantages include developing a unique playing style and sound, and the ability to pick up and play any available right-handed guitar without needing to modify it.
4. What are the disadvantages of playing a right-handed guitar left-handed without restringing?
Disadvantages include difficulty learning standard chord shapes, potential intonation problems, and awkward ergonomics due to the guitar’s design.
5. How do I restring a right-handed guitar for left-handed play?
To restring a right-handed guitar for left-handed play, you need to reverse the order of the strings so that the low E string is on top and the high E string is on the bottom. You may also need to adjust the nut and saddle.
6. What should I consider when buying a left-handed guitar?
When buying a left-handed guitar, consider the body style, tonewood, electronics, and your budget. It’s also important to try out different models to find one that feels comfortable and sounds good.
7. Where can I find learning resources specifically for left-handed guitarists?
You can find learning resources at guitarplayers.net, which offers lessons, reviews, sheet music, and a community forum. Also, search for online lessons, books, and guitar teachers who specialize in teaching left-handed players.
8. What are some essential techniques for playing guitar left-handed?
Essential techniques include mastering basic chords, learning scales, developing finger strength, and practicing alternate picking. Focus on proper technique and consistent practice to improve your skills.
9. How can I overcome the challenges of adapting to right-handed guitar instruction as a left-handed player?
To adapt to right-handed guitar instruction, try mirror imaging the instructions, seeking out left-handed resources, and working with a teacher who understands the needs of left-handed players.
10. Why is it beneficial to join a guitar community?
Joining a guitar community provides support, motivation, and learning opportunities. You can connect with other players, share your experiences, and get feedback on your playing. Communities also offer opportunities to perform and collaborate with other musicians.
Ready to start your guitar journey? Visit guitarplayers.net today to explore our comprehensive resources, including lessons, reviews, and a vibrant community forum. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, we have everything you need to succeed. Join us now and unleash your musical potential! For further inquiries, reach out to us at 1140 Boylston Street, Boston, MA 02215, United States, Phone: +1 (617) 747-2261.
