Question 1

What is country guitar?

Accepted Answer

Country guitar is a style of playing that incorporates elements from many American genres, including bluegrass, rock and roll, blues, and jazz. Techniques range from simple chords to challenging, technical solos. While rhythm guitar is often fairly simple, consisting of three or four chords per song, lead guitar can take on much more advanced techniques. This range of skill provides opportunities for players of all levels to enjoy making country music.

Question 2

Is country guitar hard to learn?

Accepted Answer

Yes, country guitar can be more difficult to learn than rock guitar. Country music relies more on complete chords and more advanced solo techniques, while rock music frequently uses power chords. Country music often highlights and relies on guitar work for its unique sound, often incorporating acoustic guitars over electric and valuing the pure sound of the instrument.

That being said, there is ample opportunity for beginners to get out there and enjoy making country music. Much of country guitar is based on simple chord structures that are quite accessible for beginner players to learn in our country guitar lessons. While country guitar might be more technically difficult than rock, it is a rewarding experience that grows with you as a musician.

Question 3

How long should you practice guitar a day?

Accepted Answer

Aim for between fifteen minutes and an hour. Many say to aim for about half an hour, but keep in mind that short, consistent practice sessions with frequent breaks work best for building skill without tiring your fingers. Consistency is, of course, key; you should practice every day for the best results. Focus is often more important than length for practice sessions, as well. Try to schedule your practice for times that you can give your instrument your undivided attention.

Quality over quantity is the name of the game when working with a musical instrument. You will get more out of short practice sessions and frequent breaks than you will out of marathon sessions that last longer than your attention span. In the beginning, short sessions will minimize any discomfort you may feel while building calluses, but later, focusing on one technique at a time will improve your results. When you take country guitar lessons with us, your music teacher will help you develop a good routine.