So, you want to learn guitar? That’s great! It’s always good for the mind to be learning something new and the fact that you chose this Learning the Guitar for Beginners article is a positive step.

Of course, you are going to need a guitar. If you don’t have one already then spend some time thinking about what style you want to play, that way you can decide on whether to for an acoustic guitar or an electric guitar. Most rock and blues, for example, use an electric, while folk and classical are more acoustic. With both, the process of learning is exactly the same initially, so it is purely a personal choice. There is no right or wrong.

But for the undecided, electric is probably the way to go. Yes, acoustic has a better sound and you don’t require an amplifier with it, but electric is slightly easier, mainly because the strings are closer to the neck (fretboard) and this means you won’t have to push them down so far. This makes shaping chords and dextrose finger movements easier to get to grips with. That said, the nylon strings on an acoustic will be kinder to your fingertips, but that is something that can be worked through. The other good thing about electric is that you can plug headphones into the amp so that you won’t annoy the rest of the household (or indeed the neighbours).

At his stage it should be mentioned that it is pointless paying a fortune for a good guitar, your skill level won‘t do it justice! Get something cheap and/or second hand. You don’t know how much time you are going to commit at this stage, whatever your intentions may be, or even if you will still be playing in two months time. This goes for an amp too if you go the electric route.

The other things you will need is a pick (go for something thin and flexible), a strap (anyone you like) and a spare set of strings. Strings will get dirty and loose their bright tones over time, they may even snap, so always have a spare set. Light gauge are better for learning (13’s for acoustic and 11’s for electric) as they are easier on your chord playing fingers, which will hurt somewhat for the first few weeks, especially on an electric guitar. But don’t worry, regular practice will harden the tips which press down on the strings, and soon you won’t even notice it.

Oh, yes. One more thing you need are some kind of lessons.

Private instructors are the best way to go, they will start you off gently build your knowledge and listen to your attempts to play - and swiftly correct you. They give good advice and direction and tailor the course for your abilities and intentions. Or there are good book courses about, which give you no feedback at all. Alternatively, go for online tuition - which can be a minefield, but could offer the best of both worlds.

What ever you choose practice is the key, repetition and regular daily sessions. take things in small baby steps, as any good course will do, and have fun. Remember, everything takes time to be able to do it well.

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