If you are a parent of an aspiring guitar player, take the time to find the method that suits your child's aspirations. A number of methods and instructional approaches are available for kids who are interested in learning the guitar. Some methods adopt a slow and methodical approach to learning the guitar. Other methods take a fast track approach that encourages kids to play songs as quickly as possible.
Mel Bay
Mel Bay is one of the pioneers of guitar instructional books and materials. Mel Bay's "Children's Guitar Method" is divided into three books. Volume 1 presents the basic fundamentals and Volumes 2 and 3 provide additional instructional material and songs. The Mel Bay method teaches children to read musical notation while learning to play single string notes and simple chords. The Mel Bay method teaches children to play the guitar with a guitar pick. Children also learn different strumming and rhythm patterns. The material is presented with colorful cartoons. The book also includes a CD and DVD.
Hal Leonard
Hal Leonard is one of the contemporary leaders in guitar instructional materials. Hal Leonard produces guitar instruction books and DVDs for all styles of guitar playing. A variety of books are offered for children interested in learning the guitar. "Guitar for Kids" teaches guitar fundamentals and technique. Children learn to play single notes, chords and popular songs such as "Yellow Submarine" and "Hokey Pokey." A CD is included to demonstrate each lesson. Hal Leonard also offers "Children's Songs" and "Beginning Rock Guitar For Kids." The latter book teaches kids the fundamentals for rock guitar, including rock guitar riffs and licks.
The Suzuki Method
The Suzuki method is a well-respected method of musical instruction for children that was developed in Japan in the 1930s. The method is motivated by the premise that children are inherently musical. Its focus is on preschool age children from 3 to 5. The Suzuki method emphasizes ear-training rather than sight reading. It also teaches children musical fundamentals and techniques through playing songs rather than technical exercises.
New Dimensions In Classical Guitar
"New Dimensions in Classical Guitar" is a guitar method book designed to introduce children to the intricacies of classical guitar technique. It is influenced by certain elements of the Suzuki methods and it is published by Mel Bay. The New Dimensions method teaches children classical guitar technique, sight reading and the basic elements and fundamentals of music theory. It incorporates listening and theory games to help students understand musical principles and concepts.
