05 Mar 9 Reasons Why You’re Never Too Old to Learn the Guitar

Taking up a musical instrument as a hobby can be intimidating for some. After all, the thought of starting from scratch and investing time and money can be quite a barrier to overcome. That being said, there are plenty of reasons on the other end of the spectrum that should convince you otherwise. In the case of the guitar, it’s one of the more commonly played instruments around the world, and in no coincidental fashion is it one of the easier ones to pick up. We’re here to show why you should pick up the guitar and why it’s never too late to learn.

1. Improve cognitive function and memory

Playing the guitar consists of many technicalities and components to be aware of. Between the chords to play, the method of strumming, or how hard to push down on the strings, multiple things are going on simultaneously. However, it does come with a significant boon.

It’s been proven that musicians perform better in the area of memory and cognitive functions in comparison to non-musicians. The road to being a musician involves paths of disciplined training and lessons that require excellent control over several cognitive abilities and motor functions in the brain. By intertwining both interactions and connections, musicians can further develop and improve in different areas of their memory.

 2. Reduces stress and improves mental health

Unless you’re doing performance gigs every night and losing sleep because of it, playing the guitar does wonders for reducing your stress and improving your mental health. A study supports the idea that musical instruments positively change the brain’s cognitive functioning, leading to better stress management or decreased stress altogether. Furthermore, music therapy is an option for individuals suffering from mental illnesses to consider, as it has been recognized as a proper treatment and a great way to incorporate healthy recreational activities into the daily routine. After a long and tiring day, you only need five minutes on the guitar to feel better than when you came in.

3. A great way to express creativity

Music is all about creativity. Either you create something of your own, or you build upon whatever is already there, and playing the guitar is no exception from this. There are many ways to personalize the guitar and play it in different styles. Covering a well-known song but adding your unique twist to it can be the real difference-maker in establishing the lines that separate you from the original artist. Sometimes playing around with what isn’t conventional is also a great way to explore creative ways of approaching the guitar. Learning is a lifelong journey, and it doesn’t necessarily have to come to an end. The sky’s the limit when it comes to the possibilities; you just have to keep it going.

4. A therapeutic outlet for emotions

Similar to expressing our creativity, the guitar also opens up opportunities for us to express our emotions. Playing a slow song while pouring out our feelings can be quite an emotional act, but that doesn’t discount the fact that it allows us to be ourselves and convey meaning through a medium other than words. For others, fast and loud songs are the way to go, relieving themselves of intense emotions that have been kept pent up for a while. Therapy doesn’t necessarily have to come with regularly scheduled visits; it can start with taking care of ourselves, and that means having an outlet for our emotions when they get hard to bear. Who would’ve thought that one of the closest therapies around us would be our six-stringed instrument friend?

5. Can be played at anytime and anywhere

One of the best things about the guitar is that it doesn’t have to be complicated if you don’t want it to be. The guitar has no concern for age, stretching from children to older folks. While starting the guitar at a young age would be the best time to start, it doesn’t disregard the fact that you’re still able to pick it up just as well when you’re older. The instrument’s versatility comes from its simplicity while having doors open to complex techniques that elevate its sounds to another realm. Besides many other instruments, the guitar is also one of the more convenient ones to carry around, making it great for gatherings or outdoor activities.

6. You can find something that suits your taste

The guitar can be tailored to suit a wide variety of musical styles and personal tastes. One great thing about the guitar is that it can be played fingerstyle, with a pick, or a combination of both. Various techniques and playing styles are utilized to generate a vast spectrum of sounds and musical expressions, from classical and folk to rock, blues, and jazz. Aside from that, guitars come in different shapes and sizes, from the classical six-string acoustic guitar to the electric guitar, allowing exploration of various genres and playing styles. Effects, such as distortion, delay, and reverb, can also be tinkered with to create unique and personalized sounds.

7. Build social connections and performance opportunities

In learning a musical instrument, getting to know other musicians is part of the process. Having common ground already goes a long way in building relationships and connections that can take you far in your skills, abilities, and valuable experiences—playing with people who have similar interests and gleaning from them can then pave the way for performance gigs in local venues that would give you a chance to showcase your talents. This will also be a great way to grow in confidence, making the whole experience enjoyable and rewarding.

8. You can learn at your own pace

Another advantage of learning the guitar is that you can take it at your own pace while having options between self-study and musical classes. Self-study is a flexible and convenient option for those who prefer to learn independently or have a busy schedule. With so many online resources, such as tutorials, video lessons, and guitar instruction books, you can learn at your own pace, following your plans.

For those who want a practical learning approach, having lessons with a teacher is the way to go. Classes provide guidance and personalized feedback that’s helpful for beginners or those looking to improve their technique. That said, it does boil down to preference and many personal factors that may lead you to one option or the other.

9. It’s never too late for a new hobby or skill

Picking up an instrument is not hindered by age, and nobody should have to feel that they have. Playing an instrument can bring joy, a sense of accomplishment, and a creative outlet that can benefit overall well-being. It can be challenging at times, but with patience and persistence, progress can be made. It’s essential to set realistic goals and progress at a comfortable pace. The key is to enjoy the process, be consistent,  practice regularly, and find a method of learning that suits you the best. Eventually, you’ll find that you are always ready to pick up the guitar and discover the joys of playing music.

Inspired to take up the guitar but have no idea where to start? Join us here at Singapore Guitar Tutor, where we’ve got the courses that are assured to make your learning experience an enjoyable and worthwhile one. Get in touch with us today!