Congratulations on your first guitar! I remember the joy after I held my first instrument.
Now that you have the guitar, here's a checklist of a few things to keep in mind and have with you.
Ofcourse, having a guitar and maybe an amp (if you bought an electric) is enough to get you started.
But to complete your rig, consider getting some extra gear to help you get better quicker.
And some additional accessories to help you maintain your guitar properly, to increase the longivity of your instrument.
Extra Set Of Strings
Though every new guitar comes strung with new strings, it's always a good idea to get yourself an extra set.
Some of the most well-known brands of strings are:
I personally use D'Addarios and they have never failed me!
Guitar Tuner
Having a guitar tuner, especially for beginners is very crucial. Imagine sounding out of tune *coughs*.
Fortunately, you don't necessarily have to spend money for it.
You can get hardware tuners (on any online or offline music store), as well as tuner apps (most tuner apps are free!) available on all devices (windows, android and iOS).
So get yourself one and sound in tune!
Guitar Strap
It's not necessary but, incase you don't get a chair to sit on, and you're asked to play (at home or live on stage), you got just one option left. A strap.
So, it's a nice little handy item to have in your gig bag.
Guitar Case
It is always advisable to get atleast a gig bag for your instrument.
Guitars don't really like being left out in the open and it can significantly reduce the lifespan of your instrument and the strings.
So once you're done playing, keep the instrument in the case.
You can find a variety of cases based on your budget and needs. If you wish to travel with your guitar often, consider getting a hard case/flight case.
Guitar Picks
Now these little guys, are very easy to lose. Once you lose a pick, you simply don't get it back (unless you are a genie of some sort).
Sarcasm aside, keep a set of picks handy in your gig bag and your wallet.
Guitar Cable
If you have bought an electric or an electro-acoustic guitar, consider getting a decent cable along with it.
Guitar Tools
Sometimes you may not have a guitar tech nearby, or maybe you want ot try changing the strings yourself.
For such scenarios, get yourself a basic tool kit specialised for guitars.
Cleaning/Polishing Kits
This is a must if you want to keep your guitar new and shiny.
Guitar Lessons
Once you bought a new guitar, consider taking guitar lessons in order to get proper guidance into playing and expressing yourself with this instrument.
It's not necessary, but it always helps to have a good teacher!
Want To Learn Music?
If you wish to learn the art of music and express yourself your way, email me: contact@subharaj.com for pricing and details!
*Open to students from all over the world and all age groups.
Here are some of the things I talk about in class:
Music fundamentals and theory
Ear-training
Composition
Improvisation
The guitar as a solo instrument
Musical, compositional, and improvisational philosophies
Artistry
Expression
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