How to play the Guitar

If you would like to learn how to play the guitar but you are unsure how to or where to start, you are in the right place. At Primo Tuition, we offer guitar lessons to individuals of all ages and abilities. However, if you would like a head start, follow our simple guide below:

The basics

Firstly, you will need to learn to basics such as how to hold the guitar as well as the three basic numbering systems.

There are several ways in which you can hold a guitar. However, in this teaching manual, we will look at the most common. If you are right-handed, place the guitar on your right leg and pull it close to your body – do this the opposite way if you are left-handed. Usually, many beginners let the guitar slide down their leg, but if you can control this and stop this from happening – then great!

The 3 numbering systems are as follows: frets, fingers and strings.

Frets: These are the metal strips which go along the neck of the guitar. If you are left-handed, the one farthest on the right, is the first fret and so on and so forth.

Fingers: Your index finger will be your first finger, your middle finger your second finger, your ring finger your third finger and finally, your little finger your fourth finger. This is important for when you need to remember what finger to put where when making chords.

Strings: The thinnest string on the guitar is often the first string and the thickest string is the sixth string.

Basic strumming of the guitar

To teach yourself basic strumming, you will need to learn how to use a guitar pick as well as a strumming technique.

We frequently get asked by students what guitar pick they should use whilst learning to play the guitar. However, we can recommend to students what to choose, but it might be worthwhile experimenting for yourself and finding out your own personal preference. Also, you do not have to strum with a pick if you do not want to, you can use your fingers as an alternative.

If you do choose to use a pick, follow these simple steps on how to hold it. You should hold it with both your thumb and index finger, but the more relaxed you are with this, the better. Yet again, this is down to preference, experience and see which is the best way for you personally.

Guitar lessons at Primo Music

If you would like further help or want to find out more, visit our contact page and book your first lesson with Primo Tuition Today!