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So, you've decided to start guitar lessons – firstly, congratulations! Learning to play this iconic instrument can be an incredibly rewarding experience, opening doors to creativity and a whole lot of musical self-expression.
Whether you're dreaming of strumming chords around a campfire, shredding epic solos on stage, or simply enjoying the therapeutic joy of playing alone in your room, this guide will help you get started on the path to becoming the guitarist you’ve always wanted to be.
First up, you’re going to need a guitar! Before you start your lessons you’ll need to decide the type of guitar you’re after.
There are three primary types to choose from, and they’re all a bit different, here’s how they stack up against each other:
These are great for beginners due to their simplicity and versatility. Acoustic guitars produce sound without amplification, making them perfect for solo practice, songwriting, and casual performances.
Known for their amplified sound and versatility in various music genres, electric guitars require additional equipment like amplifiers. They're popular among aspiring rock, blues, and jazz musicians.
These guitars have nylon strings, making them easier on the fingers. Classical guitars are commonly used in classical and flamenco music but are also suitable for beginners looking for a mellower sound.
Aim to choose the type of guitar that aligns with your musical interests and aspirations. Many beginners opt for acoustic guitars as they're readily accessible and don't require any additional equipment so they’re a great choice for newbies.
So, you’ve got your guitar. What’s next? Well, you’re going to need some additional equipment.
These are a few essential accessories we think you'll need before you get cracking on those lessons:
Keeping your guitar in tune is crucial. You can use a clip-on tuner or a smartphone app to help you achieve the correct pitch for each string.
Picks come in various thicknesses and materials. Experiment to find the one that feels most comfortable for your playing style.
If you're planning on playing standing up, a strap will help you comfortably hold the guitar, it’s also good for beginners for that added sense of safety and security.
A case or gig bag will protect your guitar (AKA your investment) when you're not playing it – it’s really an essential, don’t skip this one.
Strings can break, and having extras on hand will save you from an interruption in your practice or performance, they’re definitely good to have on hand.
Now it’s time to start your lesions, and there’s a few techniques your teacher might want you to learn first up.
To get the most out of your lesions, focus on mastering these fundamental techniques:
This one is very important, you’re going to want to learn how to use your tuner to keep your guitar in tune – it might seem basic, but it’s vital, trust us.
Another one that might seem basic, but it is a vital skill. Practice pressing down on the strings with your fingertips to produce clear notes without any buzzing or muting.
Now the fun begins, it’s time to experiment with different strumming and picking patterns to develop your rhythm and timing.
When you’re first starting out, you’ll want to begin with simple open chords like C, G, D, and E minor. These are vital to learn as they’re the building blocks of SO many songs.
Learning to play the guitar is a journey that requires patience and persistence, no one is going to go from total rookie to guitar playing prodigy overnight – and it’s not realistic to put those limitations on yourself.
Here are some top tips to keep in mind when you’re first starting out on your journey!
If you want results, keep it consistent! Regular practice, even if it's just for a short time each day, will yield better results than infrequent, long sessions.
If you’re wanting to hit certain milestones by certain points, goal setting is crucial. You’ll want to establish clear, achievable goals to track your progress and motivation.
This is probably THE most important tip. You won't become a virtuoso overnight. Embrace the learning process and celebrate small victories along the way.
There are so many resources out there for your guitar journey! Take advantage of the vast array of online tutorials and lessons, but don't forget to apply what you learn through practice. We recommend if you want to teach yourself over getting a lesson with a professional, to start with the Fender Play App. This app runs you through all the basics, songs and techniques to grow with you as you begin your journey into guitar.
And most importantly, remember that playing the guitar is about enjoying the music and expressing yourself. Have fun with it and good luck on this exciting new journey!