Opinions/help...DD wants a

[mrsv98]

guitar for Christmas!

Actually she wants an electric guitar but I said she had to start with the acoustic version first.

So, any help? or opinions? DD is 6 1/2 yo and petite. What size should I get? There are so many choices I don't know where to start.

TIA!

 

[EthansMom]

I'd go to a music store and ask for recommendations. Don't go with the cheap ones from the toy department at Target -- we had one of those and it wouldn't stayed tuned for 10 seconds.

I won't be surprised if we're buying DS5 a set of drums in the next couple of years.

 

[Linzybrooke]

I agree, go to a music store. I know Fender makes starter kits that come with the guitar, case, picks, cord book, etc. I have one, but it is not a child size. I bet they also have some discussion boards somewhere for guitars, just do a google search!

Good luck!

 

[snowy76]

Definitely look into getting her lessons and renting the instrument. At 6 years old she may not really understand what she's getting into, and at least you won't be stuck with an instrument if she decides she's no longer interested.

 

[apirateslifeforme]

I'm trying to learn to play the guitar myself right now. One thing I've learned - it may be a good idea to have the person who will be playing it pick it out. The size, the weight, the style/shape...I didn't know that it would make a difference. And frankly, even as an adult, an acoustic is difficult for me to handle (I inherited one). That's all I have, but I'd prefer an electric with a smaller body. I'm sure they also make smaller acoustics, though. I know you want to make it a surprise, but if she's serious about it, you may want to let her pick it out.

And I'm glad you're willing - I asked my mother every week from age 6 until about 15/16/17 if I could take guitar lessons and she wouldn't let me. Now I'm 32 and trying and really not doing well.

 

[tkd lisa]

I'd also look into getting a used guitar. A good guitar is a fairly substantial investment. We bought my DS the cheap version, and I agree it wasn't worth even the cheap price. He has a much nicer one now, but I waited to be sure he was really interested before spending that money.

 

[DisneyBlonde]

I second the idea of a used guitar. I bought my son's first guitar from eBay. If there is a Guitar Center near you, they often have used items on display.

I would also consider getting her the electric. If she's like my son she won't let up till she has one...it could save you from having to purchase 2 guitars.

 

[wendy46001]

I was going to suggest the local pawn shop....but a good used guitar at either a music store or Ebay is the way to go....Plus lessons are a must...maybe they have a package where you can try it for a few weeks and then commit to the actual instrument purchase

 

[Minnie824]

DD5 wants a guitar too! She doesnt really care what kind, and we're not planning on getting lessons at the moment. So, I found a disney princess one for $40 on lillian vernon. Looks so cute! We're getting that one for now.

 

[mrsv98]

Thanks for all the ideas!

I think I will look into lessons, there is a studio here by us and we can take a few trial lessons. They also offer piano so we may do a combo.

 

[m&m's mom]

My DD, 10 is taking electric guitar lessons now. The instructor told her that he thought it was easier to learn on electric that regular. He did say there were benefits to both but he ended up suggesting electric.
We bought a Fender Squire mini from a guitar store. W/ amps, cords, etc, we spent about $250.00. Of course I am already having to threaten her to actually practice. I think the thrill went away pretty fast but she is sticking in there.
Good Luck!