Acoustic/Electric

[Freak]

I have had my acoustic guitar for about 6 months now. It is a guitar which looks kind of spanish and it has no scratch board. I brought it at the time because I want to learn how to play typical rock music. I have learnt how to play very simple bits, like "seven nation army" and "smoke on water". The thing is, is that I am not sure whether just to jump to an electric guitar. The reason why why don't get on with it is because it gives off a kind of sweet sound which I don't want (I want a rockish sound) evan though my guitar is in tune. I feel that I would have more fun jumping around with a electric guitar in my hands, thus more enjoyment and practise with a sound I can associate through modern day rock music. Another point is the volume. I want to play with my mates not in my room by myself, so obviously a electric would be better wouldn't it, because I can't hear myself play in a noisy drum room. 

What shall I do, Shall I buy this electric guitar or what? My birthday is in July and I dont know what to do.

[ChocClare]

If you can afford it (or your family can afford to buy you one for your birthday), I'd say go for it!  My son got an electric guitar when he was 11.  Before that he'd played piano and 'cello and was good at both - but practically had to be beaten to do ten minutes' practice once a week!  He started off on the electric guitar with simple tunes like the White Stripes song you describe and the theme from Friends and they sounded good immediately... as a result he enjoyed practising every day with absolutely no cajoling from me - and now, aged 12 and a half, he can play practically anything and sounds really good.  The good thing is that you can go online to look up tabs, so you can find out how to play the sort of songs you're probably listening to on the radio - and they do sound much better on the electric guitar - much more like the real thing.  Lots of "modern" songs are quite easy to play, even for a beginner, but sound really good once your amp is plugged in!  What's funny is that he has now bought himself an acoustic guitar as well and plays both equally often - so you may well find that your acoustic guitar is not wasted at all.  He got a Fender guitar (I am not going to embarrass myself by pretending I know which one) and a fairly cheap amp for about �130, if you are wondering how much it's going to cost.  Whatever you decide to do, keep playing - once you get past the beginner stage it's amazing how quickly you get to sound really good: and if you think an electric guitar will enthuse you enough to practise, then start saving up!

[j2buttonsw]

Although they are both guitars they are very different instruments. They say it is best to learn on a classical or acoustic guitar as you tend to learn it properly: for example you use every string for the basic chords, the strings are heavier so it builds the strength in your fingers. With an electric guitar it is possible to "half" play it: 2/3 string chords or using effects to create the sounds. The electric is easier to play and you will advance much quicker with it. I say definately buy an electric guitar but stick with the acoustic: you may learn to love it. BTW, I have both and go through phases: a few months ago I just played the electric but recently I play nothing but acoustic. Be warned: if you play the electric then have a go on the acoustic straight after it is very difficult (not so much the other way around). Oh, and get an original US 1970s Fender Telecaster Deluxe.