How to Learn Guitar or Bass Quickly

Playing the guitar or bass is not as difficult as you might think. All you need is a little patience and a lot of practice to get started.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Guitar or bass
• Time to practice

1. First, purchase a cheap guitar at your local music store. A cheap guitar can range from $30.00, to $120.00.
   
   A cheap bass is a little more expensive, but you can get one for under $100.00 if you are lucky.
   
   Visit www.samash.com for cheap starter guitars and basses that you can

2. Second, find a place where you can really concentrate on playing your guitar/bass.
   
   Finding a quiet place is important because it will help you get into the zone for learning.

3. Third, learn to play chords. Picking is important, but if you had to choose one or the other, chords are more important. If you learn to play a few basic chords, then you can play hundred' s of songs.
   
   For reference on a few basic chords, visit http://www.free-guitar-chords.com/15%20Basic%20Chords.jpg. I recommend learning G Major, C major and D major.
   
   If you are a bass player, learning the root notes of the chords will provide you with an understanding of what note relates to what chord.

4. Third, start playing along to your favorite songs. It might seem like a daunting task to play along to your favorite Beatles track, but if you do, I guarantee that you will start getting better. The more you play with better people, (even if it's a recording) the better you will get.

Tips & Warnings

• Practice, practice, practice. This is key to getting better. Sure it's a long road ahead, but if you practice, you will get better.
• Learn open position chords before you attempt bar chords such as an F Major. These chords are imperative to learn, but for beginners, they are extremely difficult to play until your fingers are used to stretching in certain positions.
• Have fun while playing.
• Never strain your fingers while playing. If you are feeling pain or tension in your fingers, relax until you feel better.