So, you’re thinking about picking up the guitar? That’s awesome! Maybe you dream of strumming your favorite songs or even writing your own music. But then a little voice creeps in: “Is Learning Guitar Hard?” It’s a question every aspiring guitarist asks, and honestly, it’s a valid one.
You might have even tried learning guitar before and found yourself struggling. You’re definitely not alone. Many people start their guitar journey full of enthusiasm, only to get frustrated and give up. They often think it should be easy, and if it’s not, they must not be “talented” enough.
Now, here’s the truth: learning guitar isn’t a walk in the park for most people. It might not come naturally, and it will likely take effort. But does that mean you can’t learn? Absolutely not! Just because it’s challenging doesn’t mean it’s impossible.
Speaking from experience, it wasn’t easy for me when I started. In fact, it was downright difficult at times. But I stuck with it, and now I teach guitar. Many of my students are in the same boat – they find it tough at first, but they are all capable of learning.
Don’t underestimate yourself. With the right approach, you absolutely can succeed at learning guitar.
What Makes Learning Guitar So Challenging at First?
When you’re a complete beginner, learning guitar throws a lot at you all at once. It’s like trying to juggle while riding a unicycle – there are several new skills you need to learn and coordinate simultaneously.
Think about it compared to an instrument like the piano. With piano, you can start playing simple melodies with just one finger. Guitar, however, demands both hands working together from the get-go.
First, you have to use your fretting hand to press down on the strings. This requires stretching your fingers into positions that might feel awkward and unfamiliar. You’re trying to place your fingertips precisely on thin strings within narrow frets. This calls for fine motor skills that you probably haven’t developed yet – I know I certainly hadn’t!
Then, while your fretting hand is working, your strumming hand needs to create rhythm and sound. And to play actual music, you need to switch between chords and strumming patterns smoothly. It’s a lot to handle, and it’s perfectly normal to find it difficult in the beginning.
The Myth of the “Natural” Guitar Player
Ever seen someone pick up a guitar and seem to instantly play effortlessly? It’s natural to wonder, “Why can’t I do that? Why does it seem so easy for them?”
I’ve seen it too. My wife and my eldest son are those “natural” types. I’ve also taught a few students who picked it up incredibly quickly.
But for me, and for my own guitar teacher, learning was a process of hard work and perseverance. And that’s true for most people who learn guitar.
I have a theory about why some people seem to learn guitar faster than others. It’s based on my observations and conversations with students, not scientific research, so take it with a grain of salt. It seems that those who learn quickly often have a well-developed musical ear already. They listen to music in a more analytical way, perhaps subconsciously, than those who find it harder at first.
Another common trait I’ve noticed is their attitude. They listen to instructions, follow them in a relaxed way, and don’t get hung up on perfectionism right away. They’re willing to “go with the flow” and learn gradually.
The key takeaway here is this: whether learning guitar comes easily to you or not, you absolutely can learn if you’re determined. Don’t let the myth of the “natural” guitarist discourage you.
Strategies for Success: Making Learning Guitar Easier
Understanding why some people find guitar easier is interesting, but it doesn’t magically make it easier for you. Hopefully, it helps you stop comparing yourself to some unrealistic ideal. You can learn guitar, even if it takes a bit longer or requires more effort than for others.
So, what can you do to make the learning process smoother and more successful?
One of the most effective things you can do is find a qualified guitar teacher. And when I say “qualified,” I mean someone who is not just a good player, but also a trained and ideally certified instructor.
Trained and certified guitar teachers are rarer than you might think. Many guitar teachers are part-time, doing it as a side gig. There’s less incentive for them to invest in formal teaching training.
A dedicated, full-time guitar teacher who has invested in learning how to teach will be much more effective at guiding you. They understand learning progressions, common beginner challenges, and how to tailor their approach to your individual needs.
Yes, a trained and certified teacher might charge more per lesson. However, think of it as an investment that will save you significant time, frustration, and potentially wasted effort in the long run.
Commit More at the Beginning
Since the initial phase of learning guitar is often the steepest part of the curve, be prepared for it. One way to make this initial climb less daunting is to dedicate more time and energy upfront.
This could mean increasing your practice time, taking more frequent lessons, or ideally, doing both. If you can swing it, more frequent lessons, especially at the beginning, can be incredibly beneficial.
Ideally, you’d even want to practice primarily with your teacher present, at least in the early stages. Why? Because you’ll get immediate feedback and learn to do things correctly from the start. This prevents you from practicing bad habits at home, which can actually slow down your progress.
Of course, more frequent lessons might not be feasible for everyone. But do what you can to prioritize focused practice and seek expert guidance, especially when you’re just starting out.
Learning guitar is challenging at first, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. By understanding the initial hurdles and taking a strategic approach, you can overcome those challenges and enjoy the journey of becoming a guitar player.
