Beginner Guitarists: Should You Learn Theory First or Play First?

As a beginner guitarist, your initial learning journey can be full of questions. Should you start by understanding the theory or by playing the guitar straight away?

Many people recommend starting with playing, but why is this? Is it a better approach, or should theory take precedence?

The Importance of Starting with Playing

Some guitar teachers suggest learning guitar techniques and songs immediately. This advice is rooted in several key reasons.

Immediate Application

One significant benefit of starting with playing is the immediate application of theoretical concepts. By learning chords, scales, and simple songs, you can see and hear how these theories work in practice right away. This hands-on approach makes the concepts more relatable and easier to master.

Motivation

Playing songs you love provides an instant boost to your motivation. When you can play a song you’ve always wanted, it’s a rewarding experience. Understanding the theory behind these songs can deepen your appreciation and enjoyment of the music you play, making the learning process more enjoyable.

Foundation for Progress

Basic music theory concepts, such as understanding chords, scales, and rhythm, form the foundation for rapid progress. Knowing these basics allows you to improvise and compose your own music more effectively. This practical application of theory enhances your playing skills and confidence.

Balanced Learning

Combining playing and theory provides a well-rounded approach to learning. As you practice chords and songs, you can simultaneously learn about chord progressions, major and minor scales, and how they relate to the music you play. This integrated method makes the learning process more comprehensive and enjoyable.

Start Simple - Open Chords and Basic Songs

For beginners, it’s best to start with basic chords and simple songs. This approach retains enthusiasm and keeps the learning process engaging.

Learn Basic Chords

Begin with a few open chords, such as C, G, D, A, and E. Practicing these chords and switching between them is a fundamental skill. Spend time each day practicing these chords to build muscle memory and proficiency.

Choose Simple Songs

Select songs that use these basic chords. This will keep your practice enjoyable and prevent frustration. Start with easy songs like “Twinkle Twinkle Little Star” or “Happy Birthday.” As your confidence grows, you can move on to more complex songs.

Incorporate Theory Gradually

As you progress, gradually introduce basic theory concepts. Learn about how chords are built, major and minor scales, and how they relate to the songs you’re playing. This incremental approach ensures that you don’t get overwhelmed and can slowly deepen your understanding.

Self-Learning Music Theory

You don’t need to hire an expensive teacher or enroll in a classical conservatory to learn music theory. You can pick up the essential parts of music theory on your own and apply it to your everyday music practice.

There are numerous online resources, books, and tutorials that can help you learn the basics of music theory. Websites like offer comprehensive lessons in a variety of areas, including chord progressions, scales, and rhythms. YouTube also has countless tutorials that can guide you through the basics step-by-step.

Conclusion

In summary, for beginners, it’s more beneficial to learn to play the guitar alongside basic music theory rather than focusing on theory first. The integrated approach keeps the learning process engaging and helps you apply theoretical concepts in real-time. Whether you follow a live guitar teacher or learn on your own, remember that the key is regular practice and gradual progression.

Don’t hesitate to explore online resources and tutorials to enhance your learning. Happy playing!