Want to play guitar? What kind should I get? There are basically three different types of guitar to choose from.
Classical (a/k/a Spanish guitar) 
Played for centuries by classically-trained Flamenco troubadours, many beginners like to start with a classical guitar because they have a wider neck and nylon strings which are easier on the fingers.
Steel-String Acoustic 
Came out in the 19th century and is the most popular acoustic guitar. The design and steel strings give it a strong bright tone which makes it a favorite for Country, Folk and Bluegrass pickers.
Electric 
The Solid Body electric guitar is the most popular today, enjoyed by Rockers and Country pickers everywhere.
The Semi-Acoustic electric guitar has a hollow chamber and a distinctive sound that makes it a great choice for Jazzers and Rockabilly players.
Most beginners start with either a classical or steel-string acoustic because they are lightweight, portable and you don’t have to buy an amplifier.
When choosing a guitar, you may want to consider the kind of music you want to play and the kind of guitar your favorite artists are playing. Although there are some standards for different genres of music, there’s no reason you shouldn’t experiment with different types of guitars …maybe start a new fad.
You can find some great deals on E-Bay or Craig’s List, but there are risks. Until you get more acquainted with the guitar, I recommend visiting some local guitar shops. Take time to try out as many guitars as you want. Compare many different types to see what feels and sounds good to you. Any good guitar shop will find what you’re looking for and answer any questions you have. (Don’t be afraid to ask questions!) Should you decide to make a purchase, a good shop will make sure you go home with a guitar that’s nicely set up (you can’t get that from a mail-order store!).
Happy hunting! Next time we’ll get into gearing up for summer. ‘Til then, play hard!
