Choosing the Best Guitar for a Beginner 8-Year-Old Girl
When it comes to purchasing a guitar for an 8-year-old girl who is just starting out, there are several factors to consider to ensure that she enjoys playing and progresses successfully. Here, we'll explore different options and provide guidance on how to find the ideal instrument for your young musician.
Electric vs Acoustic Guitars
For an 8-year-old, an electric guitar might seem like a more appealing option due to its size and design. However, it's important to note that electric guitars often require additional equipment such as a pedal board, amplifier, and cable, which can be complex for a young beginner. If you're set on an electric guitar, the Fender Strat Mini is highly recommended. Known for its portability and ease of play, this mini model is perfectly suited for a smaller person. If you're not confident in setting it up yourself, consider getting it from a store that offers returns if adjustments are needed.
On the other hand, an acoustic guitar can be a more straightforward option. Cort guitars are popular among beginners due to their relatively affordable price and good quality. However, a truly excellent choice would be a small-bodied Martin guitar, which can provide a better acoustic experience without being overwhelming. Regardless of which path you choose, it's vital to have a professional guitar tech perform a setup to ensure the guitar is perfectly adjusted for your child's playing experience.
Nylon-Stringed Guitars for Young Beginners
Nylon-stringed guitars are a excellent choice for young beginners like 8-year-old girls. A nylon string reduces the initial discomfort often associated with steel-string guitars, making it easier and less discouraging for a child to start playing. A smaller body guitar, such as a Yamaha 3/4 size model, is particularly suitable for young hands. The action (the distance between the strings and the fretboard) should also be kept low to facilitate easier play. Most reputable guitar stores have luthiers or technicians who can make necessary adjustments to ensure the guitar is perfectly suited for your child.
The price range for a decent new guitar for an 8-year-old beginner is typically around $150-$200. Investing in a quality instrument within this range can provide a great starting point for your child to develop their musical skills. If you're looking for a 3/4 sized guitar, make sure to buy a nylon string model as it will be easier on her fingers and less prone to causing frustration. Interestingly, a nylon string guitar is versatile enough for her to learn any genre of music, whether it's classical, folk, or rock.
Perseverance is Key
According to my experience as a guitar teacher, it's rare for very young children, even those well below 10 years of age, to be able to successfully work out a guitar. This is largely due to the small size of their fingers and the physical challenges of pressing down guitar strings. However, there are exceptions, like one 10-year-old student who demonstrated exceptional talent and imagination. He instantly grasped concepts and even compared notes to a baseball diamond, showing remarkable insight and creativity. It's worth noting that this particular student eventually stopped lessons, which could have been due to various reasons, such as pursuing other interests or financial constraints.
In light of these challenges, it might be wise to consider an alternative instrument for your child if you have concerns about dedication. A digital keyboard can be a fantastic option for a young learner. The ease of use, immediate sound, and ability to learn various genres make it an attractive choice. Furthermore, it can serve as a stepping stone to other musical instruments, providing a wide range of learning opportunities.
Ultimately, the key to success in learning to play the guitar is perseverance and encouragement. Ensure that the initial instrument you choose is well-suited for a beginner and that ongoing support is available. By taking these steps, you can set your 8-year-old girl on a positive and enjoyable path to musical exploration.