A few more tips:
The guitar is an instrument with very ancient origins and in continuous evolution, even summarily defining some guidelines would require a very broad discussion, which does not fall within the scope of this site.
Despite this, I would still like to make a few considerations, the result of a long experience and observation. Both to try to clarify some doubts, which often arise in those who would like to start playing, and to invite reflection on topics that beginners may not have considered
The instrument:
The guitar is an extremely versatile instrument, it is used in many musical genres and played in very different ways.
Even if it doesn’t seem like it, the differences between one type of guitar and another are very significant and lead to a wide range of possibilities that are even very distant from each other.
A summary breakdown of the major types of instruments in use could be as follows:
– Acoustic guitar with nylon strings or similar; the two main types belonging to this category are the so-called classical or concert guitar and the flamenco guitar.
-Acoustic steel string guitar, also referred to as Folk or Western.
-Electric guitar.
Each of these three main types is divided into many subgroups.
Choosing one type of guitar rather than another is important and should be made mainly with reference to the type of music you intend to play and the sound you are looking for.
Initially it is certainly better to devote some time to a single type. As the study progresses, it would be desirable to also try different types, both to increase one’s knowledge and to realize the differences. Often then we specialize in a particular type.
The reference guitar on this site is the six-string classical nylon guitar, played using the fingers to pluck the strings. This personal choice of mine is not meant to be an indication of which instrument to start with. For example, if you love Rock or Jazz and want to start with the electric guitar, that’s great. I think the still pervasive dogma that the classical instrument is the best to start with is incorrect.
Whatever your choice, the important thing is to move towards an instrument of a certain quality, which is tuned across the entire fretboard,which is not too tiring, which has a good sound. Avoid too cheap instruments which, in reference to the aforementioned problems, often have strings that are too high or too low, if not the neck not aligned with the body of the instrument.
Luckily you don’t need to spend big bucks, there are tools suitable for beginners at affordable prices. If you have the possibility to get advice from an expert, it is certainly better.
CloseThe position:
With reference to the foregoing, it is clear that there is no universal or best position. Get used to the instrument so that it is as comfortable as possible, do not rush to play some pieces of music right away, try to find a pleasant sound without too much tension in the body. Do not hold the guitar with your hands which must have fingers free to play.
The tendency to look at the fingers and the strings leads to a hunched back, this can become a bad habit, try to keep your back straight. Instead, it would be a good habit to play in front of a mirror. Take small breaks often. Especially at the beginning it is more profitable to play three sessions of 20 minutes each (if possible, in the morning, in the afternoon and in the evening) rather than one hour in a row. Also try different positions, for example when seated, support the instrument on the left thigh rather than on the right, possibly helping yourself with a footrest, or if the guitar allows it, try standing up using a shoulder strap. There are also a number of supports specifically developed to help you sustain the guitar.
CloseThe technique:
Any activity that involves the constant and prolonged repetition of the same movement over time can lead to possible bodily complications over the years, especially as regards the joints, tendons and nerves.
It is for this reason that it would be advisable to develop the maximum possible control of these movements, so as to be able to act accordingly in the various circumstances. At the same time it is important to develop a greater sensitivity to what happens in our body when we perform a movement, in particular because in playing a musical instrument we use even very small muscles that we are not usually used to using, and therefore we are also less aware of them .
Making a well-executed movement automatic is essential, but so is having the possibility, if necessary, to be able to control it voluntarily. I’ve seen world-acclaimed professionals arguing over which is the best way to play. Others who hardly tend to influence students in this sense. The instrumental technique is a complex chapter, which certainly requires particular dedication. What I feel like saying is that anyone nourished by a genuine passion will find in the pleasure given by Music the support to overcome the difficulties that they inevitably encounter and at the same time the guide to indicate the way forward.
CloseThe world of the guitar is very vast and probably part of its charm lies in this too.