Learn How to Play a Guitar - 3 Simple Steps Towards Success

Rob Richards
When I was 12 years old, my older brother, who was 18 at the time, began to take guitar lessons. I was enthralled with his ability to make music and determined that I too, wanted to learn how to play a guitar. It was not until many years later that my dream finally came to fruition. In this article I want to share with you the 3 simple steps I took so that I could learn how to play a guitar.

Learn How To Play A Guitar - Step #1 - Get a Guitar
That's right, the first thing you need to do in order to learnn how to play a guitar is to get one. It really does not matter if it is the best one on the market or a beater that you pick up at the Pawn Shop, just get one! My first guitar, interestingly enough, was an old hand me down from my older brother. By this time, both of us were well into our adult lives, families and careers and he had no time to pursue playing his guitar. I simply had to find it and remove it from the rafters in his garage!

You can find a lot of great used guitars in your local newspaper's classified section, through Craig's List or at your local music store. Remember, it does not need to be a Fender, it just needs to hold a tune. If you are not sure if the used guitar that you are looking at is any good or not, ask the seller if you can have a pro at the music store tell you if it is structurally sound or not. Another possible place to pick up your first guitar would be at a warehouse store. They regularly sell new acoustic guitars for less than $100, so don't feel intimidated, just get one!

Learn How To Play A Guitar - Step #2 - Get Help
Though it is true that many people can and do teach themselves to learn how to play a guitar, your best bet towards success is to get some help. Private lessons can cost anywhere from $25-50 per half hour, so unless you have a bundle to spend, save your money. I have found some really great resources on the internet that are perfect for the beginner to use to learn how to play a guitar. Pick up a book at the mall or order one through the internet and you will soon be on your way!

Learn How To Play A Guitar - Step #3 - Get Going
Once you get a guitar and get some help with a decent "how to" book, the next thing you need to do is simply practice. Make time in your life and schedule to practice the guitar and you will be amazed at how fast you progress. Spending just 30 minutes a day making music will soon become the most enjoyable part of your whole day! As you practice, your fingers will develope calouses (that's a good thing!) as well as a memory of how to make the proper chords and notes.

If you really want to learn how to play a guitar, take these 3 simple steps - get a guitar, get help and get going. You will soon be amazing your friends and yourself, as you belt out your favorite tune or riff. Have fun, you can do it!

Published by Rob Richards

Rob Richards ia a husband and father with a passion to see people lead happy and healthy lives.  View profile

2 Comments

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  • Rob Richards2/16/2007

    Thanks Jeanne! Step 3 is the biggest part of the whole process, just keep encouraging her!

  • Jeanne Sparks-Carreker2/16/2007

    Very informative :) My daughter is taking lessons from a friend in a band, but I'm sure these resources will help. Great read :)

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