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6 Essentials For Beginner Guitarists [2025]

Welcome!

About the Author

Hi, I’m John. I own Blanch Music. Established 2008, we have been giving Guitar lessons to students Young & Old. I hope this article helps you on your Musical Journey!

Estimated Read Time⏰ ; Under 4 Minutes


Introduction

Learning to play the Guitar is an amazing journey that opens up a world of musical possibilities. Whether you're a parent encouraging your child to explore music or an adult looking to pick up a new hobby, the guitar offers a unique blend of creativity and self-expression. From strumming your favourite songs to writing your own music, the benefits of playing guitar are immense. Before you embark on this musical adventure, it’s essential to equip yourself with the right tools. Here’s a list of essential items that every beginner guitarist should consider.

Here is a list of essentials which will help you along your way!

No. 1. A Guitar | Choose From Acoustic, Electric or Classical

First things first—you’ll need an instrument to play! Beginners can choose between an Acoustic, Classical or Electric.

For children, a smaller-sized guitar can make learning easier and more comfortable. Adults may prefer a full-sized instrument that suits their style. Regardless of the type, having a reliable guitar is crucial for developing your skills.

Pro Tip: For Younger Players I would recommend a Nylon Strung Guitar, they are inexpensive and are easier on the fingers. Your going to be up sizing as they grow so when they get to full size get a steel string.

No. 2. A Guitar Tuner | Stay In Tune Between Lessons

A tuner is an indispensable tool for any guitarist.

Keeping your guitar in tune is essential for sounding good and developing your ear for music. Whether you opt for a clip-on tuner, pedal tuner, or a tuning app on your smartphone, having this tool ensures that you always play in tune, making practice sessions more enjoyable and productive. If you have an Acoustic or Classical a Clip-On or App will work. For Electric Guitar a Pedal Tuner or Clip-On Tuner are ideal.

Pro Tip: For the App, I would recommend you use GuitarTuna for Android / GuitarTuna for iPhone it’s FREE and really easy to use!


No. 3. Guitar Plecs | Choose Your Gauge For Stumming

Guitar picks come in various shapes (mainly triangle) , sizes or gauges, and materials, and they can significantly affect your playing style and sound.

As a beginner, it’s helpful to have a variety of picks on hand to experiment with different tones and techniques. Whether you prefer thin picks for strumming or thicker ones for picking, finding the right pick can enhance your playing experience.

Pro Tip: The Lighter the plectrum the less “attack”, the heavier the plectrum the more “attack”. Attack is essentially intensity of the strike on the string. For beginners I would recommend something medium Light. Like a Dunlop .60MM Gauge.

No. 4. A Guitar Capo | Open A World of Song With A Limited Number of Chords!

A capo is a handy tool that allows you to change the key of your guitar without having to learn new chord shapes. This is especially useful for beginners who want to play along with songs that are too high or low for their vocal range. It’s an easy way to expand your repertoire and make songs more accessible as you learn.

Pro Tip: When You are getting start pick up a nice inexpensive Capo Like the Boston BC85. If you want to upgrade then look at the G7th Range.

No. 5. A Guitar Stand | Keep Your Guitar To Hand

A sturdy guitar stand is essential for keeping your instrument safe when you're not playing. It encourages you to keep your guitar accessible, making it more likely that you'll pick it up and practice regularly. Plus, it protects your guitar from damage by keeping it off the floor and away from potential hazards.

Pro Tip: Don’t skimp on a Guitar Stand, if it’s cheap and flimsy then your instrument may fall and break! Also, if you have space checkout the Hercules Guitar Wall Hanger. They save Floor Space & Can Make a Room Look amazing!

No. 6. A Practice Journal | Keep Up to Date with Your Work

Finally, keeping a practice journal* can be one of the most beneficial tools in your learning arsenal. Use it to track your progress, set goals, and reflect on what you've learned during each session. This simple habit encourages accountability and helps maintain motivation as you document your journey toward becoming a proficient pianist.

*At Blanch Music, we use a Timetabling System which integrates Lessons Notes. Get Weekly Updates from your teacher and keep them in your inbox (Or login to the portal and see them there!)


Conclusion

Embarking on the journey of learning the guitar is both thrilling and rewarding. With these essential tools in hand, you'll be well-equipped to tackle challenges and celebrate milestones along the way. Remember, every great guitarist started as a beginner—so embrace the process and enjoy making music!