The art of learning the guitar by getting a fit for purpose instrument

Yes, it’s true that a workman should never blame his or her tools, but when it comes to musical instruments it really is crucial that you make an informed and constructive purchase – and you buy something which really is fit for purpose.  At Guitar School, we’ve lost count of the amount of times students have turned up to lessons with unplayable instruments which they have purchased via the internet, or even from toy shops!  Our tutors are then left with the unenviable task of having to tell the parent that the instrument is unsatisfactory (to say the least!).

Whilst we aren’t saying that you need to go out and spend hundreds or even thousands of pounds on a guitar (unless you have unlimited funds or plan to become a world famous musician, of course!), it is really important that you do your research and seek advice from professionals before committing to your purchase.  The team at Guitar School can offer you impartial advice on what to or not to buy, and here are our top 5 tips on what to avoid when buying your first guitar.

1.     Set your budget and avoid the temptation to spend a pittance in case it’s a five minute wonder!  Don’t be lured in to spending a very small amount of money on a guitar – or any musical instrument for that matter.  Whilst we certainly aren’t advocating you shell out loads on a beginner’s model, you really do need to ensure you get something which is up to the job otherwise frustration will set in and quitting is inevitable. 

People often buy guitars because of their colour or design.  And frighteningly, Sponge Bob was a big player several years ago.  Yes, we saw several!  They were nothing more than kids’ toys and for anyone wanting to learn even the basics they were complete rubbish and fit for the skip.  It's hard enough to get a note out of a good guitar as a beginner, because you have to work for the note as opposed to the piano, for instance, where you are guaranteed a note when you press it.  So go and talk to the professionals to seek some advice and ask for a list of recommended models so you can do your research and see what suits you and your budget best.  But all we would say is that it is a worthwhile investment and definitely false economy not getting the best you can afford.

2.     Think about what style of music you love and really want to play the most.  There are many different types of guitar and styles of playing, including classical, jazz, folk, metal, electric and rock.  So it’s no good buying a classical guitar if you are really set on becoming a hard core rocker!  Work out your objectives and this will help you greatly in your selection.

3.     This leads us on to electric or acoustic.  By way of an explanation, electric is as the name suggests and it’s a pumped up version which will let you rock on and turn up the volume.  However, an acoustic is ideal if you want to strum along to your favourite tunes or venture into the world of classical and jazz guitar.  It’s worth bearing in mind, though, that an acoustic guitar is often cheaper than electric.  That’s because with an electric guitar you have all the other paraphernalia which goes with it, such as amps, cables and power supplies.

4.     Many musical instruments can get better with age, so why not look at the second hand market.  You might be able to snap up a bargain and find a much better make and model of guitar than if you were purchasing brand new.  However, we would recommend doing your research first and asking a professional for their opinion.  And you should factor in the cost of any possible remedial work too.  Alternatively, if you have a musical friend or relative, why not ask if you can try their guitar and even borrow it for a short while to see if you enjoy it and how you get on with it.

5.     Size matters!  Electric guitars are smaller than acoustic guitars, but they weigh in at anywhere between 5 and 7kg, which for children especially is quite a tall order to manage.  Children generally should be a little older before they attempt an electric guitar.  Guitars do come in different sizes, and shapes, and half size acoustic guitars are available for children from as young as 5 years of age.  But again, it’s important you seek professional advice as factors such as the player’s height and age need to be taken into consideration.

To find out more about buying the ideal guitar or for information on guitar lessons, contact Guitar School by calling 01244 536888 today or visiting our CONTACT page.