I am going to attempt to teach my eight year old daughter to play the guitar.

She has been playing the violin since the beginning of this school year and has some understanding of how to read music – though open strings only at this stage, so very limited – and a reasonable grasp of playing in time with a beat and importantly, she is sufficiently enthusiastic about dedicating time and effort to the guitar to make me think it is a worthwhile investment of both our time.

For my part, I am out of practice but I’m competent enough. I wouldn’t say I’m greatly burdened with natural ability, but I’ve taught myself enough that I’ve played in a couple live bands for several years each, though not for a good while now. I quite relish the opportunity to start playing again, and hopefully, if I do it from a sufficiently good source, improve my own technique.

With all that said, I still remember what driving lessons with my dad were like and that there are plenty of potential pitfalls ahead.

Caveats aside, does the Massive have any recommendations for age-appropriate (hers, not mine) teaching materials? I’m quite happy » Continue Reading.