Reply #8: A suggestion that other guitarists may pooh-pooh. I suggest you start

[bertha katzenengel]

out with a nylon-stringed guitar; that is, a classical-style guitar. I make this suggestion for two reasons:

1. Steel strings make learning to play very painful. Your fingertips are bruised, and the skin gets very raw and sore. (I really hope that doesn't put you off, but it's a fact that can't be avoided.) It takes weeks for callouses to build up on the fingertips, and starting w/ nylon strings makes it easier.

2. The fret board is wider on a classical guitar. New guitarists sometimes have a hard time forming chords because they're not used to the things their fingers/fingertips have to do. On a wider fret board, you have a little more room. In my experience teaching beginners, it makes things just a little easier.

You don't have to play in the classical style if you choose to learn on a classical guitar. Remember, it's for getting used to the pain caused to your fingertips. Once you've played on nylon strings for a while, your fingers will have built up a bit of callous and going to steel will be a little easier.

I taught myself. It can be done and you can get really good! You will have a blast too.

When you're ready for the best, IMO go C.E. Martin.

Good luck & break a leg!