Started By
Message

re: Bought my first guitar

Posted on 7/6/14 at 9:38 am to
Posted by trillhog
Elite Membership
Member since Jul 2011
19407 posts
Posted on 7/6/14 at 9:38 am to
It really helps to have a friend you can call for tips here and there, when I was learning my brother and law would show me what I was doing wrong, and if I didn't understand something show me, I'd given up without him
Posted by luvdatigahs
Alameda, CA
Member since Sep 2008
3106 posts
Posted on 7/6/14 at 9:48 am to
It can take awhile before it clicks, it's all about muscle memory, especially at the beginning. I know it's very boring single strumming the same chord over and over, but if it was easy everyone would know how to play. My first few months with the guitar were just learning the basics.
Posted by trillhog
Elite Membership
Member since Jul 2011
19407 posts
Posted on 7/6/14 at 10:07 am to
Just the little tricks like transitioning and playing down a pinky for a little extra sound and things like that helps to be around other players
Posted by adono
River Ridge
Member since Sep 2003
7307 posts
Posted on 7/6/14 at 10:25 am to
quote:

It's so much easier now than 20 years ago, when we had to go buy a tab booklet at Werlein's for $25.




Or those Mel Bay books that cost more than your guitar!
Posted by adono
River Ridge
Member since Sep 2003
7307 posts
Posted on 7/6/14 at 10:49 am to
As others have said, go online and find a video lesson that has favorable feedback. You have to practice finger position for the basic chords and you have to practice at least a 1/2 hour each day at the beginning. Some chord configurations aren't natural movements and it takes constant reinforcement to overcome the awkwardness you'll experience at first.

Over the years, I've taught a lot of beginners and it's important to learn the basics before trying to jump into trying to play songs you want to play; it's not fun and certainly won't make anyone stand and applaud but it has to be done.

Most importantly, don't get frustrated and give up; it will come to you faster than you might think. Some folks think they should be playing reasonably well within a few weeks...that's not going to happen Unreasonable expectations is the reason pawn shops are loaded with slightly used guitars.

ETA: As for your selection of guitars, if it sounds and feel good to you, that's what is important. The Epiphone will get you where you need to go.
This post was edited on 7/6/14 at 10:55 am
Posted by Flanders
Member since May 2008
9966 posts
Posted on 7/6/14 at 11:04 am to
Great advice from all of you. I am definitely taking it slow and learning the chords. Transitioning between then is difficult ultimate as all hell. And trying not to look at what string I'm picking is difficult.

I'm sure it will come in due time with muscle memory.
Posted by adono
River Ridge
Member since Sep 2003
7307 posts
Posted on 7/6/14 at 11:21 am to
Just looked up the Epiphone Masterbilt line and it's quite a guitar with some high end features. Solid top and legit tuning keys! You should have no problem with a crappy fretboard (fingerboard) or keeping it in tune. You did it right!
Posted by sugar71
NOLA
Member since Jun 2012
9967 posts
Posted on 7/6/14 at 11:42 am to
Guitar still hanging in there ,huh?

The accordion was once the most popular instrument in the United States as well.
Posted by ZacAttack
The Land Mass
Member since Oct 2012
6416 posts
Posted on 7/6/14 at 2:08 pm to
It just takes practice, everyday practice at that. Even 15 minutes a day is much better than say a 2 hour practice session one afternoon a week. There's thousands upon thousands of songs out there, you will find a good song for every ability level, and not Mary had a little lamb or some crap like that. Most country songs are only a few open chords. Wild Thing is also another easy song, actually it's been said if you can't play that song then guitar is not the instrument for you. Start with chords and chord changes, that's pretty much the base for a good guitar player.
Posted by PeaRidgeWatash
Down by the docks of the city
Member since Dec 2004
15210 posts
Posted on 7/6/14 at 3:38 pm to
Learn notes on neck. If you know the roots, it becomes much easier. A thru G. E's and B's don't have sharps. Voila.
Posted by adono
River Ridge
Member since Sep 2003
7307 posts
Posted on 7/6/14 at 3:41 pm to
quote:

Guitar still hanging in there ,huh?


Not from me. I've bought over 70 guitars from pawn shops all over the country over many years. Before the advent of the internet, you could pick up anything you wanted at 20 to 30% of the actual value...not anymore.

BTW...I've never sold a guitar in my life. Still have the first one I ever bought new...1970 Les Paul Recording from Werlein's Music on Canal Street.
first pageprev pagePage 2 of 2Next pagelast page
refresh

Back to top
logoFollow TigerDroppings for LSU Football News
Follow us on X, Facebook and Instagram to get the latest updates on LSU Football and Recruiting.

FacebookXInstagram