Written by One of the questions new guitarists often ask is “What’s the best way to learn the guitar?” The short answer is that there is no ‘best’ way for a beginner. However, there is the best way to learn guitar for you, at your existing skill level, with your current goals, and that is what this blog post is created to help you with. To set out, let’s assess your goals for learning to play the guitar.
Why Do You Want to Take Guitar Lessons?
There are a host of reasons to learn to play but until you discern your motivation, you will find yourself struggling to find the right learning method for you.
Some common examples the beginners taking guitar lessons for adults include:
- To learn a new skill.
- To learn to play your favourite songs.
- To become a professional guitarist.
- To play songs around the campfire in a social gathering.
- To come closer to a significant other.
Guitar Learning Methods
Now, with these goals and preferences in mind, let’s take a look at some of the most popular ways to learn to play the guitar!
Self-Teaching
Learning to play by yourself is now a popular way to get started with the guitar. This method typically involves apps, videos and books. But is mainly defined by the fact that you choose what to learn and when to learn it! This can be a great option for beginners trying to learn the basics of playing the guitar. And can also be good for experienced players who want a challenge.
It’s also a good option for those who are very independent or want to learn at their own pace without much supervision.
Formal Guitar Qualifications
For guitar, there are typically two types of formal qualifications you can attain:
- Classical Grades.
- Certificate, Diploma or Bachelors of Music (usually in Classical or Jazz/Contemporary).
Apart from that, there are other qualifications, like:
- Rockschool exams.
- Year 12 Music.
- Short courses.
These courses are a good option because they are highly structured and have clear learning outcomes. Moreover, you’ll know exactly what you will be learning.
Guitar Tuition
The best way to learn the guitar is with private one-on-one guitar lessons for adults. These lessons are for 30 minutes per week, broken up into 4 terms of 8 weeks.
However, there are various ways private tuition is conducted, including:
- Group lessons.
- Longer lessons/multiple lessons per week.
- Performances, workshops, masterclasses.
- Online lessons.
The various advantages of private guitar tuition are:
- Guidance from a professional teacher.
- Structure and accountability.
- Regular updating of material and repertoire (that’s appropriate for your skill level).
The Sum Up
To sum up, there’s a reason why the third method is the best way of learning how to play the guitar, it’s incredibly dynamic. You can adapt what you’re immersed in between lessons, which is difficult to do with a set course. Moreover, it gives immediate feedback and helps answer many small questions that arise when you’re a beginner, starting to learn to play the guitar.
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