Do you dream of entertaining audiences with guitar ballads or working with rock stars, blues singers or country star? Do you desire to have roadies follow your every move? If so, read on to find out how to become a guitarist.

Becoming a guitarist takes more than simply learning how to play the guitar. It requires a concerted effort to hone the craft of making music in harmony with others and providing sounds that can illicit feelings in others. The best guitarists are able to touch people with their music and make a connection without words. Their music can be music therapy or can bring joy and excitement to others.

While many guitarists love the thrill of a live audience, much of a guitarist time can be consumed by studio sessions, working with sound engineers, singers, background vocalists and record executives to create profitable recordings. Some guitarist choose to focus on studio work and provide assistance to groups making records and even commercial work like enhancing the work of a jingle writer.

While it may appear that becoming a guitarist only requires learning to play a few notes on the guitar and creating your own band, to be a successful guitarist requires time devoted to learning music theory, developing your hand coordination and developing musical techniques. For many professional guitarists, they would say they never stop learning. When starting your quest to become a guitarist, it is best to think of it as a lifetime purist that you love learning to perfect.

While your first guitar does not need to be the most expensive model available, you do want a guitar that will provide a quality sound and provide a strong base to help you start learning your craft. http://guitar.about.com/library/weekly/aabyb111401.htm

‘’Select a Style’’ First, you should decide what type of guitar you would like to buy. The basic types are electric, acoustic and classical. Basic guitars usually costs between $200 and $300 dollars and high-end models can range up to $5,000. Electric guitars also require an amplifier that can be found for around $250. http://www.mahalo.com/how-to-buy-a-guitar

‘’Acoustic Guitar’’ Most beginners select an acoustic guitar, even if they want to play an electric guitar long-term. Learning the basics on a traditional, acoustic guitar will help you focus on the technique of playing a basic guitar. Also, many bands need guitarists that are masters of both the acoustic and electric guitar. It is easier to learn on an acoustic, and then move up to an electric model than it is to learn on an electric and move to an acoustic version. Also, acoustic guitars are more portable and do not require amplification, which makes it easier to take lessons and practice playing the guitar whenever and wherever you want.

‘’Classical Guitar’’ Classical guitars are a little different shape than acoustic guitars and use thicker, nylon strings that are easier on the fingers. While this type of guitar is easier on beginner’s fingers, it is usually only needed for flamenco and classical guitar musical styles. If you are concerned about toughening up your fingers on an acoustic guitar, consider renting a classical model to start, and then purchase an acoustic once you fingers have started to get adjusted to playing strings.

‘’Electric Guitar’’ An electric guitar is also easier on your fingers than an acoustic guitar, but they may not be the best option for a beginner. Since electric guitars need an amp, you will be limited on practice time. While you can quietly strum an acoustic guitar, it is harder to be as quiet on an electric version. Some electric models are cheaper than an acoustic model, so if your budget is really tight and your goal is to become an electric guitarist, consider purchasing an electric guitar.

It goes without saying that the primary step in becoming a guitarist is to learn how to play the guitar. There are many options to help get your learning journey started.

‘’Online’’ You can learn how to play the guitar online. There are numerous websites that review guitar theory, the basic notes and even how to play cords. For acoustic guitar, check out the website Learn Acoustic Guitar. It provides lessons for beginners and even advanced players. They offer videos and even home study courses.

‘’Home Study Courses’’ There are many home study courses you can buy to help you learn how to play the guitar. Some programs are CD based that you listen to along with a study guide. Some methods rely on written study materials. Some students prefer to purchase a DVD instruction set that gives them a visible example to follow. If finances are tight, check out your local library for their guitar study resources.

‘’Music Lessons’’ One of the best methods for learning to play the guitar is by taking lessons. One-on-one or group lessons can provide valuable assistance to help correct form problems and get you over the beginning hurdles of learning the craft. Lessons can also be inspiring as you watch your instructor masterfully play songs that you struggle with as a beginner. You can see how with time and practice you can master the guitar as well. Teachers also provide valuable encouragement for you to keep going when it gets tough.

‘’Friend’’ Many guitarists have gotten their start by learning from a friend. The love of guitars often brings like-minded people together in friendship. Consider learning from a friend the basics from a friend and as you develop, you will eventually be able to jam together.

‘’Practice’’ Get as much experience as possible. Once you have mastered the basics of the guitar, practice ever chance you get. Consider entering talent shows to get experience playing in front of other people, play for a local church youth group and even form your own band. Gaining real-life experience is critical to becoming a famous guitarist long-term.

‘’Network’’ Network with people in the music industry. Hang out at places where musicians who play the types of music you like hang out and perform. Talk to them, get to know them and eventually, you might be given leads for potential gigs. Be prepared to give on the fly demonstrations of your skills. If possible, have a demo CD of your guitar playing available to hand out. Attend record label showcases and MobFest for additional opportunities. http://www.ultimate-guitar.com/columns/general_music/how_to_become_a_professional_guitarist__musician_facts_and_myths.html

‘’Look for Gigs’’ Many bands looking for guitarists advertise in local papers and on the Internet. Check out Craigslist, your local paper and band websites for potential guitarist opportunities.

‘’Advance’’ As your guitar playing skills advance and you become known in the industry, you will probably be asked to come work with other groups. You will need to choose a group that will give you the types of opportunities you desire. Just realize that many groups have a short lifespan, so you may need to be flexible with the groups you work with until you find a longer-term opportunity. Overall, focus on your craft and groups will seek you out.