Back in the day, when computers were in their infancy, and video games were only a concept, if even that, it was much easier to get your child interested in a hobby, or developing their talents. With only three or four channels on television, and Lawrence Welk seemingly on all of them, it was not too difficult to get me interested in something, anything, that was fun to do and passed the time. This was especially true during long days of summer when school was not in session, or in the winter when it was just too cold to go outside and do anything fun. Believe me, in those situations, I was ready for anything, and trying to learn the acoustic guitar filled the bill perfectly. I am not saying however, that had video games been around back then, I wouldn't have been perfectly happy sitting mesmerized, in front of a video game console for hours on end, oblivious to the world around me, I may have.
Please believe me when I tell you that I have nothing bad to say about any video game that doesn't teach bad behavior, isn't overly gory, doesn't contain foul language or glorify brutality. On the contrary, I believe that good video games can teach some very important skills, such as decision-making and quick thinking. I do, however believe that other interests should be developed. Interests, such as my favorite, the acoustic guitar. Learning any instrument can be a very satisfying, rewarding and enriching experience indeed. My personal favorite is the steel string acoustic guitar, for several reasons. I love guitars in general, but am particularly fond of the acoustics. No other instrument, in my opinion, can match the rich, warm tones produced by this instrument, and mastering it could be one of the most exhilarating experiences that a child could have.
Helping your child to achieve that experience is like anything else. It will take some time, effort, and of course, a certain amount of money. Modestly priced guitar lessons can be found online, or you may shop around and find a human instructor at a relatively cheap cost. Well made, great sounding acoustic guitars are pretty easy to find these days, because of the introduction of cheaper woods and new manufacturing techniques, plus off-shore manufacturing facilities. Cheap acoustic guitars are out there, you'll just need to shop around and make some wise decisions as to size, quality and price. You may also want to consider the possibility that your boy or girl may lose interest in the idea. That must also be considered when budgeting, as disappointing is that would be. An important point to think about is that buying a cheap acoustic guitar and paying for lessons, probably will not cost any more than all the equipment for video games, and the games themselves, that you w ill buy. In the long run, I think the fulfillment and satisfaction of learning the music and playing well will be much more gratifying for your boy and girl in the end.
Griffbretter Gitarre
