Just because you’re a granny doesn’t mean you can’t learn guitar!
If you’ve thought about learning how to play guitar, but life got in the way, you still have that chance. Learning how to play the guitar is a fun and rewarding way to add a pastime to your senior years. Following are some tips to get you on your way.
Let go of regret, doubt, and excuses
Senior enjoying learning guitar
You’ve come this far, please don’t discourage yourself before you begin! It doesn’t matter what you did or didn’t do that led you here. It doesn’t matter if you have a dusty old guitar in your attic that you never got around to. What matters is where you are now. Start from there. However many years you have in your life, you can put more life into those years by learning to play a musical instrument. The guitar is one of the most versatile and fun instruments around.
Play what feeds your soul
Not into Green Day or Lady Gaga? How can you motivate yourself past scales and simple tunes? Do you have an old Gershwin tune rattling around in your brain? A favorite Elvis or Beatles tune, maybe? Those singers, songwriters, and performers have made timeless music, and they can be a great starting and stopping point. It is important to stick to what you love in this case — it is what will keep you going.
Be patient with yourself
You are literally teaching your body to do things it has never done before. It’s going to take some time and some patience. Sure, you may not be as quick to pick things up as your younger counterparts, but you have as much, if not more, determination! If life has taught you anything, it’s that patience and persistence are two of the master keys to success.
Find the right guitar
Go to any local music shop and try out numerous guitars for tone and playability. Once you have selected one that suits you, have the shop set the action low. This means the strings will be close to the guitar neck for ease of playing.
Get instruction
You may have to overcome some obstacles such as arthritis and overall strength in order to play for any length of time. The best way to overcome these things is to learn how to play properly. There is simply no better way to learn than with private lessons.
An instructor will be able to work with you on developing a curriculum that will enable you to learn at your own speed. He or she will be able to give you immediate feedback and to correct mistakes before they become bad habits. A teacher will also help you select the best songs to learn that will match both your ability and your musical taste.