How to Get Into Electric Guitar

Electric guitar is more than just an instrument; it's a gateway to a world of sound and self-expression. Whether you're drawn to the searing solos of heavy metal, the intricate riffing of progressive metal, or the raw power of thrash, picking up an electric guitar opens up endless possibilities. We'll walk through what you need to start your journey, from choosing your first guitar to building the skills that will make you a versatile player.

Choosing Your First Electric Guitar

One of the first steps in getting into electric guitar is choosing the right instrument. It can feel overwhelming with so many options out there, but don't worry—you don't need to break the bank to get started. Here’s what to consider:

• Budget: Set a realistic budget for your first guitar. You can find quality beginner guitars for around $200-$500. Brands like Squier, Epiphone, and Yamaha offer great entry-level options.
• Style: Consider what styles of music you're drawn to. If you're into metal, a guitar with humbucker pickups will give you the heavy sound you're looking for. Single-coil pickups are great for cleaner tones found in rock or blues.
• Feel: The guitar should feel comfortable to hold and play. Check the neck's shape and size—some prefer a thinner neck for faster playing, while others like a chunkier feel.
• Sound: Listen to different guitars to see what sound appeals to you. YouTube is a great resource for hearing demos of various models.

Once you have an idea of what you're looking for, try to visit a music store to test some guitars. If that's not possible, many online retailers have excellent return policies, so you can always exchange if needed.

Essential Gear to Get Started

Beyond the guitar itself, you'll need a few other pieces of gear to get going:

• Amplifier: A small practice amp is perfect for bedroom playing. Look for one with a headphone jack if you need to keep the volume down.
• Cable: A standard 1/4-inch cable connects your guitar to the amp. Don't skimp on quality, as a good cable can make a noticeable difference in your sound.
• Tuner: Keeping your guitar in tune is crucial. Clip-on tuners are cheap and effective, or you can use a tuning app on your smartphone.
• Picks: Experiment with different thicknesses to find what feels best. Thinner picks are easier for strumming, while thicker picks are great for precise picking.
• Strap: If you plan to play standing up, a comfortable strap is a must.

The right gear can really enhance your playing experience, so take your time to find what suits you best. And remember, you can always upgrade later as you progress.

Understanding Basic Guitar Setup

When you get your first electric guitar, it's important to ensure it's set up properly. A good setup can make a world of difference in playability and sound. Here’s what to look for:

• Action: This refers to the height of the strings above the fretboard. Lower action makes it easier to press down the strings but can cause buzzing if too low. Higher action might be harder to play but can give a cleaner sound.
• Intonation: This ensures that your guitar is in tune up and down the neck. If chords sound out of tune as you move up the neck, the intonation may need adjustment.
• Neck Relief: The slight curve in the neck affects playability. Too much bow can make strings hard to press; too little can cause buzzing.

If you're not comfortable making these adjustments yourself, most music stores offer setup services. A well-set-up guitar is a joy to play and will keep you motivated to practice.

Basic Techniques to Start With

Now that your gear is ready, it's time to get playing! Here are some fundamental techniques to focus on as a beginner:

• Holding the Pick: Hold the pick between your thumb and first finger. Experiment with angles and grip tightness to find what's comfortable.
• Basic Chords: Start with open chords like E, A, D, G, C, and F. These are the building blocks for countless songs.
• Strumming Patterns: Practice simple up and down strumming patterns. Listen to your favorite songs and try to match their rhythms.
• Power Chords: Essential for rock and metal, power chords are two or three-note chords that are easy to move around the fretboard.
• Finger Exercises: Simple exercises can help build finger strength and dexterity. Try playing scales or chromatic runs up and down the neck.

These techniques will lay the foundation for more advanced playing. Practice regularly and be patient with your progress.

Crafting Your Practice Routine

Consistency is key to improving on the guitar. Setting up a practice routine helps ensure you make steady progress. Here’s a simple framework to get started:

• Warm-Up: Spend 5-10 minutes warming up with finger exercises or scales. This prepares your fingers and mind for practice.
• Technique Practice: Dedicate 15-20 minutes to practicing specific techniques, like chord changes or alternate picking.
• Song Practice: Spend 20-30 minutes working on songs you enjoy. This keeps practice fun and gives you a sense of accomplishment.
• Improvisation: Allow some time to experiment and play freely. This can spark creativity and improve your ear for music.
• Review: End your session by reviewing what you’ve worked on. This reinforces learning and helps you track progress.

Adjust the time spent on each section based on your goals and schedule. The most important thing is to make practice a regular habit.

Exploring Different Styles and Genres

Electric guitar is incredibly versatile, and there's a world of styles to explore. Here are a few to consider as you expand your playing:

• Rock: From classic rock to modern rock, this genre often features catchy riffs and powerful solos.
• Blues: Known for its soulful bends and expressive playing, blues is great for developing phrasing and feel.
• Metal: Whether you're into thrash, death, or black metal, this genre is all about speed, precision, and intensity.
• Jazz: Jazz guitar features complex chord progressions and improvisation, offering endless creative possibilities.
• Funk: Focused on rhythm and groove, funk guitar often uses syncopated strumming and catchy riffs.

Don't limit yourself to just one style. Each genre offers unique techniques and challenges that can enhance your overall playing ability.

Troubleshooting Common Beginner Issues

As you learn, you'll inevitably run into some challenges. Here are a few common issues beginners face and how to tackle them:

• String Buzzing: If your strings buzz, check your action and neck relief. Also, ensure you're pressing down the strings firmly enough.
• Chord Changes: Slow down and practice switching between chords in time. Use a metronome to gradually increase your speed.
• Timing: Playing with a metronome or backing tracks can help you develop a strong sense of timing.
• Fretting Hand Fatigue: If your hand gets tired, take a break and check your hand position. Make sure you're not squeezing the neck too hard.
• Staying Motivated: Set small, achievable goals and celebrate your progress. Remember why you started and keep challenging yourself.

Most importantly, don’t get discouraged. Every guitarist faces challenges—what matters is how you work through them.

Learning from the Pros

Studying the playing styles of your favorite guitarists can be incredibly inspiring and educational. Here’s how to learn from the best:

• Transcription: Try to learn solos or riffs by ear. This develops your musical ear and helps you understand phrasing and note choice.
• Live Performances: Watch live performances to see how guitarists interact with their instruments and the audience.
• Interviews and Lessons: Many pros share tips and insights in interviews or instructional videos. Absorb their wisdom and apply it to your playing.

At Riffhard, we offer lessons from some of the world's most respected metal guitarists. Learn rhythm and lead guitar techniques directly from the experts and take your metal playing to the next level.

Improving Your Rhythm and Timing

Rhythm is the backbone of great guitar playing. Here’s how to hone your timing and become a solid rhythm guitarist:

• Metronome Practice: Regularly practice with a metronome to develop a strong internal sense of timing.
• Subdivision: Understand how to break down beats into smaller parts (e.g., eighths, triplets, sixteenths) for more precise playing.
• Playing with Backing Tracks: Use backing tracks to simulate playing with a band. This helps you learn to stay in time with other instruments.
• Recording Yourself: Record your practice sessions to hear how your timing sounds. This allows you to objectively assess and improve your rhythm.

Consistent rhythm practice will improve your overall musicality and make you a more versatile player.

Final Thoughts

Getting into electric guitar is an exciting journey filled with challenges and rewards. By choosing the right gear, setting up a solid practice routine, and exploring different styles, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a skilled guitarist. Remember, progress takes time, so be patient and enjoy the process. For those looking to deepen their skills, Riffhard offers a wealth of lessons from some of the best metal guitarists in the world, guiding you every step of the way.