The electric guitar is one of the most iconic and versatile instruments in modern music. Whether you're drawn to rock, blues, jazz, metal, or pop, the electric guitar can adapt to virtually any genre. With its distinct sound and the ability to create a wide range of tones, the electric guitar is a favorite choice for musicians of all skill levels.
Why Learn the Electric Guitar?
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Versatility: The electric guitar is used in almost every genre of music, from rock to jazz to classical
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Wide range of sounds: By adjusting settings and adding effects, you can create everything from clean tones to distorted, heavy sounds
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Creative expression: The electric guitar allows you to experiment with tone, effects, and techniques like bending notes, fingerpicking, and shredding
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Performance opportunities: Electric guitarists often perform in bands, making it a great instrument for social and collaborative music-making
If you love exploring different musical styles and creating your own unique sound, the electric guitar is the perfect instrument for you.
Lessons at the Australian Academy of Music
We offer individual and group electric guitar lessons for all skill levels:
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Beginner lessons: Start with the basics like tuning, chords, strumming techniques, and learning your first songs
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Intermediate lessons: Learn more advanced techniques, including lead guitar playing, fingerstyle, and soloing
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Band program: Our group lessons are ideal for students learning to play in an ensemble or band setting
Our experienced instructors will guide you through everything from basic techniques to more advanced guitar skills.
Location:
26/302 South Pine Road, Brendale QLD 4500
Enquire about an electric guitar lesson today
Buying Your First Electric Guitar
When purchasing an electric guitar, there are a few important factors to consider:
Types of electric guitars:
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Solid-body: These are the most common type and are great for almost any genre (e.g., Stratocasters, Les Pauls)
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Hollow-body: These guitars produce a more natural acoustic sound and are used in jazz and blues
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Semi-hollow-body: A compromise between the solid and hollow body, offering both acoustic warmth and the ability to use amplifiers effectively
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Size: Make sure to choose the right size guitar for your body—most full-sized electric guitars are suitable for teens and adults, but there are also smaller options for children
When buying an electric guitar, also make sure to get a guitar amplifier, picks, and extra strings to get the best out of your playing.
Renting vs Buying
If you’re just starting out, renting an electric guitar can be a great option:
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Affordable rental plans: Test out the instrument before committing to a purchase
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All rental guitars are carefully selected and professionally maintained to ensure high quality
Renting a guitar gives you flexibility and an affordable entry into the world of electric guitar playing.
Must-Have Electric Guitar Accessories
To get the most out of your electric guitar playing, here are some essential accessories:
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Guitar amplifier: Your guitar will need an amp to produce sound. Choose one that matches your musical style
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Effects pedals: For customizing your sound, consider pedals like distortion, reverb, delay, and overdrive
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Guitar picks: Essential for strumming or picking the strings, available in various shapes and thicknesses
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Guitar strap: This will allow you to comfortably play while standing
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Tuner: A tuner is necessary to keep your guitar in tune
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Extra strings: Always have a spare set of strings on hand in case of breakage
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Capo: Useful for changing the pitch of your guitar without changing your fingerings
These accessories will enhance your playing experience and ensure you have everything you need to succeed.
Cases
Protecting your electric guitar is important for its longevity:
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Gig bags: These are lightweight and easy to carry, but they offer less protection
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Hard cases: Offer more protection, especially when traveling or storing your guitar for longer periods
A quality case will protect your guitar from damage and ensure it stays in top condition.
Performance & Band Gear
When you’re ready to perform, either as a soloist or as part of a band, you’ll need some additional gear:
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Amplifier: Make sure you have an amp that can handle the size of the venues you play
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Pedals: Effects pedals like distortion, delay, and reverb are popular among electric guitarists to create unique sounds
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Cables: High-quality guitar cables are essential for getting a clear signal from your guitar to your amplifier
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Music stand: Helps keep your sheet music in place during performances
These items are essential when you start playing in a band or at live performances.
Electric Guitar Maintenance Basics
To keep your electric guitar in good condition, follow these maintenance tips:
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Clean the guitar regularly: Dust and dirt can damage your guitar’s finish, so wipe it down after each session
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Change strings regularly: Over time, guitar strings lose their tone and break, so it’s important to change them when necessary
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Tune your guitar: Check your guitar’s tuning before every practice session to ensure it sounds its best
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Check the neck and bridge: Regularly inspect the neck, bridge, and action of the guitar for any issues
Regular maintenance will ensure your guitar lasts for many years.
Servicing and Repairs
If your guitar needs repairs or maintenance, we offer expert servicing:
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String replacement: Change your strings when they begin to wear or break
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Truss rod adjustments: The neck may need adjustment to ensure proper string height and playability
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Pickup replacements or repairs: If your pickups stop working, we can replace or repair them
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Guitar setup: We can ensure your guitar is set up properly for optimal playability
Keeping your guitar in good working condition is essential for your playing experience.
Easy Songs to Start With
Here are a few beginner-friendly electric guitar songs to help you build confidence:
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“Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star” (easy version)
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“Smoke on the Water” – Deep Purple
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“Sunshine of Your Love” – Cream
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“Knocking on Heaven's Door” – Bob Dylan
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“Iron Man” – Black Sabbath
These songs will help you develop basic techniques like power chords, strumming patterns, and finger coordination.
AMEB Electric Guitar Exams
AMEB (Australian Music Examination Board) exams are a great way to track your progress and set goals for your guitar playing.
First exam (Preliminary or Grade 1):
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Perform two pieces from the AMEB electric guitar repertoire
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Technical exercises: Learn basic scales, arpeggios, and chords
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Sight reading and aural tests: These tests assess your ability to read music and recognize musical patterns
AMEB exams provide structured goals and feedback to help you advance as an electric guitarist.
Ready to Start?
The electric guitar is one of the most exciting instruments to learn, offering endless opportunities for creative expression. Whether you're strumming chords in a band or playing intricate solos, the electric guitar will be your gateway to a lifetime of musical exploration.
Visit us at:
26/302 South Pine Road, Brendale QLD 4500 or email at: admin@australianacademyofmusic.com.au
