One of the most common questions we get from new students or curious parents is:
“What kind of music will I learn in guitar lessons?”
As a team of guitar teachers who work with beginners every day, we totally understand the curiosity—and the excitement. Learning an instrument is more fun when you’re playing music you recognize or enjoy. So let’s break down the music learned in guitar lessons and how we help students go from open strings to full songs.
Foundational Skills Come First
In your first few lessons, we usually focus on:
- Proper hand position and posture
- Open string awareness and how to pluck or strum cleanly
- Basic chords like C, G, D, and A
- Simple finger exercises to build dexterity
Even these early skills can be turned into music! Many beginner songs use just one or two chords.
Real Songs, Sooner Than You Think
After just a few weeks, most beginners are ready to try familiar melodies like:
- “Twinkle Twinkle Little Star” (great for finger strength)
- “Smoke on the Water” (an iconic first riff!)
- “Three Little Birds” by Bob Marley (C, G, and A minor)
- “Horse with No Name” (uses only two easy chords)
We also love helping students learn songs they request—especially if it keeps them motivated. Some may need to be simplified, but the goal is always to get you playing real music fast.
What If You’re a Little Kid?
Younger students (ages 5–8) might not be ready for full chords. No problem—we adapt. We might use:
- Single-note versions of familiar melodies
- Color-coded strings or visual aids
- Games that reinforce rhythms or patterns
For more ideas on how we approach age-appropriate instruction, check out our blog on knowing if your child is ready for guitar.
Beyond the First Month
As students grow more confident, we expand their musical toolkit:
- More complex chord progressions
- Reading tablature or notation
- Picking patterns
- Blues riffs or scales
- Even songwriting!
We tailor each lesson to the student. Whether you’re into folk, rock, pop, or praise music, we’ll guide you with a step-by-step plan that fits your goals.
You can also read more from Yousician’s guide to popular beginner songs to get inspired outside of lessons.
FAQ: Music in Guitar Lessons
Do I get to choose the songs I learn?
Absolutely! We encourage students to bring in requests. Your teacher will help adapt them based on your level.
How soon will I play a full song?
Often within the first few weeks. Even basic songs with 2–3 chords count as full songs when you’re starting out.
Can kids learn the same songs as adults?
Yes, though we often simplify songs for younger students or use different teaching tools.
