Undoubtedly, the best way to learn guitar is through online guitar lessons like these.
In today’s modern digital world, having a lesson program that allows for freedom of schedule and of price, online guitar lessons provide the best opportunity to learn how to play guitar the best way.
Guitar Tricks is the leader in this realm.
With over 4 million students taught, you’re guaranteed to learn how to play guitar using the Guitar Tricks program.
Beyond taking online guitar lessons, here is a breakdown of the best way to learn guitar.
How To Hold A Guitar
Hand positioning and posture may vary depending on your preferred genre, but comfort is essential in all cases.
When you first start playing the guitar, it might take some time to get comfortable.
This is where an online guitar lesson program can provide some detail as to how you need to hold a guitar.
Other things to consider are the size of the body-shape of the guitar; a jumbo size might not be the best guitar for a smaller person to learn on.
Your fretting hand and fingers should have clear access to the fretboard, with no interference from your body or clothing.
It's wise to explore hand positions to find the best way to learn guitar and what feels most comfortable and effective, avoiding bad habits along the way.
Getting these fundamental, and seemingly simple concepts down in the beginning will help you play better down the line.
If you learn to play guitar with too much tension in your wrists, then you’ll be forced to re-learn the basics when you get to more advanced techniques.
Start Slow and Embrace Challenges
Beginners often start with basic guitar chords like G-C-D or A-D-E, forming the foundation for thousands of songs.
Practice these chord progressions by plucking each string individually to ensure the notes ring out clearly.
As you gain confidence, the best way to learn guitar is to incorporate more complex chord progressions like G-D-Em-C.
Incremental progress will take you far!
Learning the guitar can be a frustrating experience at times, especially in the early stages.
Even those with natural talent must invest time and effort to get better.
The biggest hurdle for any beginner guitarist is building calluses on your fingertips as you press down on the guitar strings.
This is the #1 reason why beginner guitarists quit.
If you persevere through this period, you will be in great shape!
There are no shortcuts or secret tips to bypass this phase.
Picking and Strumming Techniques
Strumming specific rhythms will take your playing to the next level and is the best way to learn guitar.
For example, the "bum ditty" or bass picking technique involves alternating between low and treble strings, creating a country or pop vibe.
Experiment with all-downstrokes when playing chords like G-C-D and gradually introduce down-up alternating strokes.
The best way to learn guitar is to start with simple rhythms like 1 2 3 4, and as you improve, incorporate more complex rhythms like 1/8 or 1/16 notes with counts.
It's crucial to integrate the movements of your fretting and picking hands seamlessly.
The key is to engrain rhythm patterns into your muscle memory.
Learn Songs You Love
The best way to learn guitar is by starting with songs that resonate with you.
Seek out tabs, chords, videos, and lessons for your favorite songs and try playing them.
Save those that match your skill level for regular practice.
The more familiar you become with a song, the easier it will be to learn.
Pay attention to chord progressions in different songs. You’ll start to see similarities across different genres.
Explore and learn as many songs as possible!
Advancing Your Techniques
Once you have some fun songs down, and you can play a few songs all the way through, it will be time to dig deeper into guitar scales and other theory.
Yes, this might be a bit more tedious, but the best way to learn guitar is to keep your lessons wholistic.
Learning open chords is the best place to start, but it will only get you so far.
Once you get into scale and chord theory, you’ll be able to make more complex chords, play new kinds of chord progressions, and even play in different styles and rhythmic feels.
Don’t be afraid to take your learning to the next level!
Learn From The Greats
Music is often a matter of imitation.
The best way to learn guitar is usually to observe and replicate what other guitarists are doing.
Watch videos of Hendrix, Clapton, SRV and really watch their hands, see how they play, where they position their fingers on the fretboard and how they navigate solos.
Catch your favorite guitarists live to gain firsthand insights on how they do things.
Sometimes there will be years of experience wrapped up in one lick.
Practice, Practice, Practice
The most crucial principle in learning guitar is consistent and dedicated practice.
Make playing the guitar a regular hobby, dedicating your downtime to both playing and reading about the instrument.
If you were to ask a successful guitarist how they honed their skills, they would undoubtedly credit their progress to unwavering practice and dedication.
Mastering the guitar is a rewarding journey that requires commitment, patience, and a willingness to learn and grow continually.
By following the steps outlined in this guide, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a proficient guitarist.
Remember, the best way to learn guitar is through a combination of structured learning, regular practice, and a deep passion for music.
So, pick up that guitar, embrace the challenges, and embark on your musical adventure!
FAQ
Can I teach myself to play guitar? Yes, it is possible to teach yourself to play guitar, but the best way to learn guitar often involves a combination of self-study and formal lessons. Online guitar lessons and resources can help beginners get started.
What should a beginner guitarist learn first? For a beginner guitar player, it's essential to start by learning basic chords and proper hand positioning, as these form the foundation of guitar playing. Familiarizing yourself with chords like G-C-D, which are common in many songs, is one of the best ways to learn guitar effectively.
Is 30 minutes a day enough to learn guitar? Spending 30 minutes a day practicing the guitar can be a good starting point for beginners. However, progress varies from person to person, and the best way to learn guitar is to gradually increase practice time as you become more comfortable with the instrument.
Is there a fast way to learn guitar? While there's no "fast" way to learn guitar that guarantees instant mastery, consistent practice and effective learning strategies are the best way to learn guitar efficiently. Set realistic goals, break down complex techniques, and focus on building a strong foundation. Using online programs like Guitar Tricks is a great way to set and maintain goals.
How long does it realistically take to learn guitar? Realistically, the time it takes to learn guitar varies depending on individual goals and dedication. Learning the basics and playing simple songs can take a few months, but becoming a proficient guitarist may take several years.
How long does it take to fully learn guitar? Learning to fully master the guitar is a continuous journey, and there's always room for improvement. While you can become a competent guitarist within a couple of years with consistent practice, the best way to learn guitar involves ongoing learning and refining your skills.
Which guitar is best for beginners? The best guitar for beginners is typically an acoustic guitar. Acoustic guitars are versatile and offer a solid foundation for learning chords and basic techniques.
Is it easier to learn Electric or acoustic guitar? Both electric and acoustic guitars have their unique characteristics, but some beginners find it easier to start with an acoustic guitar. Acoustic guitars don't require amplification and tend to build finger strength faster.
