These days the internet is a treasure trove of resources to help you learn to play guitar, but you have got to be disciplined in your approach. You have to put the hours in, (no question about it), in order for your hands and brain to learn the coordinated actions, and it can be a frustrating process. Getting a qualified teacher is still probably the best way of learning, but if you don’t fancy that, or can’t afford it, there are some great resources available online.

Let’s start with the essentials you’ll require in order to get the best from your online learning.

Firstly you will need a guitar! There is no way you can learn to play without owning or borrowing a guitar. The type of guitar you choose is primarily a matter of personal taste. It could be electric, acoustic, folk, classical or jazz. The choice is up to you. You will also need a computer of a reasonable specification, good enough that you aren’t distracted from learning to play by technical computer issues.

Most importantly, you also have to have the correct mental attitude. If you have decided to go it alone with your learning then you have to be disciplined with yourself. Set yourself some goals, but be realistic, you aren’t going to be Jimi Hendrix in a week. Remember to take a break every half hour or so, even if it is only for a few minutes. This will help with the mental aspects of learning your new skills.

Basic research is the next step, finding the most appropriate site for your personal requirements. This is an important step in achieving your goal, so don’t rush it. Choosing the wrong site at this stage could lead to frustrations later on.

OK, now that is out of the way you can actually get down to learning to play guitar. You must follow the lessons in sequence and make sure you put in sufficient practice before moving on to the next one. You can’t do too much practice when learning the guitar, but always try to push forwards with your learning.

One great tip to add to your enjoyment is to pick one of your favourite songs and find the guitar tablature for it online. Playing (and singing) your favourite song makes you feel like you are really making progress, and the more you do it the more you will enjoy it.

If you find a particular technique that is causing you problems, a good tip is to practice it as slowly as possible. This is the great advantage of online learning – no-one is breathing down your neck. If you can’t do it, say to yourself “PLAY IT SLOW”. This is how the brain learns best, and the more times you play it slow the easier it will be to crack it.

As you progress there will be frustrations, and your fingers will get sore, but that will pass. Keeping to your routine and your plan is the main thing. In a few weeks you will be amazed by how well you have picked up all the little tips and techniques.

Next stop fame and fortune!

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