3 replies to this topic

[bluesguy]

I have never taught anyone how to play guitar. But I was approached by one of my coworkers to help her daughter get started playing guitar. I know their $ situation so I figured I could help guide her in the right direction.

So first I her get get some equipment. We got her a nice Epiphone Flying V (she liked the shape and the dual humbuckers are great) for a smokin' deal. We spent a few hours at Musicians Friend's warehouse/clearance showroom looking at and checking out guitars.

I loaned her my Fender Pro Junior to play with for a while. She fell in love with that little amp. I can't blame her because it is a great amp. With her guitar it has a smokin' tone. I think in the end she is going to get herself a Fender Pro Junior and buy pedals to 'model' the exact tone she wants.

As a beginning player I think it is very important to learn the basics of your instrument, which starts with your head/heart -> hands -> guitar -> (amp) -> ears and back to your head/heart. Adding a bunch of stuff in between just messes up the process (IMO).

I also gave her some basic instructions on how to hold the guitar, a few chords, and how to read tab. I also picked up a basic version of Emedia guitar instruction disc and gave it to her.

Has anyone else been helping out a beginning guitarist? What are you doing to help them out?

[allthumbs]

These are the basics she should learn. We also have some true beginner lessons which could help.
http://www.guitarfor...hread.php?t=890
Brand new to playing the guitar?...read this first. - Guitar For Beginners & Beyond Forum

[knight46]

I am with AT, great information for the beginner and for a refresher for all others.

[scrappydidnt]

From what I can tell you've done about all you can for her. Now just keep up with the encouragement and take the time to jam with her if you arent already that will go a long way. I know cuz I used to be the kid who wanted to play but couldnt afford it. But like her I found someone to help me out and point me in the right direction. Just remind her not to become deadlocked on one particular style cuz there are numerous attributes of any one style that will flow with another.