5 Myths About Learning Guitar
Here are the top 5 myths about learning guitar
There are so many myths and misconceptions about learning the guitar. If you want to be a guitar player, the simple truth is, that will and determination is really most of what it takes. So, let’s bust some of the myths out there and get you on the road to becoming a great guitar player.
Myth 1: You need to start by a certain age
What is the ideal age to start learning guitar? The truth is, there really is no ideal age. There is a certain fascination with the mystery of musical excellence that motivates people to spread absurd theories, myths, and legends. If you want to learn music, just do it, now. If your child shows an expressed interest in the guitar, get them lessons as soon as that expression begins.
Myth 2: Music Theory is pointless
Most professional musicians know the fundamentals of music theory. But some amateurs don’t and would love to waste your time by telling you why music theory is pointless. All accomplished musicians have a profound understanding of how music works, although some who did not study music theory may not know the terminology used to express these things to other people. You don’t need to learn music theory to play the guitar, but you need to learn it to understand the guitar. This is the difference between a musician and someone who thinks they are.
Myth 3: Talented musicians don’t take lessons
Anybody with professional music experience knows how common private instruction is, yet people love to point out examples of greats who never took a lesson. Most serious music learners see private lessons as one of the most important tools to have in their learning arsenal. We think this one explains itself.
Myth 4: Reading music is a waste of time
Like so many of the myths of learning guitar, here is another one created by insecure players for the purpose of protecting their fragile egos. You can learn to write, record, and produce songs and perform complicated music without learning to read standard notation. But most musicians either can read music or wish they had the chance to learn. It certainly gives you a leg up.
Myth 5: You can learn everything online
This is a resounding NO. If you have the chance to spend time with truly accomplished musicians, you’ll be amazed by the volume of knowledge and wisdom you can learn that hasn’t been published anywhere, except in the form of recorded audio, which is the ultimate record of musical knowledge. Time spent with a teacher who focuses on what you want to do, is extremely important. A website can’t teach you this.
There’s a lot of misinformation about learning guitar. Your best bet is to study from as many sources of information as you can and form your own conclusions. For help and guidance along the way, opt for a qualified teacher who can show you the way.