The Journey of Learning Guitar – From Zero to Hero!
If you have ever considered playing guitar, you know that it requires time, patience and dedication—it is far from a ‘quick-fix’. Although learning any instrument takes time, it is also a rewarding journey. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced musician, guitar has something to offer everyone. It is an incredibly versatile instrument and can be used in a variety of musical styles.
From jamming along to your favorite songs to creating your own, guitar is an enjoyable and gratifying pastime. Thankfully, the process for learning guitar doesn’t have to be overwhelming. You don’t need expensive equipment or lessons from a guitar tutor to take lessons – gaining a thorough understanding of the basics can be accomplished with some simple steps and a bit of effort. To give you a helping hand on your guitar journey, here are some essential tips for learning guitar!
Tip 1: Choose the right guitar
When it comes to learning guitar, there is no ‘one size fits all’ instrument. There are various types of guitars—electric, acoustic, and classical—each with their unique benefits. Electric guitars are typically considered the easiest to play, so they’re great for a beginner who is looking to get up and running. If you’re looking to play a wider range of music styles, then an acoustic guitar may be what you need. And if you’re more of a purist, a classical guitar will offer you the most traditional sound and feel.
Tip 2: Invest in a good set of strings
No matter what type of guitar you get, strings are an essential part of the equation. You wouldn’t expect a car to run without fuel, so don’t expect your guitar to play without strings! Investing in a good set of strings will last a long time and can make a huge difference in the sound quality of the guitar. Make sure the strings you buy are compatible with the guitar you have and that they have a good lifespan (around six months).
Tip 3: Use a guitar tuner
Now that you have the right guitar and strings, it’s time to tune up. Guitar tuners are little devices that help you tune your instrument so it plays accurately. If you’re playing in a group, everyone needs to be tuned up to the same note or else the music won’t sound as good. Tuners are incredibly helpful and can save you lots of time. As an added perk, some of them come with extra functions like metronomes and chords.
Tip 4: Master the basics
When it comes to mastering the basics, consistency is key. Start by making sure your posture is correct so you don’t have any unnecessary strain on your fingers and wrists. Make sure to practice holding the pick correctly as well (placing your thumb and first finger between the strings and applying a bit of pressure). This will give you more control over the strings and allow you to play with more ease.
Next, you’ll need to get to grips with the basics of chords. Learning and understanding chords is the bedrock of guitar playing and will help you develop your knowledge of the instrument. Start by familiarizing yourself with the open position chords and then add some minor and seventh chords. The more you practice and learn, the more chords you’ll pick up.
Tip 5: Find music that you want to learn
All musicians need a catalog of songs to practice and improve, so why not pick some music you actually like? Don’t be afraid to explore different music styles and genres. This will not only help you stay motivated, but also give you an opportunity to practice and learn new chords and progressions.
Tip 6: Practice, practice, practice!
Although practice may sound like just another task, it’s incredibly important. Consistent practice helps form muscle memory and increases your knowledge of the chords and songs you’re playing. Don’t be too hard on yourself if you’re struggling, just stick to it and you’ll get there eventually.
Tip 7: Have fun
With all the tips and tricks in the world, none of them will matter if you’re not enjoying yourself! If you’re not having fun while learning, you’ll simply burn out and the entire process will become a chore. Make sure to take regular breaks, vary your practice and reward yourself for successful accomplishments.
Learning guitar has become easier in recent years—we now have access to an abundance of online tutorials and resources. Take advantage of these resources and stay consistent. With practice and consistency, you’ll go from zero to hero in no time. So, start your guitar journey today!