How to choose your first guitar

Good news to start with: you don't have to buy anything for your first lesson. In our lessons you play our guitar, so you can find out what suits you before you spend any money. When the time comes for your own, here's what to look for.

Classical, acoustic or electric?

• A classical guitar has nylon strings, which are softer on the fingers, and a wider neck. It's a common choice for children and for anyone who likes a calmer, warmer sound.
• An acoustic guitar has steel strings. It's louder and brighter, great for accompanying songs, but the strings are harder so your fingers hurt more at first.
• An electric guitar has a slimmer neck and thinner strings, so they're easier to press down. It needs an amplifier, and it's the natural choice if you want to play rock.

The simplest rule: choose the guitar that the music you love is played on. Motivation matters more than which type is "correct" for a beginner.

Which guitar size for a child?

Guitars come in reduced sizes. As a rough guide, a 1/2 size suits children of about 6 to 9, a 3/4 size children of 8 to 12, and full size (4/4) those over 12 and adults. Age is only a guide – it's best for the child to hold the guitar and check they can reach the first fret without straining.

What to check before you buy

• String height above the neck. If the strings sit too high, they're hard to press and playing quickly becomes frustrating.
• Whether it stays in tune. A guitar that keeps going out of tune makes it harder to train your ear.
• A straight neck and smooth frets. Run your hand along the edge of the neck – the frets shouldn't stick out.
• Price. A first guitar doesn't need to be expensive, but the very cheapest ones often have exactly the problems above.

What else you need with the guitar

A tuner (or a phone app), a few picks, a spare set of strings and a bag. For an electric guitar you'll also need an amplifier and a cable, and a strap is useful if you want to play standing up.

Not sure what to choose? Come to a lesson, try a guitar and ask – we'll gladly help. See guitar lessons for beginners or get in touch.

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