Playing Guitar Can Be Fun, but Make Sure to Start Out the Right Way

Beginning to play the guitar can be one of the most rewarding and frustrating experiences of your life. This isn't intended to scare you away from trying mind you, but it is intended to be a warning: learning to play the guitar, as with any instrument, requires tremendous discipline and focus. You have to be willing to take it seriously and trust in the fact that hard work, even if it seems you're getting it wrong at every turn, will pay off. I liken it to riding a bike; you fall down quite a bit while you're learning to ride, but the fact that you fall doesn't mean you'll never learn to ride. It simply means that you have to keep at it, and eventually it'll flow. As I reflect on my beginnings in the world of playing the six string, I can't help but think I can share some of my findings about beginning to play, and hope that they can help a prospective musician to start out the right way. So below are some tips on beginning to play the guitar (electric or acoustic) that could potentially save an aspiring player a few headaches down the road.

1. Start out with the right equipment for you. A number of great books on selecting the right equipment are on the market (one I would recommend is "Rock Guitar For Dummies"), and I could write a whole book myself on the subject, but suffice to say, doing your research pays off in spades. Reading books on how to select the right guitar and accessories for your needs is one great way to get familiarized. But perhaps the greatest advice I can give in this regard is to speak to a seasoned guitar player and have them accompany you to a guitar shop (asking the employees there is also a great idea). They can help you find the right guitar for your budget, playing style, body characteristics, and aesthetic tastes. Don't just think that the coolest looking guitar is the right one for you. All the flashy looks in the world won't mean anything if you can't comfortably play the instrument.