If you have a good instructor, they will mix theory with playing. When I started I had no theory and I really regret it. I have had some theory along the way, but I don't have a good grasp of it. I sort of took the attitude that if it sounds good, it must be right.

This is not the attitude to take. If you want to be a true musician and master your instrument, you must have theory. You might as well get it in the beginning. This is easier than trying to pick it up later. Believe me, I know!

I know some will agrue the fact that so and so is a guitar genius and he never had any theory. That maybe true, but honestly, how many of us are guitar geniuses? I know a guy that plays piano by hear. He has never had a lesson of playing or theory. He can listen to anything a couple of times and play it completely in a matter of minutes. If you lay any sheet music in front of him, he is lost! He does know one note from another. He has no idea what notes go with what. He has to hear a song before he can play it. He cannot write any music. Can you play by hear?

I'm sure your instructor with begin teaching you chords and some simply songs, but don't let him skimp on theory. It's important!