You have to be young to start playing the guitar, or "My fingers aren't very good at moving, so it seems like it would be difficult to learn." -- Have you hesitated to start playing the guitar because you think this?
But in reality, there is no age limit for learning the guitar.
In fact, there are many benefits to starting as an adult.
In this article, we will explain in detail the various benefits of learning the guitar and why you can start at any age.
We will also introduce actual experiences and learning methods so that even beginners can take their first steps with confidence.
1. Guitar is the best training to activate your brain
Playing music is an activity that uses many areas of the brain at the same time. To play the guitar, you need to hold down chords with your left hand, play the sound while keeping the rhythm with your right hand, read the score with your eyes, and listen to the sound with your ears.
In particular, the following effects have been scientifically recognized:
Improved memory: Memorizing chord progressions and sheet music stimulates the hippocampus of the brain.
Strengthened concentration: Concentration is necessary to play a song to the end.
Improved coordination between the left and right hands: It trains you to move both hands independently.
Effective for preventing dementia: Many studies have shown that musical activities have a positive effect on the cognitive function of the elderly.
The guitar is highly recommended as a way to activate the brain even as you get older.
2. The healing and stress-reducing effects of music
Modern society is full of stress. For those who are worried about work, relationships, health, or the future, the guitar can be a "healing tool" that calms the mind.
When playing the guitar, your breathing and heart rate naturally slow down, and your mind often becomes calm.
It is particularly effective in the following situations:
Time to play your favorite songs at the end of the day
Expressing your emotions through sound when you are feeling down
The meditative experience of playing the guitar in nature or in a quiet room
Music works on areas that words cannot reach, helping to balance emotions.
3. Hobbies that enhance self-expression and creativity
The gitar is not just a way to play, but also a tool to express yourself. Even if your technique is still immature, it is possible to create "your own music" with just one or two chords.
Examples of self-expression:
Playing your own songs on the guitar
Arranging your favorite songs and playing them in your own way
Putting emotions into instrumental melodies
Because there is no "right answer" in guitar, you can freely enjoy your own expression. As an adult, you can enjoy creating purely without being bound by other people's opinions.
4. Expanding new relationships through guitar
Music is a powerful means of communication that connects people. When you start playing guitar, you can expand your opportunities for interaction, such as:
Interacting with peers in guitar classes
Online communities (YouTube, SNS, Discord, etc.)
Participating in local music events and open mics
Spending time playing with friends and family
Having a common hobby can connect you with people regardless of age or position. It is also ideal for building new relationships, especially after retirement.
5. Benefits of starting as an adult
You may feel that you are "slower to learn" than when you were younger, but adults have the advantage of learning in an adult way.
You can practice while understanding logically
It's easy to set goals and make practice plans
You can proceed at your own pace without worrying too much about failure
Your favorite music and genres are clear, so it's easy to choose practice songs
In addition, these days, there are many YouTube, apps, and online lessons, so you can improve quite a bit even by self-study. There are also more and more teaching materials that are easy to understand regardless of age.
6. Small progress leads to a big sense of accomplishment
The guitar is an instrument that you can do little by little with daily practice.
At first, you'll be impressed just by being able to hold down one chord
The joy of being able to play a simple song all the way through
The sense of accomplishment when you can shape your own song by singing and playing
The accumulation of these "small success experiences" leads to confidence and fosters self-esteem.
Summary: It's never too late to start playing the guitar
No matter what time in your life you are, the guitar will open the door to a new world.
Brain activation and stress relief
The joy of self-expression and creativity
Building new relationships
A sense of daily accomplishment
All of these can be enjoyed by anyone, regardless of age.
The moment you realize you're interested in guitar is the perfect time to start.
Regardless of age, try starting a rich life filled with music at your own pace.