Here's why you should quit learning guitar!

Discover the common reasons why people struggle with guitar and explore if it's time to reconsider your guitar journey. Find insights on whether guitar classes near you are a good choice or should you try online guitar classes. Further insights on mastering F Major chords, strumming patterns, and effective finger exercises for guitar. Unveil the secrets to overcome obstacles and transform your guitar playing experience.

Burntune

7/6/20237 min read

a man and woman sitting on a couch playing guitar
a man and woman sitting on a couch playing guitar

Before you raise your eyebrows in disbelief, let us clarify: this article is not about discouraging you from learning music.

Instead, it aims to shed light on the mistakes that many aspiring guitarists unknowingly make, leaving them frustrated and unable to master the basics even after years of effort.

By delving into these pitfalls, we can guide you towards a more fulfilling and effective approach to guitar playing.

So, take a deep breath, strum those guitar strings, and join us on this enlightening journey as we explore the three big reasons why quitting guitar might be the best decision you ever make, or vice-versa.

3 Big Reasons Why You Should Never Learn Guitar

#1 Guitar is not just a finger-skill

#3 Guitar is a game of formulas

#2 Guitar is not fun unless you are bold enough to be creative

Finally then what should you do next

More than fingers, learning Guitar is truly an exploration of musical senses. Timing, chords, and singing are three fundamental aspects of guitar playing that often trip up aspiring musicians.

However, by re-evaluating these elements, we can unlock the true potential of our guitar journey.

Timing is often misunderstood as merely adhering to a metronome or following prescribed strumming patterns. But in reality, it's about something much more profound – making your entire body move like dancing to a song. Think about it: when you hear your favorite tune, your body naturally grooves to the rhythm. The same should apply to your guitar playing. Instead of mechanically strumming along, allow the music to flow through your body, embracing the natural movements and syncing your strums with your internal rhythm. This shift in mindset will not only make your playing more dynamic but also infuse it with a sense of joy and expression.

Chords, often viewed as daunting combinations of fret and string numbers, can become a source of frustration for many guitarists. However, it's essential to realize that chords are more than mere finger positions – they are gestures, akin to hand signs in karate. Rather than simply memorizing shapes, focus on the feeling and intention behind each chord. Understand how your fingers interact with the strings, the pressure you apply, and the sound that resonates. By approaching chords as expressive gestures, you can connect more deeply with the music and imbue your playing with emotion.

But what about singing? Incorporating vocals into your guitar journey may seem intimidating, especially if you believe you can't sing. However, learning to sing, even if it's just a little, can be a game-changer. Singing helps you develop a stronger sense of melody, phrasing, and overall musicality. It adds a whole new layer of depth and connection to your guitar playing. Don't worry about sounding perfect; the goal is to enjoy the process and express yourself. Sing along with your favorite songs, experiment with melodies, and let your voice intertwine with your guitar. You'll be amazed at how this combination elevates your playing and makes the learning journey more enjoyable.

In this first section, we've delved into the importance of rethinking timing, chords, and incorporating singing into your guitar practice. By embracing the natural rhythms of your body, understanding the expressive nature of chords, and exploring the power of vocals, you can transform your guitar playing experience. It's time to let go of rigid structures and embrace the fluidity and joy that music can bring. Join us in the next section as we explore the exciting world of songwriting and creativity in guitar playing.

Songwriting is a magical realm that can breathe new life into your guitar journey. It may initially seem like a territory reserved for seasoned experts, but in reality, it's an accessible and incredibly rewarding avenue for all guitarists, regardless of skill level. By exploring the art of songwriting, you can unleash your creativity and find a deeper connection with your instrument.

Many aspiring guitarists fall into the trap of approaching their practice sessions as a monotonous routine. They get stuck in the loop of playing the same scales, exercises, and songs repeatedly, without exploring their own creative potential. This lack of variety and personal expression often leads to frustration and a loss of interest. However, by delving into the world of songwriting, you break free from this cycle.

Songwriting allows you to look at the guitar as a vehicle for self-expression and storytelling. It's an opportunity to transform your practice time from a dull obligation into an exciting exploration of melody, rhythm, and lyrics. You don't have to be an expert to start writing songs – even a child can do it. The process is like playing a game, where you experiment with different chord progressions, melodies, and lyrics to create something unique. Through songwriting, you tap into your innate creativity and develop a deeper understanding of music.

Moreover, the act of writing your own songs encourages consistency in your guitar practice. When you have a personal connection to the music you create, it becomes easier to stay motivated and dedicated to your instrument. Rather than seeing practice as a chore, you'll find yourself eagerly picking up the guitar, excited to bring your musical ideas to life. This newfound enthusiasm will fuel your progress and inspire you to explore new techniques and musical concepts.

So, embrace the art of songwriting and allow your guitar to become a gateway to unlimited creativity. Set aside time to experiment with chord progressions, melodies, and lyrics. Don't worry about making it perfect; the goal is to enjoy the process of creation. Let your imagination roam free, and don't be afraid to take risks. With each song you write, you'll not only enhance your guitar skills but also develop your unique musical voice.

In this second section, we've explored the transformative power of songwriting and creativity in your guitar journey. By breaking free from monotonous practice routines and embracing the art of creating your own songs, you can infuse your guitar playing with personal expression and fuel your motivation. Join us in the next section as we delve into the importance of learning chords families and how they unlock the potential to perform a wide range of songs.

When it comes to learning guitar, understanding chord families is key to expanding your song repertoire and broadening your musical horizons. By focusing on these essential building blocks of music, you can navigate through various genres and styles with confidence.

Chords families consist of a group of chords that share similar harmonic characteristics. By learning the foundational chords within these families, you gain a solid understanding of how chords function in different keys and progressions. This knowledge opens up a world of possibilities when it comes to playing a wide range of songs.

Start by exploring common chord families, such as the major, minor, and dominant chords. Practice transitioning between chords within the same family, gradually increasing the speed and fluidity of your movements. As you become more comfortable with these chord shapes, you'll notice that many songs share similar progressions within the same family. This allows you to quickly pick up new songs and perform them confidently.

Studying chord families also enables you to develop a deeper understanding of music theory. You'll begin to recognize patterns and relationships between chords, leading to a greater comprehension of how music is constructed. This knowledge empowers you to create your arrangements, experiment with chord substitutions, and even compose your music.

Additionally, studying chord families encourages a more intuitive and creative approach to playing the guitar. Rather than relying solely on memorization, you'll start to recognize the underlying logic behind chord progressions. This understanding allows you to add your unique touch to songs, improvising and embellishing chords with ease.

As you delve into chord families, remember that the goal is not to overwhelm yourself with every possible chord variation. Focus on mastering the essential chords within each family and gradually expand your repertoire. By developing a solid foundation, you'll gain the confidence to tackle more complex songs and progressions.

Moreover, studying chord families opens up opportunities for collaboration with other musicians. When you have a strong command of chords, you can easily communicate and play alongside fellow guitarists, pianists, or any other instrumentalists. This collaborative aspect of music-making fosters growth, creativity, and a sense of community.

In this third section, we've explored the significance of mastering chord families in your guitar journey. By delving into these foundational building blocks, you can expand your song repertoire, deepen your understanding of music theory, and develop a more intuitive and creative approach to playing. Join us in the conclusion as we reflect on the importance of finding your musical passion and making your guitar journey a fulfilling and joyful experience.

The decision to quit learning guitar should never be taken lightly. It's essential to recognize that the challenges and obstacles we face during our musical journey are part of the growth process. However, it's equally important to assess whether we are approaching our guitar practice in the most effective and enjoyable way.

Throughout this article, we've explored three big reasons why you might consider quitting learning guitar. From the misconception about timing to the struggles of traditional practice methods, it's easy to become discouraged and question your progress. But here's the key: instead of giving up, let's reframe our mindset and find alternative approaches that ignite our passion and keep us motivated.

Rather than focusing solely on the technical aspects of playing, we've highlighted the importance of embracing singing, exploring songwriting, and mastering chord families. These three pillars offer a different perspective on learning guitar, emphasizing creativity, personal expression, and the joy of playing songs. By incorporating these elements into your practice routine, you can infuse your guitar journey with excitement, inspiration, and a deep connection to music.

Remember, the purpose of learning an instrument is not solely to become a virtuoso or impress others with your technical prowess. It's about finding your musical voice, experiencing the joy of creation, and connecting with others through the universal language of music. So, instead of focusing on the difficulties or comparing yourself to others, nurture your love for music, embrace the process of learning, and let your guitar become a lifelong companion on your musical adventure.

In the end, the choice to continue or quit learning guitar is yours to make. But before you make that decision, consider the reasons why you started in the first place. Rediscover the passion that brought you to the guitar and explore new avenues that reignite your enthusiasm. With the right mindset, a supportive community, and a love for music, your guitar journey can be a source of joy, fulfillment, and endless possibilities.