Mike, you have one of the best guitar channels that exist on YT. No doubt about it! I can list the reasons why.....but I dont wanna write a book inside of a comment! The people that get it....will just automatically agree. I'm personally not a beginner, but when I was many years ago....I wish these style of videos were accessible. Peace bro!
Quick question, I have my eye on a 300 dollar guitar and I really want to learn. I also currently have access to an acoustic guitar. Should I hold off on buying a guitar and keep going on acoustic for now?
Will probably consider since you mentioned stranger things and how you could play it with only these two chords, I could just about play this song for my girlfriend with just this one lesson! She’ll lose her mind. Thank you sir! Hahah
I am here because I have been wanting to play guitar for many years. My beautiful son was an ace guitar player but he never got around to teaching me. I know that it was due to his depression as he took his own life so, now, I’m learning for Guy, my son. When we are reunited then we can play together. I have had much communication from him & I know he is still playing his guitar. Thank you. I know I have chosen the right teacher here. Hi to all from Scotland
Definitely my thoughts are with you. My younger brother also took his own life last year, the pain will never go, but always remember him for the good times. That's how I cope❤❤❤
Good first lesson. A few things i’d add. 1. It’s going to take months of daily practice before you can play stuff that sounds good. Be patient. You have to be okay with the fact that you’re going to suck for quite a while. If you get discouraged easily or you’re used to instant gratification, you should choose a different hobby. If learning guitar was quick and easy then everyone would be a guitarist. 2. You’re not playing guitar just to learn an instrument. You’re playing guitar to learn how to play songs you love listening to and want to play yourself. You need that music connection to the instrument in order to have the desire it requires. 3. Keep playing, no matter how lacking your skills may be. It doesn’t matter if you have no clue what you’re doing. If you keep playing, you will only improve. You’ll have break throughs that will give you encouragement and excitement.
That's great advice. I always like to tell people too, to get the guitar they wanna play. I think many people don't know where to start and buy a strat or something similar. That's cool if you really really want a strat but I always recommend at the very least getting a decent guitar. It's obviously not the equipment that makes you sound good, and you don't got to drop 800-1000 dollars on a guitar but at least a midrange price/quality guitar is worth it if you can afford it. A decent quality guitar is a great investment but again you don't gotta break the bank. But anyway, my point being though, if you want a flying V, get a flying V, if you want a Rhoads, an explorer, a warlock, ironbird, whatever it may be then by god go and get one. They say the instrument is an extension of the player, so don't think you need to get a "beginner guitar" or think you shouldn't get "this guitar" because you're a beginner, nah screw that, get the instrument you wanna play, one that feels the best in your hands, one that sounds the best to _you_ and is the instrument you wanna play. The reason is because you don't just want any guitar, you want something that you vibe with and enjoy playing. My first guitar was a Jackson King V, and I was so happy that it was the guitar that _I_ wanted and vibed with, still have it, still play it. If you love your instrument, you won't be able to keep your eyes and and hands off. It'll encourage you to keep picking it up and playing around with it, it'll encourage you to keep trying. That adds to the drive of wanting and continuing to play. That's my opinion anyway. Love your instrument, love what you do, keep at it and never give up.
Okay, now I just learned that this video is the #1 beginning electric guitar video on UA-cam. I honestly just shed a few tears. Thanks everyone for watching.
1 _ right hand basics / how to hold a pick 2 _ basic downstroke motion 3 _ fretting hand: hand posture / finger placement (finger curvature) 4 _ basic E major 4 _ some basic rhythm pattern 5 _ basic A major (switching back and forth with E) So while labeled as "The first lesson", what this really is, is "First few lessons." A couple of notes: A. When fretting an open string chord, at first, students usually mute the open strings with a part of a finger. It takes time and some adjustments to fix it. B. Regarding the 3rd point, when the next finger presses the string down, you want the previous finger(s) to release the pressure, so that the only finger that holds the strings down to the fretboard is the one you play (simply put, the right-most finger). Still, you wanna make sure, all the other fingers to the left of that one are still on the string (but not pressing it down to the board) or right above it. This releases the unnecessary tension in your hand. Also, when doing the 1-2-3-4 exercise on strings 2 to 6, make sure you don't mute the open string(s) below it. So, for example, if you fret the B string with your index finger on a given fret, make sure that the high E is free to vibrate (not muted by your index finger), if it's on the G string, then check both B and E and so on. This gonna help in later stages, when learning basic open-string chord shapes (see point A) C. Instead of A major as the second chord choice, I'd suggest A minor. First, A minor is literally the same as E major: every finger just goes up a string, and that's it. Second, beginners usually have some trouble with the A major shape, that is, how to fit three fingers on the same fret. In my lessons, it's one of the mid-late shapes I give them, once they're familiar with easier shapes like E, Em, Am, and Dm.. And finally, while it seems more relaxing to place the guitar on your right leg while playing (I think, a part of it is psychological, as we associate the left leg placement with classical "boring" lessons and the right leg placement with cool and relaxed ones), I highly recommend getting used to the left leg option: first, it's better ergonomically, and second, if it's an electric guitar, chances are at some point you're gonna wanna play it standing up, and the guitar is gonna be about where it would be if placed on your left leg. Not critical, but it takes some adjustments otherwise. Nothing wrong with the right leg placement but leave it for an acoustic or at least for later phases (or switch back and forth, at the very least). To anyone, who is about to start the journey, it takes time - be patient!
I thought I had a better fret placement when resting the body on my left leg instead but ignored it since it seemed I should use my right. Your comment helped me make the change. Any tips to not accidentally partially mute strings below? I have small thin fingers and even when I have my finger seemingly perfectly perpendicular with the fret, it still touches the string ever so slightly.
@@braqudark6217 It’s very difficult to give any valuable advice without actually observing the problem but I’ll try my best, anyway. I’d suggest going thru the “let the upper string(s) ring” exercise I mentioned in my original comment. Start somewhere in the middle of the fretboard - depending on the guitar, there’s a point on the fretboard/neck beyond which you start to adjust the left-hand posture (given, you are a right-handed player) to the neck dimension changes and the construction, overall: on a classical, it’s around 8th fret, on an acoustic and electric - a few frets higher; you get it - start somewhere in that region where your hand is most relaxed and go finger by finger - in 1-2-3-4 order, starting on the second string and checking the first string with every finger: put the first finger down on the second string - check the first string (well, in reality, both the fretted note on the second and the first string), put the second finger down - same, and so on. Once you’ve reached the end - pinky down, move down (literally, up) a string, and repeat the entire exercise, this time, of course, checking both B and E, as you go. Once you’ve reached the sixth string, move down a fret and start over. Before you start, make sure your hand is in the right posture: the fingers are curved with the fingertips pressing down the string, and the thumb is approximately at the middle of the back of the neck, somewhere behind the second finger. As you move, you gradually - and I mean gradually - adjust your hand: that is, the finger curvature gets deeper as you bring the (fore)arm a little forward (the movement comes from the elbow). Just remember, like many other things about playing the guitar, it’s all about very small movements. So make sure, while you’re going for bigger and bigger curvatures, the wrist isn’t too protruded forward: let it follow whatever the elbow/forearm dictates. Most importantly, don’t rush (and don’t cheat, of course). Good luck!)
This guy: Don't press too hard! You don't want to leave lines on your finger! My teacher: If your fingers aren't bleeding you're not pressing hard enough
If you learn on electric, it takes a lot less pressure than accoustic. also, make sure it is set up properly. I had a pawnshop guitar that was set up wrong when I started and the fretboard was over a CM away from the strings at the soundhole. You couldn't hold a note on the 7th fret using vicegrips. It's really worth it to take it to an expert and have it set up properly. especially an accoustic.
If you press too hard then you will put so much tension on the strings that you pull them out of tune (note too sharp.) If you try to get your finger as close to the fret as you can without being on top of the fret, you will not need to use as much pressure to keep the string from buzzing.
Almost 2 years ago I started learning guitar from this lesson. I remember how hard It was not even play a chord but to catch it. Today I can play a lot of my favorites solos and basically any song I want to play, even by ear. So if you're trying to learn guitar and struggle with It remember to not give up and being consistent, everything takes time. Eventually you will be surprised what progress have you made.
I just started learning and this was really good to read. I just bought a guitar because I really love one and would love to learn to play. It's my first time watching this video and seeing your comment is really good motivation
I'm 62, recently retired and learning the guitar was dream of mine. I bought and inexpensive Fender and picks and have been browsing beginner videos. Yours is very easy to follow and love your delivery. You're very easy to listen and learn from, will be checking back in. 👍
About a week ago, I told my art teacher that I was giving up learning how to play my guitar because I just wasn't getting it and couldn't remember anything. She told me that she was learning an instrument as well and that on the last day of school, she would bring hers in and I would bring my guitar and we could show each other how far we had come. So here I am!!!!!! I'm terrible, but I'm trying. Mental illness makes motivation really difficult, but this video is a LOT less intimidating than the other "Beginners" videos. Thanks for that!!!!!!!!!!
This is amazing! Well done for sticking through it, learning an instrument is so hard at the beginning but it gets better!! :D Hope the last day of school performance between the two of you goes well!
my dad was literally played guitar, bass, keyboard, and sang and was in multiple bands and im sat here trying to learn guitar and realising im holding it upside down 12 mins in
Im 13 and practicing on my dads guitar so when ive saved up enough to buy an electric one, i already know how to play some basic things- and this was BY FAR the best video ive found on basic things. It teaches you a bunch but not too much, gives you time to process everything but its not slow, its efficient and super helpful if you’re just starting out. I was pretty demotivated to practice this week, but you knocked the spark right back into me! Thanks man!
i am a 61 year old beginner, i love the way you teach..excellent job, i have learned the E and A & few others, G,D with a book. i like your patience in teaching. great work thank you
Super cool DJ. I'm 61 also, just picked up a guitar three weeks ago, challenging but I love it. Finally not just a listener but a participater in what I love.
Finally, someone who understands how to communicate the small details that make the difference between success and failure. This is the best guitar lesson I have ever seen. Well done!
Just got my Fender Acoustic today. I’m the same age (67) as you so this should be interesting. Practiced my “D” chord for about 30 minutes today and my fingers are already sore. Looking forward to tomorrow though.👍
Tips I found useful to be reminded of for us nonbeginners: Holding the pick 2:00. Use wrist not arm to strum 3:10. Tilt the pick 3:18. Forearm will hold a well-balenced guitar 3:45 Anchor index finger and keep all fingers curved when doing spider exercise. Pinkie should be perpendicular to the fretboard. Will add that doing all this slowly and mindfully even without right hand picking motion is a fantastic way to break into a new guitar regardless of how long you have played. Our hands need to develop muscle memory as each guitar will feel different in our hands.
Just a note of encouragement to those who might have smaller hands. Don't give up. Keep at it, your hands aren't as small as you think. Big hands have problems too. It just takes time for your fingers to learn to stretch and find the right grip. You'll be fine. Your fingers are going to get sore at first, but they WILL stop hurting after a while. Practice in short bursts, a few minutes at a time, then come back half an hour later. Little and often works best. I've been playing guitar for 50 years plus and dropped in to this lesson to see how beginners might be taught and I think this guy is doing it great.
People with small hands and arthritis (like myself) could play ukuleles and small scale guitars. I have a concert uke, a guitarlele and a squier mini jazz master. They're all great for me and my problematic hands.
For everyone out there who just watched this tutorial. This is what a great educator looks like. One who conveys information without contempt for his audience. If you’ll notice he never talks down to the student observer, is patient, and has compassion for the journey, for which he understands all will now be part of. If some watching need to move ahead, video training allows that too. The idea is to keep students in a positive state. This artist/educator is more than qualified. Bravo! Good luck to all. Music, and music education, IS joy at any age.
What the fuck man , I literally just found out right now. I'm fucking pissed. R.I.P Eddie , fucking legend and one of kind we will never see again in our lifetime.
I've taught 50 or 60 lessons per week for the last 30 years or so, and played 3 or 4 gigs a week as well. This is a top notch lesson. Good job. That's kinda how I do it but I will be adding a few things from this. I'm always watching and learning how to better help my students. Thanks.
40 years old here and just picked up the guitar for the first time. going through this video just made me all the more amped to learn more! Thank you for the free tuning lesson on you site also. Was a great help figuring out what I was doing wrong.
As an amateur key board player and trainer of adult classes for many years, I have to say that your style of teaching is really excellent. You use a pace that makes everything easy to duplicate and understand. I am just starting to learn the guitar and this lesson really helped me a lot.
I see why you have a 98 percent success rate. I've taken lessons a bit as a kid and decided to pick it up again. I never knew I was holding the pick wrong before. Just with these two chords you've made me feel so confident in the process. I'll definitely be checking out your website to further my education with you. Thank you
Thanks everyone for making this the most viewed video on my channel. Can't believe I can go from teaching a handful of people in one city to reaching over 5 million students through this lesson.
thank you so much for this video!! it was rly rly helpful. my friend group and I are all starting playing the guitar so I'm surely gonna recommend this video to them
My first string wouldn't make noise when I had my finger on it. I tried as little pressure to putting more on it. It makes like a Mario died noise from Nintendo. Is that bad?
Definitely. Stick to it. The first six months will be a bit rough but after that, it'll start flowing and you'll be having a blast. I used to record a rhythm on tape and play some notes (lead guitar) while my tape was playing. A lot of fun and you can do it by yourself.
im 16 and i got my first guitar yesterday, it’s my birthday gift and this is so far the most helpful video i could find. tysm!! you’re a good teacher, when i went to music school, the teachers i had there weren’t that great. i know this is kind of an old video but once again, thank you for helpong me and all the other kids out there who want to learn as well, you’re an example of a great teacher!!
Keep at it don't give up. They make little covers for your fingertips if you need them. Once you get the calluses built up, it makes it a lot easier. A bowl of water and ice helps to and or nylon strings.
I am 81 years old and for some reason, I have always wanted to play the guitar. What stopped me was who was the person teaching it. There are all kinds of apps learning how to play but some are not geared for people like me . At my age, I am slower than most and memory is not as it used to be. I came across this series or rather the book but the videos are quite nice. Using both will help. I wanted to have a means to enjoy playing but take my time in learning it. Learning how to play, will ease some of the stress in life that I face. This all started when I went to a thrift store and saw a real bargain in a guitar and bought it.
I bought my guitar today! I have a terminal illness and always wanted to learn how to play the guitar. After my diagnosis, I decided, why not? I am excited about learning.
GOD IS STILL IN THE MIRACLE BUSINESS. I don't want to share my testimony because it's behind me and I'm fully healed. Go find an Apostolic Church. Get Baptised in Jesus name Acts 2:38,39 Have them.all lay hands and pray over you anointing you HEALING. I don't know you but God does and I promise also to pray for you when I go to Alter. God can heal anything . He is ALMIGHTY !!!!! ALLLLLLLLL
ad : STOP WAIT A MINUTE THIS WILL CHANGE EVERYTHING, DO YOU KNOW WHY PEOPLE ALWAYS SAY THEY WANT TO PLAY GUITAR BUT ONLY SOME CAN, ITS BECAUSE OF WANNABE GUITAR TEACHERS ON UA-cam me : *watches a 30 minute yt video* this is so helpful
About 3 years ago I first saw this video. I had already been playing for about a month and had learned a couple songs but even then I remember it being very informative and helpful. Crazy to think that I’ve been watching your videos for 3 years now, and it’s even crazier just to think about how much your Metallica videos influenced me. While I’m currently dealing with wrist tendonitis from playing so much, I will always remember first stumbling upon this video as a newbie. Thanks so much Mike, you and plenty of other guitar channels here on UA-cam helped me fall in love with the guitar and music in general :)
Wow, I'm really impressed with this guys teaching method. Patient and little tips and tricks that other teachers forget about because they can't remember being a beginner.
hey chomp im assuming here you play. basically im 14 and im trying to start learning guitar, i have an acoustic guitar at the moment and im trying to save up or ask for an electric guitar for christmas. I was just wondering if i was to start playing, should i start now and get to grips with my acoustic, and if so should i try and seek lessons or maybe look for a course like the one this guy is offering. if you have any tips or ideas please let me know
@@lewis8403 don't listen to drizz, I suggest starting with the one you have to get an idea, and if you can get in person classes, if you cant this guy is a really good teacher
Finally, a video that is truly aimed at the novice which is NOT overwhelming and with great - easy to understand communication. Thank you for being a fantastic teacher, look forward to watching your other videos!
My first lesson method is to have them give me a song they want to learn beforehand so I can immediately teach them a simplified version of what they actually want to do with the instrument. Feeling the satisfaction of hearing your favorite song come out of your fingertips is magical and gets people excited to continue more than anything else I’ve tried. I just remember how difficult it was to practice before having any amount of fun and I want to get them through that as quickly as possible so even if they do give up, at least they might remember their favorite song in case inspiration comes back.
yeah, i just learned the fingerings and notes, and then i went straight into playing my ukulele, playing the songs i wanted, im pretty much self taught.
This is honestly what helped me most in learning guitar. Whenever I felt frustrated with whatever I chose to be my daily exercise I just went back to what I knew and loved. Kept my motivation levels up.
So glad I found this!! I played a bit in High School back in 1983 and had a punk band. Now I'm 55 and want to play again and 'barley' remember anything. Bought a used IBENEZ EX350 and a used MARSHALL MG30 DFX amp and so I'm starting off from square one. I needed this video!! Thank you!!
Here are a couple of simple tricks that helped me with my form: 1) The number one reason people slouch over their guitars is to see what they're doing (even though this makes it harder to keep your left hand in a good playing position). Practicing in front of a mirror allows you to be able to see exactly where your hands are, while maintaining good posture. 2) When learning new chord shapes, I would pluck each successive string from the low E to the high E, so that I could identify any string I was accidentally muffling and make the necessary adjustments. I didn't strum until I got every string to ring true. That made it relatively easy (and fast) to develop good left-hand form.
Any advice on the muffling thing? I feel like most of the time my chords sound muffled especially with my third finger. I always have to readjust it in order to get rid of that buzz. It upsets me a lot, really, because my finger seem to hurt so much in order to get the sound right. It's so frustrating. Any ideas on how to keep the pain to a minimum? Any answer would be greatly appreciated.
@@singingmyblue8000 since you asked... on muffling🥵 - look at your fingers; chances are you aren't pressing down close enough to the fret OR, you may be touching the string with the next finger. Try doing warm ups, flexing your fingers, try to lift your fingers from a table surface individually, and stretching your reach (4 frets to 5). Your fingers will also callus up, then gradually adjust to numb the pain. Heat pad and ice help too.😎 Pace yourself and avoid getting "trigger finger".
@@singingmyblue8000 First off, is you guitar set up correctly? Many times, a new guitar right out is the box isn’t right. The string height might even be too high. It can’t hurt to take it to a guitar service center and have it checked and adjusted if you haven’t yet. I bought a bass once and darn near killed myself trying to fret it until I took it in and got a proper set up. After that, it was a lot more comfortable to play.
@@singingmyblue8000 Are you on acoustic or electric, cause that makes a big difference in how easy it is to set up. If it's electric I can actually throw some _very_ thorough videos your way that go through it step by step, cause while it feels intimidating it's extremely nice to learn early, when you realize how it's not actually that hard (as opposed to spending a lot of money on a guitar tech that may or may not even do a good job)
This video is a couple years old, so I am not sure you will see this. I greatly appreciate this first lesson. I'm revisiting the acoustic guitar after decades. After one week with your lesson, I am getting better at the spider walks and the intro chords. Feels great!
I have had my guitar for 20 years now, I don't lie! And I haven't learned a thing because I am the type of person who needs to know how to do everything right away, I have no patience for the long time it will take to learn. HOWEVER, it is my New Year's Resolution to teach myself how to play. I did teach myself calculus and physics so....I just need to realize things take time... :)
I don't recommend it cuz you will do bad habits and be stuck with them. Take lessons for 3 months and then go on your own. It's worth it. Too much to get into
Awesome Cher! You’re gonna rock :) enjoy the journey they joy of guitar is in learning. There are two types of guitar players those that are learning and those that don’t play at all.
Ok my Dad was a drummer singer guitarist. He has passed away now. He got me a Fender Telecaster, for my 21St bd. I sold it to my best mate for his sons 21st., years ago. It went to the perfect home. I became a house dj. I have now bought a squire tele. And this video has inspired me to learn again. Thanks so much. My dad would love to see me do this. :)
At 34, almost 35, I'm wanting to get a new hobby. I have been looking at guitars even though my musical childhood was miserable. I'm probably the dumbest person when it comes to instruments but I need something to take my mind off of things. As a combat vet, stuff gets rough sometimes and your video seems to go at a pace that I can easily keep up with. I will most likely get a guitar in the near future because of your easy to follow videos. Thanks a bunch.
Literally the same age, just bought a guitar... hopefully 16 years after the first try, i'm mature enough to take it seriously lol. All I want is to learn the songs from the 1980s transformers movie... that's it... if I could perform those in public I could die a happy man. Also - as the other guy said... thanks for your service! (we're probably not in the same country, and I don't value the reasons our military's truly have to go to war... but I feel the earned respect is species based not nation based. Thank you for your intent to keep your kin safe. Thank you for being a good human)
I’m 77 and you are the best. No hype like the rest , just a slow basic knowledge. You have the gift to teach. Keeping it fun without being bombarded with too much all at once. 👍
My fingers are too sore to continue just a little over half in, BUT I'm NOT giving up! Used to play when I was about 10 yrs old, now 65! And my fingers are short but you're THE BEST SO FAR, that I've listened to! Thank you! Will be watching again! I'm remembering chords!
ive had a guitar for years, never really learned or played it though. now that we're all stuck in quarantine nothing better than to finally learn how to properly play my guitar!
I'm more than a year into my guitar journey now. This was my first lesson. Thanks for getting me started! Still playing every day. My wife wants me to stop buying guitars though. Already five deep. LOL
At one point, I had close to 30 guitars and over a dozen amps. I've got 12 grandkids, and I want to give them all a nice guitar. So far, none of them have shown much interest. I think it's because music nowadays isn't guitar based... SAD! I stopped buying guitars. I have too many. I've spent too much for them, and they take up too much space! I've played for almost 50 years, and 30 years ago, I quit playing because I'd moved, and I needed repairs, and knew no one. Luckily, Ipods came out and I had tons of classic rock and old metal songs. Suddenly, I wanted to play them on guitar. I picked it back up and won't put it back down!
I know I'm just echoing what so many others have said on here, but you really do have a patient manner in teaching, and do a great job of explaining it all. I'm a 58 yr old woman trying to brush up on my very amateurish guitar skills, and am glad I stumbled upon you.😊👍
I've been playing for 34 yrs now and sorta take all this stuff for granted. It's just all natural now and I don't think about it any longer. I think you're a good instructor because the basic mechanics of playing guitar is so important in being a good guitarist long term. I taught myself back before UA-cam and internet and didn't have money for lessons. Just a few books and my ear for the most part. It's good all this is so easily accessible now.
It’s honestly super inspiring to see all the beginners in this comments section. I’ve been playing guitar for about 8 years and piano for 14 but how to teach an instrument to someone starting from zero is still a mystery to me. Playing music and teaching music are definitely two very different skills.
I'm a beginner and this tutorial was so helpful. I love the patience you have and that you explain small details that others might think are "unesecarry", but it really helps a lot. Thank you and I will 100% look on other tutorials. :))
Hello, I just watched about 20 videos re learning to the lay the guitar. Yours by far was the best! You clearly explained very clearly what the parts of the guitar were, the notes and what words were like strumming, fret, notes, etc. You clearly showed the lines, the names of the chords and how you do the chords. Perfectly done! Thank you. I will try your clear directions probably tomorrow. Thank you!
as a cello player, I love that you emphasize where the guitar should sit on your lap. to me, the frets make it easier to know where to place my left hand. the biggest struggle is where to place the instrument in general. I love that you take the time to express why certain positions aren't correct.
I just wanted to leave this comment for other people to read, I just bought my first ever electric guitar, with no experience whatsoever and this video was really helpful towards me. The way he spoke in the video is like calm, and like has patience, and overall explaining it in such a good way that i could understand instantly. I would also like to mention that this video is good for visual learners because he really showed and explained well on how to do certain things when youre first starting out on the guitar.
Me: *Casually says I kinda want to relearn guitar* Father: *Buys a really nice guitar for my birthday* Me: "Oh no... now I actually have to relearn guitar." Glad to have these really simple and easy lessons available!
Good on you for taking the initiative, and this video isn't a bad place to start, but nothing can replace the value of having a real life teacher who can watch you play and offer specific suggestions!
I have really bad focusing issues like my dad said and I quote"you have the attention span of a squirrel" and I made it through 21 minutes of the video without getting majorly distracted so I'm happy
I just can’t understand anything I can’t figure out what to do with my hands on the fret board my fingers hurt so bad when I try just holding my guitar I tried learning chords but I ended up crying because my fingers started to hurt so much
@@phant0mx277 I'm just starting too and one of the hardest things is simply making a good sounding note because you don't have tough/calloused finger tips. I saw one instructor suggest that when you're not actually trying to play (watching TV, riding in a car, sitting in a class, etc.), work on callousing your finger tips by pressing your opposing thumbnail into your finger tips. I've been doing this for about a week now every time I can remember to do it, and it has helped tremendously.
I’ve watched quite a few “how to” play guitar on UA-cam. I wish I’d come across yours sooner. Better late than never. This is the first one of yours I’ve watched, and I already feel more confident than I have before that I can achieve a level of playing that I’ll be happy with. Thank ya Mike.
You are such a great teacher, for me the fear of the unknown and the trepidation I've had prior to deciding on whether to get a guitar and take the plunge was erased when I watch this video, it is what I needed to take the first step so thank you so much!
ive picked up guitar on and off for the past year because no online lessons I could find stuck with me and i couldn't get access to an actual teacher. this is the first lesson that actually clicked for me and things make sense now. thank you so much for finally making things click for me, you're a wonderful teacher!
I like your teaching style. I've been playing guitar for about 20 years, but I was mostly self-taught in the days before UA-cam. My 8 year old son is getting a guitar for Christmas, and I want to give him a more deliberate, structured learning experience without breaking the bank on private lessons. I've been looking for UA-cam videos and playlists to get him started, and I think yours is the best "first lesson" I've found so far. Thank you!
I have three guitars, went for lessons years ago, almost managed Knocking on Heavens Door and then stopped practicing every day. I am going to give this a really good go this time. I am impressed with the smallest details being explained as I need to start completely from zero again. My b/f is in 4 bands and says I will never do it which makes me more determined!
Been playing for 35 years now. First song I ever learned I don't remember... I learned through musicians I loved by ear. I took lessons for a couple years but I didn't need it. I was a teen in the grunge era so I had lots of good teachers who taught me good music. I still play those songs. :)
This is probably the simplest and the most recommended video to a person who actually doesn't know anything about playing a guitar, I'm gonna stick to your channel right away!
I'm a shooter and shoot weekly, but the rona has caused a huge shortage of ammo. I ended up canceling my range membership since not shooting anymore, and freeing up money for a different hobby. I got recommended one of this guy's other vids, which got me interested in guitar. I subbed and was then recommended this video. I pulled out an crappy 40+ year old Lotus acoustic I've had laying around forever, and I ordered a tuner and stand. Upon tuning, the bridge popped off. I learnt how to replace the bridge and picked up some new strings for it. It was super hard to get any tones on it - likely the frets are all crap. Rather than spending time learning how to fix that, I purchased a Squier Strat starter pack. This is soooo much better and I'm excited now. I'm about 40 years old, so a bit late in life to make my fingers do these crazy things. However, I've been going over this video over and over for the past couple weeks exercising and practicing these basics. I poke around on the guitar while waiting for builds and deployments and stuff to complete at work. Once I get a little more comfortable switching E and A chords, I'm signing up for the classes on his site. The prices are super affordable. 99% retention rate includes me.
52 and this is the first time I've picked up a guitar. This was an awesome first introduction to a lesson. It really simplifies things for slow learners. It took me a week to really learn the E and A major but I can now do it. Still can't stretch my pinky finger out very well to do the first spider thing but it's getting better
I'm 30 and just picked up guitar for the first time in my life. I love music and finally want to build a life around it and turn my passion into something tangible. I teared up a bit after I got those who cords working back and forth. Great videos dude, and I'll probably pay for some of your lessons at some point.
Hey there! Not sure if this will find you 3 years after you posted this. But I have sitting a few minutes a day with my guitar and I recently found this video. I followed your exact steps, and the progress I made as well as playing along at the same time was substantial. Thank you so much!
Hi!! I’m 16 and I had a guitar laying around and decided that I genuinely want to learn how to play it and came across this video! :) thank you, this was LITERALLY my first electric-guitar lesson, I used to play ukulele so it wasn’t so hard to pick this up, specially because you’re good at explaining. thank youuuuu for this!!!
You're a hell of a teacher. I can do many things, but finally got strumming down. Also like how you're building a solid foundation for us with fretting and notes.
I have been playing the guitar since 1987, but job and lack of motivation has kept me from practicing for many many years now. I search these beginner videos in order to get started again. I am using this to get rid of bad habits in my guitar playing. Like a fresh start. Alternate picking and coordination are important to me right now. Thanks for the video.
I started out with this video about 7 months ago and I still do the exercise at 9:00 everyday. My only tip is try to keep your fingers as close to the strings as possible so you don't have the problem I do now which is the flying, out of control fingers. Believe me, it'll speed things up so much.
I dont have a guitar yet, but will here in a couple of months, but i am watching all the lessons anyways, then when i do get my guitar i will redo the lessons but i will know what to do and it will come easier to me. Thank you, i like the way you teach, teacher :-).
You are not only personable, but you have the best beginner video I could find. I rarely leave comments, and you get a comment, a thumbs up, and a big thank you. Cheers mate.
ive picked up guitar on and off for the past year because no online lessons I could find stuck with me and i couldn't get access to an actual teacher. this is the first lesson that actually clicked for me and things make sense now. thank you so much for finally making things click for me, you're a wonderful teacher!
Ive been playing for 11+ years now and this was fascinating! The way you hold your pick is totally alien to me, not in a bad way or anything. Its really cool to see how everyone has a different style. This is great stuff, I would have loved this when I was starting out! :)
What a legend man. Just bought my first electric guitar today but still waiting to get myself an amp. Once I do I can start practising live with you to these tutorials but besides that and playing, just watching this by itself without playing has been soo useful already so thanks man. Youre a leg!!
You got a stereo with a mic or aux input? Get an adaptor for your quarter inch jack and play through your stereo, Quick and cheap way to get yourself some volume.
If you want to learn how to play guitar from me, be sure to check out my entire lessons program at www.the-art-of-guitar.com. 👍🎸🎸
i loved this video! However i cant find any advice on how to only touch one string per finger with my fret hand, any advice anyone? ty!
Mike, you have one of the best guitar channels that exist on YT. No doubt about it!
I can list the reasons why.....but I dont wanna write a book inside of a comment! The people that get it....will just automatically agree.
I'm personally not a beginner, but when I was many years ago....I wish these style of videos were accessible.
Peace bro!
Quick question, I have my eye on a 300 dollar guitar and I really want to learn. I also currently have access to an acoustic guitar. Should I hold off on buying a guitar and keep going on acoustic for now?
Will probably consider since you mentioned stranger things and how you could play it with only these two chords, I could just about play this song for my girlfriend with just this one lesson! She’ll lose her mind. Thank you sir! Hahah
are you secretly related to markiplier
I am here because I have been wanting to play guitar for many years. My beautiful son was an ace guitar player but he never got around to teaching me. I know that it was due to his depression as he took his own life so, now, I’m learning for Guy, my son. When we are reunited then we can play together. I have had much communication from him & I know he is still playing his guitar. Thank you. I know I have chosen the right teacher here. Hi to all from Scotland
Me too. God speed friend.
❤️
so wholesome🥺
Definitely my thoughts are with you. My younger brother also took his own life last year, the pain will never go, but always remember him for the good times. That's how I cope❤❤❤
who is cutting onions here? 🥺
Good first lesson. A few things i’d add.
1. It’s going to take months of daily practice before you can play stuff that sounds good. Be patient. You have to be okay with the fact that you’re going to suck for quite a while. If you get discouraged easily or you’re used to instant gratification, you should choose a different hobby. If learning guitar was quick and easy then everyone would be a guitarist.
2. You’re not playing guitar just to learn an instrument. You’re playing guitar to learn how to play songs you love listening to and want to play yourself. You need that music connection to the instrument in order to have the desire it requires.
3. Keep playing, no matter how lacking your skills may be. It doesn’t matter if you have no clue what you’re doing. If you keep playing, you will only improve. You’ll have break throughs that will give you encouragement and excitement.
Thank you for leaving this valuable comment here. :)
If learning guitar was quick and easy, that would be really cool.
That's a realistic and encouraging comment. Thank you!
Thank you for this
That's great advice. I always like to tell people too, to get the guitar they wanna play. I think many people don't know where to start and buy a strat or something similar. That's cool if you really really want a strat but I always recommend at the very least getting a decent guitar. It's obviously not the equipment that makes you sound good, and you don't got to drop 800-1000 dollars on a guitar but at least a midrange price/quality guitar is worth it if you can afford it. A decent quality guitar is a great investment but again you don't gotta break the bank. But anyway, my point being though, if you want a flying V, get a flying V, if you want a Rhoads, an explorer, a warlock, ironbird, whatever it may be then by god go and get one. They say the instrument is an extension of the player, so don't think you need to get a "beginner guitar" or think you shouldn't get "this guitar" because you're a beginner, nah screw that, get the instrument you wanna play, one that feels the best in your hands, one that sounds the best to _you_ and is the instrument you wanna play. The reason is because you don't just want any guitar, you want something that you vibe with and enjoy playing. My first guitar was a Jackson King V, and I was so happy that it was the guitar that _I_ wanted and vibed with, still have it, still play it. If you love your instrument, you won't be able to keep your eyes and and hands off. It'll encourage you to keep picking it up and playing around with it, it'll encourage you to keep trying. That adds to the drive of wanting and continuing to play. That's my opinion anyway. Love your instrument, love what you do, keep at it and never give up.
Okay, now I just learned that this video is the #1 beginning electric guitar video on UA-cam. I honestly just shed a few tears. Thanks everyone for watching.
No problem man, glad you put out the content. It really does help 🤍🤟🏼🎸
It's because of me. You're welcome
Don’t you mean… shred a few tears🎸🤘🎸🤟
For a beginner is it better to get an electric or acoustic want to play blues and rockabilly thank you and great video
Because of you I want to buy a guitar
1 _ right hand basics / how to hold a pick
2 _ basic downstroke motion
3 _ fretting hand: hand posture / finger placement (finger curvature)
4 _ basic E major
4 _ some basic rhythm pattern
5 _ basic A major (switching back and forth with E)
So while labeled as "The first lesson", what this really is, is "First few lessons."
A couple of notes:
A. When fretting an open string chord, at first, students usually mute the open strings with a part of a finger. It takes time and some adjustments to fix it.
B. Regarding the 3rd point, when the next finger presses the string down, you want the previous finger(s) to release the pressure, so that the only finger that holds the strings down to the fretboard is the one you play (simply put, the right-most finger). Still, you wanna make sure, all the other fingers to the left of that one are still on the string (but not pressing it down to the board) or right above it. This releases the unnecessary tension in your hand. Also, when doing the 1-2-3-4 exercise on strings 2 to 6, make sure you don't mute the open string(s) below it. So, for example, if you fret the B string with your index finger on a given fret, make sure that the high E is free to vibrate (not muted by your index finger), if it's on the G string, then check both B and E and so on. This gonna help in later stages, when learning basic open-string chord shapes (see point A)
C. Instead of A major as the second chord choice, I'd suggest A minor. First, A minor is literally the same as E major: every finger just goes up a string, and that's it. Second, beginners usually have some trouble with the A major shape, that is, how to fit three fingers on the same fret. In my lessons, it's one of the mid-late shapes I give them, once they're familiar with easier shapes like E, Em, Am, and Dm..
And finally, while it seems more relaxing to place the guitar on your right leg while playing (I think, a part of it is psychological, as we associate the left leg placement with classical "boring" lessons and the right leg placement with cool and relaxed ones), I highly recommend getting used to the left leg option: first, it's better ergonomically, and second, if it's an electric guitar, chances are at some point you're gonna wanna play it standing up, and the guitar is gonna be about where it would be if placed on your left leg. Not critical, but it takes some adjustments otherwise. Nothing wrong with the right leg placement but leave it for an acoustic or at least for later phases (or switch back and forth, at the very least).
To anyone, who is about to start the journey, it takes time - be patient!
thank you this comment was very helpful .
I thought I had a better fret placement when resting the body on my left leg instead but ignored it since it seemed I should use my right. Your comment helped me make the change. Any tips to not accidentally partially mute strings below? I have small thin fingers and even when I have my finger seemingly perfectly perpendicular with the fret, it still touches the string ever so slightly.
Thanks ur comment is so useful
@@braqudark6217 It’s very difficult to give any valuable advice without actually observing the problem but I’ll try my best, anyway. I’d suggest going thru the “let the upper string(s) ring” exercise I mentioned in my original comment. Start somewhere in the middle of the fretboard - depending on the guitar, there’s a point on the fretboard/neck beyond which you start to adjust the left-hand posture (given, you are a right-handed player) to the neck dimension changes and the construction, overall: on a classical, it’s around 8th fret, on an acoustic and electric - a few frets higher; you get it - start somewhere in that region where your hand is most relaxed and go finger by finger - in 1-2-3-4 order, starting on the second string and checking the first string with every finger: put the first finger down on the second string - check the first string (well, in reality, both the fretted note on the second and the first string), put the second finger down - same, and so on. Once you’ve reached the end - pinky down, move down (literally, up) a string, and repeat the entire exercise, this time, of course, checking both B and E, as you go. Once you’ve reached the sixth string, move down a fret and start over. Before you start, make sure your hand is in the right posture: the fingers are curved with the fingertips pressing down the string, and the thumb is approximately at the middle of the back of the neck, somewhere behind the second finger. As you move, you gradually - and I mean gradually - adjust your hand: that is, the finger curvature gets deeper as you bring the (fore)arm a little forward (the movement comes from the elbow). Just remember, like many other things about playing the guitar, it’s all about very small movements. So make sure, while you’re going for bigger and bigger curvatures, the wrist isn’t too protruded forward: let it follow whatever the elbow/forearm dictates. Most importantly, don’t rush (and don’t cheat, of course). Good luck!)
you rock
This guy: Don't press too hard! You don't want to leave lines on your finger!
My teacher: If your fingers aren't bleeding you're not pressing hard enough
If you learn on electric, it takes a lot less pressure than accoustic. also, make sure it is set up properly. I had a pawnshop guitar that was set up wrong when I started and the fretboard was over a CM away from the strings at the soundhole. You couldn't hold a note on the 7th fret using vicegrips. It's really worth it to take it to an expert and have it set up properly. especially an accoustic.
@@Rnielsen572 oh i see, now i understand this hard to learn accoustic guitar even better ;-;
If you press too hard then you will put so much tension on the strings that you pull them out of tune (note too sharp.) If you try to get your finger as close to the fret as you can without being on top of the fret, you will not need to use as much pressure to keep the string from buzzing.
You have the same guitar teacher as Bryan Adams? 😂🤣
@@shino7785 I'm learning on acoustic if I don't leave lines on my fingers then my guitar wont make any sound xD
Almost 2 years ago I started learning guitar from this lesson. I remember how hard It was not even play a chord but to catch it. Today I can play a lot of my favorites solos and basically any song I want to play, even by ear. So if you're trying to learn guitar and struggle with It remember to not give up and being consistent, everything takes time. Eventually you will be surprised what progress have you made.
I just started learning and this was really good to read. I just bought a guitar because I really love one and would love to learn to play. It's my first time watching this video and seeing your comment is really good motivation
How old are you?
What was your process after this lesson?
what resources did you use?? did you hire an instructor? thanks:)
how much did u practice per day? only youtube?
Quarantine 2020 who else trying to come out with a new skill
me
Yessir my first guitar just came in today I already got 3 songs down and I wanna cut my fingers off
Me. Can't wait for my guitar to turn up
Yup
I’m right there with ya.
I'm 62, recently retired and learning the guitar was dream of mine. I bought and inexpensive Fender and picks and have been browsing beginner videos. Yours is very easy to follow and love your delivery. You're very easy to listen and learn from, will be checking back in. 👍
hope the learning is going good bro
“E”very “A”cid “D”ealer “G”ets “B”usted “E”ventually
I learned "E"ddie "A"te "D"ynamite "G"ood "B"ye "E"ddie
"E"lephants "A"nd "D"onkeys "G"row "B"ig "E"ars
Eat All Day Get Big Easy
Jessica O'Neal same
@@charliewilson8573 yes
About a week ago, I told my art teacher that I was giving up learning how to play my guitar because I just wasn't getting it and couldn't remember anything. She told me that she was learning an instrument as well and that on the last day of school, she would bring hers in and I would bring my guitar and we could show each other how far we had come. So here I am!!!!!! I'm terrible, but I'm trying. Mental illness makes motivation really difficult, but this video is a LOT less intimidating than the other "Beginners" videos. Thanks for that!!!!!!!!!!
This is amazing! Well done for sticking through it, learning an instrument is so hard at the beginning but it gets better!! :D Hope the last day of school performance between the two of you goes well!
advice from a fellow mentally ill person, rely on discipline rather than motivation, it will never fail you.
You will get it. It just takes time. If you practice consistently, you will see an improvement. You can do amazing things if you just don't give up.
how’s your progress been ?
The best part about mental illnesses, is that it is all in our head :) Which means we can choose not to have it.
my dad was literally played guitar, bass, keyboard, and sang and was in multiple bands and im sat here trying to learn guitar and realising im holding it upside down 12 mins in
Martha-🙃
Same with me. My dad always in bands and recording studios all his life. Pfffft, I'm so musically retarded it's shameful
LMAO, practice and habit building my friend 👍 STAY CONSISTENT
.... how were you holding it upside down 😟 I’m like, genuinely curious 😂
It's not upside down if you're left handed. 😄
Im 13 and practicing on my dads guitar so when ive saved up enough to buy an electric one, i already know how to play some basic things- and this was BY FAR the best video ive found on basic things. It teaches you a bunch but not too much, gives you time to process everything but its not slow, its efficient and super helpful if you’re just starting out. I was pretty demotivated to practice this week, but you knocked the spark right back into me! Thanks man!
Good luck little dude
I'm also turning 13 soon, and I might consider on getting a guitar. how have things been since this lesson?
i gust stared play guitar but its so cool playing
Same dude
i am a 61 year old beginner, i love the way you teach..excellent job, i have learned the E and A & few others, G,D with a book. i like your patience in teaching. great work thank you
LEAD BELLY jiom m
okamus panulirus why would you say that?
you rock dude
Super cool DJ. I'm 61 also, just picked up a guitar three weeks ago, challenging but I love it. Finally not just a listener but a participater in what I love.
@@okamuspanulirus9614 So are yours, sparky.
Finally, someone who understands how to communicate the small details that make the difference between success and failure. This is the best guitar lesson I have ever seen. Well done!
starting at 67 years of age,,thank you very much!
Hope you didn't give up!
How's it been going? My guitar comes in a few days
Just got my Fender Acoustic today. I’m the same age (67) as you so this should be interesting. Practiced my “D” chord for about 30 minutes today and my fingers are already sore. Looking forward to tomorrow though.👍
Cool I just bought a guitar a couple hours ago!! I am 53, never too late to learn. Good luck!!
Okay you got me beat, I thought starting after 50 might be pushing it.
Tips I found useful to be reminded of for us nonbeginners: Holding the pick 2:00. Use wrist not arm to strum 3:10. Tilt the pick 3:18. Forearm will hold a well-balenced guitar 3:45 Anchor index finger and keep all fingers curved when doing spider exercise. Pinkie should be perpendicular to the fretboard. Will add that doing all this slowly and mindfully even without right hand picking motion is a fantastic way to break into a new guitar regardless of how long you have played. Our hands need to develop muscle memory as each guitar will feel different in our hands.
Just a note of encouragement to those who might have smaller hands. Don't give up. Keep at it, your hands aren't as small as you think. Big hands have problems too. It just takes time for your fingers to learn to stretch and find the right grip. You'll be fine. Your fingers are going to get sore at first, but they WILL stop hurting after a while. Practice in short bursts, a few minutes at a time, then come back half an hour later. Little and often works best. I've been playing guitar for 50 years plus and dropped in to this lesson to see how beginners might be taught and I think this guy is doing it great.
People with small hands and arthritis (like myself) could play ukuleles and small scale guitars. I have a concert uke, a guitarlele and a squier mini jazz master. They're all great for me and my problematic hands.
Smaller electric guitars for younger kids are helpful as well!
PRS SE guitars are good for these issues, IMHO. check 'em out.
For everyone out there who just watched this tutorial. This is what a great educator looks like. One who conveys information without contempt for his audience. If you’ll notice he never talks down to the student observer, is patient, and has compassion for the journey, for which he understands all will now be part of. If some watching need to move ahead, video training allows that too. The idea is to keep students in a positive state. This artist/educator is more than qualified. Bravo! Good luck to all. Music, and music education, IS joy at any age.
5:30. Unfortunately “goodbye Eddie” took on a whole new meaning 2 weeks ago
R.I.P Eddie van halen
Too true, sadly.
Thats why I use Edith instead of Eddie.
Did you really have to fucking say it
o O f
What the fuck man , I literally just found out right now. I'm fucking pissed. R.I.P Eddie , fucking legend and one of kind we will never see again in our lifetime.
I've taught 50 or 60 lessons per week for the last 30 years or so, and played 3 or 4 gigs a week as well. This is a top notch lesson. Good job. That's kinda how I do it but I will be adding a few things from this. I'm always watching and learning how to better help my students. Thanks.
The ad for this video was saying don’t learn guitar on UA-cam
The irony! Hehe.
Same
Freaking I'm trying to hide from fender play
every time I see that ad I dislike it.
Excellent control of court.
I think his students kept coming baack just because he's such a nice guy lol
You think that, until you see one of my liveStreams. haha
Ha, so true.
6:48 When you get out of your car but leave your lights on
Omg lol that's great
Or the key in the ignition.
Do you still have to turn your lights on and off?
Next you'll tell us you've got an ashtray and cig lighter. 😊
40 years old here and just picked up the guitar for the first time. going through this video just made me all the more amped to learn more!
Thank you for the free tuning lesson on you site also. Was a great help figuring out what I was doing wrong.
As an amateur key board player and trainer of adult classes for many years, I have to say that your style of teaching is really excellent. You use a pace that makes everything easy to duplicate and understand. I am just starting to learn the guitar and this lesson really helped me a lot.
Thanks James, it's decades of teaching the same lesson again and again. It's nice to see it connect with so many people.
Once you get to the F chord you'll see why Eddie ate dynamite.
lmao I cried laughing when i saw this
Lol
LOLSflint bar chords=finger death
100% can confirm
Bar chords are hard at the start but they get very easy very quickly
I needed this.
50 years ago.
Go ahead !
I see why you have a 98 percent success rate. I've taken lessons a bit as a kid and decided to pick it up again. I never knew I was holding the pick wrong before. Just with these two chords you've made me feel so confident in the process. I'll definitely be checking out your website to further my education with you.
Thank you
Thanks everyone for making this the most viewed video on my channel. Can't believe I can go from teaching a handful of people in one city to reaching over 5 million students through this lesson.
thank you so much for this video!! it was rly rly helpful. my friend group and I are all starting playing the guitar so I'm surely gonna recommend this video to them
Just bought my first guitar and really eager to get learning. Watched a few videos and yours seems to be the easiest to follow, really appreciate it!
Thank you! I appreciate it! I've been wanting to learn how to play guitar for years. Now at age 31, I'm ready to do it 🎸
My first string wouldn't make noise when I had my finger on it. I tried as little pressure to putting more on it. It makes like a Mario died noise from Nintendo. Is that bad?
When i press down on the strings it makes no noise, at least nothing like yours, why is that?
My dad has an electric guitar in his basement that he never learned how to play and now that we’re in quarantine I’m going to try to play it lol
Jackiemmm nice
Jackiemmm i’ve had an electric guitar since i was 11 and 4 years later i’m now finally trying to learn bc of quarantine haha
Definitely. Stick to it. The first six months will be a bit rough but after that, it'll start flowing and you'll be having a blast. I used to record a rhythm on tape and play some notes (lead guitar) while my tape was playing. A lot of fun and you can do it by yourself.
Good luck enjoy the hobby!
Same here just picked it up from my dads basement xd
im 16 and i got my first guitar yesterday, it’s my birthday gift and this is so far the most helpful video i could find. tysm!! you’re a good teacher, when i went to music school, the teachers i had there weren’t that great. i know this is kind of an old video but once again, thank you for helpong me and all the other kids out there who want to learn as well, you’re an example of a great teacher!!
Omg I got one for my 16th birthday too! Mines on the 9th! Good luck on your guitar playing! 🎸
not my bday but i also got a guitar today
I also got a guitar for my 16th last month good luck
Funny, I got mine for my 13th. 😂
This video not old lol
Thank you! I just ordered an acoustic guitar. I'm 71-years-old, and I want to play the guitar. After watching this video I think I can!
How’s it going? 🙂
hello! how is your journey with the guitar after 2 months? i hope it's going well for you.
Go Gene!!
You most certainly can. Many great tunes that are absolutely simple and enjoyable.
Keep at it don't give up. They make little covers for your fingertips if you need them. Once you get the calluses built up, it makes it a lot easier. A bowl of water and ice helps to and or nylon strings.
I am 81 years old and for some reason, I have always wanted to play the guitar. What stopped me was who was the person teaching it. There are all kinds of apps learning how to play but some are not geared for people like me . At my age, I am slower than most and memory is not as it used to be. I came across this series or rather the book but the videos are quite nice. Using both will help. I wanted to have a means to enjoy playing but take my time in learning it. Learning how to play, will ease some of the stress in life that I face. This all started when I went to a thrift store and saw a real bargain in a guitar and bought it.
Good for you! I'm a relative baby at just shy of 60, but looking forward to it too!
How’s it going?
@@robban556 No response in a month, RIP :(
you can do it, Mel
@@sandracwong3863 yea :(
Dude I love how you break everything down and put it all in laymen’s terms. Amazing. It’s all logic.
I bought my guitar today! I have a terminal illness and always wanted to learn how to play the guitar. After my diagnosis, I decided, why not? I am excited about learning.
Shitttt
Good luck my guy
Rock on
GOD IS STILL IN THE MIRACLE BUSINESS. I don't want to share my testimony because it's behind me and I'm fully healed. Go find an Apostolic Church. Get Baptised in Jesus name Acts 2:38,39 Have them.all lay hands and pray over you anointing you HEALING. I don't know you but God does and I promise also to pray for you when I go to Alter. God can heal anything . He is ALMIGHTY !!!!! ALLLLLLLLL
ad : STOP WAIT A MINUTE THIS WILL CHANGE EVERYTHING, DO YOU KNOW WHY PEOPLE ALWAYS SAY THEY WANT TO PLAY GUITAR BUT ONLY SOME CAN, ITS BECAUSE OF WANNABE GUITAR TEACHERS ON UA-cam
me : *watches a 30 minute yt video* this is so helpful
lollll that guitar tricks ad
Facts
Thank you it was a great video I just purchased a guitar and I am 68 it is never to late to learn something new.
Well done Michael.
Inspiring!
I’m 58. Just ordered a guitar yesterday. Can’t wait.
Yass
Michael DeNicola same here, I'm just starting.
Ive never had lessons, ive been self taught for about 2 years and honestly, the effort is 100% worth it
that motivated me sm ty
same here just started today, may check in after a few months/weeks/years ?
Man you should give lessons ,I'd watch 🤣
@@mikeozy8639 how are you doing after a week
@@mikeozy8639 how’s it going?
About 3 years ago I first saw this video. I had already been playing for about a month and had learned a couple songs but even then I remember it being very informative and helpful.
Crazy to think that I’ve been watching your videos for 3 years now, and it’s even crazier just to think about how much your Metallica videos influenced me. While I’m currently dealing with wrist tendonitis from playing so much, I will always remember first stumbling upon this video as a newbie. Thanks so much Mike, you and plenty of other guitar channels here on UA-cam helped me fall in love with the guitar and music in general :)
Wow, I'm really impressed with this guys teaching method. Patient and little tips and tricks that other teachers forget about because they can't remember being a beginner.
Yes, this is good teaching that really helps a LOT.
hey chomp im assuming here you play. basically im 14 and im trying to start learning guitar, i have an acoustic guitar at the moment and im trying to save up or ask for an electric guitar for christmas. I was just wondering if i was to start playing, should i start now and get to grips with my acoustic, and if so should i try and seek lessons or maybe look for a course like the one this guy is offering. if you have any tips or ideas please let me know
@@lewis8403 don't listen to drizz, I suggest starting with the one you have to get an idea, and if you can get in person classes, if you cant this guy is a really good teacher
@@drizzt169if you're referring to the chomp thing, chomp's name is chomp
First ever guitar lesson, thank you!! Definitely gonna be a returning student 😄
Started today first time ever held a guitar. *Goal playing one entire song.
@Dusty Luck ooh yes please, recommendations for metal
This man knows how how to teach! Follow him you will succeed with patience.
@Dusty Luck tha first song im trying to play is aerials and spiders by system of a down and sum mudvayne songs
First lesson left hander hope I'm doing it right wish I had you in the living rm guiding me lol
I randomly wanted to learn how to play guitar
I don’t even have a guitar yet
Samee
Ill get mine in a month
Honeslty same
Mine comes in a month too 7^7
Me too I'm getting mine next week
Finally, a video that is truly aimed at the novice which is NOT overwhelming and with great - easy to understand communication.
Thank you for being a fantastic teacher, look forward to watching your other videos!
Hello everyone who just got guitars for Christmas in 2020. I hope this video makes all your wildest dreams come true. -Napoleon Dynamite 🎸👍🤣👍❤️
this really did help me a lot seeing how I got a guitar for Christmas thx
Ayyyyy
UwU
@@wesleyjumps l0
This is harder than the ukulele! And harder than I thought!
Just this little “okay?” At the end of the sentences is so comforting!!! Thanks for the video! It’s super helpful!!
My first lesson method is to have them give me a song they want to learn beforehand so I can immediately teach them a simplified version of what they actually want to do with the instrument. Feeling the satisfaction of hearing your favorite song come out of your fingertips is magical and gets people excited to continue more than anything else I’ve tried. I just remember how difficult it was to practice before having any amount of fun and I want to get them through that as quickly as possible so even if they do give up, at least they might remember their favorite song in case inspiration comes back.
This method works until they ask you to teach them either the iCarly theme song, or the Five Nights at Freddy's song
@@sheeshert 😭
yeah, i just learned the fingerings and notes, and then i went straight into playing my ukulele, playing the songs i wanted, im pretty much self taught.
This is honestly what helped me most in learning guitar. Whenever I felt frustrated with whatever I chose to be my daily exercise I just went back to what I knew and loved. Kept my motivation levels up.
Yeah, sometimes that’s helpful. Sometimes it’s sets them up for frustration right at the start.
So glad I found this!! I played a bit in High School back in 1983 and had a punk band. Now I'm 55 and want to play again and 'barley' remember anything. Bought a used IBENEZ EX350 and a used MARSHALL MG30 DFX amp and so I'm starting off from square one. I needed this video!! Thank you!!
Why am I watching this so attentively under my blanket and I don't even own a guitar? 🤦🏾♂️
I feel you 😂
Update: just got my first guitar :)
@@abdulwaheedrashid Me too how's it going for you
@@abdulwaheedrashid hey man glad to hear that,if u need some additional tips feel free to ask me,i m beginner self tought guitarist
@@wholegroinbread593 need any additional tips
Here are a couple of simple tricks that helped me with my form: 1) The number one reason people slouch over their guitars is to see what they're doing (even though this makes it harder to keep your left hand in a good playing position). Practicing in front of a mirror allows you to be able to see exactly where your hands are, while maintaining good posture. 2) When learning new chord shapes, I would pluck each successive string from the low E to the high E, so that I could identify any string I was accidentally muffling and make the necessary adjustments. I didn't strum until I got every string to ring true. That made it relatively easy (and fast) to develop good left-hand form.
Any advice on the muffling thing? I feel like most of the time my chords sound muffled especially with my third finger. I always have to readjust it in order to get rid of that buzz. It upsets me a lot, really, because my finger seem to hurt so much in order to get the sound right. It's so frustrating. Any ideas on how to keep the pain to a minimum? Any answer would be greatly appreciated.
@@singingmyblue8000 slow down alot, focus on cleanness, and over a few days you will have developed a callus. there really is no other way sadly
@@singingmyblue8000 since you asked... on muffling🥵 - look at your fingers; chances are you aren't pressing down close enough to the fret OR, you may be touching the string with the next finger. Try doing warm ups, flexing your fingers, try to lift your fingers from a table surface individually, and stretching your reach (4 frets to 5). Your fingers will also callus up, then gradually adjust to numb the pain. Heat pad and ice help too.😎 Pace yourself and avoid getting "trigger finger".
@@singingmyblue8000
First off, is you guitar set up correctly? Many times, a new guitar right out is the box isn’t right. The string height might even be too high. It can’t hurt to take it to a guitar service center and have it checked and adjusted if you haven’t yet. I bought a bass once and darn near killed myself trying to fret it until I took it in and got a proper set up. After that, it was a lot more comfortable to play.
@@singingmyblue8000 Are you on acoustic or electric, cause that makes a big difference in how easy it is to set up. If it's electric I can actually throw some _very_ thorough videos your way that go through it step by step, cause while it feels intimidating it's extremely nice to learn early, when you realize how it's not actually that hard (as opposed to spending a lot of money on a guitar tech that may or may not even do a good job)
This video is a couple years old, so I am not sure you will see this. I greatly appreciate this first lesson. I'm revisiting the acoustic guitar after decades. After one week with your lesson, I am getting better at the spider walks and the intro chords. Feels great!
Love hearing it. Thanks for the message. :)
Thanks Markiplier
😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂
🤣
I was thinking the same thing
lmaooo
my exact thought
I have had my guitar for 20 years now, I don't lie! And I haven't learned a thing because I am the type of person who needs to know how to do everything right away, I have no patience for the long time it will take to learn. HOWEVER, it is my New Year's Resolution to teach myself how to play. I did teach myself calculus and physics so....I just need to realize things take time...
:)
I understand and i sympathize with you, we have that in common but I'm going for it this year. made my mind up and want to learn and play
@@roger6899 r u roger taylor
I don't recommend it cuz you will do bad habits and be stuck with them. Take lessons for 3 months and then go on your own. It's worth it. Too much to get into
Awesome Cher! You’re gonna rock :) enjoy the journey they joy of guitar is in learning. There are two types of guitar players those that are learning and those that don’t play at all.
I'm in the EXACT same boat!!! I practiced today for the first time literally. I'm hooked!
Ok my Dad was a drummer singer guitarist. He has passed away now. He got me a Fender Telecaster, for my 21St bd. I sold it to my best mate for his sons 21st., years ago. It went to the perfect home. I became a house dj. I have now bought a squire tele. And this video has inspired me to learn again. Thanks so much. My dad would love to see me do this. :)
Did you ever try to track your guitar down?
At 34, almost 35, I'm wanting to get a new hobby. I have been looking at guitars even though my musical childhood was miserable. I'm probably the dumbest person when it comes to instruments but I need something to take my mind off of things. As a combat vet, stuff gets rough sometimes and your video seems to go at a pace that I can easily keep up with. I will most likely get a guitar in the near future because of your easy to follow videos. Thanks a bunch.
Brandon Pierce thank you for your service
Literally the same age, just bought a guitar... hopefully 16 years after the first try, i'm mature enough to take it seriously lol.
All I want is to learn the songs from the 1980s transformers movie... that's it... if I could perform those in public I could die a happy man.
Also - as the other guy said... thanks for your service! (we're probably not in the same country, and I don't value the reasons our military's truly have to go to war... but I feel the earned respect is species based not nation based. Thank you for your intent to keep your kin safe. Thank you for being a good human)
God bless you, thank you for your service you kept us safe and protected freedom. You are a true hero!
Do it... three chords gets you knocking on heavens door... and a hundred others...
I'm in the exact same boat as you, brother. Hang in there and stick with it
I’m 77 and you are the best. No hype like the rest , just a slow basic knowledge. You have the gift to teach. Keeping it fun without being bombarded with too much all at once. 👍
My fingers are too sore to continue just a little over half in, BUT I'm NOT giving up! Used to play when I was about 10 yrs old, now 65! And my fingers are short but you're THE BEST SO FAR, that I've listened to!
Thank you! Will be watching again! I'm remembering chords!
ive had a guitar for years, never really learned or played it though. now that we're all stuck in quarantine nothing better than to finally learn how to properly play my guitar!
I'm more than a year into my guitar journey now. This was my first lesson. Thanks for getting me started! Still playing every day. My wife wants me to stop buying guitars though. Already five deep. LOL
hey bro hows the journey so far?! really curious how your progression is. do you play any songs?
At one point, I had close to 30 guitars and over a dozen amps.
I've got 12 grandkids, and I want to give them all a nice guitar. So far, none of them have shown much interest. I think it's because music nowadays isn't guitar based... SAD!
I stopped buying guitars. I have too many. I've spent too much for them, and they take up too much space! I've played for almost 50 years, and 30 years ago, I quit playing because I'd moved, and I needed repairs, and knew no one. Luckily, Ipods came out and I had tons of classic rock and old metal songs. Suddenly, I wanted to play them on guitar. I picked it back up and won't put it back down!
@@davidstokes4630 wish i was one your grandkids im so interested in learning how to play an electric guitar. You seem so cool!!
I know I'm just echoing what so many others have said on here, but you really do have a patient manner in teaching, and do a great job of explaining it all. I'm a 58 yr old woman trying to brush up on my very amateurish guitar skills, and am glad I stumbled upon you.😊👍
I've been playing for 34 yrs now and sorta take all this stuff for granted. It's just all natural now and I don't think about it any longer. I think you're a good instructor because the basic mechanics of playing guitar is so important in being a good guitarist long term. I taught myself back before UA-cam and internet and didn't have money for lessons. Just a few books and my ear for the most part. It's good all this is so easily accessible now.
Right on man. It ain't 1985 anymore, that's for sure. That's when I started as a kid.
It’s honestly super inspiring to see all the beginners in this comments section. I’ve been playing guitar for about 8 years and piano for 14 but how to teach an instrument to someone starting from zero is still a mystery to me. Playing music and teaching music are definitely two very different skills.
Him: Repeat after me!
Me: Im ready!
Him:
Plays Stairway To Heaven
Me:
Plays Highway To Hell
LOL!
yo jimmy why are u here 😂
Lolllllll 😂😂
So you're better than him 😂
Lmao
I'm a beginner and this tutorial was so helpful. I love the patience you have and that you explain small details that others might think are "unesecarry", but it really helps a lot. Thank you and I will 100% look on other tutorials. :))
I think you have a 99% success rate because you are a good teacher and keep it interesting. Thank you.
Hello, I just watched about 20 videos re learning to the lay the guitar. Yours by far was the best! You clearly explained very clearly what the parts of the guitar were, the notes and what words were like strumming, fret, notes, etc. You clearly showed the lines, the names of the chords and how you do the chords. Perfectly done! Thank you. I will try your clear directions probably tomorrow. Thank you!
25 years of teaching!
as a cello player, I love that you emphasize where the guitar should sit on your lap. to me, the frets make it easier to know where to place my left hand. the biggest struggle is where to place the instrument in general. I love that you take the time to express why certain positions aren't correct.
I just wanted to leave this comment for other people to read, I just bought my first ever electric guitar, with no experience whatsoever and this video was really helpful towards me. The way he spoke in the video is like calm, and like has patience, and overall explaining it in such a good way that i could understand instantly. I would also like to mention that this video is good for visual learners because he really showed and explained well on how to do certain things when youre first starting out on the guitar.
Ik this is 6 months late but I love your pfp
Me: *Casually says I kinda want to relearn guitar*
Father: *Buys a really nice guitar for my birthday*
Me: "Oh no... now I actually have to relearn guitar."
Glad to have these really simple and easy lessons available!
They may seem "simple" on the surface but keep going and you'll see it's much more.
Same thing
@@yyokage nice pfp. The walking dead made me decide to buy a guitar, now I'm here lol.
Good on you for taking the initiative, and this video isn't a bad place to start, but nothing can replace the value of having a real life teacher who can watch you play and offer specific suggestions!
I have really bad focusing issues like my dad said and I quote"you have the attention span of a squirrel" and I made it through 21 minutes of the video without getting majorly distracted so I'm happy
I just can’t understand anything I can’t figure out what to do with my hands on the fret board my fingers hurt so bad when I try just holding my guitar I tried learning chords but I ended up crying because my fingers started to hurt so much
@@phant0mx277 I'm just starting too and one of the hardest things is simply making a good sounding note because you don't have tough/calloused finger tips. I saw one instructor suggest that when you're not actually trying to play (watching TV, riding in a car, sitting in a class, etc.), work on callousing your finger tips by pressing your opposing thumbnail into your finger tips. I've been doing this for about a week now every time I can remember to do it, and it has helped tremendously.
You're not the only one. I'm reading this comment while the lessons going on.
I’m 40 this year, always wanted to learn. I bought myself a guitar today and found this really helpful, thanks
It's been ten months. How ya doing?
I’ve watched quite a few “how to” play guitar on UA-cam. I wish I’d come across yours sooner. Better late than never. This is the first one of yours I’ve watched, and I already feel more confident than I have before that I can achieve a level of playing that I’ll be happy with. Thank ya Mike.
What kid of guitar are you using
What kind of guitar is that
@@jefffigol2570 which one
this was so good! im not even a beginner.. but being self taught, there's so much stuff in here that was very clarifying and helpful! graciasss
You are such a great teacher, for me the fear of the unknown and the trepidation I've had prior to deciding on whether to get a guitar and take the plunge was erased when I watch this video, it is what I needed to take the first step so thank you so much!
ive picked up guitar on and off for the past year because no online lessons I could find stuck with me and i couldn't get access to an actual teacher. this is the first lesson that actually clicked for me and things make sense now. thank you so much for finally making things click for me, you're a wonderful teacher!
I like your teaching style. I've been playing guitar for about 20 years, but I was mostly self-taught in the days before UA-cam. My 8 year old son is getting a guitar for Christmas, and I want to give him a more deliberate, structured learning experience without breaking the bank on private lessons. I've been looking for UA-cam videos and playlists to get him started, and I think yours is the best "first lesson" I've found so far. Thank you!
I have three guitars, went for lessons years ago, almost managed Knocking on Heavens Door and then stopped practicing every day. I am going to give this a really good go this time. I am impressed with the smallest details being explained as I need to start completely from zero again. My b/f is in 4 bands and says I will never do it which makes me more determined!
Wow, what a supportive boyfriend.
How’s it going?
Been playing for 35 years now. First song I ever learned I don't remember... I learned through musicians I loved by ear. I took lessons for a couple years but I didn't need it. I was a teen in the grunge era so I had lots of good teachers who taught me good music. I still play those songs. :)
Best guitar lesson for beginners on UA-cam. Everyone else just asks you to play a chord which never sounds right and moves along. Thank!
This is probably the simplest and the most recommended video to a person who actually doesn't know anything about playing a guitar, I'm gonna stick to your channel right away!
me too i enjoyed the vid
I'm a shooter and shoot weekly, but the rona has caused a huge shortage of ammo. I ended up canceling my range membership since not shooting anymore, and freeing up money for a different hobby. I got recommended one of this guy's other vids, which got me interested in guitar. I subbed and was then recommended this video.
I pulled out an crappy 40+ year old Lotus acoustic I've had laying around forever, and I ordered a tuner and stand. Upon tuning, the bridge popped off. I learnt how to replace the bridge and picked up some new strings for it. It was super hard to get any tones on it - likely the frets are all crap.
Rather than spending time learning how to fix that, I purchased a Squier Strat starter pack. This is soooo much better and I'm excited now. I'm about 40 years old, so a bit late in life to make my fingers do these crazy things. However, I've been going over this video over and over for the past couple weeks exercising and practicing these basics.
I poke around on the guitar while waiting for builds and deployments and stuff to complete at work. Once I get a little more comfortable switching E and A chords, I'm signing up for the classes on his site. The prices are super affordable. 99% retention rate includes me.
It really is so much harder to break a bad habit than it is to never develop one. This I know the hard way.
2:07 he caught us offguard
Brandon Marco Ferrer 👌🏾
👌🏼
U 're a genius ! U killed me 🤣👌🏼
👌
What if he just ended it there? lmao
Thank you, Markiplier
LMAO XDD
This is so true lmao
LMAOOOO sameeee
What i was thinking the whole time
LMFAOOOO
52 and this is the first time I've picked up a guitar. This was an awesome first introduction to a lesson. It really simplifies things for slow learners. It took me a week to really learn the E and A major but I can now do it. Still can't stretch my pinky finger out very well to do the first spider thing but it's getting better
You are a fantastic teacher. I am 46 and playing since the 80s. I still love watching you teach
I'm 30 and just picked up guitar for the first time in my life. I love music and finally want to build a life around it and turn my passion into something tangible.
I teared up a bit after I got those who cords working back and forth.
Great videos dude, and I'll probably pay for some of your lessons at some point.
Hey there! Not sure if this will find you 3 years after you posted this. But I have sitting a few minutes a day with my guitar and I recently found this video. I followed your exact steps, and the progress I made as well as playing along at the same time was substantial. Thank you so much!
Hi!! I’m 16 and I had a guitar laying around and decided that I genuinely want to learn how to play it and came across this video! :) thank you, this was LITERALLY my first electric-guitar lesson, I used to play ukulele so it wasn’t so hard to pick this up, specially because you’re good at explaining. thank youuuuu for this!!!
W h a t...... S A M E
Chords start at 14:00 (note to self)
You're a hell of a teacher. I can do many things, but finally got strumming down. Also like how you're building a solid foundation for us with fretting and notes.
I have been playing the guitar since 1987, but job and lack of motivation has kept me from practicing for many many years now. I search these beginner videos in order to get started again.
I am using this to get rid of bad habits in my guitar playing. Like a fresh start. Alternate picking and coordination are important to me right now.
Thanks for the video.
Perfect. I wish I had this same introduction to the guitar when I was starting out. You are a patient man. Thank you.
I started out with this video about 7 months ago and I still do the exercise at 9:00 everyday. My only tip is try to keep your fingers as close to the strings as possible so you don't have the problem I do now which is the flying, out of control fingers. Believe me, it'll speed things up so much.
Just got a guitar for my birthday, 10 minutes after getting it I went on UA-cam and searched up guitar lessons for beginners. Thank you! 💗💗
My acoustic guitar comes in 4 days. Can’t wait! I’m turning 29 so your never to old to learn to play
I dont have a guitar yet, but will here in a couple of months, but i am watching all the lessons anyways, then when i do get my guitar i will redo the lessons but i will know what to do and it will come easier to me. Thank you, i like the way you teach, teacher :-).
You are not only personable, but you have the best beginner video I could find. I rarely leave comments, and you get a comment, a thumbs up, and a big thank you. Cheers mate.
ive picked up guitar on and off for the past year because no online lessons I could find stuck with me and i couldn't get access to an actual teacher. this is the first lesson that actually clicked for me and things make sense now. thank you so much for finally making things click for me, you're a wonderful teacher!
Ive been playing for 11+ years now and this was fascinating! The way you hold your pick is totally alien to me, not in a bad way or anything. Its really cool to see how everyone has a different style. This is great stuff, I would have loved this when I was starting out! :)
What a legend man. Just bought my first electric guitar today but still waiting to get myself an amp. Once I do I can start practising live with you to these tutorials but besides that and playing, just watching this by itself without playing has been soo useful already so thanks man. Youre a leg!!
You got a stereo with a mic or aux input?
Get an adaptor for your quarter inch jack and play through your stereo,
Quick and cheap way to get yourself some volume.
I had a mini practice amp when I got my first electric. Super cheap and was fine just to get me started.
Thanks!