At Guitar Lessons Geauga, we frequently receive questions from left-handed individuals about playing guitar. Is it possible to teach someone to play a left-handed guitar? Certainly. Can left-handed guitarists achieve the same results as their right-handed peers? Absolutely. But is it worth investing in a left-handed guitar? Let’s explore this topic in detail and help you make an informed decision.
Reasons to Think Twice About Buying a Left-Handed Guitar
We have numerous success stories of left-handed students thriving while learning on standard right-handed guitars at Guitar Lessons Geauga. This approach not only simplifies their learning journey but also opens up a world of convenience and opportunity.
Think about it: have you ever encountered a left-handed laptop, tablet, or smartphone? These devices are used by billions of people every day, regardless of handedness, without issue. Similarly, you won’t find left-handed pianos, violins, trumpets, flutes, saxophones, or cellos. Most instruments are designed to be used by everyone, and the guitar is no exception.
Availability
Due to low demand, many small music stores don’t stock left-handed guitars. Even large retailers typically only carry one or two left-handed models for every hundred right-handed ones. This limited availability means fewer choices and less access to the perfect instrument for your needs. Learning on a standard guitar ensures that you’ll always have plenty of options to choose from, no matter where you shop.
Cost
Left-handed guitars are often more expensive than their right-handed counterparts. With only 10% of the population being left-handed and many choosing to learn on standard guitars, manufacturers have little incentive to produce left-handed models in bulk. As a result, the higher production costs are passed on to the buyer. By choosing a right-handed guitar, you’ll not only save money but also gain access to a broader range of high-quality instruments at competitive prices.
Convenience
Imagine this: you’re at a party, and someone hands you a right-handed guitar. If you’ve learned to play on a left-handed guitar, you won’t be able to join in. Even playing a simple melody could be a challenge. By learning on a standard guitar, you’ll be ready to play anywhere, anytime, on any guitar that comes your way. This versatility can make your musical journey much more enjoyable and fulfilling.
Skill Development
Playing a right-handed guitar as a left-handed individual can actually enhance your skill development. Your dominant hand, responsible for fretting, often has better dexterity and coordination, which can make learning techniques like hammer-ons, pull-offs, and intricate finger placements easier. Over time, this can lead to a more balanced skill set and improved playing ability.
But What If I Already Started Learning Left-Handed?
If you’ve already begun your guitar journey with a left-handed instrument, don’t worry. The techniques are the same, and you’re not at a disadvantage. However, if you’ve felt frustrated by the limitations of left-handed guitars—such as difficulty playing friends’ instruments or limited options in stores—it’s not too late to make a change.
Switching to a standard guitar might seem daunting, but with the right guidance, it’s entirely achievable. At Guitar Lessons Geauga, we’ve helped many students transition from left-handed to right-handed guitars, often in just a few weeks. This shift not only expands your options but also allows you to participate more freely in social and musical settings.
Final Thoughts
Learning guitar is a rewarding journey, and your dominant hand doesn’t have to dictate your experience. By choosing to learn on a right-handed guitar, you’ll enjoy greater availability, lower costs, and unmatched convenience. And if you’ve already started learning left-handed, remember that adapting is entirely possible with the right guidance and support.
At Guitar Lessons Geauga, we’re here to help you achieve your goals, no matter which path you take. Whether you’re just starting out or considering a switch, we’ll provide you with the encouragement and guidance you need to succeed. With patience, practice, and the right mindset, you can master the guitar and unlock a world of musical possibilities.
About The Author
Brian Fish is a professional guitarist who has been dedicated to helping other guitar players in Northeast Ohio pursue their musical dreams since 1994. He’s passionate about guiding others on their musical journey! He is the Guitar Playing Transformation Specialist, instructor, mentor, trainer, and coach at Guitar Lessons Geauga.
Brian has also created the fantastic rhythm course, “Ultimate Rhythm Mastery,” which is available at MusicTheoryForGuitar.com.
If you live in Geauga County / Northeast Ohio, Guitar Lessons Geauga can help you become the player you’ve always wanted to be. Click the button below to request your FREE no-obligation trial lesson.
