When can my child start playing guitar?
I get asked a lot “How young is too young for my child to start learning guitar?” To which I usually say that it depends on the child and no younger than six. It is important to make sure that your child is asking you for guitar lessons rather than you telling them they should learn guitar. Otherwise, they will just end up being bored in lessons and maybe even put off music for life.
Once you’re sure that they are ready to start lessons, you need to make sure that you have the right guitar.
Small body and nylon strings
You don’t want to get a full-sized adult guitar for a child (even if a relative or friend is kindly lending you one!). Instead, I recommend a 3/4 sized nylon string guitar. This will mean that they can get their arms round the body of the guitar so it won’t be uncomfortable to play for any period of time. Also, nylon strings require less strength to push down than steel strings which is really good when you’re starting out so as not to experience pain!
If you go to a guitar shop they will be happy to let you try a guitar on for size and make sure that it is comfortable to play.
Recommendation
Lots of my students start on a Valencia CG160 Classical Guitar, and I think they are great for small children. Plus, they are relatively inexpensive.
Here is a link to it on Amazon – Valencia Classical Guitar
Group Guitar lessons
We run Kids group guitar lessons for beginners at Out of the Blue on Dalmeny Street. Group classes are the best way to get started on the instrument in a fun and relaxed environment.
The class runs on Saturdays (starting 14th January) and lasts for one hour –
12pm 7 – 12 year olds
2pm 13 – 16 year olds
What your child will learn
During the first few weeks of the group they will learn how to hold the guitar, tune it, play easy chords and work on songs in a group.
They won’t be made to sit and play scales or boring exercises. Instead, they will learn how to make music and play their favourite songs in a group with friends.
Extra fun things
As well as the weekly group classes during term time we have a Christmas concert and school holiday time workshops.
The important stuff
The guitar classes runs during term times and you pay for blocks in advance. The 1st block runs from 14th of January for 5 weeks and costs £60 (extra siblings £45).
If you do not have a guitar at home we have some available to rent.
How to book your place…
All you need to do is click here to send an email to Jo to book or ask any questions you have and she will send you everything you need to get started.
