I bought a guitar last month. I’m not sure why except that I thought it would be fun. I’ve never taken to playing an instrument before. My first and last attempt at musical training ended early in my elementary school career (the violin) for lack of enthusiasm/patience/interest.

I bought a Seagull S6, an acoustic 6-string, based on its reputation and my budget. I wanted a real wood acoustic and something that I could grow into over time rather than get frustrated with. It’s beautiful. So far I’ve been very pleased with it.

Today I recorded part of I Crush Everything by the fabulous Jonathan Coulton. Have a listen, won’t you? I strummed it (rather than finger picking it like the original) because I have enough trouble at this point just figuring out where the fingers on my left hand are supposed to be. I feel pretty comfortable with basic chords though I still can’t grab barre chords with anything resembling precision or speed. Don’t worry, I’m keeping my day job. Please be nice.

Click to listen: I Crush Everything (mp3)

Any guitarists out there? Got any tips/encouragement for a beginner?

Comments

1. Dave R on 2008-08-28 18:56:06 wrote: The instrumental track was pretty good but I couldn’t hear the vocals…

2. John on 2008-08-28 20:34:05 wrote: Let’s pretend it’s the karaoke version.

3. Phil on 2008-08-28 21:13:09 wrote: If you hadn’t said anything, I never would’ve known you had just begun on the guitar.

4. Chris on 2008-08-30 05:15:38 wrote: Not bad! The best advice I can give for any musician is: play with other people. Music is never as fun as when you play in a group.

5. Flod on 2008-08-31 05:46:05 wrote: Sounds great! Keep at it and try to add some subtleties once you feel you’ve mastered a song. Feel free to rearrange songs or parts - it’s creativity right? Finally, learn to sing and play a few songs. You get to practice two things at once! Good luck!

6. nikkirae on 2008-09-01 09:06:43 wrote: Our oldest son- age 13- is in guitar class at school. We’ve got more than a few players in my family. I admire you for picking up the instrument! I, personally, would love to learn the piano. Our daughter is learning the violin and can play the recorder pretty darn well. Our youngest son enjoys playing the keyboard. My Mother-in-law can play the Accordian and the piano. grins Very, very cool!

7. Jasi on 2008-10-25 15:59:28 wrote: AHOY! Well, Bob, I suggest you learn your scales and make them swift. I’m so not awesome on the guitar, but any instrument sounds sweeter when the player can improvise. Good luck!