For any learner starting to play guitar the question is often raised whether they should start on acoustic or electric guitar. For some, this choice is easy as they will be drawn to one based on the type of music they like.
But the question still stands about which is the better to learn on? Which provides a foundation in technique that will form a basis for improving guitar skills? If you are going to teach yourself guitar then which guitar type does not hide your faults?
There are good and bad elements to both at different stages of a guitarist learning so any assessment needs to take into account the short and long term benefits of each. I have taught several other guitarists and have noticed that you can tell from a guitarist’s technique whether they started on electric or acoustic just by watching them play.
So here are the pros and cons we saw of each approach.
Starting On Electric Guitar
Pros
* Easier to play using the narrower gauge strings and narrower guitar neck.
* Amplification makes it easier to develop a subtlety of playing as it permits various nuances in your play (e.g. vibrato).
* Practicing using earphones is possible (neighbors will appreciate this).
Cons
* Muscle strength in the fingers does not increase to the same extent as when playing acoustic.
* Using effects/distortion hides a multitude of sins.
* Strong tendency for incorrect placement of the left thumb on the guitar neck.
Learning On Acoustic Guitar
Pros
* Lower startup costs.
* An amp is not required, so you can play and practice anywhere.
* Finger muscle strength is building up from day one.
Cons
* Strong temptation to strum through all songs. Beginners should take the time to learn subtle finger picking styles.
* Guitar solos can get ‘lost in the mix’ if playing in a group which may put off some beginners.
* Using earphones with an acoustic is not an option.
From my perspective, guitarists who start out on electric build up a speed of playing (solos, chord changes, etc.) which is admirable, but it is often at the cost of good playing technique. Playing the electric guitar hides a number of faults such as incorrect placement of the thumb and not holding down strings solidly that results in strings buzzing or being muted during play (this is highly noticeable when recording an electric).
By comparison, starting out on acoustic builds up finger strength, nurtures better hand placement on the frets and fosters clear sounding play.
That said, if you can handle the bill for buying both electric and acoustic guitars then you could split out the beginners training on both instruments and they will benefit from both approaches.
Are you frustrated with the lack of progress from your current guitar tuition/guitar course? Read Ed’s review of Jamorama electric guitar lessons at teach yourself guitar the modern way.
Related Posts:
