Not ready to buy your first guitar? I don’t blame you. It’s a BIG decision. A good beginner guitar can cost $200 – $300! (BTW, if you’re wondering about whether or not you need to start with an Acoustic or an Electric guitar, check this out. ) Apart from the money, there are also hundreds of guitar manufacturers. So, it can be a challenge for sure.
If you’re not ready to buy your first guitar, there are a couple of options to pursue. There are pros and cons to each option. But each option can get you closer to the goal: learning the guitar!
- Borrow. This is how I began. I borrowed my uncle’s old guitar. It was not the greatest playing instrument, but it bought my parents time. They weren’t in a position to risk a lot of money to see if I’d actually stick with the instrument. So, we borrowed. It’s a fine option. If you know anyone who plays the guitar, chances are they have a second (or third or fourth :o| guitar). It’s worth asking.
- Rent. Some music stores will still rent instruments. It’s not as common as it once was. It’s also not a good long-term option. At some point, you’ll reach the “break point” where you could have bought an instrument. But this can be a very good short-term option for a new student.
- Use a teacher’s guitar during lessons. This is the least desirable option, since the student will have limited access to an instrument. However, if you find a local guitar seminar or weekend guitar intensive, it could be an option. Of course, this option won’t work for long-term learning. But seminars and intensives are usually aimed at beginners and can give you a chance to “try before you buy.”
I hope this was helpful. Maybe it’s a first step for you. My hope is that you will eventually find a local music store with a trusted sales associate. Maybe that person will have more options for you. (You can try Ken Stanton Music, if you’re in the Metro Atlanta area.) Until then, best wishes as you keep making progress toward learning the guitar!