My Journey with the Guitar: Advice for Beginners from a Longtime Player

I've been playing guitar since the age of 11, a journey that has taken me through various styles and genres. Starting with my first experiences on the piano and eventually picking up the guitar, I've gained insights that I can share with aspiring guitar players.

How I Started Playing Guitar

My musical journey began much earlier than that, with a piano that I played for 3 years. I kept the piano even after I moved but eventually met someone down the street who had just started playing guitar. It was around this time that I discovered how my older cousin played, which sparked my interest in learning the guitar.

The turning point came when a friend of my older brother played in front of me. I was amazed at how he could make the guitar sound like real music, something I had never seen before. This inspired me to ask him to teach me, but he simply handed me some tablature for Metallica, encouraging me to start my own journey.

Early Struggles and Discoveries

The first time I held a guitar was around the time I was 10 years old. While my father didn't learn guitar properly, he loved music, often listening to famous guitarists like Mark Knopfler and Gary Moore. This influence paved the way for my early fascination with metal music, particularly bands like Metallica, Iron Maiden, and Gary Moore.

As I grew older, my musical tastes evolved. I fell in love with Nine Inch Nails and continued to explore various genres like thrash metal, heavy metal, gothic rock, and other forms of music. However, over time, I grew tired of the typical guitar competition scene and became more focused on expressing myself through my music.

From Zealotry to Anti/HUMAN Designs

My band, Zealotry, was formed around 2001, and we released 5 CDs over the past 10 years. I wrote all the music and lyrics, played guitars, and back vocals, and even recorded and produced the albums in my antiHUMAN Designs recording studio. Our drummer was an amazing friend who now plays in a band called Meadow's End.

Although my band broke up around 2011, I continued to focus on my recording studio and raised two daughters. While I don't play guitar as often anymore, I often find myself yearning to start playing again, as every instrument and every moment of music can bring joy and creativity.

Advice for Beginners

If you're new to playing the guitar, here are some pieces of advice that might help:

Choose a guitar that feels comfortable to you. Whether it's a tempo brand guitar or something else, finding the right instrument can make all the difference. Start with simple chords and practice regularly. Consistency is key to improving your skills. Listen to a variety of music and try to understand different playing styles. You can learn a lot by studying the masters. Don't be afraid to experiment with sounds and genres. Music is about expression, so let your creativity flow. Find a good teacher or mentor who can guide you through the basics and beyond. They can help you avoid bad habits and progress faster.

Remember that every guitar journey is unique. Embrace the challenges and enjoy the process of discovering your own voice on the instrument.

Conclusion

Picking up a guitar was one of the best things that happened to me, and I still hold that belief. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned player, the guitar can be a powerful tool for self-expression and creativity. So, pick up an instrument, make some noise, and let the music guide you on your journey.