4 Step Guide to Start Learning the Guitar

Guitar is easily one of the most popular instruments around. The Guitar is easy to carry around, looks cool and is a great way for you to express yourself. So, to fulfill that desire, we are going to tell you our 4 steps to how you can start your guitar learning journey.

Step 1 - How to Choose the Right guitar for you

The first thing you do is to look online and see the tons of options and get confused! So, how do you know what to buy? Let’s begin by discussing the two main types of guitars that you can choose from - first is the Acoustic Guitar and the second is the Electric Guitar. What’s the difference between the two? The difference is simply that the Electric guitar as the name suggests, needs power to work (it is plugged into an amplifier with a cable, and the amplifier needs power to work) and the Acoustic guitar can be played by itself (it does not need power). Now, the electric guitar looks really fancy and the acoustic guitar looks very beautiful. 

So, the question becomes - where do you need to start as a beginner?  Ideally, it’s best to start with an acoustic guitar. The reason is simply because if you buy an electric guitar then you need to buy cables and an amplifier available so it becomes an expensive proposition to begin with. That’s why we always recommend beginners to choose an acoustic Guitar. And the best part about the acoustic guitar is that you can actually carry it easily. You can take it to parties, play and create amazing memories with this wonderful instrument. Now, if you have an electric guitar then there is nothing wrong with that either. It’s just a little bit more bulky as you will have to carry several items along with it.

So, let’s now discuss the kind of acoustic Guitars available. There are two kinds of categories one is the basic acoustic guitar second is an electro-acoustic guitar. The electro-acoustic guitar can be used like an acoustic guitar and can also be connected to an amplifier - so there are advantages of buying an electric-acoustic guitar. Now, let's say you buy a guitar right now which is an acoustic guitar and you start practicing it once you become a little bit more comfortable after six seven months. Now, you want to perform, with the acoustic guitar, you won't be able to connect your guitar to a speaker - that's where electro acoustic guitar comes in the picture. The only reason you won't use an electro acoustic guitar instead of an acoustic guitar is because of price differentiation. The  electro acoustic guitar is a little bit on a higher side. 

So, make sure you choose your next guitar wisely. At the time of purchase, you might be only concerned about the present situation. However, in just a few months you'll be playing the guitar so comfortably and you won’t want to invest again it might be 2k to 3k  rupees extra but it's worth that price. 

Step 2: Where to Buy your Guitar from?

So, now that you have decided which guitar to purchase, where should you buy this next guitar from? There are several options here, you can go to a Musical Instrument Store and you can purchase it online. It’s really nice if you can actually get a feel of the guitar before you buy so that you can see if it fits you right, and  it sounds good etc. However, that is not always possible. So, if you don’t have access to a good, safe instrument store, make sure that you check out reviews online and on youtube before you finalise the model. If you're purchasing online you can purchase it from www.Bajaao.com or Raj musicals  - all these websites are safe and do really good packaging so you don't need to worry about damage to your instrument during shipping.

Step 3: Which Guitar model to buy? What Accessories are required?

So, you have decided to purchase an acoustic guitar - which one should you buy? We highly recommend buying Yamaha guitars. The reason is that Yamaha Guitars are good quality in terms of both sound and build. They are long lasting and are typically made from sturdy material. The model numbers to consider are Yamaha F280, F310 and FS280C.

In terms of Guitar Accessories, there are some accessories that are essential when purchasing the guitar. You would need to purchase a guitar strap, one extra set of guitar strings, a guitar tuner (clip-on is better) and some plectrums. These are all essential items when it comes to using and maintaining the guitar, so make sure you buy them along with your guitar.

Step 4: Where to Learn from - Music School or Online?

Now that you have chosen your guitar, figured out where to buy it from and what models to choose - you have come to the final step that is how to start learning to play. If you don't get a good place to learn from, you will end up wasting all  that money that you spend on the guitar. And most important of all, you will not be able to realise your own dream that is of playing this amazing instrument. So, you gotta make sure that you learn from a good place that will help you develop into a good guitar player. 

The first option is for you go to a good institute, a reputed institute and try to learn from there. There is one thing that you need to know when you go to an institute is that some places will try to teach you classical base. They will try to teach you Mozart or Bach and there is nothing wrong with it. These are all good musical pieces made by remarkable composers. However, you as a beginner student should not go directly into a genre. This applies to anyone teaching even rock or blues straight away. Don't go into that direction. As a beginner, you have to explore your style and the best way to do it is learn from the fundamentals. Start learning chords, start learning songs that you want to learn. Once you start exploring different different things, then you can make a decision about which genre you really want to go for. A good teacher or an institute will make sure that you are exposed to different kind of genres so that you yourself can make an informed decision. So, make sure you follow this when you're choosing an institute for yourself.

Next, let's talk about different kinds of mediums that you can learn from. One is when you go to an institute or a teacher comes to your place. The second medium is online, wherein you get free recorded lessons so that you can watch it anytime and you get the support from the teacher whenever and wherever it's required. Offline learning or going to an academy/institute is great, learning one-on-one is great but there are some drawbacks to this kind of learning. 

The first and the most important is how long is the teacher going to be available to teach you? You need to really take that into consideration because once you break from a teacher it's very hard to get a good teacher to match the rapport. Next, learning from a one-on-one sessions with instructor is where you will have these lessons designed for you. Once or twice a week, you will take lessons, then go home and if you have a doubt what's gonna happen? You will not be able to clarify all these doubts. You will have to wait for your next session to happen, only then can you clarify these sessions. And how do you know what to practice? The third factor to consider is what if your teacher gets busy with a show/gig or is not in a good mood? How is this going to affect your learning? Finally, the fourth point to really consider is that offline classes happen at a fixed location, so it’s going to be expensive and you will also need to travel to and from that location - this is going to take a lot of your time. And, if you need to reschedule every now and then, it’s not going to be flexible. Imagine if you are running late and reach home at 10pm? Would you have access to the lessons then?

This is where online lessons come in. The best part about online learning is that you have your lessons available to you anytime you want to learn. They are available to you 24/7, whenever you want to practice. Also, practice sessions are available to you anytime, so you can practice anytime you want. Take a simple instance of, what if you wanted to take a closer look at a finger position, you could pause the video anytime and replay it and get the technique correct. And the best part of these lessons is that the teacher is not going anywhere. The teacher takes you through the entire course and is there with you through your musical journey. There are a lot of advantages of online learning formats and you should definitely check out https://musicpandit.com if you want to explore this option.

Summary

So, there you have, your 4 steps to begin your guitar learning journey all laid out for you. Start today and see how quickly you will be playing your favourite songs!

We hope you enjoyed this topic and it was useful to you. If you want to know more about such topics, please comment below and we will definitely address it. Please make sure you follow our blogspot to get access to more such content.

Music Pandit offers you structured step-by-step lessons, short videos so that you can watch them anytime you want. Music Pandit also offers lessons that discuss technique, followed by practice videos to perfect those techniques. A lot of the times as a beginner you won't even know how to practice, so imagine your teacher taking you through what to practice as well? That is the best part! Finally, you can take a video of yourself and submit it to the website and an instructor watches your video and gives you detailed feedback about how you are doing.

Music Pandit brings you the best and the most effective way to learn music online with a complete 360-degree approach to learning music.Music Pandit offers Online Video Lessons with the support of Personalised feedback from our Music Pandits, curated step-by-step lessons, extensive content - you can choose multiple instruments, carefully organised Practice Routines, a Musical Community, Creative Challenges, Goal setting and so much more – so you can learn Anytime, Anywhere at your pace! Sign up today on https://musicpandit.com 

5 Things to do to Start Singing Right Now

Do you love to sing? Or do you have a song in your head that you dream of singing? Whether you wish to perform on a stage someday or you just want to step up your shower singing skills, anyone can learn how to sing better.

 

A common misconception about singing well is that you’re either born with it or you’re not. Well, we believe that ‘anyone can sing’ and we are going to tell you how!

 

In this blog, we will discuss 5 things you need to know to start your singing journey right now!

 

#1 A Singer is a Vocal Athlete

Singing is actually comparable to any athletic endeavour – let’s take for instance training for a performance, we can compare it to training for a marathon. There are certain muscles that need to be worked out and we push ourselves a little more every day to build up our endurance.

 

The same thing is applied when singing, we work out several parts of our vocal anatomy including vocal cords, larynx and soft palate. The more regularly you do this, the better control and flexibility you will have over your voice.

 

While physiological differences do play a role in the tone of the voice, the fact is that vocal training can make all the difference between an amateur singer and a professional.

 

#2 Stay Motivated

Now, when you are starting to sing, you will come across many nay-sayers. Everyone encounters negative people who constantly discourage you.

 

But, try to remember why you started in the first place. Who was that person or What was that song that made you want to sing?

 

Don’t forget it.

 

No singer was great when they started their musical journey, every one of them worked hard and didn’t give in to their critics and that’s why they got where they are.

 

Remember ‘you don’t have to be great to start but you have to start to be great.’

 

#3 Breathing Technique

One of the most important fundamentals to get right when you sing is your breathing technique. This is what makes the difference sounding breathless to holding that note with ease.

 

For singers, the technique of breathing through the diaphragm of belly breath is essential in order to deliver better and more stable sound.

If you don’t know how, try this technique. Put your hands (one on top of the other) on your belly, with the center of your lower hand touching your navel. Watch how your breathing responds. You may notice that your belly wants to expand as you inhale and retract as you exhale. Let this happen, but don’t try to force it.

 

The best way to practice this exercise is while lying in bed. Place your hands lightly on your stomach and watch as your belly expands and contracts with your breathing.

 

#4 Posture

When singing posture is one another important piece of the puzzle. So, let’s talk about how you can maintain the right posture while singing.

 

Whether you are standing or sitting, there is a way that you can ensure that your breathing and your singing resonance does not get disturbed.

 

Starting from the top, your chin should be parallel to the floor and slightly tucked in or back. hold your chest high and your shoulders down or slightly back. Keep your tummy both firm and expandable at the same time. You will need to practice controlling these muscles while learning how to breathe using your diaphragm.

 

Singing while standing is the best posture so that your tummy or lung area is not being crushed and you have enough room to move freely. Your hands should be relaxed and held still at your side. Do not hunch or lean backwards, stand straight.

 

Singing while sitting is not the ideal posture, however, if you need to sit, please ensure that your back is straight and not hunched forward or leaning backward. Your tummy and lung are should not be crushed.

 

#5 Easy Warm Up Exercises

Lip Rolls

Lip Rolls are a great way to warm up. They get blood flowing to the vocal chords, and around the mouth area increasing flexibility. Other variations of Lip Rolls are great exercise to ensure smooth transitions between Chest Voice, Head Voice and Mix Voice.

How to do a proper Lip Roll

1. Gently place your fingers on each cheek

2. Lift up and, depending on preference, move your fingers slightly forward or pull back

3. Blow*

 

*Keep your lips loose! You want the air flow to allow them to vibrate against each other. Repeat this 4-5 times to ensure your lips mouth region gets warmed up and flexible.

 

Moving Up & Down the Keyboard

Starting from the middle C (or the 3rd C on the keyboard), move slowly towards the left or the lower pitch. Go as far as you can without straining too much or hurting your voice. Similarly, do this with the upper range. Do this a few times to wake up and warm up your voice so that it is nice and clear. You voice will also feel more flexible and in control.

 

So, there you have it. Our 5 pointers to begin your singing journey today! If you want to see a video demonstration of these topics, please see the video on our YouTube channel - https://youtu.be/t77WUmix7hw

 

If you want access to detailed guided lessons and practice routines, do check out our Western Vocals lessons on https://musicpandit.com -  On Music Pandit, you get access to step-by-step lessons that cover a whole lot of topics like improving your vocal range, vocal projection, improvisation, vocal vibrato and so much more.

 

We hope you enjoyed this topic and it was useful to you. So, please follow our blog so you don’t miss out on any upcoming blog posts. If there is any topic you want to know more about, just comment below and we will definitely discuss it.

 

Music Pandit brings you the best and the most effective way to learn music online with a complete 360-degree approach to learning music.

Music Pandit offers Online Video Lessons with the support of Personalised feedback from our Music Pandits, curated step-by-step lessons, extensive content - you can choose multiple instruments, carefully organised Practice Routines, a Musical Community, Creative Challenges, Goal setting and so much more – so you can learn Anytime, Anywhere at your pace! Sign up today on https://musicpandit.com 

4 Ways That Learning Music Make You Smarter

There are numerous substantiations about the role Music education can play mental and social development, as well as life lasting communication skills. In this article, let us look into the impact music education can have on brain development and stimulation.

1. Heightened Brain Development

When playing an instrument , it requires the attention of our brain which opens up several neural path in brain that helps in developing the brain. It undergoes various mental activity that keeps the brain active and drilled for complicated arrangements so that it can solve and react to  the things as quickly as possible. Somehow the architecture of the brain changes in a way that it starts perceiving tasks in a broader, smarter and emotional way. Thus, regularly practising music heightens the processing ability of our brain and it tends to decipher complex activities with ease and efficiency. Listening to music and playing music is considered the equivalent of a full-body workout for your brain!

2. Stronger Memory Power

Music education pushes you to understand certain capabilities of the brain, most importantly - the ability to memorise in innovative ways. It can teach you to analyse the task at hand and process the data in a way that helps you connect them with relation to its purpose. This way, when you can connect the dots, it helps you remember things better. It also enhances your spatial, auditory and visual capacity that helps you comprehend things much better.

3. Enhanced Cognition and Co-ordination ability

Playing an instrument requires concentration and conscious attention to details. It also requires a lot of coordination to be able to execute the playing accurately. So, with regular practice you can develop your coordinating abilities that will enhance your skills in the instrument, but also it will help you tackle other activities that you come across in your daily life that requires you to have some type of coordination. Practicing music is like a workout of your brain, so you are building muscles which will store more information as well as react more efficiently to the tasks given. Thus, it also improves your cognitive abilities which helps you retain things better, plan effectively and focus your attention to the necessary.

4. Faster ability to learn

As we have seen from the points discussed above, music really plays a vital role in the development and enhancement of our intelligence. It is safe to say that, if one has successfully done their music education, it can help them in long-term. They have a higher sense of conscience, consciousness, enhanced cognitive and spatial capacity and a broader sense of how things work. It prepares you for all the challenges that may come your way. You tend to learn about your surrounding faster and take the reasonable action necessary. It provides you the ability to learn things faster and use them to benefit your skills.

Music does not only make you smarter, it supports you emotionally as well. It can be one of the most supportive base that you can rely on. It also provides you with so many benefits that can improve your emotional life. Finally, the reason one should consider learning music is not just because of all the benefits stated above, but also for the simple joy you get by listening to music and playing music.

3 Reasons Why Music Learning has no age limit

Music is a universal language. Music has no boundaries. And, it can reach huge masses. Music has the ability to connect with you emotionally, spiritually as well as provide the best company when you need it.

Almost every person loves to listen to music, so if you wish to learn it, your age should definitely not stop you from learning or playing music. There is no age limit to learn music, all it requires is your time and patience and you will be playing tunes in no time.

Virtue of Patience

You might have heard the classic stereotypes where they say it is harder for older people to absorb things quicker. It is not entirely true. Modern day requirements put a lot of stress in an individual and it deprives them of valuable time that is required for themselves. Studies have proved that learning music is one really good way for both adults and kids to deal with stress and anxiety. Additionally, you are spending time learning something new! Learning music has benefits for all, age has nothing to do with it. While it can help develop a kid's cognitive ability and personality, it can act as a stress buster for adults.

If you are starting music learning as an adult, you do need to be little bit more patience. The reason is that it requires more time compared to the youth, who are already used to learning things every day, from their daily co-curricular activity. However, as long as you want to learn, there is nothing stopping you. So, set aside some time today and check out https://musicpandit.com/

Universal Language

Music can be understood by all. It is perceived and felt by all from different ages. If you wish to play along your favourite music or create your own, it is never too late in music. All you have to do is find time for practice from your schedule, follow the exercise and lessons and learn the practicality of it. Just a little commitment from your side and your dream to play a musical instrument will be fulfilled.. Music is a gift that anyone who wishes to learn should find time and make use of it to their benefit, may it be for fun, remedy for stress or developing important personality traits.

Simple Needs

To start your learning, all you need is an instrument at home and assigned time for practice. Those are the ingredients for learning, your age has absolutely nothing to do with it perhaps only your daily schedule can decide if you can give your time. It is an amazing outlet for those who wants to free themselves from the stressful monotony of their everyday life. Everyone has a different pace and system in learning something, but we assure you it’s not about the age, it is all about your willingness to learn and to make it second nature for your muscles to be able to play those by sheer commitment to practice and effective repetition.

So, don’t let a simple thing like your ‘age’ be a factor in determining what you can or cannot do. Music is for everyone. Music learning is for everyone. Playing Music is for everyone. Use music to de-stress, express yourself and fulfil yourself. Live your best life.

Music Pandit brings you the best and the most effective way to learn music with a complete 360-degree approach to learning music.

Music Pandit offers Personalised feedback from our Music Pandits, curated step-by-step lessons, extensive content - you can choose multiple instruments with one subscription, carefully organised Practice routines, a Musical Community, Creative Challenges, Goal setting and so much more – so you can learn Anytime, Anywhere at your pace!

References

• https://www.musictoyourhome.com/blog/age-limit-learning-instrument/

Music and Your Mood

Just how does music affect our mood? And how can we use music and rhythms to experience a better, more fulfilling life?

Music - It makes us smile; it excites us and makes us dance; it brings us to tears. A simple song can bring back a memory or a moment and we actually feel like we are there! Music can change our mood within minutes – or instantaneously.

Are you sad, depressed, or anxious maybe? You will be glad to know that you can chase all the blues away just by listening to your favorite music.

Because of our unique experiences, we develop different musical tastes and preferences. Despite these differences, there are some common responses to music. Babies love lullabies. Maternal singing is particularly soothing, regardless of a mom’s formal musical talents or training.


Music, Attention & Learning

Everyone who has learned their ABCs knows that it is easier to memorize a list if it is set to music. Scientific research supports common experience that pairing music with rhythm and pitch enhances learning and recall. Music helps people with attention problems in several ways.






Music, Anxiety & Stress

Considered as a natural antidepressant, music can give you the euphoric high that antidepressant medications can bring. So, if you are looking for a great way to end your terrible day, read on to learn more about how music can uplift your mood almost instantly.

Music’s beneficial effects on mental health have been known for thousands of years. Ancient philosophers from Plato to Confucius and the Kings of Israel sang the praises of music and used it to help soothe stress. Military bands use music to build confidence and courage. Sporting events provide music to rouse enthusiasm. Schoolchildren use music to memorize their ABCs. Shopping malls play music to entice consumers and keep them in the store. Dentists play music to help calm nervous patients.

Modern research supports the conventional wisdom that music benefits mood and confidence. Rhythm and tone can have an impact on your happiness – and on your everyday mood. So, listen to songs that make you feel good, that motivate you and make you happy – and you can begin to feel the effects more quickly than you imagine.

Music Pandit brings you the best and the most effective way to learn music with a complete 360-degree approach to learning music.

Music Pandit offers Personalised feedback from our Music Pandits, curated step-by-step lessons, extensive content - you can choose multiple instruments with one subscription, carefully organised Practice routines, a Musical Community, Creative Challenges, Goal setting and so much more – so you can learn Anytime, Anywhere at your pace!

Source:
http://www.healthline.com/health-news/mental-listening-to-music-lifts-or-reinforces-mood-051713
https://www.consciouslifestylemag.com/music-and-the-brain-affects-mood/
https://examinedexistence.com/how-music-changes-your-mood/
http://bestbinauralbeats.org/how-music-affects-our-mood/
https://www.healthychildren.org/English/healthy-living/emotional-wellness/Pages/Music-and-Mood.aspx
http://www.hindustantimes.com/health-and-fitness/here-s-why-music-affects-our-mood-emotions-the-way-it-does/story-QxXKOJYANFGE25X2NBxLrK.html
https://sites.psu.edu/siowfa16/2016/10/02/does-music-affect-our-moods-significantly/

How To Choose Your First Instrument

Are you the few ones who are eager to learn a music instrument but torn between which instrument to pick up? You want to emulate your idol and play like them? Or You want to compose your own music but not sure about which instrument will help you realising your dream? Here is a little information about the kind of instruments and a helping hand to guide you decide upon an instrument so that you can finally start your Music Journey.

Your Interest

First of all, what interests you? What are the kind of songs that you love to listen and would love to play yourself? Which instrument excites you the most? This can help you decide which instrument would best suit you.  Piano/Keyboard is very versatile and can help you compose without any limitations, whereas Guitar is the most compatible instrument you can learn. Drum would take some space but if you are a fan of hard hitting, letting your groove out on a beat, that’s the instrument for you. There are certainly many other instruments, but let’s talk about the common and popular ones. It completely depends on what you are looking for through music. You could learn vocals if you want to sing your heart out and touch a few.

Preference of Music Genres

If you are into Rock and Roll, Guitar might be the most popular choice but if you want to create rocking beats, you might as well go for Drums. Or, You are in to Pop, or electronic music, then Piano or Keyboard is the smartest choice for you. Every genre of music is dominated by an instrument or two, so do the research on your favourite songs and artists, learn about the process of making and you might discover love for a particular instrument. Which part of your favourite song would you like to imitate or learn? That will let you know what you really want to learn and play.

Practice Time Limitations

Before you begin to learn an instrument, map out your schedule. See, how you would manage the time for your regular activities and learning an instrument. Observe how much time you can give to learning an instrument, what kind of space you have for practice? If you are learning drums, make sure you have the space to occupy your drums and insulate your room so that neighbours aren’t disturbed. Also, if you are eager to learn vocals, you have to practice in a room where you can sing open heartedly with an open loud voice. There are many cheap ways to soundproof your room, you can do the research on that as well. At the beginning level, learning guitar may take some time, so make sure you have the time to regularly practice guitar. Keyboard/Piano are relatively easy in the beginning, however as you advance through higher levels, you will have to give time for any instrument to master the skills that is required to play the instrument to its fullest capability.

Budget

Different instrument would cost you differently. Although this shouldn’t be the factor that stops you from playing what you would love to learn, we will still discuss about how different instrument cost. The cheapest would be learning vocals as it doesn’t require any instruments in the beginning, as you begin to perform regularly, you might want to buy a microphone that would help you understand the dynamics of singing on a mic. Guitars can be very affordable, especially in the recent times with big brands producing low budget guitars with very decent quality, and it can serve you for a long time as well. Pianos are costly, however keyboards can be found in affordable prices but to get a good quality, long lasting instrument, you might have to cash in a little bit, but for composers, this is kind of a must have. The costliest of all the instruments can be the drums. Although you get affordable drum sets but if you are looking to invest on something that will last longer, it is an expensive instrument to buy. As it involves a lot of different parts as well, the price would depend on what are you buying in the drum set. As we discussed, Budget should not be a factor in deciding what instrument you want to learn, as the investment you are making will serve you for far more benefits than loss if you are really interested in learning and playing the instrument. One thing is for sure, if you have the desire to learn, you will not regret doing the investment on the instrument you would love to learn.  

Music Pandit brings you the best and the most effective way to learn music with a complete 360-degree approach to learning music.

Music Pandit offers Personalised feedback from our Music Pandits, curated step-by-step lessons, extensive content - you can choose multiple instruments with one subscription, carefully organised Practice routines, a Musical Community, Creative Challenges, Goal setting and so much more – so you can learn Anytime, Anywhere at your pace!