It’s quite interesting to notice how guitar students have often the same questions when starting to play the instrument. In almost two decades I had hundreds, if not thousands, of people asking me the same questions over and over again. What I often do nowadays I just predict the question and give the answer even before they ask, to their amusement off course. This is my chance to clarify a few important issue. By far the most common question is whether to start with electric or acoustic guitar lessons and my answer to that 100% of the time is: Acoustic guitar! Let me tell you why:
If you buy an acoustic guitar you don’t need anything else. Because it’s loud enough you don’t need an amplifier or any other pedals you would normally need when you buy an electric guitar. That should save you some money you could use for a better guitar or classes.
When you play acoustic you focus on basic guitar techniques like chord changes, strumming and fingerpicking and you don’t need to think about any advanced electric guitar stuff. That will help you lay down a good foundation.
Playing pop songs sounds more authentic on acoustic guitar and it will definitely inspire you to play even more simply because it sounds so good.
Because there’s no need to plug in an amp, an acoustic guitar is much easier to take wherever you go: camps, school, friends house etc.
Playing chords on an acoustic guitar can be more challenging. This will strengthen your hands muscles which is important if you wish to become a good guitarist. Acoustic is slightly more work but the benefits you’ll gain are absolutely worth it!
Another very common question is: “Should I buy a steel string or a nylon string?”. Personally I believe it’s all about the sound and style of music you like. It would be nice to actually have them both but if it’s not possible go for a nylon string guitar if you like spanish or classical music or you just want a rounder sound. While if you play modern styles like blues, country, rock and fingerstyle then buy a steel string.
Once you can play comfortably on an acoustic guitar you can think about moving on to electric.
Learn to play guitar is a very fulfilling pastimes and remember that the effort you put in will eventually pay off in due time. There’s a certain level of practice required to see results, no matter what level you want to play at. So practice, practice, practice and remember at all times to have fun.
Tommy Beltrani has been teaching guitar for almost twenty years and his main focus has been acoustic guitar lessons. For a limited time you can get free access to a 4 weeks Quick Start Guide with great guitar instructions and video tutorials.
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