Renting vs. Purchasing:  Many ask about renting guitars.  If there is a place that does this we are unaware.  Guitars are affordable enough that it really makes more sense to buy one.

 

Electric vs. Acoustic guitars:  Many feel that it is better to start on an acoustic guitar and our teachers have a preference to start on acoustic.  That being said, both agree that that if a student is significantly more motivated by electric guitar it’s worth letting them start with that. The increased motivation and willingness to practice that occurs when a student is truly psyched to play their instrument is more valuable than the benefits of starting on an acoustic.

 

Size:  Younger children will likely have to start on a ¾  sized guitar.  They can tell you at the store if your child is small enough to need one.  Taylor, Martin and Yamaha all have decent Junior guitars (although we have found that some of the Yamaha junior does not always stay in tune well)

 

Better to go for a well known brand name:  Yamaha, Squier, Epiphone, Taylor, Martin , Fender  ect….

 

Brands you should avoid:  Lower end First Act guitars.  And, any guitars that are toy like or made of plastic etc.  Avoid purchasing guitars at non-music stores like Costco, BJ’s and Toys-R-Us.

 

Used vs. New:  Either is fine assuming the instrument is in good condition…Daddy’s Junky Music always has a selection of used guitars.

 

On Line Sales:  Risky.  You really need to know what you are looking for and should most certainly check the guitar for damage.