Why is it so hard to learn the guitar?

 

    10,000 hours, that's how long they say you need to master a skill, a daunting number. Maybe this doesn't apply to you, maybe you just want to learn a few songs. This is completely fine, but you might find that even that "simple task" is difficult. The guitar is a beautiful instrument and well worth the time invested. But that's just it, even if you don't intend to master it, you need to spend some time honing the skill.

Honing the Guitar

Time Practicing

don't think of practicing as a hassle, time flies when you're having fun! :) All jokes aside, to retain anything that you are practicing you should be practicing for at least 30 minutes. But more importantly, you need to be consistent. I got my first guitar when I was 13, it took me four years to make any noteworthy progress. This isn't because I wasn't trying hard when I did end up practicing, it's because I would pick up my guitar every 3 months and expected to carry on where I left off. You need to practice every day or as much as possible. To help with this, I recommend putting your guitar somewhere visible and easily accessible. When you see the guitar, pick it up, strum for a few.

What You Should Practice

The first things you want to practice are your open chords. These chords are what beginners often learn first. It is valuable to have these chords under your belt because with them, you unlock the ability to play a plethora of songs that just utilize these chords.

• A Major
• E Major
• D Major
• G Major
• C Major
• E Minor
• A minor
  

After learning these chords, you may move on to learn songs. figure out whether you prefer to use a pick or fingerstyle, then practice your favorite songs. not all songs will be beginner friendly, but they can be simplified. Some youtubers that helped me learn songs and practice were Andy Guitar and guitarzero2hero.

Music Theory

Music theory, the backbone of all musical instruments. Is it necessary to learn theory to play the guitar? The simple answer is no. Majority of guitarists learn by ear, meaning that they have limited understanding of the theory but is more comfortable around the sounds the guitar makes. Learning theory has its perks, as you would be more comfortable around charted music. However, for most, learning by ear is the preferred route. focusing on just the sound, where you have a few chords and scales memorized, you will likely be more creative and inventive. Learning by ear can also do wonders for your improvisation skills, where if you focused on music theory you may not be comfortable when there aren't charts in front of you.

I would love to hear your comments on this post. You came here seeking information, maybe I could learn something too!