A Note For New Players…
tips on How To Give Yourself the Best Start

1. CHOOSING AN INSTRUMENT
   
   There’s a few factors to consider when choosing a new or first instrument:

   The type of guitar you choose (steel-string, nylon or electric) contributes to the types of sounds the instrument produces and also determines how the instrument is held by the player.

   It’s good to try a few different styles of guitars and see what sound speaks to you the most and which feels most comfortable. Also good to be aware of what ‘stream’ of music is particularly inspiring for you (contemporary, classical, folk, etc) and make an instrument choice that corresponds with your musical vision.

   Make sure the body size of whichever guitar you choose is appropriate for your body size and that the scale length is not too long. Being comfortable while holding and playing the instrument is essential to a good learning experience.

   Not all new instruments are created equal. Be sure to purchase a guitar that has a good reputation in your desired price range. Some affordable favourites are the Canadian made Art & Lutherie, Simon & Patrick and also both the Taylor Academy Series and GS mini.

   A quality instrument will hold its tune, be more comfortable to play and also retain more value should you decide to sell it when you want to upgrade.
   

2. PRACTICE
   
   Time dedicated to music practice can vary depending on the free time you have in your day - however it is very helpful to play every day.

   Having a structured routine that starts with scales and/or rudiments and ends with repertoire (songs you’ve learned) is a nice way to organize and share the time with different types of practice material.

   Try not to be discouraged if things are not sounding good all the time. This is normal and if you keep at it you’ll find the music becomes more natural, easy & fun.
   

3. METHOD BOOKS
   
   Method books are designed to build capacity and skill - as long as you actually go through them. There are hundreds of method books that are appropriate for musicians of all levels.

   Below are some of the Nick’s favourite method books and they are for sale locally at Master’s Book Store in Haliburton.
   

4. WORK WITH A TEACHER

A music instructor acts as a coach and mentor to help steer you away from bad practice habits and remind you why you like music. They also should challenge you to stretch beyond your abilities.

Keep in mind that all teachers are not necessarily a good fit for all students. It’s important that you enjoy the teacher’s company and see value in what they are sharing. Sometimes it’s helpful to take sample lessons from a few different instructors to see how you learn best.