By Ben Makes Music

So, you’ve picked up a guitar and you’re ready to rock—or strum a gentle melody. Congratulations! Whether you’re dreaming of shredding like Jimi Hendrix or serenading like Ed Sheeran, every guitar legend started exactly where you are: at the very beginning. But where should you start? What should you practise? Don’t worry—I’ve got you covered.

First Things First: Get Comfortable

Before you dive into playing, spend a bit of time just holding the guitar. Sit down, find a comfortable position, and get a feel for how the guitar rests on your lap. If you’re using an acoustic, it’ll probably feel a bit bulkier than an electric guitar, but that’s normal. Place your strumming hand lightly over the strings and let your fretting hand explore the neck.

Don’t rush this stage. The guitar needs to feel like an extension of you.

Step 1: Tuning Up

An out-of-tune guitar sounds dreadful, no matter how skilled you are. Learn how to tune your guitar properly. You can use a clip-on tuner, a phone app, or even your ear if you’re feeling ambitious. Standard tuning (EADGBE) is where most people start, so get familiar with it.

Pro tip: Check your tuning often. New strings, temperature changes, or just enthusiastic strumming can knock it out of tune.

Step 2: Basic Chords

Chords are the backbone of most songs. Start with these simple ones:

• G major

• C major

• D major

• E minor

• A minor

These are called “open chords” because they use open strings. They’re the foundation for thousands of songs, so mastering them will instantly make you feel like a musician.

At first, changing between chords will feel clunky and slow. That’s OK! Practise moving between two chords repeatedly until it starts to feel smoother. Focus on accuracy over speed.

Step 3: Strumming Patterns

Strumming is where the rhythm comes alive. Start simple:

• Downstrokes only.

• Then try alternating: Down, up, down, up.

Once you’re comfortable, experiment with different patterns. Tap your foot as you play to help keep time. You might feel robotic at first, but soon you’ll be grooving.

Step 4: Learn a Song

Now the fun begins. Pick a simple song you love. Songs like Wonderwall by Oasis, Knocking on Heaven’s Door by Bob Dylan, or Horse with No Name by America are perfect for beginners.

When you practise songs, break them into small sections—maybe just a verse or chorus at first. Don’t worry if it’s not perfect. Enjoy the process of piecing it together.

Step 5: Finger Exercises

Your fingers need to build strength and dexterity. Practise this simple exercise:

1. Place your fingers one by one on the first four frets of a string (e.g., index finger on the 1st fret, middle on the 2nd, and so on).

2. Pluck each note as cleanly as possible.

3. Move to the next string and repeat.

It’s not glamorous, but it works wonders for building coordination and stamina.

Step 6: Learn Some Music Theory (Just a Bit)

Don’t panic—this doesn’t mean diving into textbooks. Learn the basics, like the names of the strings (EADGBE), how frets correspond to notes, and the difference between major and minor chords. A little knowledge goes a long way.

Tips for Success

• Practise regularly: Aim for 10–15 minutes a day rather than cramming for an hour once a week. Consistency is key.

• Be patient: It’s normal to feel frustrated. Stick with it. Progress might be slow, but it’s happening.

• Listen to music: Pay attention to guitar parts in your favourite songs. It’ll inspire you and give you ideas.

• Reward yourself: Celebrate small wins, like nailing your first chord change or playing a full song.

Final Thoughts

Learning guitar is a journey, and every player’s path is unique. Some days will feel amazing, while others will feel like you’re wrestling with a stubborn lump of wood and metal. That’s all part of the process.

Above all, enjoy it. Play for yourself, not for perfection. With time, your fingers will find the notes, your rhythm will flow, and you’ll discover the joy of creating music.

So grab that guitar, tune it up, and get playing. Your first gig—whether it’s in your bedroom or for a crowd—is closer than you think!

Starting the Guitar: What to Practise and Where to Begin