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First and foremost you'll want to do, before attempting to learn the 6-String Guitar, is to consider the medium and tools you are utilizing...basic measures to ensure that your 6-String is set up properly, will make your learning journey less frustrating.

1. Check your action, height of strings above the fingerboard, on your guitar to ensure that it's not uncomfortable to play.
To do this, try pressing your strings down, fretting, to see how much tension there is...if for some reason it's very difficult to press down, have your guitar set up by a qualified instrument technician. Eye your guitar neck down down its edge to determine if your neck might be warped. This could contribute to a high action. Additionally, when first starting out, it's highly recommended that you utilize light gauge strings, not heavy or medium. You certainly do not want to become discouraged when first attempting to learn. If your action is abnormally high, or if you're not using light gauge strings, you may find it difficult to be inspired to practice.

2. Make sure you feel comfortable holding your guitar, especially, if you're determined to practice long hours...It can become discouraging to adhere to a practice schedule if you do not feel comfortable holding and playing your guitar. My recommendation is to first learn to play while sitting down...be sure to hold the guitar upright...do not let the guitar lay in your lap at an angle. When holding the neck, allow it to rest at the bottom of your index finger, and be careful not to let the thumb protrude over the neck. The thumb should be directly behind the neck which allows you to extend your fingers for chording. Experiment with a footrest to prop up your leg for added support on your guitar.

3. Find your inspiration...rediscover the reasons you're inspired to learn the guitar. Categorize all of your guitar CDs that bring you pleasure. Be sure to also get your library of instructional videos and books together...read through all of them and become familiar with the road that's ahead. And, then sit down with your most basic lessons, whether video or book, and methodically go through every detail of preparation.

Copyright ©2004 Mickey Cochran

Acoustic Guitar Website Map • Return to Lessons Section • Return to Homepage

Please send any comments, questions or requests to Mickey Cochran at info@folkofthewood.com 

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