An Adult Beginner’s Guide to Acoustic Guitar

As adults, we approach learning a musical instrument from a different perspective. It may be something we’ve always dreamed of doing, or perhaps it’s a way to keep inspiration flowing. Maybe we just want to have a bit of fun. 

Want to jump in but not sure where to start as an adult? Consider ArtistWorks’ newest course, “Beginner’s Guide to Acoustic Guitar.” Taught by ArtistWorks Co-Founder, Chairman and lifelong guitarist David Butler, these lessons are specifically designed for adult beginners and first-time players. You’ll learn fundamental skills and techniques, plus basic acoustic guitar lessons that use the music you’ve loved since your youth to teach you how to play the guitar.

Keep these tips in mind as you begin to conquer the mighty six-string.

Use a “better than beginner” instrument 

There’s a reason why a fine instrument costs more. A better instrument is usually easier and more satisfying to play, encouraging you to continue. Invest a little more in that instrument and you’ll reap big rewards.

Learn the songs you love

There’s nothing more motivating than learning to play the music you love. With “Beginner’s Guide to Acoustic Guitar,” many lessons are centered on music that you grew up listening to!  You’ll be encouraged to practice more when the outcome is learning music from The Beach Boys, Neil Young, Elvis Presley and more.

Set realistic goals

Just like anything else in life, a goal will help you to get there with some meaningful progress under your belt. By envisioning an end point, you’ll find purpose in your practice, and be encouraged to keep going. The key is to set your expectations with a few achievable milestones in between. Challenge yourself with the final goal, but consider the time you’ve got and the difficulty of the outcome.

Work with a pro

One of the worst things you can do is develop incorrect playing habits early on. Start with a teacher who can direct and correct you. David is a master musician who, through ArtistWorks’ comprehensive online learning platform, strives to share well-established and proven techniques and tips right from the beginning.

Don’t compare yourself with others

We’re all not going to be virtuoso players from the start, so cut yourself a break and just enjoy the fact that you can actually make music. Comparing yourself with others is a slippery slope to discouragement.

Have patience

We’re all busy and want to see results in our playing, but learning a musical instrument takes time and a bit of a plan. No one ever said that taking acoustic guitar lessons was going to be easy! Take a deep breath and know that small steps are what it takes to reach big goals.

Make short sessions count

Don’t have a ton of time? That’s ok. Carve out a short period of time to work on a passage or technique and you’ll soon see progress. Three fifteen-minute sessions throughout the day can add up to meaningful progress!

Celebrate those small steps, too

Finally got that song down? Time to celebrate! Record a video for your friends, or just play it for yourself and savor the moment. Use it as your inspiration to go further! When you look back and realize you’ve learned that hard fingering, or techniques that felt impossible are now second nature, give yourself a pat on the back.

Now’s the perfect time to begin your musical journey, for only $19.99 per month! Come strum along at your own pace and discover your hidden guitar playing skills. Sign up for Beginner’s Guide to Acoustic Guitar today! 

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