How to Start Learning Guitar for Beginners: Complete Guide (2025)

To start learning guitar, begin with proper posture and basic chords, then progress to simple strumming patterns and easy songs. With regular practice and proper guidance, most beginners can play their first song within 2-3 weeks of starting lessons.

What to Expect in Your First Guitar Lesson?

Your first lesson typically covers:

Parts of the guitar
How to hold the instrument
Basic finger placement
Simple string plucking
Proper sitting position

Essential First-Lesson Tips

Arrive early
Bring a notebook
Ask questions freely
Take pictures/videos of hand positions
Pay attention to posture guidance

What Do You Need to Start Guitar Lessons?

Essential Equipment

Must-haves for beginners:

Properly sized guitar
Guitar picks (various thickness)
Tuner
Notebook
Practice folder

Optional but Helpful Items

Guitar strap
Music stand
Metronome
Recording device
Guitar bag/case

How to Choose Your First Guitar

Acoustic vs Electric for Beginners

Considerations include:

Living situation
Music style preference
Budget
Practice space
Transportation needs

Size Guide by Age

Recommended guitar sizes:

Ages 5-7: 1/2 size
Ages 8-11: 3/4 size
Ages 12+: Full size
Adults: Full size

Many of these musical fundamentals apply to all instruments. See what to expect in your first music lesson.

First Month Learning Plan

Week 1

Focus areas:

Guitar parts and maintenance
Basic finger exercises
First chords (Em, Am)
Simple strumming
Tuning basics

Week 2

Building skills:

New chords (D, G)
Chord transitions
Basic rhythm
String names
Reading tablature

Week 3

Advancing to:

More chords (C, A)
Strumming patterns
First songs
Basic scales
Practice routines

Week 4

Developing further:

Chord combinations
Simple songs
Finger picking intro
Music reading basics
Performance prep

Common Beginner Questions Answered

“How Long Should Beginners Practice Guitar?”

Daily practice recommendations:

15-20 minutes minimum
2-3 short sessions preferred
Focus on quality over quantity
Include breaks
Stay consistent

“Does Guitar Hurt Your Fingers at First?”

Managing finger discomfort:

Start with short sessions
Build calluses gradually
Use lighter strings initially
Take breaks when needed
Maintain proper technique

“How Long Until I Can Play Songs?”

Typical progress timeline:

First chords: 1-2 days
Simple songs: 2-3 weeks
Basic strumming: 1 week
Chord transitions: 2-4 weeks
Comfortable playing: 2-3 months

Setting Up for Success

Creating a Practice Space

Essential elements:

Good lighting
Proper seating
Mirror if possible
Quiet environment
Required materials nearby

Developing Practice Habits

Effective strategies:

Set regular times
Use a practice log
Record yourself
Set small goals
Track progress

Common Beginner Challenges

Problem: Slow Chord Changes

Solutions:

Practice transitions slowly
Use chord diagrams
Try chord drills
Focus on accuracy
Build muscle memory

Problem: String Buzzing

Solutions:

Check finger placement
Press closer to frets
Build finger strength
Maintain proper posture
Seek teacher feedback

Learning Approaches

Self-Learning vs. Professional Instruction

Benefits of professional guitar lessons:

Proper technique foundation
Structured learning path
Immediate feedback
Accountability
Faster progress

Practice Tips for Success

Key strategies:

For more practice guidance, see our tips for effective musical practice.

Start slowly
Focus on accuracy
Use a metronome
Record yourself
Practice regularly

Progress Milestones

First Month Goals

Achievable targets:

Basic chords mastered
Simple strumming patterns
Easy songs started
Regular practice routine
Basic maintenance skills

Three Month Goals

Expected progress:

Multiple songs learned
Smooth chord transitions
Basic scales
Reading capability
Performance readiness

Starting Your Guitar Journey

Begin with a structured approach through guitar lessons in Etobicoke:

Professional assessment
Proper equipment guidance
Clear learning path
Regular feedback
Achievement tracking

Phone: (416) 236-2221
Email: info@muzartschools.com
Location: 225 The East Mall Unit 11, Etobicoke

Book Your Trial Lesson Today →

Article last updated: January 2025