THE BEST WAY TO LEARN GUITAR

What is the best way to learn guitar? Well, lets see if I can answer this question for you...

Perhaps you have already noticed that the internet provides a lot of information on how to play guitar. But, like many beginners, you may feel overwhelmed by the number of choices you have before you.

How do you choose the best way?

Can online guitar lessons provide the same quality instruction as offline lessons with a private instructor? What are the advantages and disadvantages of learning guitar online vs. learning guitar offline?

First of all, online guitar lessons have improved significantly with the advent of video and audio technology. All you need is a good connection speed and the internet can provide you with your own virtual guitar instructor, in the privacy of your own home! Video technology allows you to both see and hear the music your instructor is playing, as well as receive his/her helpful playing tips.

One disadvantage however, is that the instructor cannot see you! This may create a problem if you are having trouble executing a specific technique, or needing help with correcting a bad habit you may have developed.

Nevertheless, "interactive" online guitar lessons are probably the best choice as far as "virtual" online lessons go. I say this because they will most likely give you an opportunity to ask your instructor questions about areas you may be having difficulty with. But, having said this, the interaction may be slow in coming if it takes the form of an email, or forum discussion.

One of the most obvious advantages of online guitar lessons, of course, is price. Membership sites, for instance, tend to charge a monthly or annual fee. But the price is minimal when compared to what you would pay for guitar lessons with a private instructor. I charge $30 an hour for private guitar lessons myself, but some instructors charge anywhere from $50-$75 per hour. That can really become cost prohibitive for people who are struggling to make a buck in a poor economy.

However, the internet has become an effective "Equalizer" for the consumer by providing them with multiple options. As a result, many guitar sites have felt compelled to offer information for free in order to keep up with the competition. Therefore, online guitar teachers will often provide free ebooks, as well as other resources, in an effort to gain respect, build trust, and develop a loyal following.

Speaking of ebooks... One of the nicest things they have to offer is convenience. I don't know about you, but I get pretty tired of sitting in front of my computer after awhile. But with an ebook you can easily print out whatever pages you want and study them offline; away from your computer.

An ebook can also be used to supplement other learning material you may have. It could even be used as part of an offline lesson with a real, live guitar instructor. Plus, you can review it whenever you want to, without going online. That's pretty nice if you ask me.

In a nutshell, online guitar lessons have some advantages and some disadvantages. The most obvious advantage, of course, is cost and convenience. Perhaps the biggest disadvantage is limited interaction, and the fact that you will need to have a good internet connection.

Offline guitar lessons offer the best opportunity to ask questions and get corrections on your playing technique. But the biggest disadvantage is the cost- they are expensive.

So, what is the best way to learn guitar? I guess it all boils down to your own personal situation, preference and pocketbook. However, if you're still unable to decide after reading this, then an ebook might be a happy medium, since they are more versatile and relatively inexpensive. Besides that, you can refer to them over and over again- all within the privacy of your own home. What more could you ask for?

Kathy Unruh is the webmaster of ABC Learn Guitar.com. She has been providing guitar lessons to students of all ages for over 20 years.

CLICK HERE... and learn how to play guitar for free!