Struggling with Electric Guitar? Here's What to Do
Many new guitar players find themselves in a similar situation to the one you described. You purchased an electric guitar for about $467, only to realize that playing the guitar wasn’t as easy as anticipated. While drums might have been a better fit, we’ll explore several steps to help you navigate this challenge.
Taking Lessons
If you want to explore guitars further, taking lessons is a fantastic way to start. Lessons are not only available in-person but also online, making them accessible from anywhere. Whether you prefer watching video tutorials or learning from a professional instructor, there are countless resources to choose from. Some platforms offer customized lesson plans, and you can find courses based on your skill level, whether you're a complete beginner or have some experience.
Starting with Basic Chords
A great place to begin is learning the CAGED chords. The CAGED system is a widely used method that represents the five basic chord shapes used on a guitar. Once you master these chords, the next step is to learn how to transition smoothly between them. This can be challenging but is indeed possible with practice and dedication. Once you're comfortable switching between these chords, you can move on to learning strumming patterns. With these skills, you will be able to play the guitar portion of most pop and country songs.
Considering a Refund or Trade
If you’re serious about returning the guitar or trading it for something else, there are options available. You can sell your guitar on platforms like eBay or Reverb, or you can attempt to trade it in for a drum set at your favorite music store. However, it’s important to consider that learning to play an instrument, like the guitar, is quite difficult initially. With consistent practice and patience, you will start to see progress, and the frustration will gradually turn into a rewarding experience. Alternatively, you could consider donating the guitar and buying a drum set instead.
Learning to Play an Instrument
It’s crucial to understand that playing any instrument, whether it’s a guitar, drums, or keyboard, requires practice and learning. You don’t immediately pick up an instrument and start playing. Many people give up too quickly because they face challenges like improper setup (incorrect string gauge or action height), unrealistic goals, lack of practice, or insufficient guidance. However, with the right resources and determination, you can overcome these hurdles.
Don’t Give Up!
Based on your situation, it’s understandable to feel discouraged, but there's no need to give up just yet. You might find that you enjoy the process of learning and playing the guitar. Patience and persistence are key. If you do decide to pursue drums instead, it’s important to develop a clear plan. Selling the guitar and putting the money towards drum lessons or a small used drum set is a practical approach. You can begin with a practice pad until you feel more comfortable, and then invest in a small used kit as you progress.
In conclusion, while it’s natural to feel frustrated when learning a new instrument, taking steps like taking lessons, starting with basic chords, and considering alternative options can help you make progress. Learning to play a musical instrument is a rewarding journey, and with the right mindset and resources, you can achieve your goals.