Learn Guitar: A Guide to Buying, Playing, and Developing Your Skills with Musicmaker

Learning to play the guitar is undoubtedly a fun and rewarding experience, but it can also be overwhelming for beginners who don't know where to start. Sometimes it looks impossible. Well, we're here to show you that that is not at all the case and at Musicmaker, we've been helping aspiring guitarists get started on their musical journey for over 40 years. In this article, we'll provide some tips and advice on how to learn guitar, including when to start, what to buy, and how to develop your skills.

When to start learning to play?

Many people wonder when the best time is to start learning guitar. The truth is, there's no one, right answer to this question. Some people start playing guitar as children, while others may not pick up the instrument until they're adults, and I would say, it is absolutely never too late to learn something new and fun. The important thing is to find the right time for you, based on your interests, availability and level of commitment.

One advantage of starting to learn guitar at a young age is that children tend to be more receptive to new skills ( It's their spongey brains...) and may have more time and energy to devote to practicing. Plus, starting early can help build a strong foundation of musical skills that can last a lifetime. However, it's never too late to start learning guitar. Many adults find that learning guitar later in life can be a rewarding hobby that offers a creative outlet and a sense of accomplishment. 

Regardless of when you decide to start learning guitar, it's important to make the most of your practice time. D your best to set aside a regular time to practice each day, even if it's just for a few minutes at first. Focus on building good habits and gradually increasing your practice time as you become more comfortable with the instrument. Soon enough, you'll find it's no longer such a challenge and practice becomes enjoyable, noodling yields results and songs begin to bloom. With a little perseverance, anyone can learn to play guitar and enjoy the many myriad benefits of making music.

Every age is the correct age....

What kind of Guitar do I need?

Once you've decided to start learning guitar, the next step is to choose the right instrument. There are many types of guitars to choose from but they basically break down into acoustic, electric, and classical guitars. Each type of guitar has its own unique sound and feel, so it's important to choose one that suits your musical interests and playing style.

Acoustic guitars are a popular choice for beginners because they're relatively affordable, easy to transport, and don't require any additional equipment like amplifiers or cables. Acoustic guitars are also versatile and can be used to play a wide range of musical styles, from folk and country to rock and pop.

The Epiphone DR-100, A beautiful acoustic guitar for beginners

Electric guitars, on the other hand, require an amplifier and cables to produce sound, but they offer a wider range of tonal options and can be more suitable for playing heavier styles of music like metal or hard rock. Electric guitars can also be more comfortable to play for some people, as they have thinner necks and lower action than acoustic guitars.

The Fender Squier Affinity Telecaster, a beginner electric guitar based on a timeless classic

Classical guitars are another option, and are often used to play classical and flamenco music. These guitars have nylon strings, which can be easier on the fingers than the steel strings used on acoustic and electric guitars. Classical guitars also have wider necks and are typically played using fingerpicking techniques, which can be a great way to develop your dexterity and fingerstyle skills.

The Jose Ferrer Estudiante, a well made, inexpensive classical guitar

When choosing a guitar, it's important to consider factors like quality, playability, and value for money. Look for a guitar that feels comfortable in your hands, has good intonation and tuning stability and is made from decent materials. It's also a good idea to buy from a reputable dealer who can provide advice and support, and who offers a warranty or guarantee on their instruments, which brings us neatly to.....

At Musicmaker, we offer a wide range of guitars for players of all levels and styles. But as a beginner you should check out fun options like the Epiphone Songmaker acoustic guitar or, if you are in the market for an electric, the Fender Squier Affinity Series Telecaster. Maybe it's a classical guitar you're after, so perhaps look at the Ibérica STDC Classical Guitar student model. Whatever you need, our knowledgeable staff can help you find the perfect guitar for your needs and budget, and we also offer a range of accessories and support services to help you get the most out of your instrument.

How to Develop Your Guitar Skills

Learning to play guitar takes time and dedication, but with the right approach, anyone can develop their skills and become a proficient player. Here are some tips on how to develop your guitar skills:

• Practice regularly: One of the most important things you can do to improve your guitar skills is to practice regularly. Try to set aside a regular time to practice each day, even if it's just for a few minutes. Consistency is key when it comes to building skills and developing muscle memory.

• Set goals: It's important to set goals for your guitar playing, whether it's learning a new song, mastering a new technique, or improving your speed and accuracy. Setting achievable goals can help keep you motivated and focused on improving your skills.

• Learn from tutorials and lessons: There are millions of great resources available for learning guitar, including online tutorials, books, and in-person lessons. Take advantage of these resources to learn new techniques and develop your skills.

• Play with others: Playing with other musicians can be a great way to improve your skills and learn new techniques. Consider joining a band, attending a jam session, or even just playing with friends.

• Stay motivated: Learning guitar can be a challenging and sometimes frustrating process, but it's important to stay motivated and focused on your goals. Try to find ways to make practice fun and enjoyable, whether it's playing along with your favourite songs or experimenting with new techniques.

At Musicmaker, we offer a range of resources and support services to help you develop your guitar skills. Our experienced staff can provide advice and guidance on everything from technique and practice routines to instrument maintenance and repair. We also offer workshops and events for guitar players of all levels, from beginners to advanced players. Whether you're just starting out or looking to take your skills further, we're here to help you achieve your what you need to achieve.

Additional Resources and Support from Musicmaker

At Musicmaker, we're committed to helping aspiring guitarists achieve their musical goals. In addition to offering a wide range of guitars and accessories, we also provide a range of support services and resources to help you develop your skills and get the most out of your instrument, such as.....

• Expert advice: Our experienced staff are passionate about music and are always happy to provide advice and guidance on everything from choosing the right guitar to developing your skills and improving your technique.

• Repairs and maintenance: Our team of skilled technicians can help keep your guitar in top condition, with a range of repair and maintenance services including restringing, setup, and customisation.

• Workshops and events: We regularly host workshops and events for guitar players of all levels, including masterclasses with top guitarists, group lessons, and jam sessions. These events provide a great opportunity to connect with other musicians and learn new skills.

• Online resources: We also offer a range of online resources for guitar players, including video tutorials, articles, and product reviews. These resources can help you stay up-to-date on the latest guitar trends and techniques, and provide inspiration for your playing.

• Huge stock: With over 40 years of experience in the music industry, Musicmaker has built a reputation as one of Ireland's leading music stores. We have a huge stock of guitars and accessories from top brands like Fender, Gibson, and Epiphone, as well as a range of more niche and specialist instruments.

Learning to play guitar is a journey that requires dedication, patience, and a willingness to learn. By starting at the right time, investing in a quality instrument, and developing your skills over time, you can become a confident and accomplished guitarist. So get started on your journey and please get in touch, Musicmaker has everything you need to achieve your musical dreams and desires.

Visit us in-store or online today to find out more.