Help Getting Started With Guitar

[dmmx3]

Hi all, and thanks for reading my first post.

 

About me: I work full time in finance, and have been taking graduate classes at night for the past 2 years. I will finish the grad program soon, which will free up a ton of my time. So, I decided to take up a couple new hobbies to fill the void, one of which is guitar.

 

I know little-to-nothing about playing music, reading music, etc. I have never had any formal lessons (or informal lessons) in any instrument. Still, I'd like to try to teach myself to play guitar.

 

General questions:

 

1) What is an appropriate guitar for a beginner? I don't mind spending a little money, but I don't want to waste money buying a guitar that is too good for my current skill.

 

2) What are some good books, dvds, online(?) info, etc for someone wanting to teach himself?

 

3) Any other advice for a pure beginner?

 

Thanks in advance for any help or direction, and I'll look forward to using the forums here more and more.

 

 

[Bluesape]

Welcome to the coolest forum on the planet!

 

The Mel Bay book is still the bible for your needs, but YouTube is full of great instructional vids.

[dmmx3]

Thanks Blues. I'll take a look at the Bay book, and youtube.

 

Any advice on type of guitar? how much to spend? etc?

 

 

[Scott Fraser]

Any advice on type of guitar? how much to spend? etc?

 

Electric or acoustic?

[dmmx3]

that's part of my question....

 

i think acoustic.

[Bluesape]

If looking at new guitars, I'd suggest a minimum of $300.00. Ya may find a decent one for less, but it's hit and miss below that, especially for a novice. Make sure ya take along a friend who knows guitars, and don't take the word of any salesperson - most will be biased toward their on-site inventory, and won't act in your best interest.

[Scott Fraser]

that's part of my question....

 

i think acoustic.

 

It's been many years since I played one, but I was very impressed with the Epiphone EJ200, a copy of the Gibson J200 jumbo model. They're around $400, but there's a less ornamented version called the Artist Limited model, which is only $200. I find the Epiphones to be better all around than most other budget imports.

 

[Bluesape]

that's part of my question....

 

i think acoustic.

 

It's been many years since I played one, but I was very impressed with the Epiphone EJ200, a copy of the Gibson J200 jumbo model. They're around $400, but there's a less ornamented version called the Artist Limited model, which is only $200. I find the Epiphones to be better all around than most other budget imports.

 

Good call, but that won't include a case. Add a strap and a spare set of strings, and you end up at about 3 bills.

[Caevan O’Shite]

If I may chime in, in general, get the best quality (not necessarily the 'fanciest') guitar that you can afford, and look for an acoustic guitar with a solid top- that is, one solid layer, not plywood/laminate (beware the term "select" as in "select spruce top"- it's usually a buzzword intended to put a spin on what is actually a laminate, plywood top).

 

A two-piece solid top- one that has a center-seam between two mirror-image pieces that are "book-matched", but are still solid, non-laminate pieces- is almost always the way solid-tops for acoustic guitars are made; this is perfectly fine, and actually has advantages over a one-piece top, hence the overwhelming commonness and likelihood that any given solid-topped acoustic flat-top guitar will have a two-piece top.

 

Book-matching involves taking a piece of wood of roughly a little more than double the required total thickness and a little more than half the required total width of the top to be made, slicing it into two sandwich-like layers, and flipping one over to oppose the other in a mirror-image, open-book orientation.

 

As the guitar ages and is subject to changes in humidity, temperature, and barometric pressure, the book-matched pieces expand and contract uniformly and with equal-opposition, making for greater stability and reliability, much less likely to warp or damage joinery. Their similarities also make for less unpredictable variables in tone and response in the finished guitar.

 

 

You may notice that the sides and backs of acoustic guitars- both laminate sides and backs, and solid ones- are also often similarly book-matched.

 

 

Laminate/plywood sides and backs with a solid-top are perfectly alright, and quite common on lower- and mid-priced flat-top acoustics. Guitars made from all solid wood pieces are great- and more expensive- but it is the tops being solid that is of chief importance here.

[Dr. Ellwood]

Do yourself a big favor (a grad school present to yourself) and sign up for at least six months worth of lessons with a good guitar instructor! That is my gift of information to you for all your hard work in grad school!

[d halfnote]

I know little-to-nothing about playing music, reading music, etc. I have never had any formal lessons (or informal lessons) in any instrument. Still, I'd like to try to teach myself to play guitar.

Everyone starts not knowing more than you.

What's important is what interests you in music & a particular instrument.

Tell us that ! It's important to know in order to offer advice tailored to your individual interests & approach.

 

General questions:

 

1) What is an appropriate guitar for a beginner? I don't mind spending a little money, but I don't want to waste money buying a guitar that is too good for my current skill.

Do you know anyone who plays?

I suspect not, else you'd already have some advice but a good thing is to have someone you can trust who knows something abt playing help you evaluate instruments.

 

There are many ways you might chose a gtr but the best way is to play the specific instrument.

Not all gtrs are the same; even the same model may have some differences.

Playing the instrument will let you know if it feels comfortable to you...although they'll all feel a little unnatural at first.

The main thing is that while you don't need a very expensive instrument to start (or, indeed, ever, really) you should always play an instrument that is well-made & adjusted well b/c if it is (1) hard to play or (2) not playing in tune, you'll (1) not enjoy playing & (2) get a bad sense of pitch.

There's more to choosing a gtr but that can wait til you develop a bit as a player.

 

2) What are some good books, dvds, online(?) info, etc for someone wanting to teach himself?

 

3) Any other advice for a pure beginner?

No comments on specific books or lesson sources but you should study music that you're interested in first.

Also, & this is a bit obvious, but learn simple music that will give you a sense of the basics of music theory.

 

While many may take lessons, in effect everyone teaches themselves how to play in that what the actually absorb & practice is not simply exactly what they're taught.

 

Even if you don't take lessons as such, one of the best things one can do is begin playing with others as soon as possible.

Not only do you get exposed to more, learn faster, etc., but it is the single-most important factor in developing good time.

Playing along to recordings or vid lessons allows one to think they are doing something exactly when they may not be. Similarly recording yerself can give you a less subjective perception of what yer really doing.

 

3 other things:

Even though you may have no particular interest in being a singer, nothing will help you internalize music as much as singing along with what you play.

Not just the lyrics of songs as you play chords but the notes you play.

It will help you in ways that won't be obvious for a while but it's one of the best things you can do.

 

In that same way, getting an idea of how the piano keyboard (the other main design for harmonic instruments) lays out notes will give you a more linear sense of how notes relate.

The gtr's great in that you can chose different forms to play things but it can be a mystery at first in music's "geography".

 

Reading isn't essential but can help you in many ways.

It's much easier learned at the beginning & from a skilled instructor.

 

Do tell us what interests you in music & the gtr, though.

You'll get better, more specific advice that way.

 

[Caevan O’Shite]

By the way, here's a goldmine of excellent free guitar/music lessons and info:

 

Chris Juergensen Lessons

 

 

In the long run, learn how chords are constructed and used, instead of simply memorizing a lot of fingerings and diagrams and thinking of them as "chords"; you will benefit greatly from it.

 

Do yourself a big favor (a grad school present to yourself) and sign up for at least six months worth of lessons with a good guitar instructor! That is my gift of information to you for all your hard work in grad school!

 

(smacking self in forehead) Of course! Good call! Why didn't I think to recommend that right off the bat! Lee's VERY right, personal one-on-one instruction with a qualified, experienced instructor is the BEST way to begin and continue.

 

Everyone starts not knowing more than you.

What's important is what interests you in music & a particular instrument.

Tell us that ! It's important to know in order to offer advice tailored to your individual interests & approach.

 

...one of the best things one can do is begin playing with others as soon as possible.

Not only do you get exposed to more, learn faster, etc., but it is the single-most important factor in developing good time.

Playing along to recordings or vid lessons allows one to think they are doing something exactly when they may not be. Similarly recording yerself can give you a less subjective perception of what yer really doing.

 

...getting an idea of how the piano keyboard (the other main design for harmonic instruments) lays out notes will give you a more linear sense of how notes relate.

The gtr's great in that you can chose different forms to play things but it can be a mystery at first in music's "geography".

 

Particularly good points raised by d.

 

Even though you may have no particular interest in being a singer, nothing will help you internalize music as much as singing along with what you play.

Not just the lyrics of songs as you play chords but the notes you play.

It will help you in ways that won't be obvious for a while but it's one of the best things you can do.

 

I should follow that advice myself!

[Scott Fraser]

If I may chime in, in general, get the best quality (not necessarily the 'fanciest') guitar that you can afford, and look for an acoustic guitar with a solid top- that is, one solid layer, not plywood/laminate (beware the term "select" as in "select spruce top"- it's usually a buzzword intended to put a spin on what is actually a laminate, plywood top).

Laminate/plywood sides and backs with a solid-top are perfectly alright, and quite common on lower- and mid-priced flat-top acoustics. Guitars made from all solid wood pieces are great- and more expensive- but it is the tops being solid that is of chief importance here.

 

That's the common wisdom, although it should be pointed out that almost all archtop guitars have laminated tops & it's not seen as a drawback for that type of guitar. I'd say for a beginner, a solid top is less meaningful than an accessible neck & a string gauge which requires little effort for as-yet untrained muscles.

[dmmx3]

After a little more research on the forum, and on some websites, I am thinking an electric guitar may be better. Seems like it could be easier to learn and a little more versatile. Probably better suited as well for my musical tastes (classic/contemporary rock, country, etc.)

 

Any thoughts on this one: http://www.guitarcenter.com/Squier-Affinity-Series-Telecaster-Special-Electric-Guitar-102320439-i1148535.gc?CJAID=10449560&CJPID=1759905

 

It was reviewed positively (for beginners) on some websites, but seems too inexpensive to be good.

 

Any opinions would be great.

 

Thanks!

[S. Yeti Bigfoot, Esq.]

Well, the Squier line from Fender is sort of hit-and-miss as far as quality goes....you get a really good one sometimes and sometimes not so much. If you've decided that's the way you're going to go, you have to keep in mind that you will need an amplifier of some description, strap, intrument cable, new strings, etc., so budget a little extra for that.

 

Dr. Ellwood already gave you some really sage advice, as well as the other posters...d, Scott, Caevan, Bluesape, etc....so my gift to you is to advise you to take an experienced player along with you to help you choose a "good" one, and have it professionally set up before you take it home.

[dmmx3]

Well, I don't know anyone who plays a guitar which probably accounts for the basic nature of my questions. Also, when I go to a store to purchase, I will be armed with the advice I have found on the internet (including on this forum), and whatever advice I get while there, so I am trying to do my best to figure this all out.

 

I ordered the Bay book - it should arrive tomorrow.

 

So, I still need to figure out what guitar to get, as well as which amplifier and the other accessories, as you mention. Any specific suggestions there?

 

I appreciate everyone's advice so far. I'm taking notes, and feel like I have already learned a ton just reading stuff on the forum.

 

Thanks!

[SEHpicker]

Buy the best used guitar you can afford. A quality instrument is much easier to play than one of low quality (usually) and later, if you decide guitar isn't for you, you can get most of your money back out of it. That's not a 100% rule but generally true. Find a good local guitar teacher and ask him/her to help you find the right instument and then take some lessons with them.

I also recommend starting out on acoustic as this will strengthen your hands/fingers more quickly than an electric.

[d halfnote]

Some simple things that don't require experience.

[1]Play the gtr.

Does it feel comfortable, both under yer fingers & against your body.

Does it hang well on a strap.

Too heavy ?

Listen to how it sounds. If you know any chords, play them in various positions & check if they sound "right", i.e., in tune & consistent.

If you listen to a lot of music you may be able to hear that.

 

[2]Look at the gtr.

Do the details of the workmanship seem well done ?

Are the frets even ?

Lay a yardstick along the neck & look carefully for any inconsistencies.

Look at cosmetic details for flaws.

They can occur on even a gtr that plays well but they can also be a clue for other flaws, since they reflect the manufacturer's quality control.

 

If there's no one at all on whom you can rely, consider renting an instrument for your initial learning period, either from a music shop or a teacher.

That can also allow you to test a variety of models before you commit...who knows, you may not even like playing gtr. :idk

 

Lastly, I think Squires are generally OK but FWIW, Epiphone makes some similarly priced sub-Gibson models.

Not pushing either (I like Strat styles myself) just something to consider.

Also, at the start you might not worry too much abt tone quality...pickups & amps can be altered later.

 

The 2 main points are always playability & intonation.

 

 

[d halfnote]

You like mainstream pop music I take it ("classic/contemporary rock, country, etc") .

Do you have particular music heroes ?

Do you intend to head in particular direction stylistically ?

I ask b/c sometimes, if one has an idea, even unconsciously, abt what music should sound like it can afect their perception of their playing & progress.

 

[skipclone 1]

You don`t know anyone who plays guitar?

no problem-your teacher can help you out before you even learn how to play anything.

If you are set on electric and that`s it, I would avoid getting too much into accessories until you get some basics under your belt. Just what you really need, that keeps your focus on your playing.

[Dr. Ellwood]

Buy the best used guitar you can afford. A quality instrument is much easier to play than one of low quality (usually) and later, if you decide guitar isn't for you, you can get most of your money back out of it. That's not a 100% rule but generally true. Find a good local guitar teacher and ask him/her to help you find the right instument and then take some lessons with them.

I also recommend starting out on acoustic as this will strengthen your hands/fingers more quickly than an electric.

 

Yup!!!!

[super combinator]

Lots of great tips, I wont add anything about the stuff you need to buy, but I TOTALLY agree with Dr E!

 

If possible get lessons, it will kick start you much better than trying on yr own for sure, if you can swing that do it. Wish I had when I started, I waited over a year, MISTAKE LOL.

 

And be sure to have fun, take it slow, bit at a time, go for it & let us know what you buy.

 

And truth be told you can start with the electric & get the amp etc later, lots of people play their elecrics unplugged!

[Dr. Ellwood]

Under $200

Squire Mini

 

$200-$300

Fender Strat Pack (Comes with guitar, amp, cables, strap etc. great for beginners)

Lower Agile line

Ibanez RG321 ($272)

 

$300-$400

Epiphone Les Paul standard

Most Ibanez Artcore models

Upper Agile line

Gibson Melody Makers

 

$400-$500

(US) Godin Exit 22

Carvin Bolt series

Hagstrum reissues

Gibson SG Faded Special ($499)

Godin Radiator ($477)

PRS SE Standard Mahogany w/Trem ($499)

 

$500-$600

(US) Godin Freeway Classic

Godin LG

Yamaha aes620

PRS SE models

Jackson DK-2

Epiphone Casino

PRS SE Custom ($550)

 

$600-$700

Fender Lite Ash Mik

 

$700-$800

Highway 1 Strat

Highway 1 tele

 

$800-$900

Gibson Faded Series

ESP EC-1000 ($800)

 

$900-$1000

American Strat

American Tele

 

$1100-$1200

 

$1200 and up

Carvin CT3M ($1100)

American Deluxe Strat ($1500)

Carvin CT6M ($1700)

Les Paul Standard ($2500)

Les Paul studio

Gibson acoustic/electric L-4CES ($3,599)

Most Gibson models

VG Strat

All G&L models

All US PRS models

[Dave da Dude]

Lots of good advice here. All of it valid of course.

 

imho, an acoustic to start with is the best. No amp required, callouses (nobody mentioned those yet) need to be developed on your fingering hand (left-hand for right-handers) fingertips as well as strength and dexterity in the finger muscles.

 

But... electrics tend to have a lower, easier action, although an acoustic with light gage strings can be an easy action (fingering of the strings with off-hand and plucking, strumming, striking as well). However most acoustics come with heav(ier) gage strings for tone. You'll need to learn how to change strings anyway and can change the strings then if you want.

 

Buying the best you can "afford" is sage advice. It will be easier to play in general, sound better (reinforcing your desire to practice) and have better resale value if you tire of it.

 

Good luck!

 

PS: And... it is difficult for a novice to discern the differences in guitars close in quality. But do make sure you get one you like the sound of... even an electric unplugged.

[Larryz]

Easy to play and low cost is the biggie...IMHO...Welcome aboard dmmx3...a starter strat pack (or other LP, Epi, etc.) with guitar, amp, chord, strap, picks, etc., runs around $300...it won't be your main amp/axe after a few short months but it will get you started...you can hang it on the wall in a frame as your first rig after your next purchase)...electrics are easier to learn to fret and play than acoustics in the lower end models...take someone with you to guitar center and have them try out the guitar before you buy (you'll find someone in the neighborhood that will help or if you have to, make the salesman show you a few simple chords and see if you can do it on the rig in question)...then buy a teach yourself begining guitar DVD and go for it...nothing wrong with taking in [all] of the other advice you get on this forum and finding a good teacher is a great way to do your homework even before you buy...good luck to you and I wish you success...

[Mr. Amelon]

Guitar Aerobics is also quite a nice book.

[henrysb3]

If you take lessons, your teacher should emphasize this: Take time to play right before you try to play fast. It's something I have to remind myself every once in a while. As to teachers, it's best to find one who plays the kind of music you want to play, though that's not crucial. I've always thought learners will be more motivated if they are playing stuff they know and like, not a bunch of scales or etudes. You do need to learn scales and what they are for. In the type of music you indicated you liked, you should learn both the standard (Do-Re-Mi) scale and the pentatonic scale in a couple of keys. G would be a good starter key, as the four most common chords, G, C, D and E minor are relatively easy to finger.

[Chad Thorne]

Welcome to the coolest forum on the planet!

Close. The Lowdown is the coolest forum on the planet. This is maybe second coolest.

 

Nothing to add to what my esteemed colleagues have said as it's all good advice. Congratulations on your graduation, have fun with guitar, and welcome!

[d halfnote]

...imho, an acoustic to start with is the best. No amp required, callouses (nobody mentioned those yet) need to be developed on your fingering hand (left-hand for right-handers) fingertips as well as strength and dexterity in the finger muscles.

 

Generally this is the conventional wisdom abt acoustics as a good way to start.

 

I'd point out 2 things, however:

There could be players who have no desire to actually play acoustic & in modern times there are a number of fine gtrs that offer realistic acoustic sounds on electric or electro-acoustic instruments.

Not a contradiction, just an additional consideration.

 

More significant is that strength & dexterity are qualities that are in conflict. Recent reading has informed me of the difference between large & smaller muscles, such as those we use for precisely controlled finger movements.

Over-developed---or, I should say, "improperly developed"--- strength in those muscles can impede flexibility & dexterity.

[henrysb3]

...imho, an acoustic to start with is the best. No amp required, callouses (nobody mentioned those yet) need to be developed on your fingering hand (left-hand for right-handers) fingertips as well as strength and dexterity in the finger muscles.

 

Generally this is the conventional wisdom abt acoustics as a good way to start.

 

I'd point out 2 things, however:

There could be players who have no desire to actually play acoustic & in modern times there are a number of fine gtrs that offer realistic acoustic sounds on electric or electro-acoustic instruments.

Not a contradiction, just an additional consideration.

 

More significant is that strength & dexterity are qualities that are in conflict. Recent reading has informed me of the difference between large & smaller muscles, such as those we use for precisely controlled finger movements.

Over-developed---or, I should say, "improperly developed"--- strength in those muscles can impede flexibility & dexterity.

 

I attribute the carpal tunnel in my left wrist to a lot of hard acoustic playing combined with a lot of hand tool work. The doc asked the tech who tested me if I was left handed. They check both wrists by lightly shocking them. Lightly doesn't mean without discomfort. A lot of discomfort.

 

One more thing. I think that we need to teach music, not just guitar, piano, etc. Ear training is pretty effective in bringing up a new level of understanding, which I think makes for better players.