Guitar’s always been our most popular instrument, and it’s a great choice for all ages and skill levels! Every rock band needs at least one, and it’s a versatile and portable way to accompany yourself as a vocalist.
Electric or acoustic?
Acoustic guitars are perfect for solo artists, singer-songwriters, and campfire sing-along enthusiasts, and they’re easy to play anywhere without an amplifier. They’re also a great fit if you enjoy country, folk, Americana, bluegrass, Celtic, or Latin music.
Electric guitars are easier for beginners to play, since their softer strings are easier on tender fingers. They’re also versatile in the sounds they can create, depending on your amp settings and pedals, and they’re a must for any rock, punk, jam, grunge, or blues band. Electric guitars are generally smaller and thinner than acoustic guitars, but a little heavier, and they often come in splashier colors and sparkly finishes. If you choose electric, you'll need to plug into an amplifier in order to be heard.
To amp or not to amp?
We recommend choosing a guitar you can plug in, regardless of whether you want the acoustic or electric sound. Acoustic guitars can be played without an amp, but if you want to use that guitar in recitals or group settings, you’ll need a way to amplify the sound. Acoustic-electric guitars are acoustic guitars that can also be plugged into an amp. They're the best of both worlds!
What size guitar should I choose?
Guitars come in many sizes, but we recommend choosing the largest size the student can handle comfortably, since they’ll grow into it pretty quickly, and you’ll get a fuller sound from a larger guitar. You can try before you buy! We don’t sell guitars ourselves, but you’re welcome to use one of ours during your first lesson before making a decision.
We know it’s tempting to buy cheap when you’re not sure whether you’ll really like playing an instrument, but resist that temptation! Cheap guitars don’t stay in tune well, and there’s nothing more DE-motivating than practicing with an out-of-tune guitar. If you want to test the waters before buying, we recommend renting from Rock N Roll Rentals on Burnet in North Austin.
(A note for our youngest students, and for seniors who might have pain in their fingers: don’t rule out trying ukulele lessons!)
