Wanting to learn to play the guitar?

Question

I am a preschool teacher and have been inspired to learn to play the guitar. I know how to read music (I play the flute.) and can carry a tune. But I don't know much about the guitar. I don't want to become a lead guitarist in a band or anything. I just want to be able to play songs with my students in the classroom. What kind of guitar should I get? Is it possible to teach yourself? Is so, what kind of books should I look for? Is it hard to teach yourself? Any suggestions will help. Thanks.

Answer 1

First of all, go to your library and check out a couple of books on guitar.  You'll learn a lot about techniques, fundamentals, history, and everything a guitarist might need to know.  If your not serious, then start out with a cheap guitar.  Get an acoustic.  They carry a lot of sound, and are light.  If you want a new one, buy one for about $100 at a music store.  Maybe a starter pack (they come with tuners, picks, and usually extra strings).  Look for used ones too.  Make sure you look at a handful of guitars so that you can see how they vary and make sure you don't get an extremely junky one.  Usually, a guitar will play and sound a lot nicer with new strings.  If the strings are corroded like many used guitars that are for sale, take into account that it might need a string change.  I assume you just want to know a few basic chords, so you might be able to teach yourself.  The library books will help tremendously.  I recommend taking lessons with a teacher for a month or two.  That way you can get the best learning experience.  If you like the lessons and the instrument, then you can continue.  A lot of my friends casually learn guitar from me or other guitarists.  Check out some beginner youtube videos.  To find a good teacher though, go to a music store or guitar store and ask around.  Usually, places like Guitar Center will have lists of excellent teachers that won't waste your time.  Total Guitar by Terry Burrows was a book I checked out from my library.  Even at my skill level, it was fun to look through, and I still learned at lot of new things.