Start Playing the Guitar Now!
Whether you’re a budding musician looking to express yourself through music or an experienced player hoping to bring some fresh vibes to your repertoire, taking up the guitar is one of the best investments you can make in yourself.
Playing the guitar is one of the most enjoyable, rewarding and satisfying hobbies you can undertake. Not only does plucking the strings of an instrument bring a lot of joy, but it also can bring a sense of great accomplishment and pleasure from learning something.
The question then is: How do you get started?
In this blog post, we’ll explore the basics of the guitar and provide you with the steps you need to take to become a successful guitarist. Let’s get right into it.
1. Choose the Right Guitar
Before we dive into how to play the guitar, let’s look at the right type of instrument for you.
Choose the right guitar for your ability level and style. If you’re just starting out, look at newer models with a lower price tag. Look for features such as a lightweight body, low action strings and an adjustable truss rod. These features make the guitar easier to play and more comfortable when your fingers are still learning the correct technique.
It’s important to consider the type of music you primarily want to play. An electric guitar is usually a better choice for rock or pop music and an acoustic guitar is great for folk or classical music. If you’re unsure, buying a starter kit which includes both styles may be the best option.
Finally, you can’t forget about the all-important tone. Be sure to spend time listening to guitars and trying them out to get the best sound for you.
2. Get the Necessary Supplies
Now that you’ve found your perfect guitar, you’re going to want to pick up some of the necessary supplies.
First and foremost, you’ll want to invest in a guitar strap and a pick. A strap allows you to keep your guitar close while you practice, while a pick allows you to properly articulate the strings.
Next, you’ll want to get comfortable with your guitar. Invest in a chair or stand which holds the guitar upright and is specifically designed for practice. Make sure to get one which is adjustable and fits your body.
To keep your guitar safe and in tune, you’ll also want to buy a case and tuner. Again, try to find ones which fit you and your style.
3. Learn the Fundamental Techniques
As with every instrument, you’ll need to learn the fundamentals before you can move on to more advanced techniques.
The first technique you need to learn is how to hold your guitar in the correct position. This involves gripping the neck of the guitar with your left hand, cupping your right hand like an eagle’s claw and lightly pressing your right fingertips to the fret board.
You’ll then need to get to grips with plucking. Pay close attention to how you move your fingers, as this can make a huge difference to the sound you’re producing. Pressing too hard or too soft when plucking can lead to a muffled or nasally sound.
You should also take some time to learn how to read tabs and chords. Tabs explain how the strings should be fretted to produce different notes and chords, while chords refer to how two or more notes are played together.
Finally, you’ll need to practice strumming, which will allow you to mix up your playing and sound more professional.
4. Practice, Practice, Practice!
Now that you’ve learned the basics of guitar playing, it’s time to put in the hard work.
It’s best to practice for short bursts at a time rather than for hours on end. Aim for 15 to 20 minutes of practice each day and prioritize the techniques you’re struggling with.
You should also try to avoid distractions. Put away phones and other electronics, grab a notebook and jot down any inspiring ideas you may have and immerse yourself in the music.
Be creative and don’t be afraid to challenge yourself. Listen to your favorite musicians and learn some of their songs, add your own embellishments, and enjoy.
Conclusion
Everyone knows that playing the guitar takes time, dedication and practice. As long as you focus on the basics, get the right supplies, invest in the right instrument and devote yourself to practice, you can become an expert guitarist in no time.
So why wait? Start playing the guitar now and let the music take you on a journey!