4 Essentials for New Guitarists

Playing the guitar is a fun and engaging pastime. Whether you are just looking to have a good time or you have professional aspirations, it is always important to have the things you need on hand.

As a new guitarist, you should always have spare strings, a tuner, a gig bag, and a stand on hand at all times. Especially if you are traveling, this will make your life much easier and keep your guitar in good shape.

Starting a new instrument can be overwhelming, but it does not have to be. Keep reading to learn more about these essentials and how they can help you keep your guitar sounding good.

Spare Strings

An inevitable part of life as a guitarist is having the occasional string break. For this reason, you must carry extra strings with you at all times. Many musicians choose to keep spare strings directly in their guitar or gig bag for easy changing whenever it is needed.

As a new guitarist, you may not know which strings work best for your needs. Purchase strings that meet the following requirements:

It may be helpful to talk to an expert at a music shop so they can help you find strings that work for you. Even if you take impeccable care of your strings, they will not last you forever. Keeping strings on hand at all times will help you out when the inevitable happens.

Tuner

Nothing sounds worse than an out-of-tune guitar. As a new guitarist, tuning your guitar is something you might still be getting accustomed to. However, electric tuners can make the process that much easier and help you get a perfectly tuned guitar every time.

Purchase an electric tuner with good reviews and a reputation for being easy-to-use and accurate. A headstock or clip-on tuner is recommended for beginning guitarists because it will allow you to tune your guitar at any time and should provide an accurate reading.

Tuning your guitar is a necessary part of the process. Many musicians suggest tuning your guitar every time you play it. Because of this, it is essential to have your tuner on hand whenever you play.

Gig Bag

With all your essentials, it is a great idea to have something to carry everything in. A gig bag is a soft-sided bag that can carry not only your guitar but also the following supplies:

  • Cables
  • Picks
  • Tuners
  • Spare strings

And more!

These bags are typically less expensive than a hard-sided case, and they are easier to carry. Some gig bags are made specifically for electric or acoustic guitars while others are more general. If you are looking to save money, you may be able to find a good-quality used option, too.

With a gig bag, you will protect your guitar from the hazards of traveling and be able to take it with you on the go. It will keep you organized for all of your gigs and practice sessions.

Stand

Your guitar is an investment, and you must take care of it properly so that it will last a long time. Purchasing a good quality stand for your guitar will allow you to safely store your guitar when you are not playing it. Additionally, guitar stands look cool and can serve as a fun way to display your guitar.

Guitar stands can vary widely in price and size. Before you purchase a guitar stand, do some research on what may fit your particular instrument. If you have any design preferences, take this into account too. Most guitar stands are collapsible and can be easy to take with you anywhere.

If you will be learning using a lot of sheet music, it may also be worthwhile to invest in a music stand. This will allow you to look at your music easily while you play your guitar.

Conclusion

As you get started with your new pastime, there will be a learning curve. Playing the guitar takes time and dedication, but the rewards will be great as you learn to play music with enjoyment and ease.

Having the essentials on hand will make your journey in guitar ownership that much easier. You will stay organized, and not have to scramble to find the things you need. Additionally, guitar essentials can join you on the go or at home in your music studio.

It may take some time to find the specific products that you like best, but with a little research, you will have all you need to enjoy your guitar.