Just curious if anyone here plays the guitar? I've been thinking of starting a hobby and have always wanted to take up a musical instrument. I've been torn between drums and the guitar but lately have been leaning towards the latter.
Any guitar players on the board and any constructive feedback (i.e. guitar costs, how long did it take you to get good and not have people cover their ears, etc.)....
Thanks.
Hi, I'm AJ and I am a recovering drummer. This is my story, and I'm sticking to it...
I played drums (no musical training - VERY dangerous...) from about the age of 15 through 40 in various bands, starting with high school garage bands and eventually into successful weekend warrior bands playing everything from weddings to clubs. It was/is a great hobby to meet people, engage yourself in something challenging and productive, and even make a few bucks on the side.
In my late 20's I bought a used Epiphone acoustic, but never picked it up until my late 30's. Pretty much self taught from books and playing by ear, picking up some from musical friends, etc. I love playing America/Beatles/Eagles/REM/J Taylor and other pop songs for my own enjoyment, and with friends when available. Now in my early 50's, I am SO not a virtuoso, but I still play regularly (approx 40-50 nights a year) as a solo singer/guitarist and occasionally with a couple of friends as a duo or trio. Over the years my musical income has paid a lot of bills and helped put our 2 kids through college.
Point being, you can take it as far as you want to, within your limitations of time, effort, and ability. You don't have to play gigs. I would recommend the guitar or piano/keyboard if it is something you think you'll do mostly for your own enjoyment. Drumming is fun, but you really have to have other musicians to jam with as playing along with IPOD/headphones gets a little tiresome after a while. With piano/guitar, you can do your own thing or play with others.
If you have a friend who is a player, or local music store you are comfortable with, they can help you select a good beginning guitar. Something that tunes and plays well is important, and I second the idea of not spending too much at first ($200-300), as the attrition rate is high. When you want to step uo, you can always trade your first guitar in, or keep it for campfire sing alongs.
Learning takes time and patience, but in my case, once I started, a passion took over and I played it every chance I got - though at first, your fingers will get pretty sore until you build up those callouses!
Playing an instrument has been a great source of entertainement and fulfillment in our family and for many friends. I highly recommend it if you're interested.