The classical guitar is an expressive, elegant string instrument that has captured lots of music enthusiasts for centuries. It also offers lots of possibilities. Luckily, today, you can take advantage of the free beginner guitar lesson online.
If you want to learn classical guitar, you are embarking on a musical journey that is challenging yet deeply fulfilling.
So get a quality classical guitar and start exploring the beautiful world of guitar playing today.
1. Find a teacher
A great teacher is among the most valuable things you need to learn classical guitar in a breeze. They can help you develop the best guitar-playing style by spotting your strengths and weaknesses. They will also show you how you can improve your guitar-playing skills.
You may think getting someone to teach you is expensive. But with the advent of the Internet, beginner guitar lessons from a reputable teacher do not have to be costly. Online sites like Classical Guitar Shed are owned by professional classical guitarists sharing their knowledge and expertise on how to play classical guitar.
With online classical guitar lessons (guided by a great teacher) like the Woodshed classical guitar program, you can learn right in the comforts of your home. Get access to premium online guitar lessons and videos that will help you master the basic skills and techniques.
Good teachers will often offer trial lessons, so make sure to book one before making a decision. If you can’t get on with the first guitar teacher you have on your list, move on with the next until you find the one who you’re comfortable with.
2. Read music
Just because there are free guitar lessons online does not mean your classical guitar journey will be easy. One thing that sets learning classical guitar from an acoustic guitar is that you won’t use TAB. You only need to read notation.
Getting a good grasp of notation is something that scares most new guitarists. But knowing to read sheet music is a valuable skill you must develop. Once you have it, it will stay with you for a lifetime.
Notation will make you a better musician. Unlike TAB, which focuses more on handling pitch, it teaches about articulation, duration, rhythm, and pitch. It also allows you to speak with other musicians that use notation.
3. Play the music that you love
Playing guitar will become more interesting if you play the music you love. The best musicians dedicate most of their practice time to learning songs that inspire them. Make sure to do the same.
If you play endless arpeggios and scales, it will only make you feel a bit soulless. At the end of the day, you will feel that you are not progressing. But if you choose music that inspires you, you will most likely associate classical guitar playing with fun and enjoyment. Such a feeling will make you come back to playing your guitar more.
4. Do finger exercises
Finger exercises are highly essential when learning classical guitars. It helps you develop your finger coordination, strength, and dexterity. It also improves your overall playing technique so you can play complex guitar chords and pieces with ease.
There are plenty of finger exercises that will help develop your guitar-playing skills. These include arpeggios, scales, and chord progressions.
The key is consistent guitar practice. Also, use a metronome to maintain your speed and rhythm.
5. Develop a well-structured guitar practice routine
Structuring your guitar-playing routine will help you become focused during your practice hours. It will also save time because you know exactly what to do whenever you go to your classical guitar corner.
Here are some tips to make your practice hours productive:
- Switch off your smartphone.
- Get yourself comfortable.
- Tell yourself what you need to accomplish. For instance, “I’m going to work on my tone” or “I need to improve my technique.”
- Allocate enough practice time.
- Video yourself to monitor your progress.
- Be creative with your practice sessions.
As a beginner guitarist, you may find it hard to get into your practice routine. Try 30 minutes each day instead of an hour every other day. Often, sweet and short is the route to success. And in every session, focus on a specific element, including:
- General technique
- Chords
- Tone
- Fingers
- Sound
6. Get a music stand and footstool
A music stand and footstool are among the most essential accessories for a budding guitarist. Here’s why.
A music stand will mean no more bad posture when playing your guitar or balancing music sheets on your knee. You will have your music sheets where you can best see them. You can spread them so you won’t awkwardly turn pages while playing.
A footstool is another accessory you should get. This small platform lets you rest your foot while playing your guitar. Place your foot opposite your plucking hand over the stool so your guitar can rest on your raised leg as you play chords. Doing so will not just make your posture better but also make it a lot easier for your hands to play guitar.
Final Thoughts
Playing classical guitar can be a very rewarding experience. It will give you and your audience a lifetime of artistic expression and enjoyment.
It might be difficult to learn guitar but never quit learning. You will see notable improvements in your overall playing ability with dedication and time. Find a good teacher, check out free classical guitar lessons, and practice regularly.
