How to learn guitar as an adult?

[Advice from expert tutors]

Picking up the guitar as an adult? It can feel a little intimidating. Maybe it’s been years since you last played, maybe you’ve never touched a guitar before, or maybe you’ve been strumming the same three songs on repeat. Sound familiar?

Here’s the truth: It’s never too late to start—or restart—your guitar journey. In fact, adult learners bring something special to the table: curiosity, patience, and a real passion for connecting with music. And that’s a powerful combination.

This guide isn’t a “one-size-fits-all” tutorial. Instead, it’s a roadmap shaped by insights from expert guitar tutors at Wiingy, who’ve helped thousands of adults build skills, confidence, and joy through personalized lessons.

“How do I get better at jamming with others?”
“Can I really pick up the guitar again after years of not playing?”
“What if I just want to play for fun or to unwind?”

Whatever your reason, your guitar journey should reflect your goals, pace, and style. Whether you’re just starting, coming back after a break, or diving into a new genre, this guitar learning guide for adults will give you the advice you need to move forward with confidence. 

Looking to learn guitar? Get 1-on-1 lessons from expert-vetted guitar tutors, whether you’re jamming for fun, working on technique, or getting ready for auditions.

“I want to jam with others and not feel lost when they start improvising.”

If you’ve ever watched a group of musicians play together and felt totally lost, you’re not alone. The good news is that you don’t need to be a guitar wizard or know tons of theory to join a jam session.

You just need a few basic skills, a bit of confidence, and the willingness to jump in. Here’s how you can get started:

• Learn to play along with simple chord progressions: Most jam sessions—especially informal ones—stick to common, repeating chord patterns. Think of songs like “Knockin’ on heaven’s door” or “Stand by me.” If you can strum a few basic chords in time, you’re already ready to participate in more jams than you think.
• Listen first, play second: A big part of jamming is learning to listen. Notice what others are playing—the rhythm, the groove, the feel of the song. Start by strumming quietly in the background and matching what you hear. It’s totally okay to take your time before stepping forward.
• Try some simple lead playing: Once you’re comfortable with rhythm guitar, you might want to try improvising melodies or solos. Start with a small handful of notes—no need to memorize full scales yet. Aim to create simple, expressive sounds that match the mood of the music.
• Use backing tracks to practice: You don’t always need a room full of musicians to practice jamming. There are plenty of free jam tracks available online designed to help you get the feel for playing along. These tracks mimic the vibe of a live jam, giving you a safe space to explore.
• Keep it fun and low-pressure: Jamming is about connection, not perfection. Everyone makes mistakes—even experienced players. The goal isn’t to play everything “right,” but to join in, have fun, and learn by doing.

A teacher to help you grow on guitar

Hector Olea is a skilled tutor who can help you feel confident during jam sessions. If you tend to get lost when others start improvising, Hector’s focus on rhythm, ear training, and music theory will give you the tools to follow along and join in.

With over 10 years of experience, he tailors lessons to your style and level, making learning fun and approachable. Under his guidance, you’ll learn how to listen, respond, and even improvise—all without feeling overwhelmed.

“I feel that I am lacking direction and have no sense of progress.”

This is something a lot of guitar learners—especially self-taught ones—go through. You might know a handful of chords, a few riffs, maybe even full songs… but still feel like you’re not really moving forward.

That’s totally normal, and it doesn’t mean you’re doing anything wrong—it just means it’s time to bring a little more structure into your playing.

Here’s how to get back on track and feel that sense of progress again:

• Set a clear guitar goal: Ask yourself: what would make me feel like I’ve improved? It could be learning to play a full song smoothly, mastering barre chords, writing your first riff, or even playing in front of someone else. Once you have a specific goal, it’s easier to craft a plan that leads somewhere.
• Follow a loose practice routine: You don’t need to turn practice into homework—a little structure can go a long way. For example:
  • 5 minutes: chord changes or warm-ups
  • 10–15 minutes: learning a new song or technique (like fingerpicking, a strumming pattern, or a scale)
  • 5 minutes: freestyle playing or revisiting something fun
  • This balance ensures that your practice stays both educational and enjoyable.
• Keep a guitar journal or tracker: Write down what you practice each day, even if it’s just a few notes. Over time, you’ll begin to recognize patterns—like “I couldn’t play the F chord last month, and now I can!” Seeing your progress on paper can be very motivating.
• Mix it up with mini-challenges: Try setting small challenges such as learning a new song every two weeks, recording a short video of your playing once a month, or exploring a new genre. These mini experiments help break the monotony and ignite your passion.
• Celebrate guitar wins: Whether it’s a clean chord transition or finally nailing a tricky strumming rhythm, every small victory matters. Celebrating these moments keeps your journey positive and encouraging.

A coach to keep you on track

Bruno Elisabetsky is the perfect guide if you’re feeling stuck or unsure about your progress. With a degree in Performance – Guitar and a Master’s in Vocals, Bruno specializes in creating a fun, engaging environment where you can develop both technical skills and creativity.

Whether you’re struggling with structure or simply need a clearer sense of direction, Bruno’s approach is rooted in empathy and personalized lessons.

“I’ve taught guitar for over 50 years… interested in finally learning electric.”

First of all—how awesome is that? After decades of teaching and likely inspiring countless students, deciding to explore electric guitar is not just a new challenge… it’s a celebration of lifelong curiosity.

Switching from acoustic or classical to electric isn’t about starting over—it’s about expanding your sonic palette and embracing a whole new feel. You already know how to play guitar—you just get to play with a new set of tools.

Here are a few ways to dive into this exciting new chapter:

• Enjoy the new feel: Electric guitars are often easier on the fingers due to their slimmer necks, which can make techniques like sliding or string bending more fluid. You might find yourself exploring the fretboard more freely.
• Keep the gear simple: While electric guitar involves amps and settings, there’s no need to get overwhelmed. Start with a basic setup—a guitar and a small amp or plug-in system—and focus on how different sounds feel.
• Start with what you know: Play the same songs and chords you’ve used before. Hearing them with a new tone can cast them in a fresh light. You already have the foundational skills—this is just an expansion of your repertoire.
• Play along with music you love: Whether you’re into blues, classic rock, or something modern, choose songs you enjoy and strum along. An electric guitar is great for jamming and noodling, so don’t worry about playing note-for-note—just enjoy the sound.
• Give yourself permission to experiment: After years of structured playing, allow yourself to explore freely. Experimentation can lead to the discovery of new sounds and techniques that are uniquely yours.

A helping hand for your guitar goals

Leandro Martins is an experienced and supportive tutor, perfect for seasoned players exploring electric guitar for the first time.

With a post-grad in Music Education and a passion for both classic and modern styles, Leandro can help you adapt your skills to the electric world—whether you’re curious about tone, gear, or new techniques like alternate picking and harmonics.

“I haven’t touched my guitars in years, want to start again.”

First off—welcome back. Whether it’s been five years or twenty, picking up the guitar again is something to be proud of. The great thing is, your hands and ears remember more than you think. Starting again might feel a little rusty at first, but the joy is still there waiting for you.

Here’s how to ease back into it without overwhelm:

• Let go of the pressure to “catch up”: Don’t worry about comparing yourself to your former skills. Treat this as the start of a new chapter—one where you return with a mature perspective and renewed passion.
• Reconnect with why you loved playing: Think about what initially drew you to the guitar. Was it the simple joy of strumming favorite tunes, writing little riffs, or getting lost in the rhythm? Start by playing music that makes you feel happy.
• Set tiny, feel-good goals: Give yourself small wins. For example, tune your guitar, learn a single chord, or play for 10 minutes. These small steps will help rebuild your momentum without overwhelming you.
• Ease into a routine that works for you: Begin with short practice sessions—10 to 15 minutes a few days a week—and gradually increase as your confidence grows.
• Consider learning in a new way: If you used to rely on books or tabs, try exploring video courses, play-along apps, or online lessons. Shifting your method can reinvigorate your enthusiasm and keep the learning process fresh.

If you’re unsure where to begin, this guide to learning guitar offers a step-by-step starting point for beginners.

A guide to help you restart your guitar journey

Uyen Trinh is the perfect guide for picking the guitar back up after a long break. With experience teaching all levels and a warm, supportive approach, Uyen helps returning players ease back in—without pressure or judgment.

Her focus on creativity, foundational skills, and personal expression will help you reconnect with your guitar and enjoy making music again.

“I need to strengthen my fingers and learn the fretboard above the 5th fret.”

If this sounds like you, you’re probably feeling solid with the basics—but now you want to build control, confidence, and stretch into the parts of the guitar you’ve been avoiding (hello, upper frets).

That’s a great place to be. This stage is less about learning more and more about getting stronger—both in your hands and your fretboard knowledge.

Here’s how to approach it:

• Add a few minutes of finger work: Spend 5 to 10 minutes on focused exercises. Try techniques such as playing one finger per fret, hammer-ons, pull-offs, and slow slides. These exercises build both strength and dexterity without turning practice into a chore.
• Shift your focus up the neck: If you’ve mostly played in the 1st to 5th fret region, exploring the rest of the fretboard can feel intimidating at first. Start small:
  • Play familiar chords or scales in higher positions.
  • Experiment with simple melodies or riffs in the upper frets.
  • Use songs you already know as a guide by finding versions that incorporate the 7th, 9th, or 12th frets.
• Use visual landmarks: The dots on your fretboard (typically at the 3rd, 5th, 7th, 9th, and 12th frets) are more than decorations—they help guide your playing. Use them as reference points when exploring higher up the neck.
• Play songs that travel the neck: Choose blues, rock, or funk riffs that naturally move beyond the 5th fret. Learning a short lick or a solo that requires you to shift positions will make the upper frets feel more familiar.
• Don’t rush—clarity over speed: Focus on accuracy rather than rapid finger movements. Clean, deliberate playing will build speed naturally over time.

A mentor to help you improve

Tara Gozaydin is a supportive and creative tutor who can help you build finger strength and confidently navigate the fretboard above the 5th fret.

With a background in vocal performance and psychology, Tara brings a unique, encouraging approach to guitar instruction—tailoring lessons to your learning style and making technical growth feel approachable and fun.

She’ll guide you through custom exercises to build dexterity and walk you through the fretboard step-by-step, making it feel less intimidating. 

“I want to use music as therapy for my PTSD.”

Guitar can be much more than just an instrument—it can be a companion, a comfort, and a way to gently reconnect with yourself. Many people find that picking up a guitar helps them express what words can’t, quiet their minds, and create a space that feels safe.

Here are a few gentle ways to approach guitar as a form of self-care:

• Focus on what feels good: Don’t stress about perfect technique. Experiment with slow strumming, simple fingerpicking, or repeating a few calming chords. The goal is to create a soothing atmosphere rather than a performance.
• Create a safe, quiet space for playing: Set up a spot at home that feels relaxing—a cozy corner, a favorite chair, or even an outdoor space. Making your practice area inviting can transform your playing time into a personal retreat.
• Let the music guide you emotionally: Some days you might prefer soft, peaceful sounds, while on others you might want to explore louder, more expressive playing. Allow your emotions to guide your dynamics and tempo.
• Try journaling through music: While you may not write lyrics, use your playing time to reflect on memories or emotions. Some find that composing instrumental pieces helps process feelings in a unique way.
• Seek out supportive music communities: When you’re ready, joining groups that share a love for gentle, therapeutic music can help you feel connected and less alone.

A guitar teacher who gets you

Shannon Liddy is a compassionate tutor with 14 years of guitar experience and a calm, supportive teaching style. She’s worked with children dealing with anxiety and stress disorders, and understands how music can be a powerful form of healing.

Her lessons offer a safe, relaxed space to reconnect with your instrument and yourself. Whether you’re strumming for comfort or exploring gentle fingerstyle, Shannon will guide you in making music a personal and therapeutic experience.

“I produce electronic music and want to add real guitar to my tracks.”

If you’re producing electronic music and thinking about adding guitar into the mix—awesome idea. A real guitar can bring warmth, texture, and a human feel to your tracks that samples or synths sometimes can’t match.

Whether you’re after dreamy layers, gritty riffs, or chilled-out vibes, the guitar can add something special.

Here’s how to start blending the two worlds:

• Keep it simple: Focus on a few clean chords, muted strums, or single-note riffs to add atmosphere. Concentrate on tone, mood, and rhythm rather than complex solos.
• Play to your strengths as a producer: Leverage your existing skills with effects, layering, and loops. Record short sections of guitar and experiment with reverb, delay, distortion, or filters until you find a sound that complements your electronic tracks.
• Record in bits and build from there: Instead of aiming for a perfect, full-length performance, try recording short loops or progressions. Layer these with your synths, vocals, or beats to create a richer texture.
• Explore different playing styles: Whether you opt for a lo-fi, fingerpicked feel or a more energetic, palm-muted riff, the guitar’s versatility can add a distinctive flavor to your tracks.
• Let imperfection be part of the charm: The contrast between polished digital elements and the organic sound of a live instrument can be very appealing. Embrace small imperfections—they might be exactly what makes your track stand out.

A helping hand for your guitar goals

Sage Bava Melcher is a perfect fit if you’re producing electronic music and want to add real guitar. With a Master’s from Berklee in Contemporary Performance/Production, Sage helps you seamlessly blend live guitar into your digital work.

Her lessons focus on writing, tracking, and layering guitar parts that fit your sound. Supportive and experienced in both production and performance, Sage will help bring your guitar ideas to life.

 “I just want to learn a few songs for myself and my grandchildren.”

Sometimes the most meaningful music is shared in quiet moments—on the porch, in the living room, or with the grandkids.

Whether you’re picking the guitar back up or starting fresh, learning a few simple songs is a joyful way to relax, connect, and pass on something special. 

Here’s how to get started:

• Pick familiar, simple songs: Start with songs you already know and love—children’s tunes, folk songs, or classic sing-alongs. Many of these songs use just three or four basic chords, and there are plenty of simplified versions available online.
• Focus on chords and rhythm, not perfection: It’s perfectly fine if your fingers fumble a bit or if your strumming isn’t flawless. What matters most is the joy of playing and the connection created when you share music with loved ones.
• Create a cozy routine: Set aside a regular time each week to practice. Enjoy a cup of tea, settle into a comfy chair, and make your practice session something to look forward to—even if it’s just for 10 to 15 minutes at a time.
• Look for play-along videos or apps: Many beginner-friendly resources offer synchronized chords, lyrics, and rhythm guides. These tools can simplify the learning process and boost your confidence.
• Play with love, not pressure: The goal is to share joy and create memories. Don’t stress about every note—your grandkids will treasure the time you spend making music together.

A teacher to make learning easier

Luke Vichnis is a patient and creative tutor who’s perfect if you simply want to enjoy playing guitar—whether it’s learning a few favorite songs or playing for your grandchildren.

With a Master’s in Music Performance and experience across styles from jazz to rock to classical, Luke focuses on making lessons fun, low-pressure, and tailored to your pace.

Luke’s supportive approach helps you reconnect with your instrument in a way that’s enjoyable and meaningful.

Looking to learn guitar? Get 1-on-1 lessons from expert-vetted guitar tutors, whether you’re jamming for fun, working on technique, or getting ready for auditions.

Wrapping up

Learning guitar as an adult isn’t about being the fastest, the flashiest, or the most technically perfect – it’s about creating something that feels personal, meaningful, and fun.

Whether your goal is to jam with others, reconnect with music after a long break, or simply play a few songs that make you smile, there’s a path forward – and it’s entirely yours to shape.

The key?
Choose an approach that aligns with your goals.
Give yourself permission to learn at your own pace.
And don’t be afraid to ask for help – a great teacher can make all the difference.

Wiingy connects you with expert guitar tutors who can provide personalized help in your learning journey. 

Whether you’re struggling with mastering barre chords, feeling lost during jam sessions, or trying to get back on track after a long break, guitar tutors at Wiingy are here to guide you through everything. 

Additional reading

How to learn guitar – Our guide for aspiring guitarists

Find the best guitar lessons in your city

Best guitar lessons in New York

Best guitar lessons in Los Angeles

Best guitar lessons in Chicago

Best guitar lessons in Houston

FAQs for how to learn guitar as an adult