I’ve been teaching music for the last 10 years now, and one of the most important aspects of learning to play the guitar is having the right size guitar. Did you know you can buy 1/2 size and 3/4 size guitars?

Ok, so maybe you knew that, but how do you determine the correct size for your child? The best indication is arm-length to fretboard length (the neck of the guitar). The student’s arm should not have to reach very far to be able to play the first 3 frets. Use your best judgment to determine the correct size.

If the student can’t reach (or struggles to reach) the first few frets, then the guitar is too big.

However, it is equally important to not have a guitar that’s too small!

Recently one of my students had a growth spurt and still has his 3/4 size guitar. Well, it’s small enough that it is constantly falling off of his leg (where the guitar rests) and he has difficulty sitting up straight because of it. This of course affects his playing, technique, confidence, and willingness to practice.

If you’re still not sure what size guitar to buy, go to your local music store and ask them to size a guitar for your child.

Much Respect,
Andrew
The Musician’s Toolbox