by Trevor Carter

Created on: June 16, 2008

So you want to play electric guitar? What is your background in music, if any? Have you played acoustic guitar? If you have never played any instrument, the electric guitar is great place to start.

First, let us look at the framework of the instrument. What do I mean? The essence of the instrument is captured in the subtle nuances of the fretboard, bridge, wood, and every other part that makes the whole. In other words, understand the anatomy of the instrument before you pick it up.

Not all electric guitars are the same. If you have ever had the pleasure of picking up a Gibson Les Paul or a Fender Telecaster, you will know what true craftsmanship is. A lot of work and effort goes into making these guitars some of the best.

Now, for the mechanics of the instrument. Initially, you're going to feel overwhelmed and frustrated, but that is perfectly normal. If you pick up a book on scales and chords, you can really develop your finger dexterity and pick up some technique to boot. Technique is something you continually develop as a guitarist over a lifetime. If you ever get to the point where you feel you are stuck in a style, let it go. In order to keep the instrument fresh you will have to venture out into unknown waters - get out of your comfort zone.

So you feel comfortable with the basic chords and you know a few scales... it's time to learn some tricks. What are tricks? Simply put, tricks are anything and everything unconventional on the instrument. You can find all types of information on tapping, artificial harmonics, and even manipulating effects on a pedal to create your own unique tones and colors. I used to believe one should never learn "tricks" until they learned the basics, but to keep yourself interested along the way, play around with this stuff a little. If you really want to learn the art of tricks, listen to some of the greatest guitarists ever, such as Eddie Van Halen, Steve Vai, and Joe Satriani. These men know the instrument better than 99.9% of the guitarist out there today. They've done their homework and paid their dues to be where they are. So it goes without saying (but, I am saying it), always seek out other guitarist that are BETTER than you. If you do this and open your mind, you will find a storehouse of knowledge. There is no better teacher than someone who has endured the journey already. Just open your mind!

Some may feel this article didn't teach them anything about the electric guitar, but I would have disagree. Most of the work in learning ANYTHING is mental. If you have an attitude that is conducive to learning without an ego.

Go pick up that guitar, open your book or call the teacher and get busy!

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