Are you dreaming of playing the guitar like a pro but don’t have access to a teacher or enough resources to pay for a full program? Fear not, because with the advancements of technology, you can easily learn guitar by yourself! In this guide, we’ll provide you with the best tips and resources to teach yourself guitar and become a pro in no time.
Importance of Self-Teaching
Self-teaching guitar has become a much more accessible way to learn for many people. With a variety of resources available online, it has never been easier to teach yourself guitar. This method can provide you with the flexibility to learn at your own pace, which can be perfect for people that don’t have the time or financial resources to enroll in a traditional guitar course. Moreover, self-teaching can also offer an opportunity to develop your creativity and expression, as you’ll be focusing on the areas in which you’re most interested.
Basic Requirements
Before you dive into learning the guitar, make sure you have the right equipment. Here are the essential things you need to get started:
- A guitar
- A guitar tuner
- A pick
- A guitar strap
- An amplifier (optional)
Choosing the Right Guitar
When selecting a guitar, we recommend that you choose according to your personal preferences. The type of sound you like, the type of music you want to play, and your physical requirements, are all aspects that you should consider before making a purchase. Here’s an overview of the types of guitars available:
- Acoustic Guitar
- Classical Guitar
- Electric Guitar
Learning Resources
The internet is a huge resource hub when it comes to self-teaching guitar. Here are some of the best resources available for guitar enthusiasts:
Online Video Lessons
YouTube is an excellent source of video lessons that can serve as a great supplement to your learning experience. Some of the most popular YouTube guitar channels include Justin Guitar, GuitarLessons365, and Guitareo.
Websites
Websites like Ultimate-Guitar offer a vast library of tabs, chords, and guitar lessons. You can find tabs for most popular songs and use this as an opportunity to practice. Also, you can check out sites like GuitarTricks and Jamplay, which provides step-by-step lessons and a structured course for people to follow.
Mobile Apps
Many mobile apps provide an easy and fun way to learn guitar at your own pace. Some of the most popular apps for teaching guitar include Yousician, Guitar Tuna, and JamPlay. You can use these apps to learn basic chords, scales and songs.
Learning Techniques
Once you have the necessary tools and resources, you’re ready to start learning. Here are some techniques that you can follow as a beginner:
Learn the Basic Chords
Learning the basic chords is the foundation of playing the guitar. Start by practicing the chords C, G, D, E, A, and F, which are the most commonly used chords in most songs.
Practice Strumming Patterns
Strumming patterns are a vital aspect of playing the guitar. Try to practice different strumming patterns on a single chord, and then combine them with different chords to create chord progressions.
Learn a song
A good way to practice the chords you just learned is by finding a song with those chords and practicing it. Check out websites like Ultimate-Guitar to find the chords of your choice.
Practice Scales
Scales are essential in developing proper finger technique and expanding your musical vocabulary. Start with the basic major and pentatonic scales before attempting more advanced ones.
Staying Motivated
As with any form of learning, it is important to keep yourself motivated. Here are a few tips to stay motivated while learning the guitar:
- Set short term and long term goals
- Join a community of guitar enthusiasts on social media
- Take part in guitar challenges with friends or other guitar enthusiasts
Time Needed to Learn
The time needed to learn guitar depends on your dedication, skills and the amount of time you spend each day. According to industry experts, it can take between 6 months to 3 years to learn guitar. However, it’s important to remember that this varies from individual to individual.
Conclusion
In conclusion, self-teaching guitar can be an excellent way to learn the instrument. With an abundance of resources available online, it has never been easier to start. Take advantage of these resources and start learning today. By following the tips and techniques outlined in this guide, you’re sure to become a pro in no time. Good luck!