Every guitarist will tell you that the first guitar you own is the one that will hold a special place in your heart for the rest of your life. It’s there for you when you’re tired from practicing chords, and it’s there for you when you sing a melody from start to finish for the first time. That’s why it’s crucial to give proper attention to the task of buying your first guitar. If you’re interested in doing it the smart way, keep reading.
First and foremost, you need to determine your budget and goals for this instrument. This means understanding where you plan on playing it and what purpose you have in mind. For instance, if you aspire to be a professional guitarist, you’ll undoubtedly want a high-quality guitar that may come at a higher price. However, if you’re just looking to play for fun or with some friends, a standard, affordable instrument will suffice.
Next, consider the physical characteristics that matter most to you. Perhaps you have a specific look in mind for the body or neck of the guitar, or maybe you care about the materials from which it’s made. These factors can impact both the sound it produces and your comfort while playing. When examining guitars, be sure to check for any irregularities such as scratches, bends, or warps. Even if you decide that such flaws don’t bother you much, you may still be able to negotiate a discount due to the damaged condition of the product.
Another great tip is to explore all your options. Many people limit themselves to visiting their local music store and choosing from the guitars available there. However, there’s more you can do. Talk to any guitarist friends you have and ask for their recommendations on specific brands or guitar models. They might even know of a great store that sells guitars or someone who is looking to sell their old guitar.
Lastly, remember that buying the guitar is not the most important thing you need to do in order to become a musician. You still need to take lessons and practice extensively so that one day, after you’ve learned everything you can, you can proudly call yourself a guitarist.
Manuel Marino is a seasoned Senior Producer, Music Composer, and Artist with over a decade of experience. He specializes in branded entertainment across various mediums, including video games, films, and advertising campaigns. With 20+ years as a game music composer, Manuel has worked on numerous platforms, creating diverse orchestral soundtracks. HIRE ME