Learning to play the guitar is an exciting and fulfilling journey that can bring immense joy to people of all ages. Whether you are a young child or an older adult, there are numerous benefits to picking up this popular instrument, and while some may think that starting at a young age is the best option, the truth is that it is never too late to learn the guitar.

Especially with tools and resources like those offered through Rocksmith+, learning guitar is accessible to anyone, at any age.

From boosting your creativity and improving your memory to enhancing your overall well-being, the benefits of playing the guitar are numerous and can be enjoyed at any age. In this article, we'll explore when to start learning the guitar and delve into the advantages of learning this versatile instrument.

1. Learning Guitar as a Child

Learning guitar as a child has numerous benefits. It can enhance cognitive development by improving coordination, plasticity, and problem-solving skills. It also allows for creative expression, boosting a child's artistic abilities and self-esteem.

Playing guitar can be a social activity, providing opportunities for children to connect with others who share their interest in music. The meditative nature of playing guitar can also help reduce stress and anxiety in children --- learning guitar as a child can positively impact a child's overall life, instilling a lifelong love of music and creativity.

2. Learning Guitar as a Young Adult

Learning the guitar as a young adult can be a great way to explore creativity, develop new skills, and improve overall well-being. Unlike learning as a child, as a young adult, you may have a greater appreciation for music, a better attention span, and more discipline, allowing you to progress faster in your learning.

Playing and listening to your guitar can be a great way to relieve stress and provide a meditative outlet to unwind after a long day. Putting together a band or playing with other musicians can provide opportunities to connect with others and build lasting friendships.

Whether you're looking to pursue a career in music or simply enjoy playing as a hobby, learning guitar as a young adult can be a joyful practice that will benefit you for years to come.

3. Learning Guitar as an Adult

Learning the guitar as an adult can be a fantastic way to challenge yourself, enhance your cognitive function, and enjoy the therapeutic benefits of playing music. Unlike learning as a child, as an adult, you have a greater sense of discipline, focus, and motivation that can help you progress faster in your learning.

Playing guitar can promote mental wellness and be a great way to connect with others who share your passion for music, either through joining a band, attending jam sessions, or taking classes with other adults. Learning guitar as an adult can be a fulfilling and rewarding experience that can bring joy and a new sense of purpose to your life!

How Should You Practice Guitar Regardless of Age?

Whether you're a beginner or an experienced player, practicing the guitar is essential to improving your skills and achieving your musical goals. However, there are many different ways to practice the guitar, and finding the right approach can be challenging.

Here are various tips for practicing the guitar, regardless of your age or skill level:

Set Goals

Setting goals can help you stay motivated and focused on your progress. Whether it's learning a new chord, a song, or playing with a band, having something to work towards can help you improve your skills.

Practice Regularly

Practicing regularly is key to improving your guitar skills. Consistent practice can help you build muscle memory and improve your technique, even if it's just for a little bit a day.

Rocksmith+ has a song library of more than 6,000 songs to choose from, allowing you to master all of your favorite tunes and make your practice sessions fun.

Use Online Resources

There are plenty of online resources such as tutorials and videos from Rocksmith+ that can help you learn and improve your guitar skills and even pick out your favorite songs to practice with. Take advantage of these resources to supplement your learning and get feedback from other players.

Transcribe a Song

Song transcription by ear is an incredibly valuable skill for guitar players as it strengthens your musical understanding and promotes creativity. It also helps you fosters a more organic connection to the music you love, helping you confidently perform and improvise in lots of different settings, while also improving your ability to communicate and play live with other musicians.

The Rocksmith+ online workshop tool is a great way for players to get started with transcriptions  and dive deeper into their favorite music

Play With Others

Playing with other musicians can help you improve your timing, rhythm, and overall musicality. Join a band, attend a jam session, or play with friends to get feedback and learn from others.

Experiment With Different Styles

Experimenting with different styles of music can help you develop your own unique playing style and expand your musical horizons. Try playing different genres, such as blues, rock, folk, or jazz, and incorporate different techniques and chords into your playing.

In Conclusion

The truth is, there is no right or wrong age to learn the guitar. Whether you're a child, young adult, or adult, learning to play guitar can provide many benefits, including cognitive development, creative expression, stress relief, social connections, and improved self-esteem. The key is to find the right approach that suits your learning style, preferences, and goals.

With dedication, patience, and a passion for music, anyone can learn to play guitar, regardless of age. So, if you're considering picking up the guitar, there's no better time to start than now --- and with learning software like Rocksmith+, you can.

Sources:

How Musical Training Affects Cognitive Development: Rhythm, Reward And Other Modulating Variables | NCBI

6 Health Benefits of Music | Children's Health

The Power of Music to Reduce Stress | Psych Central