Many people presume they have the talent to learn to play guitar but, they don’t always realize how much effort and practice goes into playing a musical instrument – no matter the genre. Do you have what it takes? Here are some things to think about before you dart out and take music or guitar tutoring.
The benefit
Strumming or picking the guitar is a great way to express yourself through music. If you feel a strong urge to learn to play the guitar, here’s a quick self-test to determine if you’re ready to take this giant step.
Allocate practice periods
Before signing on for guitar lessons, test your mind and body. Your mind should be clear to learn. Learning to play the guitar is like learning any other skill. You must have some free time to dedicate solely to learning – even if it’s only 15 minutes per day. This should be a time of total concentration when you can block out the cares of work and life to work on your lessons and practice.
A guitarist should be in good physical condition
Your body’s physical health is also important. Playing the guitar requires holding a guitar in an upright position, either resting on your legs or held upright by a shoulder strap. Consider the strength of your back, shoulders, arms and legs.
A person who suffers from grave lower back pain may find it problematic to hold a guitar for any length of time. If you know someone who owns a guitar, you can practice holding theirs to test your strengths and weaknesses.
Also, allow for the physical condition of your hands, fingers and wrists. Some circumstances that could hinder your playing ability include arthritis, carpal tunnel or frequent swelling of the wrists or fingers.
Learning guitar with physical conditions
Even if you have a condition that makes it difficult to play a guitar, this doesn’t mean you will never play. You can research online or talk with a well-qualified trainer to find out if there are ways to work around your disability or physical weakness.
For example, if you have back pain, you might find a lightweight guitar that’s easy to hold. Or, if you have injury or pain in the hands, there may be exercises to help relieve the tension. Don’t give up until you’ve done the research.
Talent is not the solitary guitar playing aspect
If you have natural musical talent, that’s super-duper. However, if you don’t feel that you are naturally talented, don’t worry. You only need the desire to learn and the ability to listen, read and practice. You learn to play the guitar by taking one step at a time – or one note at a time. Without musical talent, you might have to apply just a little harder at the inception, but soon you’ll find it to be akin to learning any skill.
What to quiz yourself about learning guitar
A) Do you have a strong desire to play the guitar?
B) Why do you want to learn to play the guitar?
C) Do you want to study and become able to read music or play by ear?
D) Do you have the period of time needed to learn how to play?
7) Is purchasing a guitar going to empty your money?
There are others obviously but your answers to these questions should help you determine if you’re equipped to learn how to play the guitar.
Taking action with your guitar
If you now feel ready to break the ice, find a guitarist family member or friend to help you select a starter instrument and start your adventure. Your waiting is over – it’s time to learn how to play guitar and enjoy music in a way you never dreamed possible!!
