When somebody decides to take on guitar, the first question they must ask themselves is what kind of guitar do they want to play? Even if they’re interested in many kinds of sounds and styles, unless they’re willing to buy or rent several off the bat, they’ll need to decide on one. There are different things to keep in mind at this beginning stage.

Many people recommend beginning on an acoustic guitar. The strings are thicker and they’re a little further away from the neck, so if you’re able to play this then you’ll be able to adjust to electric without much difficulty. But this isn’t the only consideration. Many teachers say it’s good to develop an acoustic sensibility and gain a sense of rhythm first on acoustic because there’s no amp with effects to hide behind. It’s a raw form of music, and if you think about it, it was the starting point of every guitarist before electric guitars came out. Plus, you don’t need an amp to produce a loud enough sound, meaning it’s more inexpensive.

Assuming you’re going to get an acoustic, which kind do you buy? Some players begin on classical guitars because the strings are softer than the steel of acoustic, but strumming on an acoustic won’t give you the sound of most of your favourite folk players. All things being equal, the sound has to be given tons of prominence in this decision. Playing an acoustic guitar, even a beginner level, enables you to sound like your favourite rock stars in their mellow moments. There are basically two price points for acoustic guitars. At the beginner level is a plywood guitar costing near $200, perhaps more with a case and tax. It won’t get better with age since the wood doesn’t develop because it’s various sheets of plywood glued and forced together. With a more expensive guitar, closer to $400-500, it will sound better after years because, believe it or not, the vibrations of the strings actually make it age differently. It’s why people love vintage guitars-they sound unique. Plus, the strings will remain closer to the fretboard, the neck will warp less, and the instrument will stay in better tune. It depends on how determined you are to learn and how much money you’re willing to invest. It should be noted too that the more expensive guitar will retain its value should you decide you want to sell it (a most unfortunate decision!).

Electric guitars have typically lighter strings and sound way different than acoustics. Basically, if you are really hungry to learn electric guitar because there’s a sound in your head you want to reproduce and you can’t live without playing, then play it! Traditionally it’s not really advised, but so what? You can make it sound like an acoustic on the amp if you decide you want to have that sound. It won’t be the same, but ultimately, so long as you’re playing a lot at the beginning, learning, and having fun, get whatever guitar makes you happy.

Long & McQuade’s Musical Education Center offers piano lessons Vancouver and guitar lessons Ottawa. When trying to learn a musical instrument be sure to visit the professionals at Long & McQuade – one of Canada\’s largest music stores.

Long & McQuade’s Musical Education Center offers piano lessons Vancouver and guitar lessons Ottawa. When trying to learn a musical instrument be sure to visit the professionals at Long & McQuade – one of Canada\’s largest music stores.
http://www.long-mcquade.com

Author Bio: Long & McQuade’s Musical Education Center offers piano lessons Vancouver and guitar lessons Ottawa. When trying to learn a musical instrument be sure to visit the professionals at Long & McQuade – one of Canada\’s largest music stores.

Category: Education
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