Going to learn guitar. Acoustic or Classical?

[markjrubin]

I've wanted to learn how to play guitar for a long time now and I'm debating between learning the acoustic or classical guitars. From what I've heard, some of the best guitarists are classically trained and that classical is easier to learn on (nylon strings vs. metal). On the other hand, I have five fingers. HAHAHA! I don't have a singing voice, but would love to be able to back somebody up strumming though too. Any thoughts? What are your experiences?

 

[Harvey]

First, the classical guitar is an acoustic guitar. If the distinction is between metal (bronze - steel) string vs. nylon, why not learn both. The music and the techniques are different, and each will teach you different things about the instrument.

If you are going to start just one, pick the one that is suited for the music that interests you most. You'll be more motivated to stay with it when you get into playing what you want to hear.

The most important thing is to get a decent instrument. If you have a friend who plays the kind of guitar you choose, have him/her help you pick it out. An instrument has to have good action and tonality (playing in tune up and down the neck), or it won't give you the proper feedback and enjoyment, no matter how well you master the mechanical techniques.

Finally, regarding the issue of steel vs nylon, get over it. We all had to toughen our finger tips to play steel strings, but all the guitar players before you are proof that it happens.

Good luck.

 

[loosliptcomptrola]

I started learning on an electric. I got an acoustic shortly after but couldn't play it well because the strings were so thick and course. It would always grind up my fingers back then. Seven years later I like the sound of my acoustic and would prefer the sound out of an acoustic than any other style of guitar. Nylon string guitars are very good for learning but unless your gonna be some classic playing, powdered wig guitarist. I just don't like the sound from nylon strings. I think maybe you should go play the guitars first and see what suits you. Just beware the learning and callousing of playing acoustic steel string takes quite a long time.

 

[markjrubin]

I do understand the the classical guitar is an acoustic guitar. Thank you. I'm also interested in the music that I can play using either instruments.

Mark

P.S. Thank you for your lengthy response.

 

[Mucman]

It depends on the music I think. If you just like to strum chords to your favorite tunes then stick which an acoustic. Another benefit is that it will toughen up your fingers. I love playing my classical because some of my favorite Rush songs have used it. I love the sound of nylon strings and I like the classical style of play.

 

[Opusone]

Tonality??? Don't you mean intonation??? Tone is subjective... though crap is crap no matter how you flavor it.

 

[markjrubin]

Which Rush songs?

 

[AdamDuritz99]

aww,another guitar player. it's a great hobby. and so fun. for beginers don't worry too much about classical or accoustic. just go to a shop try some guitars out and pic the one you like best. remember to treasure that guitar b/c its the one you learned on.


peace
sean

 

[Harvey]

Mark -- I both finger pick and flat pick on steel string acoustics, and I use both on electric. A lot of it carries over when I play on nylon strings, but the style and the sound of what comes naturally is different on the two. Since you say you're interested in all of it, get both if you can.

Opusone -- << Don't you mean intonation? >>

Yep. I was just in a hurry to write that.

 

[markjrubin]

<< Mark Since you say you're interested in all of it, get both if you can.
>>


I would but I'm going from a full time job as a web developer to go get a master's degree, so I'll be a poor student.

 

[yellowperil]

For strumming a steel-string would be better, for fingerpicking a classical would be better (IMO).

 

[RaoulDuke]

<< Which Rush songs? >>



rush kicks ass man, we need a rush thread going...


actually geddy lee makes me want to slash my eyes out and stick purple squirrel hair in my esphogus and then vomit rat blood.

 

[damocles]

Either really

I started on classical and learned a great deal about music theory etc. However i found it boring and quickly migrated to electric guitar. Endless hours of scales and finger picking really made me lose interest.

If i was doing it all again i would have started on a metal strung acoustic guitar. It is less demanding at first and you can dive in more quickly. Mastering even a few basic chords will keep you amused for hours.

 

[markjrubin]

<< actually geddy lee makes me want to slash my eyes out and stick purple squirrel hair in my esphogus and then vomit rat blood. >>



and michael jackson is a freak, but booyyyyy can he sing

 

[Mucman]

LOL, the first Rush song I learned was Rivendell. I played Broon's Bane/The Trees for a recital once . Rush is what made me actually want to be good at guitar. I don't have time to practice like I did in high school but I am happy that I can do more than just Michael Row the Boat Ashore

 

[JediKnut]

What's your budget like? That makes a big difference! I wouldn't suggest going for 2 guitars at a time as it would be pretty expensive! Spend a bit on the first guitar... It's always an investment. Just take care of it like your child &amp; it should last you years... ON the other hand, don't start off with something TOO expensive!

Why don't you tell us the kind of music you listen to &amp; intend to play? That'd make it a lot easier to choose what to go for!

I'd never suggest someone start off learning on an Electric though! I read someone on this thread did... Not a good idea!

Are you going to be learning on your own through books &amp; stuff, from a friend, or from a proper teacher?