Look for an acoustic guitar, as opposed to electric or classical. What is the difference? Basically, it is the width of the neck. Acoustic guitars are sort of in the middle as far as neck size. Get a guitar that is as close to full size as possible. Less than full-size will not have the same great sound. Classical guitars have nylon strings, which are easier on the fingers, but the wide neck does not make it as easy to play chords. Electric guitars are very fun, but you need an amp and electricity. An acoustic guitar will travel everywhere with you.
The first thing you need is a good-sounding instrument. If your guitar has a thin sound or a twangy sound, you probably are not going to practice it as much. Look for a guitar with a warm, pleasing sound. Try MANY guitars! If you don’t feel confident in trying them, ask the sales associate to demonstrate them for you. Austin has a couple of locations:
Guitar Center: Music Instruments, Accessories and Equipment
A nice-sounding guitar can cost as little as $100 or as much as $10,000 {or more}. Companies such as the Guitar Center often have packages that include a music stand, guitar strap, picks, etc. I tried nine guitars before choosing my Martin DR16. The determining factors besides the beautiful sound were the rosewood scent and the strong vibrations that I could feel while playing.
Guitar shopping list:
Music stand
A regular folding stand with a case or a more sturdy version – still portable, or a very sturdy stand for use just at home . . . any of these will work fine.
Tuner/Metronome combo* (eg., Korg or Seiko). You can get the Tuner/Metronome combo right away (eg.,Korg or Seiko). But for young children, I recommend this tuner COMBO after 6 months or a year because it is just one more thing for them to have to listen to. However, once you have it, you can apply it to voice and all other instruments.
a method book, songbook, and chord finder book.
Recommended books for Beginners:
Also try:
Mel Bay YOUNG BEGINNER’S FIRST REPERTOIRE FOR CLASSIC GUITAR by Sonia Michelson
*NOTE-- Get the combination Tuner/Metronome, you will have one less item to tote around, but also this Tuner is good for voice and any other instrument that has pitch; dedicated guitar tuners are not as versatile. The Metronome will help you keep a steady beat.