How Long Does It Take to Learn Basic Fingerstyle Guitar: Self-Taught vs. Formal Training
Learning fingerstyle guitar can be an incredibly rewarding experience. But how long does it take to master the basics? Is it possible to learn without formal training, or should you invest in lessons to boost your chances of success?
Challenges and Success Rates
Statistics show that about 90% of people who take the self-taught method fail in their attempts to learn fingerstyle guitar. This statistic highlights the challenges many face without formal guidance. However, success is still possible with dedication and effort. Spending the money on lessons can increase your likelihood of success, but it's not the only path to proficiency.
Success Stories and Realities
It's important to note that self-taught guitar has been successful for countless individuals, including a few who became famous. However, there is no set amount of time for learning guitar by any method. Success can vary greatly depending on an individual's aptitude. Some may be strumming basic chords within weeks, while others may take months, and some might never achieve proficiency.
Personal Experience
Starting with a foundation in music helps a lot. For example, I took three years of piano lessons from ages 8 to 11, which gave me a basic understanding of music theory. When I eventually picked up the guitar, I was equipped with knowledge of the circle of fifths, major scales, and triads. These concepts are crucial for any guitarist, as most chords and melodies rely on them.
When starting from scratch, it's beneficial to learn a few basic fundamentals. Understanding the guitar's anatomy, how it functions, and the connection between the guitarist and the music played are essential. Misalignment of these elements can be a significant obstacle during the learning process. Prior to even holding the guitar, ask yourself important questions like:
What is the circle of fifths? What makes a major scale and triads?Knowing these answers will streamline your learning process and help you make better progress. Many will tell you that the guitar is half mental, meaning that understanding music theory and having a solid practice routine are as important as physical technique.
Learning Without Lessons
It is possible to learn a lot without formal lessons. I can attest to this from personal experience. However, the first sentence indicates that you should probably go for lessons, implying that your chances of success are lower without professional guidance. It's a subjective matter, and both self-taught individuals and those with formal training will have success stories.
In conclusion, while self-taught guitar can be successful, it may take more time and effort than formal training. Understanding that there is no one-size-fits-all answer and considering your personal learning style and goals is key to embarking on your fingerstyle guitar journey.