Congratulations! Embarking on the journey of learning to play the guitar is an incredibly rewarding decision. You’re stepping into a world filled with musical expression, creativity, and a lifetime of learning. If you’re reading this, you’ve already taken the crucial first step: showing interest and seeking guidance on the best way to start. Playing the guitar offers immense benefits and joys, and this article is designed to equip you with the essential tools and knowledge to experience those joys without unnecessary frustration. With dedication and the right approach, you’ll be making music before you know it. Let’s dive into what you need to understand to make the most of your time and effort learning guitar.
Like many, my guitar journey began with an old instrument gathering dust. In my case, it was an acoustic guitar in the attic, a relic from my mother’s past attempt to learn. As a curious 12-year-old captivated by music, discovering this guitar felt like fate. I remember the excitement of bringing it down, spending days just holding it, feeling the wood and strings under my fingers. It felt right, even though I had no clue how to actually play. Enthusiasm was high, but reality soon set in.
After a week of clumsy attempts, discouragement crept in. My fingertips ached from pressing the strings, and the sounds I produced were far from musical – mostly because I didn’t know how to tune the darn thing! Living in a pre-internet era, and not knowing any guitar players personally, I felt lost. I quickly realized that if I was serious about playing, I desperately needed guidance.
Back then, resources for beginner guitarists were limited. I longed for someone or something to point me in the right direction. Luckily, my parents recognized my passion and signed me up for lessons at the local music store. It was a game-changer. Suddenly, things started to click. My instructor, having navigated the beginner’s maze himself, showed me that my guitar wasn’t properly set up, making it unnecessarily hard to play. I learned to tune my guitar, and almost instantly, the sounds improved, and my motivation soared.
Today, aspiring guitarists like you have a wealth of resources unimaginable in my early days. Let’s explore the essential things you need to know and the options available to set you on the path to guitar playing success.
Setting Realistic Expectations for Learning Guitar
Starting to learn guitar is thrilling. You envision yourself playing your favorite songs, maybe even writing your own music. You see legendary guitarists effortlessly shredding and assume it will be a breeze. However, it’s crucial to understand that mastering the guitar, especially in the beginning, requires dedication and patience.
Learning guitar takes time and consistent effort. When you admire a seasoned guitarist, you’re witnessing the culmination of countless hours of practice, dedication, and perseverance. The journey to that level of proficiency is rarely quick or effortless.
So, how much time does it actually take to become good at guitar? There’s no magic number, as learning speed varies greatly from person to person. In my years of teaching, I’ve seen students progress at different paces. However, one consistent factor stands out: students who practice regularly, even daily, consistently achieve better and faster results. Regular practice, even in short bursts, is far more effective than sporadic, lengthy sessions.
Another vital point to acknowledge is that playing guitar is not inherently easy, particularly at first. You’ll face several challenges: hand coordination, developing calluses on your fingertips to reduce pain, mastering rhythm, learning chords, and more. These initial hurdles can feel daunting. But the good news is, these challenges are temporary. With consistent practice and the right approach, they will diminish, and you’ll start seeing progress, which in itself is incredibly motivating.
Finally, it’s important to be aware that a significant number of beginners quit learning guitar relatively soon after starting. Why?
- Some are discouraged when they realize it requires consistent effort and time commitment.
- Others believe they lack sufficient time to dedicate to practice and improvement.
- Many get lost and frustrated due to a lack of direction, trying to learn without a structured approach.
Fortunately, this guide is designed to address these very challenges. My aim is to prevent you from feeling lost and frustrated, and instead, provide a clear, straightforward path to start playing guitar, progress steadily, and most importantly, have fun doing it!
Choosing the Right Path to Learn Guitar
Success in the early stages of learning guitar hinges on making informed decisions about your learning approach. Don’t worry; these decisions aren’t complicated, especially with a little guidance. They are crucial for setting you on a path that aligns with your learning style, resources, and goals.
The first key decision is choosing your learning path. As mentioned, numerous resources are available. Selecting the one that best suits you will significantly impact your learning experience. Here are some effective resources to consider:
Free Online Videos and Blog Posts
Free resources are immensely popular and readily accessible. Platforms like YouTube and countless guitar websites offer a vast library of lessons and tutorials covering virtually every aspect of guitar playing.
Pros:
- Cost-effective: Free! This makes it an accessible starting point, especially if you’re unsure about your long-term commitment.
- Variety of Content: You can find lessons on almost any topic, from basic chords to advanced techniques.
- Flexibility: Learn at your own pace and schedule.
Cons:
- Overwhelm and Lack of Structure: The sheer volume of free content can be overwhelming. Without a structured curriculum, it’s easy to jump between topics randomly, hindering foundational learning.
- Missing Foundational Knowledge: Learning guitar is like building a house – a solid foundation is essential. Free resources often lack a progressive, step-by-step approach, leading to gaps in your understanding and skills. Many beginners get stuck because they attempt advanced techniques without mastering the basics.
- Inconsistency in Quality: The quality of free content varies greatly. Not all instructors are equally effective, and some may provide inaccurate or incomplete information.
- Lack of Personalized Feedback: Free resources are generally one-way communication. You don’t receive personalized feedback on your playing, making it harder to identify and correct mistakes early on.
- Easy to Jump Ahead and Miss Crucial Steps: Without a structured path, it’s tempting to skip foundational lessons and try to learn your favorite songs immediately. This often leads to frustration and plateaus in progress.
Tips for Making the Most of Free Online Resources:
- Stick to One Teacher/Source Initially: If you find a teacher or website whose style resonates with you, explore their content more deeply. Consistency in teaching style can be beneficial, especially in the beginning.
- Look for Structured Playlists or Series: Many reputable online instructors organize their free content into beginner-friendly playlists or series. These offer a more structured learning experience than randomly searching for videos.
- Supplement with Other Resources: Use free resources to explore specific topics or techniques, but consider supplementing them with a more structured learning method for overall progress.
- Be Proactive and Ask Questions: If the platform allows comments or forums, don’t hesitate to ask questions. Engage with the community and seek clarification when needed. However, remember that personalized feedback will still be limited.
Guitar Lesson Books and DVDs
Guitar books have been a traditional learning method for decades. DVDs gained popularity later, offering visual instruction.
Pros:
- Structured Curriculum (Books): Many guitar books offer a well-organized, progressive curriculum, guiding you step-by-step.
- Tangible Resource (Books): Books provide a physical resource you can refer to anytime, without needing internet access.
- Visual Instruction (DVDs): DVDs offer visual demonstrations, which can be helpful for learning techniques.
Cons:
- Lack of Interaction and Feedback: Books and DVDs are passive learning tools. You can’t ask questions or receive personalized feedback.
- Difficulty Clarifying Doubts: If you encounter something confusing, you’re on your own to figure it out.
- Can Become Outdated (DVDs): DVDs can become outdated as teaching methods and technology evolve.
- Limited to the Book’s/DVD’s Scope: They typically cover a specific area or level, and you may need to purchase multiple books/DVDs to progress comprehensively.
In-Person Private Lessons
One-on-one lessons with a guitar teacher have been the gold standard for guitar education for a long time.
Pros:
- Personalized Instruction and Feedback: You receive tailored instruction based on your individual needs, learning style, and goals. The teacher can provide immediate feedback and correct your technique in real-time.
- Structured Curriculum (Ideally): A good teacher will have a structured approach to guide you from beginner to more advanced levels.
- Motivation and Accountability: Having scheduled lessons with a teacher can provide motivation and accountability to practice regularly.
- Direct Interaction and Questioning: You can ask questions directly and get immediate clarification.
Cons:
- Cost: Private lessons are generally the most expensive learning option.
- Teacher Quality Varies: Not all guitar teachers are equally effective. Finding a qualified, experienced, and compatible teacher is crucial. Some teachers may lack a structured method or focus on their own playing rather than effective teaching.
- Scheduling Constraints: You need to adhere to the teacher’s schedule and location.
- Potential Inconvenience: Traveling to lessons can be time-consuming and inconvenient.
Tips for Choosing a Private Guitar Teacher:
- Seek Recommendations: Ask for recommendations from local music stores, other musicians, or online communities.
- Check Credentials and Experience: Inquire about the teacher’s qualifications, experience, and teaching methods.
- Read Reviews or Testimonials: Look for online reviews or testimonials from previous students.
- Schedule a Trial Lesson: Most teachers offer a trial lesson. Use this opportunity to assess their teaching style, personality, and compatibility. Ensure they focus on your learning needs and goals.
- Ask About Their Teaching Approach: Inquire about their curriculum, how they assess student progress, and their approach to beginner guitarists.
Small Group Lessons
Group lessons offer a compromise between private lessons and self-study.
Pros:
- More Affordable than Private Lessons: Group lessons are typically less expensive per session than private lessons.
- Social Learning Environment: Learning with others can be motivating and create a supportive learning environment. You can learn from others’ questions and experiences.
- Reduced Pressure (for some): Some beginners feel less pressure in a group setting than being the sole focus of attention in a private lesson.
Cons:
- Less Individualized Attention: The teacher’s attention is divided among multiple students, resulting in less personalized feedback and instruction.
- Pace May Not Suit Everyone: The lesson pace is often geared towards the average student in the group, which may be too fast or slow for some individuals.
- Potential Distractions: Larger groups can be distracting, and you may have less opportunity to ask questions.
- Group Dynamics: The learning experience can be affected by the dynamics of the group and the other students’ personalities and learning styles.
Online Guitar Lesson Platforms (Subscription-Based)
Over the past decade, subscription-based online guitar lesson platforms have become increasingly popular and effective. These platforms combine the benefits of structured video lessons with interactive features and community support.
Pros:
- Structured, Step-by-Step Curriculum: Reputable platforms offer comprehensive, well-structured learning paths designed to take you from absolute beginner to advanced player.
- High-Quality Video Lessons: Lessons are typically professionally produced with clear visuals, multiple camera angles, and experienced instructors.
- Affordable and Accessible: Subscription fees are usually much lower than private lessons, and you can access lessons anytime, anywhere with an internet connection.
- Interactive Features: Many platforms include features like progress tracking, practice tools, song libraries, and interactive exercises.
- Community Support: Many platforms have online communities or forums where you can interact with other students, ask questions, and get support.
- Ability to Re-watch Lessons: You can re-watch lessons as many times as needed to grasp concepts and techniques.
- Variety of Genres and Styles: Platforms often offer lessons in various genres and styles, catering to diverse musical interests.
- Often Include Feedback Mechanisms: Some platforms offer ways to submit videos for instructor feedback or participate in live Q&A sessions.
Cons:
- Still Requires Self-Discipline: While structured, online platforms still require self-motivation and discipline to follow the curriculum and practice regularly.
- Less Personalized than Private Lessons: While some platforms offer feedback, it’s not as personalized or immediate as in private lessons.
- Internet Dependency: You need a reliable internet connection to access the lessons.
Choosing Your Learning Path – Recommendation:
For most beginners today, a combination of structured online lessons and supplementary free resources is often the most effective and balanced approach. Online platforms provide the necessary structure, progression, and affordability, while free resources can be used to explore specific interests or supplement your learning. If budget allows and you prefer highly personalized attention, private lessons with a qualified teacher are also an excellent option. Consider your learning style, budget, and commitment level when making your decision.
Once you’ve decided on your learning path, if you haven’t already…
Getting Your Guitar Ready: Acoustic or Electric?
It’s time to purchase your guitar! This is an exciting step! The primary decision here is choosing between an acoustic guitar and an electric guitar.
Acoustic Guitars
Acoustic guitars are characterized by their hollow body and soundhole, which projects the sound naturally.
Pros of Starting with an Acoustic Guitar:
- Simplicity and Portability: Acoustic guitars are self-contained instruments. You don’t need amplifiers or cables, making them highly portable and convenient for practice anywhere.
- Develops Finger Strength: Acoustic guitars, especially steel-string models, typically have thicker strings that require more finger strength to press down. This can build finger strength and calluses effectively.
- Excellent for Strumming and Singing: Acoustic guitars are ideal for strumming chords and accompanying vocals, making them great for singer-songwriters and playing folk, country, and pop music.
- No Additional Equipment Needed Initially: You can start playing immediately without needing to purchase amplifiers or accessories (other than picks, tuner, etc.).
Cons of Starting with an Acoustic Guitar:
- Can be Harder on Beginners’ Fingers: The thicker strings can be challenging for beginners, causing finger pain and discouragement initially.
- Louder Volume: Acoustic guitars are naturally louder, which might not be ideal if you need to practice quietly in shared living spaces.
- Limited Tonal Variety: Acoustic guitars have a more limited tonal range compared to electric guitars.
Nylon-String Acoustic Guitars (Classical Guitars):
For beginners particularly sensitive to finger pain, nylon-string acoustic guitars (classical guitars) are an option. Nylon strings are significantly softer and easier to press down than steel strings. However, classical guitars have a wider neck, which can be challenging for smaller hands, and they are primarily used for classical, flamenco, and fingerstyle guitar.
Electric Guitars
Electric guitars are typically made of solid wood and require an amplifier to produce audible sound. Pickups convert string vibrations into electrical signals, which are amplified through a speaker.
Pros of Starting with an Electric Guitar:
- Easier on the Fingers: Electric guitars generally have thinner strings and lower action (string height), making them significantly easier to play and less painful for beginners’ fingers.
- Versatility of Tones: Electric guitars, when combined with amplifiers and effects pedals, can produce a vast range of tones, suitable for various genres like rock, blues, metal, jazz, and pop.
- Lower Volume for Practice: You can practice electric guitar at very low volumes with headphones or small practice amplifiers, making them ideal for quiet practice.
- Motivation from Sounds and Effects: The ability to create different tones and use effects can be very motivating and engaging for beginners.
Cons of Starting with an Electric Guitar:
- Additional Equipment Required: You need to purchase an amplifier, cable, and potentially headphones, adding to the initial cost.
- Potential for Distraction with Effects: While effects are motivating, beginners can sometimes get distracted by experimenting with effects rather than focusing on fundamental techniques.
- May Not Develop Finger Strength as Quickly: Due to the easier playability, you might not develop finger strength as rapidly as with a steel-string acoustic.
Choosing Between Acoustic and Electric – Recommendation:
For absolute beginners, especially younger learners or those concerned about finger pain, an electric guitar is often a more comfortable and encouraging starting point. The easier playability and tonal versatility can make the initial learning process more enjoyable and less frustrating. However, if you are drawn to acoustic genres like folk, country, or singer-songwriter styles, or prefer the simplicity of a self-contained instrument, an acoustic guitar is also a viable option. Consider nylon-string acoustic guitars if finger pain is a major concern, but be aware of the wider neck.
Guitar Sizes
Guitars come in various sizes, primarily to accommodate different body sizes and ages, especially for younger learners. Common sizes include:
- Full Size (4/4): Standard adult size. Suitable for most adults and older teenagers (typically 12+ years).
- 3/4 Size: Slightly smaller body and shorter scale length. Good for younger teenagers (around 9-12 years) or adults with smaller frames or shorter arms.
- 1/2 Size: Smaller still, primarily for younger children (around 5-9 years).
Choosing the Right Size:
- For most adults and teenagers over 12, a full-size guitar is generally appropriate.
- For children and smaller individuals, 3/4 or even 1/2 size guitars can be more comfortable and manageable. It’s crucial to choose a size that allows for comfortable posture and reach.
- It’s best to visit a local guitar store and try out different sizes to find what feels most comfortable.
Guitar Setup is Crucial
Once you have your new guitar, getting it properly set up is essential, especially for beginners. Many factory-made guitars, particularly beginner models, don’t come perfectly optimized for playability. A proper setup can make a world of difference in how easy and enjoyable your guitar is to play.
Key Aspects of Guitar Setup:
- Action Adjustment: Action refers to the height of the strings above the fretboard. Lower action makes the guitar easier to play as you need less pressure to fret notes. Beginner guitars often have excessively high action, making them harder to play. A professional setup will adjust the action to a comfortable level.
- Neck Relief: The guitar neck should have a slight curve (relief) for optimal playability. Incorrect neck relief can cause buzzing or make the guitar harder to play.
- Intonation: Intonation ensures that the guitar plays in tune up and down the neck. Proper intonation adjustment is crucial for accurate tuning and playing.
- String Change (and Gauge): Consider changing the strings to lighter gauge strings, especially if you are starting on an acoustic guitar. Lighter strings are easier on the fingers. (See string gauge discussion below).
Getting Your Guitar Set Up:
- Local Guitar Technician or Luthier: The best option is to take your guitar to a reputable local guitar technician or luthier (guitar repair specialist). They have the expertise and tools to perform a comprehensive setup.
- Local Music Store: Many music stores offer setup services, but ensure they have experienced technicians.
- Ask for a “Beginner Setup”: When requesting a setup, specifically mention that you are a beginner and want the guitar set up for optimal playability and ease of learning.
Guitar Strings and String Gauge
The gauge (thickness) of guitar strings significantly impacts playability. Thicker strings require more tension and finger strength to press down, while thinner strings are easier to play. String gauge is measured in thousandths of an inch.
String Gauge Recommendations for Beginners:
- Electric Guitar: Start with light gauge strings (9s). A common electric string gauge set is .009, .011, .016, .024, .032, .042 (gauges of each string from high E to low E). These are very easy on the fingers.
- Acoustic Guitar (Steel-String): Start with extra light or custom light gauge strings (10s or 11s). A common acoustic light gauge set is .012, .016, .024, .032, .042, .053. For beginners, consider a set of 11s or even 10s for easier playability initially.
- Nylon-String Guitar (Classical): Nylon strings are standard for classical guitars, and the tension is generally lighter than steel strings. No need to change gauge initially unless you have a specific preference later on.
Changing Strings:
- Learn to Change Strings Yourself (Eventually): Learning to change your own strings is a valuable skill for any guitarist. There are many online tutorials available.
- Music Store String Change Service: Initially, you can have your local music store change strings for you, especially when getting your guitar set up. Ask them to install light gauge strings suitable for beginners.
Establishing a Practice Routine and Environment
Consistency is key to progress in learning guitar. Establishing a regular practice routine and a dedicated practice space are crucial for success.
When Will You Play Guitar? – Creating a Practice Schedule
- Schedule Dedicated Practice Time: Treat practice like an appointment in your daily or weekly schedule. Consistency is more important than duration, especially in the beginning.
- Short, Regular Sessions are More Effective: Even 15-30 minutes of focused practice daily is far more effective than long, infrequent sessions. Regular, shorter practice helps with muscle memory and retention.
- Find a Consistent Time: Choose a time of day that you can consistently dedicate to practice. This could be morning, evening, or during a lunch break. Integrate it into your routine.
- “Re-purpose” Existing Time: If you find it hard to find extra time, consider “re-purposing” time you already spend on less productive activities, like watching TV or browsing social media. Even replacing 30 minutes of screen time with guitar practice can make a huge difference.
- Use a Practice Log or Schedule Page: Write down your practice schedule. This helps with accountability and tracking your progress. Many guitar lesson books or online platforms include practice logs or scheduling tools.
Find Your Space – Creating a Practice Environment
- Comfortable and Quiet Space: Choose a practice space where you feel comfortable and can concentrate without distractions. This could be your bedroom, a home office, or any quiet corner of your house.
- Minimize Distractions: Turn off notifications on your phone, minimize background noise, and let family members know you need uninterrupted practice time.
- Good Lighting and Posture: Ensure your practice space has good lighting and allows you to sit or stand with good posture. Proper posture is important for comfort and injury prevention.
- Guitar Stand or Hanger: Crucially, keep your guitar easily accessible and visible. Don’t store it in its case all the time. Use a guitar stand or wall hanger to display your guitar. “Out of sight, out of mind” is very true with guitar practice. Having your guitar visible serves as a constant reminder and makes it much easier to pick up and practice spontaneously.
- Practice Accessories Ready: Keep your tuner, picks, music stand (if using sheet music or books), and any other practice accessories readily available in your practice space.
The Power of Consistent, Short Practice
Think of learning guitar like studying for a test. Cramming the night before might get you through the test, but you quickly forget the information. Regular, spaced repetition is key to long-term memory and skill development. Consistent, short practice sessions commit what you learn to muscle memory and long-term memory, making it readily available whenever you want to play. This leads to confident, enjoyable playing without constant stress or worry about mistakes.
Staying Motivated and Avoiding Common Beginner Mistakes
Maintaining motivation and avoiding common pitfalls are essential for long-term success in learning guitar.
Staying Motivated:
- Set Realistic Goals: Start with small, achievable goals. Don’t expect to become a virtuoso overnight. Focus on mastering one chord, one scale, or one simple song at a time.
- Track Your Progress: Keep a practice journal or use a progress tracking feature (if your learning platform offers one). Seeing your progress, no matter how small, is highly motivating.
- Learn Songs You Enjoy: Start learning to play songs you love as soon as possible. This makes practice more engaging and rewarding.
- Join a Guitar Community: Connect with other guitar learners online or in person. Sharing experiences, asking questions, and getting encouragement from others can boost motivation.
- Reward Yourself: Celebrate milestones, no matter how small. Reward yourself for consistent practice and achieving goals.
- Remember Why You Started: When motivation wanes, remind yourself of your initial reasons for wanting to learn guitar. Reconnect with your passion for music.
Avoiding Common Beginner Mistakes:
- Ignoring Fundamentals: Don’t skip foundational lessons to jump ahead to more advanced techniques or songs. A strong foundation is crucial for long-term progress.
- Practicing Incorrectly: Practice deliberately and mindfully. Focus on accuracy, rhythm, and proper technique. Repetition of mistakes reinforces bad habits.
- Practicing Too Much Too Soon: Avoid over-practicing, especially in the beginning, as it can lead to finger pain, fatigue, and burnout. Start with shorter sessions and gradually increase duration as your fingers and stamina develop.
- Comparing Yourself to Others: Everyone learns at their own pace. Avoid comparing yourself to more advanced players. Focus on your own progress and journey.
- Giving Up Too Easily: Learning guitar takes time and effort. Don’t get discouraged by initial challenges. Persistence and consistent practice are key. Remember that everyone faces challenges in the beginning.
- Not Seeking Help When Needed: Don’t hesitate to ask for help when you get stuck or confused. Reach out to your teacher, online community, or other guitarists for guidance.
Conclusion: Start Your Guitar Journey Today!
Learning guitar is a journey that requires guidance, patience, and consistent effort. Remember, it’s perfectly normal to need help along the way. Fortunately, you have access to a wealth of resources. The key is to choose a structured path, whether it’s online lessons, private instruction, or a combination of resources, and stick with it. Resist the temptation to jump ahead to advanced techniques before mastering the fundamentals. Embrace the process, celebrate small victories, and enjoy the incredible journey of learning to play the guitar. It won’t be long before you’re making music and experiencing the immense joy and fulfillment that playing guitar brings.
Take action now! Choose your learning method, get your guitar ready, set up your practice space, and schedule your practice time. Start practicing and begin your musical adventure today!
Questions for Beginners
If you’re just starting out on guitar and have any questions, please feel free to ask! Leave a comment below. What is your biggest question as you begin your guitar journey? We are here to help you get pointed in the right direction.
