Learning to Play the Guitar: 4 Established Guitar Teachers Share Their Insights

Invaluable perspectives and expert advice from renowned guitar educators Mike G of The Art of Guitar, Ellen Chang, Corey Congilio, and Andy Crowley. Discover essential tips on mastering the guitar, navigating musical education, and more.

By Magesh MageshContributing Author

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When you watch videos of Jimi Hendrix, Eddie Van Halen and Steve Vai, it is easy to see why people want to learn the guitar. It is one of the few instruments you can put in a case and take anywhere.

The amount of information online about learning the guitar is staggering. I wanted to talk to some of the top guitar teachers to see their tips when learning to play the guitar.


Mike G - The Art of Guitar

Mike has taught for over 30 years and has a YouTube channel with over 800,000 subscribers. He also plays live in select projects and is looking to dive deeper into his writing of both music and fiction.


Article photo - Learning to Play the Guitar: 4 Established Guitar Teachers Share Their Insights


Magesh, Musicngear: It seems that the guitar has never gone out of style. Why do you think so many people want to learn to play the guitar?

I’d say it has gone out of style, many times, but it keeps finding its way back. There was this “heyday” when I began teaching guitar lessons where everyone loved Nirvana and grunge/alternative/punk etc and teaching was so fun. But then something happened and there was this dry spell for a while.

Next thing I knew Guitar Hero and School of Rock came out and bam, back in business. That lasted a while and then another dry spell. Soon students were bringing in video game music to learn and eventually, they came in with their phones and didn’t know what they liked anymore. It was strange to see that happen in real-time.

Now I’m seeing a new generation who seem to have an interest once again, not to mention a ton of Boomers and Gen X’ers are finding the empty nest is getting old and want to fill their homes up with the sound of guitar once again. :)



There are so many apps and online tutorials online. How can a new student avoid getting overwhelmed with information?

I had the opposite problem, I had almost nothing to teach me guitar when I started. My grandma had to pay her friend Cal to come and show me a few things. He was in a pretty big band in town and showed me a few fundamentals. I’ll always be grateful for that. Having almost nothing forced me to dig in and try a million things to try and sound like my guitar heroes.

Eventually, TAB books and magazines began frequenting my life and that helped a ton until I could take real lessons. So if I started today and had all this information available I think I’d just be confused. I’d watch one video where someone swears by a certain system of learning and then the next video contradicts it. I’d probably go crazy and go live in the woods with my pet wombat Guthrie.

This is a big reason why I started my lesson site so that anyone who joined could be walked through step-by-step logically to learn guitar optimally.


If I started today and had all this information available I think I’d just be confused. I’d watch one video where someone swears by a certain system of learning and then the next video contradicts it


There is an old debate about how relevant TAB is when learning the guitar. What is your personal opinion on TAB?

One series that people seem to love is my BAD TAB series. I mentioned the books and magazines already but what I didn’t know at the time was that much of the TAB back then was inaccurate due to many factors including low tech for the transcribers to use (today we have all sorts of software to make hearing individual parts possible), time constraints by the publisher of the books, and TAB was pretty new in the popular guitar world so a lot of low-level transcribers got away with being loose in their transcriptions.

Looking at my oldest books probes that. You should see my Iron Maiden and Def Leppard books. Yikes!


Do you think it is important for musicians to be able to read music?

I have a section on my website dedicated to notation in the open position. I noticed it was the least popular area of my site. I started in orchestra so I had no choice but to learn notation. I’m glad I did but what I realized is that I’d often memorize the parts and never had to look at the sheet music again. I took the same approach to the guitar. I know how to read but once it’s in my mind I have it memorized.

Reading saved my butt a few times including having bass sheet music sprung on me at a rehearsal. Glad I was on top of things at the time, now I’d probably just run out to the woods with the wombat.


Most pros I know can fake their way through charts, as long as they’re not Zappa-level complexity


Do you have any advice for young guitarists who want to learn to read chord charts?

Go crazy, just don’t “go crazy” doing it. You’re going deep, like learning another language but man do you feel accomplished when you finally get comfortable in any chart-reading situation.

Most pros I know can fake their way through charts, as long as they’re not Zappa-level complexity, but it’s been so long for me that I’d probably embarrass myself.

You know where you can find me and Guthrie the next day.


What projects are you currently working on?

Just finished putting together my podcast studio equipped with a real podcasting desk, two boom arms for the mics, and a big The Art of Guitar neon sign. Can’t wait to try it out for the first time this week, wish me luck.

I’m also writing original songs again as well as trying to update and upload videos to my website and make a Youtube video whenever inspiration hits me and man has it hit me lately. I have a list of ideas so long I think I’m going to have to live to be 200 to get to all of them.

On the side, I’m playing in a Heart tribute band which keeps me on my toes. All this and trying to still exercise, watch every episode of The X-Files, and figure out the meaning of life. It’s a lot but I’m having a blast. Thanks for asking me to do this interview.

Connect with The Art of Guitar
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Ellen Chang

Ellen Chang is one of the top guitar teachers on YouTube over 950k subscribers. Her videos are extremely engaging and fun. It is easy to see why so many people want to learn the guitar with Ellen.


Article photo - Learning to Play the Guitar: 4 Established Guitar Teachers Share Their Insights


It seems that the guitar has never gone out of style. Why do you think so many people want to learn to play the guitar?

As someone who grew up playing the violin, there's definitely a 'cool factor' that is pretty unique to playing guitar over other instruments. I think it's because it's so widely used across all genres and generations of music that people have grown accustomed to the sound.

From country to rock to pop - we've seen artists playing guitar on stage through so many decades that it's become synonymous with that musician lifestyle, which I believe is one that many people aspire to and idolize. So it only seems natural that when a new student is thinking about what instrument they want to play, the guitar is one of the first that comes to mind.


There are so many apps and online tutorials online. How can a new student avoid getting overwhelmed with information?

I think you have to know yourself as a learner first. Are you the kind of person who is hands-on and likes to dive right in? Or do you prefer to read up on logistics and research how the best of the best have succeeded? Maybe a combination of both?

There are so many resources available to help new students get started, and my advice is to find the one that fits your learning style the best. If you have some musical experience, maybe watching a quick video tutorial is all you need to get the hang of it. Or if you excel when you have a more structured and detailed lesson plan to follow, perhaps finding a course would be more suitable.

Unsure if you're going to stick with a practice routine? Maybe you need an in-person instructor to help keep you accountable. For me, I learned my first few guitar chords from a deck of cards and a Disney songbook. If anyone is feeling overwhelmed by all the content that exists out there, I'd suggest searching for a basic concept (like parts of a guitar, basic guitar chords, how to tune a guitar, etc.) and watching as many people talk about it as you can. I'd venture to bet you'll find someone you vibe with who can provide you with the teaching style you enjoy and that will, in turn, motivate you to practice and become a better musician.

find someone you vibe with who can provide you with the teaching style you enjoy and that will, in turn, motivate you to practice and become a better musician


There is an old debate about how relevant TAB is when learning the guitar. What is your personal opinion on TAB?

I think learning to read tabs is important, but maybe not right away. Guitar can already be confusing or frustrating when it comes to stretching your fingers to the right spots, getting your strings to ring out clearly, strumming on beat with a metronome, etc.

From my experience, the number one goal new guitarists have is being able to play a song (and the sooner the better). So I always suggest learning some basic, open chord shapes first. Just knowing the G, C, and D chords can already unlock many songs and make you feel like you're progressing and doing well.

As with anything, learning guitar should be a step-wise process and I think reading tabs falls somewhere after knowing open and barre chord shapes, and understanding basic strumming rhythms. Then, once you learn how to read tabs, you can start down the path of more advanced skills like fingerstyle, soloing, improv, and more!


Do I think being able to read music helps? 100%. But do I think it's a mandatory skill to play an instrument like a guitar? No.


Do you think it is important for musicians to be able to read music?

This is a tough one. Do I think being able to read music helps? 100%. But do I think it's a mandatory skill to play an instrument like a guitar? No. I've come across many people who have the natural gift of music and can play beautiful melodies by ear, from memory, or just through the 'feel&' of it.

I kind of compare this concept to cooking. If you have an amazing palate and can throw together a delicious dish by just sampling ingredients and following your heart on what might taste good together - then more power to you! Unfortunately, I think the majority of people would need at least a basic recipe to help them get started, and that's how I see the idea of reading music.

Understanding how to count out rhythms or knowing what notes make up different scales, etc. provides that guideline for you to follow so that concepts like chord shapes and strumming patterns make more sense down the line.



Do you have any advice for young guitarists who want to learn to read chord charts?

My advice is to stick with artists or songs that you love during the beginning stages. You will most definitely run into some aspect of learning guitar that will feel frustrating, and sometimes the only thing that might encourage you to pick up your guitar and try one more time is the fact that you love what you're trying to learn.

Of course, every song is not created equally so you may have to do a little research to pick something that is beginner-friendly. But as you learn how to play more songs, you'll start building up your library of chords you know and are good at, giving you a chance to focus on the next new challenge each time.


What projects are you currently working on?

I have a couple of very exciting projects I've been working on for some time! One of these goes with this interview extremely well because I'm planning a one-stop shop on my website for3v3rfaithful.com that will essentially outline the process of how to learn a song with a step-by-step guide.

It's basically like taking private lessons with me because I'll lead you through the same routine I take my students when tackling a new song, accompanied by real-time practice videos, customizable practice tracks, knowledge checkpoints, play-along challenges, and more! I'm very excited to roll this out soon and hopefully help more beginners have fun while learning guitar!

Thanks again for reaching out and including me in your interview series! :)

Connect with Ellen Chang
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Corey Congilio

For over 25 years, Corey Congilio has immersed himself in a rich and diverse musical career. His experience as a touring guitarist, session musician, educator, and presenter has proven to be invaluable in connecting with audiences around the world.

Since 2010 Corey has authored over 30 instructional guitar courses. His teaching platform WorkingClassGuitar.com and YouTube channel host weekly lessons, performances, and gear reviews.


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It seems that the guitar has never gone out of style. Why do you think so many people want to learn to play the guitar?

It really hasn’t! I remember some years back there was chatter online about how the guitar was dying a slow death. Those who said that weren’t watching Instagram or YouTube! There’s lots of appeal when it comes to guitar. It’s the best “portable” self-accompanying instrument ever. The piano is the best IMO but, it’s far from portable!

Most folks who are motivated to learn a few songs can do so relatively easily and quickly these days making it a fun hobby or more depending on how far they want to take it. The guitar community is another reason why I think it’s popular. You can see, meet, and hang out with other guitar players from all over the world like never before.

Let’s not forget that above all, it’s a really fun instrument. We can simulate much of what our favorite musicians have done by learning their songs and buying virtually the same gear they play. I liken it to golf. We can buy the clubs, and clothes and play on the courses like the pros and, hopefully, have some fun regardless of how we’re shooting!


Finding an instructor/platform that you connect with is what it’s all about. If that instructor is teaching the style/concept you like, stick with it as much as you can.


There are so many apps and online tutorials online. How can a new student avoid getting overwhelmed with information?

Great question and one that I get often. Having variety is a great thing. However, in this day and age, it’s all about focus and connection…which can be a challenge.

Finding an instructor/platform that you connect with is what it’s all about. If that instructor is teaching the style/concept you like, stick with it as much as you can. Sure, it’s fun to bounce around and see what’s out there but, it’s important to have a singular focus on what you’re practicing in that season of your life.


There is an old debate about how relevant TAB is when learning the guitar. What is your personal opinion on TAB?

First off, let’s remind those who may not know…TAB is short for Tablature! I bet there are some younger players that don’t know that! To me, the biggest reason Tablature is important is that on guitar, we can play the same note in up to 5 or even 6 spots on the guitar depending on how many frets the instrument has. TAB helps to identify which “E” we’re playing. Is it an open first string? 5th fret second string? 9th fret 3rd string etc?

Also, TAB helps to notate specific “guitaristic” techniques like hammer-ons, pull-offs, bends of all varieties, and a lot more. So, I think it’s necessary. However, TAB is worthless without rhythmic notation in my opinion.



Do you think it is important for musicians to be able to read music?

I think it’s important for musicians to have an understanding of how music is written. Most guitar players won’t have to read pitches all that often. However, they should have a solid grasp of reading rhythm, as well as repeat signs, codas, and other notations that describe the form and dynamics of the composition.


Find a chart for a song you want to learn or are already familiar with and try to follow it while listening to the tune. 


Do you have any advice for young guitarists who want to learn to read chord charts?

Find a chart for a song you want to learn or are already familiar with and try to follow it while listening to the tune. This goes along with the previous question. A musician should understand time signatures, bar lines, and how to count to make it through the chart. Otherwise, they’ll be lost.

My other advice would be to learn how to understand and read numbers. I write all of my charts with the number system affectionately known as the Nashville Number System. This system is essentially musical shorthand and it’s been the language of Nashville for as long as anyone can remember.

The number system is like a second language but, it’s not anything foreign. The beauty of the number system is that it makes transposing very easy. In rehearsals and recording sessions, it’s not uncommon for the artist or producer to change the key of the song. With numbers, it’s a breeze and no rewriting of the chart!


What projects are you currently working on?

My day-to-day project is developing lesson content and servicing the members of my online lesson platform WorkingClassGuitar.com. I started the site in 2022 and it’s really been growing rapidly. I create guitar courses on a variety of topics and users can decide to purchase them individually or subscribe monthly for full access. We also host monthly Zoom calls with our VIP members to connect with them further. It’s some of the most fun I’ve ever had as a professional musician.

After a 25-year career as a sideman, touring/session musician I’ve added focusing on my own career into the mix. I’m currently performing in Nashville (where I live) and recording my own music as much as possible. I hope to release some of my original music this year and share what I’ve been working on with my audience. It’s an exciting and MUCH different time than what I’ve been used to but, I’m up for the challenge!


Connect with Corey Congilio
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Visit Working Class Guitar and try Corey’s FREE 14-day trial


Andy Crowley


Andy Crowley is one of the top guitar teachers on YouTube. Some of his videos have over 20 million views! His tutorials are easy to understand and he covers all styles of music. His videos are great for beginners or professionals.

Article photo - Learning to Play the Guitar: 4 Established Guitar Teachers Share Their Insights


It seems that the guitar has never gone out of style. Why do you think so many people want to learn to play the guitar?

Most of all, great songs are written and played on guitar. That's the most important thing. They're also visually stunning with plenty of variety of shapes and colors, so everyone can choose their personal favorite. You can run around a stage or take them to an open mic easily.

Finally, electric guitars can make an endless number of sounds with amp and pedal 8combinations, alongside playing techniques. So there's always something new to learn or discover!


There are so many apps and online tutorials online. How can a new student avoid getting overwhelmed with information?

I think learner guitar players need to pick one learning platform or teacher for a good amount of time to see the benefit. Choose a teacher you connect with and trust, someone you believe can direct you towards your goals, or even help you decide on your goals.

One thing that confuses learners is seemingly conflicting information from one teacher to the next. But this is totally normal. Different styles, genres, tastes, and teaching experience means that everyone teaches or passes on information differently. A bit like no personal trainer is the same, some focus more on fitness, others on strength, others mobility, same with music teachers.

However, conflicting information is frustrating as a learner. So to avoid that, just pick one teacher who you connect with. Sticking with a 2teacher that you don't connect with, either in person or online, will always lead to worse results regardless of the teacher's experience or qualifications.


 

There is an old debate about how relevant TAB is when learning the guitar. What is your personal opinion on TAB?

TAB is a great tool, but it's not the whole picture. Most TAB doesn't show rhythm or timing adequately enough to learn from it alone. TAB also doesn't show an individual player's phrasing well. It might say 'add vibrato on this note' with a wavey line, but how much, how fast, how wide? Traditional notation is also inadequate at showing this. It also doesn't show any electric guitar settings, which are crucial for a song to sound like the original.

The good thing is this forces guitarists to improve their ear training. TAB can be used to learn the notes. But how it's played, the phrasing, the magic of one player vs another, is learned by listening, along with trial and error, then listening again and mimicking.


Countless phenomenal and influential guitarists couldn't read music. But they perhaps got to where they got in spite of learning to read music, rather than because of it


Do you think it is important for musicians to be able to read music?

Any knowledge helps. Reading traditional notation is fantastic for learning rhythms. It's also useful for understanding certain concepts. Musical keys (how many sharps and flats are in a key signature) and harmony are well suited to be learned through traditional notation as well as by ear or being shown by a teacher. It has its place.

But it's not essential. Countless phenomenal and influential guitarists couldn't read music. But they perhaps got to where they got in spite of learning to read music, rather than because of it.


Do you have any advice for young guitarists who want to learn to read chord charts?

I advocate using vertical chord charts, with the nut at the top. This keeps it fair for both left and right-handed guitarists. It also prevents the 'This looks the wrong way round' question, which is one I get often, in my experience anyway.


What projects are you currently working on?

As well as the weekly YouTube lessons and Monday livestreams, which I do every week on my website,  my next big project is to film a new online beginners course. The beginner’s course I currently offer is now 9 years old, and even though concepts don’t necessarily change, technology advances rapidly, so re-filming the Andy Guitar beginner’s course with new cameras, lighting, and editing will for sure give the user a better experience.

My goal was always for students to have the 1 to 1 guitar teaching experience, but from the comfort of their own home and I think this will definitely achieve that objective. This will be on my website where we offer a package to get students who have never played before all the way to an advanced level. On there, the students can track their progress, watch videos without the distractions of YouTube, and meet other like-minded learners in our community to get peer-to-peer support, plus get weekly direct feedback from me on the livestream sessions.

I'll also be doing a new free 10-day beginner series on Youtube this winter, which is exciting because that has the potential to get seen by the most people, and hopefully create more new guitar players!

Connect with Andy Crowley
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About Magesh Magesh

Magesh is a musician and producer who has worked with Rihanna, Lionel Richie, Ricky Martin, Chris Brown, The Pussy Cat Dolls, Nelly Furtado, and Vernon Reid of Living Colour. He released an instructional drumming DVD called "Unique Beats" where he mixed the drum kit with electronics and Indian hand percussion. He recently moved from Australia to the UK to explore new musical opportunities.
Website: mageshdrumteacher.co.uk

Contact Magesh Magesh at magesh.magesh7@gmail.com

About Interviews

In this section of the blog we host interviews with established but also up and coming artists we love and recommend as well as music industry professionals with tons of useful information to share.

Interested in an interview, writing a story as a guest or joining the Musicngear team as a Contributing Author? Contact us at info+blog@musicngear.com