Music is fun, music is kind, music is smart!

One of my biggest passions in the world is playing/making music. I have been playing guitar since I was in fourth grade and since have become proficient in playing the tenor saxophone and bass guitar.

Young Mason with his very first guitar

Large majorities of people in life, at one point or another, have the dream of being able to play a musical instrument. In an inception of sort lies a dream to become a rock or country star, yet so many of these aspirations falter. Why is that?

No doubt that some people may find that music isn’t really their thing and thus pursue other things. From my own eyes and experience, I have seen many people just become burned out on redundant exercises and repetitive song playing.

Nothing makes me happier than seeing someone find a new passion or hobby and take it seriously (especially in the field of music). Thus, here are three ways I have found to harbor a great music learning experience!

Buy a cheap but quality instrument

Me playing my Squier P-bass at a gig October 2015

If you are wanting to learn how to play an instrument, be sure to buy one that has a good sweet spot of inexpensive but effective. As much as you may want to play a super-pink and pretty-looking guitar, it may be a piece of trash and make you never want to touch it again.

As a beginner, how an instrument plays is SO much more important than how it looks. Some bass and guitar brands I would recommend that fit this category would be Squier by Fender and Epiphone.

I WOULD STRAY AWAY FROM “BEGINNER” GUITARS/BASSES THAT COME IN A BOX.

Find an exceptional teaching source

This may seem obvious, but VALUE YOUR MUSIC EDUCATION! Finding someone/something that is knowledgeable, personable and demanding can be very challenging.

I have gone through three different teachers, and I must say three’s a charm. My third (first and only bass) teacher, Aaron Branson, taught me more than just bass. He taught me about music theory and just life in general, helping me grow so much as a musician and person.

If it’s affordable, I strongly recommend finding a private instructor. That is a relationship that helps to make your growth personal and quicker. However, if you don’t have the time or can’t afford it, the Internet has plenty to offer.

There are TONS of great educators on YouTube that fit the description of a great music teacher. Here are just a few of many:

• Scott’s Bass Lessons (bass)
• Marty Schwartz (guitar)
• Jermaine Morgan (bass)

Have fun!!

This undoubtedly the most important tip of all. Have fun with whatever you are doing. This goes for anything that you put time and effort into.

If you aren’t having fun, what good are you doing to yourself? Finding what gives you joy is what makes life worthwhile.

I hope those who read this take these tips to heart and give playing a musical instrument a chance (bonus points to those who do and find a new passion)!

Have you ever tried to learn how to play guitar, bass, drums, etc.? How did it go? Please leave a comment or shoot me an email at mfthomas@mail.lipscomb.edu.

Blessings,

Mason