Guitars and Ukuleles: Starter's Guide

baton rouge guitar lessonsSo you’ve always wanted to play guitar, but don’t know how to get your hands on an instrument?

We asked Baton Rouge Conservatory’s guitar teacher, Eric Liffmann, for a little guidance.

For beginners, Eric highly recommends a Classical/Spanish/Nylon-String guitar. It’s easier to play precisely in tune on those instruments, and nylon strings are much easier on the fingers than steel. 
 

They also have a more mellow sound. Classical, Jazz, and Flamenco music sounds great on nylon strings.

Build your finger muscles and calluses on the gentler instrument. Then, if you’re after the bright, crisp sound found in Rock, Bluegrass, and Country music, ask your teacher whether you’re ready to switch to a Steel String Acoustic Guitar.

Shop online for a guitar or ukulele at a trusted vendor like Sweetwater.com. Those who prefer to shop  in person should find a locally-owned music store or the nearest Guitar Center.
 
Eric’s favorite brands include Cordoba, Kremona, Yamaha (some cheaper options), and Rodriguez.
 
Guitar Sizes:
1/2 size, kids 3-4 feet tall
3/4 size, anyone 4-5 feet tall
Full size, adults over 5 feet tall
Whether you play guitar or ukulele, you’ll want to protect it from the elements. Pick up a gig bag the same place you get your instrument.
 
The same quality brands for instruments (Cordoba, Kremona, Yamaha) make bags. Other brands are available, too. Read the reviews if you’re not sure.
 
Get a bag that matches the size (1/2, 3/4, etc. guitar) or voice (soprano, concert, tenor, or baritone ukulele) of your instrument.
 
You want a waterproof bag with padding. These are not expensive at all and well worth the money.
 
Once you’re really playing, if you plan to take it on an airplane, invest in a hardshell case.
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Although it’s possible to play guitar and ukulele in a standing position, you’ll probably sit for your lessons. 
 
In that case, it’s essential to have a footrest. Get one that’s adjustable so you can sit in any height chair. The collapsible ones are easier to carry around.
 
Not every player uses a footrest. Eric’s students find them helpful to get used to the best playing position. You’ll want one too, for the best technique and comfort.
 
 
You and your friends will enjoy your playing more if your strings are in tune. There are many free tuner apps. A good one to start with is Guitartuna.
 
A clip-on tuner is another option. This tuner actually clips onto your instrument and senses the tuning through the vibrations. 
 
Once the guitar or ukulele is in tune you should only have to make small adjustments.
Check the tuning every time you pick it up, even if you don’t have to change anything. Building this habit will help the instrument stay in tune.
 
And that’s it! The only other things you may need are a music book, notebook, and a music bag to keep them in. With the ukulele or guitar in its gig bag, footrest, and tuner, you’re ready to start lessons!

Eric Liffmann has a Master of Music degree in classical guitar performance. He has performed in Master Classes with Christopher Parkening, Scott Tenant, Adam and Bruce Holzman and Philip Hii. He has taught at Louisiana State University and is on the faculty of the Baton Rouge Conservatory. He believes that though honing a musical craft is sometimes arduous and frustrating, it’s more enjoyable if we take our time and encourage playfulness.

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