Tuning the guitar is maybe the most important parts of playing that is completely independent of the player’s skill. If the guitar isn’t tuned right, it doesn’t matter how good the person playing it is—it’s not going to sound right. That’s why every time a player picks up a guitar, they need to check the tuning. If your child has started taking guitar lessons at home, they may not be really comfortable with tuning just yet. These pro tips will help them (and you) become more familiar with this process and perform it more effectively.
What Does Tuning Involve?
Tuning your child’s guitar is fairly simple in theory. You adjust each string’s pitch by turning its tuning key. This tightens and raises the pitch or, if turned the other way, loosens and lowers the pitch. The most difficult part is knowing which way to turn the tuning key and what pitch you’re going for.
Use a Tuner
That’s why many people including some private guitar teachers use a digital tuner. These little devices make tuning very easy. In fact, a young player can tune their guitar easily with one of these devices. These tuners analyze the note played and show what pitch it’s tuned to. Your child can then adjust the string as needed. Today, there are even tuning apps that can be downloaded to a smartphone, so you don’t even have to buy an extra tuner.
The other type of tuner available is a pitch tuner. These tuners can certainly work for tuning the guitar, but your child may have a little more difficulty using one. That’s because a pitch tuner doesn’t analyze the sound the guitar is making. It plays the right pitch for the string, and your child has to adjust the string to match. They have to do this by ear, so new players may not be able to easily tune their guitar using one of these tuners.
Tune Regularly
Some players, especially new players, don’t tune their guitars regularly. Many things can affect a guitar’s tuning. Because it’s made of wood, the instrument is affected by humidity and temperature. It’s not enough for your child to notice, but the guitar’s body does expand and contract with the weather. This changes the tuning. The strings can even become looser while playing it.
Your child should get into the habit of tuning their guitar every time they pick it up to play during their private guitar lessons in Miami. They also need to stop and re-tune the guitar if they notice that it doesn’t sound quite right. Even professionals will adjust their tuning during performances if they notice something isn’t right.
Keeping a Guitar Tuned Longer
There are a few little tricks you can use to help your child keep their guitar in tune longer. First, older strings do start slipping more often. Change the strings regularly. If your child is playing a lot, they may actually need new strings weekly. For most, though, changing out the strings once a month is enough.
Another tip is to keep the guitar in a case and keep it away from heat. Find a cool, dry location to store the guitar when it’s not being played.
Your child should clean the guitar strings with a dry cloth after they’re done playing. This removes any oils from their fingers. These oils will damage the strings over time, making it easier for them to fall out of tune.
A Good Guitar Teacher Will Help
Guitar teachers often have found little tips and tricks over the years to help tune a guitar. Our teachers will come right to your home for every lesson, plus we virtual music lessons, too. However, our online music lessons are being taught by local music teachers with live lessons tailored to your child! Call us today to learn more.
