Playing the guitar is fun and may be quick once you master a few of the basics. I'm not going to lie to you and tell you will be playing like Jimi Hendrix (or whoever rocks your boat) in a week or two. But with the right instruction and a little dedication, you can be playing along with your favorite guitar songs in no
time.

What it Takes

First, the dedication part. Just like most anything else in life, you get out of what you put into it. That being said, 30 minutes a day will send you well on your way to playing songs on guitar. You'll be amazed at how quickly your skills will enhance in just thirty minutes a day. Of course much more is far better, but we all have busy lives. I like to think of it as time incredibly well spent!

The Right Instruction

Nothing can beat one on one personal instruction for understanding how to play songs on guitar. But finding an excellent teacher who you appreciate working with might be challenging and expensive. The hourly rate in my area is now around $70.00! If you hAVE the cash to do it, fantastic! Just make sure you are going to take pleasure in the experience. I have found that choosing the wrong instructor can ruin the experience. Make certain you both are on the same page (i.e. you want to learn tips on how to play songs on guitar, he or she wants
you to understand music theory). It can be really crucial that you be comfortable and having fun whilst learning.

If the "one on one" route isn't for you, the web is a great source for learning how to perform songs on guitar. There are many affordable programs available on the 'net. As a beginner, when choosing an instruction program, make certain the following "guitar basics" are included:

1. Tuning and effectively setting up your guitar: There is nothing worse or harder to learn songs on then an out of tune guitar that is not appropriately set up for you.

2. Reading tablature: Tab, as it can be called, is a really straightforward way
to learn tips on how to play a lot of songs on guitar. Tab is incredibly easy to
learn and the internet is full free tabs showing you learn how to perform songs in each genre.

3.Picking and Strumming Methods :Starting out with proper picking and strumming techniques will aid your progress tremendously. You don't want waste your time developing bad habits.

4. Video and Audio Training In this day and age, learning from just a book, like old guys like me did, is totally unnecessary. You will find lots of great audio/video programs available.

Other points to consider is how far an instructional program will take you. Do they offer intermediate and advanced training. Do they provide training in different genres (i.e. blues, rock, jazz, country, etc.). In case you truly want to understand the best way to play songs on guitar, these points ought to be taken into consideration.