The Most Often Overlooked Step For the Beginning Guitar Player

[Doris Edward]

In the world of guitar playing and guitar instruction, we are all
aware of the vast amount of available resources on every possible way
to play any style of music or any technique imaginable.
However, I also notice a very important aspect of becoming a guitar
player that is often skipped. Quite often, I will get together with
other guitar players to cover new interesting techniques. We always
welcome new players to offer them tips and tricks to "jumpstart" their
playing. One common element seems to always arise when new guitar
player picks up the guitar -- they hold the guitar like a guy holding
a baby for the first time. Awkward would be the best way to describe
it. Holding the guitar as far away from you as possible in a manner
that comfortable playing is almost impossible. In their defense, most
of the manuals and videos they were hoping to learn from completely
took that factor for granted and jumped right into tuning the guitar.
Shockingly enough, many instructional videos start right away with
"playing" completely disregarding getting the brand new player
comfortable with holding the guitar.
Here is what I would strongly suggest. The easiest way to hold your
guitar when first learning is to sit down. Most people sit when they
practice and stand when they are performing. The exception is when
playing classical guitar, where it is common to sit while performing.
Sitting Position: Hold your guitar so that it rests on your right
thigh (if you are left handed please switch to the opposite). Use the
inside of your forearm to keep the guitar in place. You should have
your guitar and body positioned so that the neck of your guitar does
not tip towards the ground. Your guitar should be balanced comfortably
without the use of your left hand for support. Make sure your body is
comfortable and relaxed without hunching over.
Standing Position: You will need to use a guitar strap when standing.
Adjust the length of the strap to your desired comfort and preference,
usually where the bridge is about waist high. Make sure both ends of
the straps are securely fastened to prevent the guitar from slipping
out of the strap and falling. Make sure that it is easy and
comfortable to play your guitar. After several weeks of practice, you
can always lower your strap like legendary rock stars do.