Natural Talent and Guitar Playing

Many people who are learning to play guitar are intimidated by the learning process, frustrated with their progress and believe that they lack the natural talent necessary to make music. Is it possible that some people just can't learn how to play guitar? Or do some aspiring players set unrealistic expectations? How can a person know if they're wasting their time or not?

How to Learn Guitar
Getting good at playing guitar requires study, practice and a little creativity. You have to know how something is properly done so that you don't waste your time doing things incorrectly or developing bad habits. You must spend a lot of time with your guitar in hand practicing and playing. You need to find what it is that you can do well and learn how to compensate for your weaknesses. Finally, you need to accept your limitations and embrace what abilities you have been given.

Natural Talent
If you're unable to make progress with certain guitar styles or techniques, then move onto something else that comes more naturally to you. Take advantage of your strengths and accept your limitations. Have you ever seen B.B. King play chords? Not one of his strengths! And Dave Matthews couldn't take a lead guitar solo if his life depended on it. Yet they are both accomplished guitar players in their own right because they have something they can do uniquely well. Don't expect to be able to play everything you want to play. And don't get hung up on things that seem impossible. Instead, make the process a journey to discover what you CAN play.

Armless Guitar Player
There is perhaps no better example of how to succeed at making music when faced with limitations than armless guitarists Tony Melendez. Born without arms, Tony never let his handicap get in his way. Instead he developed proficiency in using his feet. "I was pretty secure in what I could do," he says. What a great attitude. The video below shows just what he can do.



You Can Do It
When there's a will there's a way. Maybe you won't be able to copy licks and phrases by famous guitar players like some other guys can, but that's no reason to give up on the special ability you may have. If you're struggling, perhaps you need to reconsider your expectations and change your approach. A good guitar instructor can make a big difference. And there are plenty of books, DVDs and online guitar lessons that can help too.

Music Theory for Guitar