You’ve decided that you want to play guitar, because, after all, it is the most awesome instrument of them all! How do you know what kind of guitar is right for you? Where should you buy one? How much should you spend on your first guitar? What else will you need? I would like to answer these questions this week.
Where to Look
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The first place you should go is to your local music store. Here you will be able to try out guitars and see which ones you like. Most staff will be more than happy to assist you. If the store does not allow you to try out the guitar, go find another one that will. Finding the right instrument is like finding an extension of you. The guitar has to be the right fit that can only be determined through playing it.
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How Much to Spend
For a first guitar, you do not need to spend over $500 dollars for your first guitar. You can get a decent guitar for $150 to $300, acoustic or electric. Most name brand guitars have acceptable entry level guitars, such as Ibanez, Fender, and Yamaha. When you find one you like, shop around to find a good price. Reputable online merchants, like Musician’s Friend, and box stores, such as Guitar Center and Sam Ash, often have coupons and sales for guitar packages.
Bring a Friend
Do you have a friend or relative that plays guitar? If so bring them along with you. They can help point you in the right direction and deflect some of the pressure you may feel to buy something right away.
Department Stores
It is best to stay away from the guitars sold at big box stores and department stores, such as Walmart, Toys’R Us and Target. These guitars are often cheaply made, do not last, have terrible intonation, and do not stay in tune. Also you will not be able to try one out at the store.
Finding the Right Size
This is very important, especially for young children. Most children under ten will not be able to play a full size guitar, especially an acoustic. Try the different sizes and styles out to see which works best. A bad fit will discourage the young student.
Please let us know what you think in the comments below. We’ll see you next week!
Richard Sanger, M.A. is a guitar instructor and owner of RS Music Company. RS Music provides in home music lessons on a wide variety of instruments in the Central Jersey area. For guitar lessons with Richard, please call 732-320-5980. You can find more information regarding instruction on other instruments at www.rsmusiccompany.com.
