My son, who's 9, wants to learn to play guitar.
I don't play myself, but would still like to learn someday, and
am not sure about what kind of guitar to buy for him to start with.
Would you recommend those guitars at the dept stores??? Just to begin
with, or should I invest in a more expensive guitar?
We're going to start with Acoustic...

Any recommendations or advice would be appreciated and helpful...

I'd say start with something cheap. see if the interest continues after a while. No use investing in an expensive guitar if the interest will fade.

Heavenly said:

I would suggest a Teacher if your son is 9 years.

You can get this...



...at Musicians Friend for $99! (www.musiciansfriend.com)

* V50 Spruce top acoustic guitar
* Electronic tuner
* Padded gig bag
* Guitar strap
* Accessory pouch

Won't hurt you very badly in the pocketbook/wallet if he loses interest.

tA

Tribal Disorder

http://www.soundclick.com...rmusic.htm

I recommend a cheap nylon string acoustic. The nylon upper strings areless painful on my fingers than steel ones.

The most popular acoustic in the UK is, I believe, the Yamaha F310.



I have owned one for several years and find very playable, and with a great sound for what is in reality a very cheap, entry level guitar.


Starting with an acoustic is a good idea, as they can be a little more demanding and will help to avoid settling into bad habits.

I personally wouldn't advise nylon strings or a classical (aka "Spanish") guitar unless that is the musical direction you expect him to take later on.


If this is a starting point before progressing to electric, and the main styles will be, broadly speaking, Rock/Pop/Funk, then a good, steel strung acoustic like the Yamaha is perfect.

With a little patience and practice, you'll be surprised how quickly someone can get to a reasonable standard of playing.


Enjoy!



PS, GET LEARNING YOURSELF, TOO - NEVER TO LATE TO START!!!