Guitar
The guitar is one of the most popular instruments to learn. Its versatility lends it to a wide range of genres of music, from country to jazz, classical to rock, and the many different playing techniques make it accesible to everyone.
FAQs
Do I need my own instrument to learn guitar?
If you have an instrument at home you will learn more quickly than if you only play at your lesson.
What are the age limits on playing guitar?
We would recommend the lowest age for learning guitar is 6 years old, although it does depend on the student. Small guitars are available for younger learners. These tend to be nylon strung guitars (also known as classical guitars) and they come in 1/4, 1/2 and 3/4 size (as well as full size). There is no upper age limit!
Do you need any previous musical experience to learn?
Absolutely no experience is required! Complete beginners are welcome.
Will I learn to read music?
You can learn to read music as part of the process, but you can also learn to play by ear if you prefer.
Are the lessons for acoustic or electric guitar?
Either! Most things you will learn on guitar can be translated to between electric and acoustic guitar although there are stylistic and technical differences. However, when you first start learning there will be little difference.
Will I need to bring my guitar and amplifier?
If you are having a taster lesson, you can borrow a guitar from the Academy. However, if you wish to continue you will need to bring your own instrument, but you can use the amplifiers at the Academy.
Does it matter than I'm left-handed?
No! Some left-handed guitarists choose to learn the "standard" way, and others choose to play the opposite way round. You can decide this with the teacher at your first lesson if you don't know yet which will suit you better.
Who is the teacher?
Our guitar teacher is Brian Emerson. Learn more about him here.
What equipment do you need to learn guitar?
If you choose to learn electric guitar, you will also need an amplifier and a lead. For both acoustic and electric guitar, you may also need:
- a guitar case: this will be very important when transporting your guitar to your lesson. Padded or unpadded gigbags and a hard cases are available.
- a plectrum: this is for strumming and plucking the strings
- a tuner: your guitar can go out of tune when it is left for a while or even during playing, and it's important to be able to tune it at home while practicing
- a music stand: if you are using music sheets or books, a music stand can be a very useful tool but isn't essential
- a guitar strap: you will mostly be playing sitting down while you are in your lesson, but some people prefer to stand when playing which requires a strap
What other costs come with learning guitar?
Most of the time, your guitar won't need any extra maintenance besides being tuned. However, you may sometimes break a string which will need replacing and every few months, you may want to change the strings to improve the sound. A set of strings starts at about £6, depending on the type, and single strings start at £1. You can restring your guitar yourself, or member of staff at JG Windows can help you for a service charge of £2 per string or £10 for the set.
Do you offer exams and will I have to take them?
Our teachers can put you through exams should you wish to take that direction. However, there is absolutely no obligations. You will learn at your own pace and your teacher will cater their teaching to your needs and requirements.
How much practice do I need to do?
Fitting practice into your already busy routine can seem like an impossible challenge! However, practicing little and often is better than no practice at all, so even a regular 10 minutes will make a more of a difference than one hour-long session.
Are the lessons available online?
Yes, all of our tuition is available online if you aren't able or would prefer not to travel to the shop. Click here to learn more about online lessons.