How do I start learning to play the guitar?

We receive a wide variety of questions about music lessons every day. That's why we have started to write a handbook - together with experienced teachers, we answer these questions as precisely as possible. Over the next few weeks, we will be presenting topics from the articles in the handbook here on the blog.
Today we're looking at the best way to start learning the guitar. You can also find this topic in the handbook article Learn to play the guitar for beginners.

The guitar is one of the most versatile instruments of all. Many people would like to start - but don't know exactly how to get started. In the article Learning guitar for beginners, we have collected key questions that guitar beginners ask again and again. Among other things, Philipp Lehmann, guitar teacher at Instrumentor, gives you specific tips for a successful first learning phase. He recommends the following first steps:

Before you throw yourself into as many lessons as possible, it is worth choosing a teacher with whom you feel you are in good hands. A suitable guitar teacher will recognize early on when mistakes creep in, motivate you to keep at it and accompany you at eye level. Their passion for music will help you to keep enjoying your instrument - even on days when you have less time and desire.

Regular playing accelerates every learning process. It is crucial that you organize your practice time in such a way that you look forward to it: to the feeling when a chord sounds clean, a beat pattern becomes rounder or a little progress is noticeable. The more positive moments you collect, the easier it will be for you to stay motivated.

No guitarist sounds like Santana, Satriani or Jeff Beck after a week. Learning the guitar is a process - and patience is a key companion. Keep at it, even if some steps take longer. With a little perseverance, you'll soon notice how many things suddenly fall into place.

Curiosity brings the learning path to life. Talk to other guitarists, go to concerts, listen to new music and try out tutorials. Discuss your discoveries with your teacher. If you approach the guitar with enthusiasm, you will find your own musical approach more quickly.

A few chords are enough to start with, and you will soon be able to accompany simple songs - this will give you your first sense of achievement and plenty of motivation. See also our blog post "Easy songs for guitar".

Set yourself realistic, small goals. Learn one chord at a time and practise briefly and regularly rather than infrequently and for a long time. This will help your body internalize the movements much faster.

Have fun - and be patient with yourself.
Learning the guitar takes time, but it's worth it! Every little improvement counts.

We will continue to add to the handbook for music lessons in the future. If you have any questions about music lessons, please feel free to send them to us.

Maybe you can even give us the topic for the next article?

You might also be interested in these articles:

Manual:

Learn to play the guitar for beginners
Learn to play the guitar for adults
Learn to play the guitar for children
Rent a guitar
Learn jazz guitar
Learn to play the blues guitar
Learning electric guitar for beginners

Blog:

Is it ever too late to learn the guitar? An analogy.
Our manual is ready!
What types of guitars exist?
Acoustic guitar or electric guitar?
Easy songs for guitar