Trying to Strum it Out

Me with the new guitar, Christmas 2005

I started taking guitar lessons after the first of the year. I figured it was about time for me to share with you what I've been up to in that regard.

I received this lovely guitar three years ago, Christmas, when my fabulous husband S bought it for me. It was one of the best presents I think I've ever received, because he bought me something I really wanted without me overtly asking for it. I know, men, you find this completely unnerving and ridiculous, but we women like the thoughtful gifts you come up with when we don't ask.

Another one of me, 3 years ago.

I wanted a guitar because I felt there was something wrong with the fact that I have a music degree and don't know how to play one - the quintessential American instrument. My grandmother played one. My brother Steve, of course, plays one. And, I love folk music, especially American Roots music, so it's one of those things on my list of things to learn.

The guitar in it's case.

Anyway, I tried to teach myself off and on, but it wasn't working. So, I set out to find a teacher about six months ago, and had some issues finding one I felt would work. But, I now I have, and he comes to my house and teaches me guitar for 45 minutes every Monday night. Today is guitar lesson day!

The guitar's neck.


The front of the guitar.

I practice almost every day, and I'm really enjoying it. And, I think I'm doing OK, because my teacher keeps piling on the new stuff. I hope to get S to take some photos of us during a lesson sometime, you know, if my teacher isn't in the witness protection program or anything, so you can experience my lesson with me. Won't that be a snore!




The guitar S bought is not just any guitar - it's a Martin - a classic brand of guitar made in the USA. This is a characteristic S has that can sometimes be annoying - he doesn't do anything halfway. In college, I mentioned wanting a fish - I was thinking a goldfish in a bowl. I got a 10 gallon aquarium as a present. Actually, his "over-doing" got me started with my photography hobby - I asked for a camera for my birthday and he went out and bought me an SLR. I had to learn to use it since he paid all that money, and a hobby was begun. To him bigger and more expensive is almost always better.





So, of course, when he bought a guitar - he didn't get the one at Target - you know - let's see how this goes and then maybe get a nicer one later is not his cup of tea. Nope, he went out and got a Martin. Now, it's a "starter" Martin, for sure - not one of their really fancy models. But, it's still a really nice instrument. It makes a nice sound - has a mellow tone - and has great action on the strings. All the more reason for me, after three years, to get on learning how to play it.

My book. And my tuner, too - oh, and there's a pick there as well, on my music stand.

I'll keep you updated on my progress with the guitar - once I know how to play an actual song, maybe I'll post a video - woo hoo. Maybe S can Heely while I play. Now, THAT would be worth watching!

The guitar on it's stand before my lesson.

Happy President's Day to those of you with a holiday. No holiday for me. See you tomorrow.