Playing Guitar: Music to My Ears.
If there’s one thing I always come back to when nothing else seems to make sense in life, it’s playing the guitar. For me, there’s something deeply satisfying about the sound of the strings, something soothing about the way the notes move from one chord to another. Playing the guitar is so much more than just a hobby for me; it’s an integral part of who I am and how I express myself.
No matter how old or young you are, playing the guitar can be an incredible and rewarding experience. Whether you’re a beginner or a veteran, playing the guitar offers a wealth of benefits. From learning to better express yourself to developing a plethora of new skills and techniques, playing the guitar is something that can help you lead a more fulfilling life.
The science behind why people love music, and why the guitar is so revered, is incredibly fascinating. Music engages the right brain hemisphere and depending on the genre and styling, the left brain is also triggered, creating a unique and powerful experience. Music has been proven to have positive effects on overall mental health, reducing anxiety and stress while elevating mood and improving concentration. Physically, music has been proven to reduce heart rate and cortisol levels in the body while improving serotonin levels. From a mental standpoint, regular guitar playing encourages creative solutions to problems, teaches structure and strengthens cognitive skills.
As far as technique goes, there is no single “right” way to play the guitar. Everyone develops their own personal style, so it’s important to take the time to explore and experiment with different techniques. Whether it’s finger-picking or strumming, playing rhythm or lead, classical or blues, there’s no wrong way to play the guitar. Developing your own style is a process of trial and error, so it’s important to give yourself time to find the path that’s right for you.
One great thing about the guitar is that it’s easily achievable for anyone who’s willing to put in the time to learn. There are several great places to start, from online and in-person classes to instructional books and YouTube tutorials. Once you understand music theory and basic chords, you can start learning songs and slowly build your repertoire. It’s important to also take the time to listen to different genres of music and get inspired by the work of guitar greats.
No matter your skill level, whether you’re a beginner or seasoned musician, playing the guitar is one of the most rewarding experiences you can have. It has the power to transport you to a different place, allowing you to escape the everyday and experience something truly unique. Through the strings and frets, you can truly create something magical and become a part of something so much larger than yourself.
In terms of gear, the guitar is relatively simple and affordable. There is a huge range of acoustic, electric and bass guitars available, in varying sizes and shapes, so find the one that’s right for you. Quality doesn’t have to mean expensive; you can pick up a great sounding guitar for a reasonable price. You also don’t need to buy a lot of additional gear to make your playing experience great. All you really need is your guitar, a tuner, and a decent amp that fits your needs.
Whether you’re picking the guitar up for the first time or coming back to it after a long break, playing the guitar is an incredible experience that can bring a lot of joy to your life. It may seem daunting, but once you’ve gotten past the basics and even learnt a few songs, you’ll be hooked. If you’re looking for something to help you escape the daily grind, look no further – playing the guitar will take you to a place you’ve never been before.