Stepping Into the World of Real Guitars
As children grow and their curiosity about the world expands, so does their ability to engage with more complex forms of play and learning. For young musicians aged 4 to 6, moving from a toy guitar to a 1/8 concert guitar marks the beginning of a new, exciting chapter in their musical journey.
Why Choose a 1/8 Concert Guitar?
The 1/8 concert guitar is the smallest size of real guitar available, designed specifically for the little hands and bodies of young children. Here’s why it’s the perfect choice for your budding musician:
Ergonomic Design: Tailored to fit comfortably in the arms of a child around 110cm (3'7") tall, it allows for proper posture and hand positioning, crucial for developing good playing habits.
Quality Sound: Unlike toy guitars, 1/8 concert guitars produce a more authentic and inspiring sound, motivating children to explore music further.
Durability: Built to withstand the rigours of use by young children, these guitars are a worthy investment in your child's musical education.
Introducing Your Child to the 1/8 Guitar
Transitioning to a 1/8 concert guitar can be a thrilling experience for a child. Here are some tips to make the transition smooth and enjoyable:
Make It a Special Moment: Celebrate the introduction of the new guitar to make this step memorable. Consider presenting it on a special occasion or as a reward.
Choose Together: If possible, involve your child in the selection process. Let them pick a color or style that appeals to them, increasing their excitement and sense of ownership.
Begin with Basics: Start with simple, fun lessons that focus on basic strums and easy chords. The goal is to keep their interest piqued and avoid frustration.
Selecting the Right 1/8 Guitar
When shopping for a 1/8 concert guitar, keep the following in mind to ensure you choose the best instrument for your child:
Material and Build Quality: Look for guitars made from durable materials. A well-built guitar not only sounds better but also endures the learning process.
Action and Play-ability: The action (the distance between the strings and the fretboard) should be low to make it easier for small fingers to press the strings.
Recommendations and Reviews: Research and ask for recommendations from other parents or music teachers who have experience with children's guitars.
The Journey Ahead
With their very own 1/8 concert guitar, children can start to develop real skills and a deeper love for music. As they grow physically and musically, the journey will eventually lead them to larger guitars and new musical adventures.
Stay tuned for Part 3, where we'll explore the next step: upgrading to a 1/4 concert guitar for ages 5–8.
Debbie Leigh Driver
Founder
Fretboard Warriors