How Long Does It Take to Learn Guitar? Your Ultimate Guide from an LA Pro

Learning guitar can be an exciting and creatively rewarding journey full of anticipation, challenges, and, most importantly, artistic satisfaction. But of course, you have to persist with the process and journey. 

For beginners, it’s a world of discovery - mastering chords, strumming patterns, and building finger strength. 

At Angeles Academy of Music, we’ve guided thousands of students — from absolute beginners to seasoned players — through their guitar journey. We’ve seen what works, what holds people back, and how long it really takes to go from struggling to smooth.

This guide answers the most common questions we get from new students. It covers how long it takes to learn specific songs, the differences between electric and acoustic guitar, and how the bass guitar compares. 

You’ll get straight answers, realistic expectations, and some starter song suggestions that actually sound good and are easy and fun to play.

Everyone’s journey is different, but with the right guidance and consistent practice, anyone can learn to play. So let’s break down what to expect, how to start strong, and how long it’ll take to get good.

Note: This guide is based on the real questions we hear every day from our students. We've compiled them into a Q&A format to give you clear, practical answers. Some topics may overlap — that’s intentional. Repetition helps reinforce key ideas, and certain answers work best when viewed from different angles. 

So, let’s start with a straightforward answer to the most obvious and common question we get. 

So, how long does it take to learn guitar?

If you're practicing consistently, it usually takes 6 to 12 months to get solid at rhythm, play popular songs, and feel confident jamming with friends. 

But here’s the thing — the timeline changes depending on what “learning guitar” means to you. Want to just strum a few chords? Or shred solos like John Mayer?

Let’s unpack it.

• If your goal is to strum a few basic chords and play simple songs like "Stand by Me" or "Riptide", you can get there in 1 to 2 months with regular practice.
  
• If you want to sing and play rhythm guitar (think acoustic covers or singer-songwriter style), expect about 4 to 6 months to feel fluent with open chords, common progressions, and strumming patterns.
  
• If you’re aiming to play full songs with bar chords, riffs, and clean transitions, it’ll take closer to 6 to 12 months, depending on how often and how intentionally you practice.
  
• If your goal is to solo, improvise, or master advanced techniques (like fingerstyle, tapping, or jazz chord theory), you're looking at 18 months to several years of focused learning — and it’s worth every minute.
  
• If you're switching between acoustic and electric guitar, it might slow your progress slightly in the beginning, but over the course of a year you can build a solid foundation on both.
  

How long does it take to learn to play guitar comfortably?

If you're practicing consistently, you can expect to play beginner songs within a few weeks. Reaching a point where you feel confident playing full songs, switching chords smoothly, and jamming with others usually takes 6 to 12 months. 

Mastering advanced techniques and developing true fluency can take a few years, but it’s a fun and rewarding process every step of the way.

Here's a breakdown:

Consistency > Duration. A year of 15-minute daily practice beats a weekend warrior jamming 3 hours once a week.

How long does it take to learn a guitar song?

If it’s a beginner-friendly track like “Riptide” or “Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door,” you can learn it in a few days to a week. Intermediate songs take 2–4 weeks. Complex solos? Months. But the real secret is repetition.

Start with:

• “Horse with No Name” (2 chords!)
  
• “Wish You Were Here” (great for fingerpicking)
  
• “Seven Nation Army” (for simple riffs)
  

These tracks are some of the best songs to learn on guitar for beginners, as they are easy and sound fantastic.

ow long does it take to learn electric guitar vs acoustic? Which one should I start with?

Acoustic and electric guitars are surprisingly different beasts.

• Acoustic Guitar is easier to press down (if it has nylon strings), which is great for beginners, and if you love folk, indie, or singer-songwriter vibes.‍
• Electric Guitar is tougher on the fingers at first, since it has steel strings, but better if you love rock, blues, or metal. 

As for which one to start with, it depends on your musical taste. If you’re drawn to big riffs, solos, or band-style playing, go electric. If you picture yourself singing around a campfire or writing your own songs, start acoustic.

Either way, consistent practice matters more than the type of guitar. Many students start with one and transition to the other within a year, and that’s totally fine. The core skills carry over.

Timelines?

• Acoustic rhythm: ~6 months
  
• Electric soloing: ~12–18 months
  
• Switching between both: best of both worlds in a year

Is it possible to teach yourself guitar? How long does it take for self-taught guitarists to get good?

It’s totally doable — and honestly, a lot of musicians in Los Angeles start out this way. Many are self-taught long before they take their first formal lesson or step into a studio. The freedom to explore on your own terms is a huge plus.

That said, there are trade-offs. The main pro is flexibility: you learn what you want, when you want, and how you want. That can boost creativity and keep things fun. The con, though, is direction. Without structure, many self-taught players hit a wall — either they plateau, develop poor technique, or get stuck in the same chord shapes and songs for months.

And remember, poor technique can be dangerous and hard to unlearn. Moreover, it takes a lot of discipline to be a self-taught guitarist. 

So what’s the fix? Follow a clear, step-by-step path. Whether it's a YouTube playlist, an online course, or even a book, make sure it’s progressive — introducing skills in the right order. Start with fundamentals: posture, strumming, chord transitions, and rhythm. Then, gradually move into scales, barre chords, and technique.

And don’t skip basic music theory. You don’t need to read sheet music, but knowing how chords are built, what a key is, or why certain progressions sound good will save you years of trial and error.

Is it hard to learn the guitar?

Honestly? Yes and no. The beginning’s a little rough — your fingers will hurt, chords will buzz, and muscle memory won’t exist. But once you get through the first 30-45 days of consistent practice, the learning curve flattens. 

In fact, the guitar is one of the easiest instruments to start, especially if you're into pop, rock, or folk. That’s why so many adults, even over 30 or 40, start with the guitar.

However, the payoff is rewarding!!! Playing your favorite song — really playing it — is one of the most satisfying things you can experience.

At Angeles Academy of Music, we encourage students to start with the end in mind. Visualize yourself playing a song you love. Picture your hands moving confidently on the fretboard. That mental rehearsal makes a difference. It builds motivation, strengthens focus, and helps your brain wire the right connections faster.

We’ve seen it time and again — students who visualize progress faster. Pair that mindset with regular, guided practice, and the guitar stops being intimidating. It becomes fun.

How hard is it to learn guitar as an adult?

You’re not too old. Period. The main challenge for adult learners isn’t ability, but the time and the mental block. Most adults learning guitar in Los Angeles say the hardest part is juggling practice with work and life. 

But here’s the truth: if you can carve out just 20–30 minutes a day, you will make progress. In three months, you’ll be surprised at how far you’ve come.

There’s a concept in Japanese philosophy called Kaizen — the idea of improving by just 1% each day. Apply that to the guitar, and it’s powerful. One clean chord today, a smoother transition tomorrow — it all adds up.

Let’s talk mental blocks.
Many adults carry the belief that they’re “not musical,” “not coordinated,” or “too late to start.” That’s noise. At Angeles Academy of Music, we’ve seen complete beginners — people who’ve never touched an instrument — go from zero to confidently playing songs in under a year.

The key? Show up consistently. Drop the idea of perfection. Focus on progress, not perfection.

Learning guitar as an adult isn’t harder — it’s just different. You bring patience, discipline, and self-awareness that younger students don’t always have. That’s your edge. So forget the myths. You’re not behind. You’re just starting — and that’s more than enough.

Pro tip: Pick songs you love. If you grew up on Nirvana, the Beatles, or the Red Hot Chili Peppers — learning those riffs can keep you hooked.

Best songs to learn on guitar as a beginner?

Here’s a solid starter pack:

• “Wonderwall” – Oasis
  
• “Love Me Do” – The Beatles
  
• “Zombie” – The Cranberries
  
• “Good Riddance” – Green Day
  
• “Ain’t No Sunshine” – Bill Withers
  

These tracks use simple chords and strumming, but still sound rich.

How much are guitar lessons in LA?

Prices for private guitar lessons in Los Angeles range from $60–$150 per hour, depending on the instructor's experience and location. 

At the lower end ($60–$80/hour), you'll find teachers who may be newer to teaching or working from home setups. Mid-range instructors ($90–$120/hour) often have years of teaching experience, performance backgrounds, and solid student results. 

On the high end ($130–$150+), you're looking at premium guitar teachers — often with music degrees, extensive performance resumes, or even PhDs in music. These instructors may also offer specialized training in genres like jazz, classical, or advanced rock technique, and they often teach at professional music studios or schools.

However, expensive may not always mean better. A high rate might reflect credentials or reputation, but that doesn’t guarantee the instructor is the right fit for your learning style, personality, or goals. 

Some beginners actually progress faster with a mid-range teacher who’s more relatable, patient, and focused on building a solid foundation, rather than pushing advanced theory from day one.

The key is finding someone who communicates clearly, keeps you motivated, and adapts their teaching to where you are. 

Factors That Influence How Long It Takes to Learn Guitar

We have seen many guitarists who are so passionate and dedicated about their instrument that it takes them no time to learn the basics. On the other hand, others take forever to just get the basics right. Let’s discuss what sets these two apart. 

Your Goals as a Guitarist

If your goal is simply to strum a few basic chords and play along with your favorite songs, you might reach that milestone within weeks or months of regular practice. 

However, if you’re aiming to master advanced techniques like intricate fingerpicking, soloing, or composing your own music, the journey will naturally take longer. 

Age and Physical Dexterity

Age plays a role in how quickly you might learn the guitar, but it’s not a limiting factor. Younger students often pick up physical skills like chord changes and strumming faster because of their adaptability and quicker muscle memory development. 

Adults, on the other hand, bring focus and discipline to their practice, which can balance out any challenges in finger dexterity. Regardless of your age, developing hand strength and finger flexibility through regular practice is key to overcoming physical hurdles.

For example, we had a student who was over 40 years old but had never touched a musical instrument before. Despite initial doubts about their ability to learn, they embraced a consistent practice routine and followed a structured lesson plan with one of our experienced instructors.

Within just a few months, they were confidently performing their favorite songs publicly to their friends and family and even experimenting with fingerpicking techniques.

Practice Habits

Have you seen those guitarists from whom it’s impossible to separate their instruments? It’s like their instrument is an extension of their bodies, and they simply play it all the time, whether consciously or not. 

These are the types of guitarists who learn the skill the fastest. If you’re not the routine type, we understand! You’re literally supposed to “play” the instrument, so having a fixed routine may kill the pleasure, but it’s important to be consistent. 

If you’re someone who can dedicate a routine to the skill, there’s nothing like it. Structured practice sessions that target specific skills, such as transitioning between chords or mastering a strumming pattern, will help you build a strong foundation. 

Your Learning Style

Everyone approaches learning differently, and understanding your personal style can make the process smoother. If you’re a visual learner, chord diagrams, videos, and tablature might resonate most.

Auditory learners, on the other hand, may progress faster by playing along with recordings or focusing on ear training. If you thrive in structured settings, lessons with a skilled instructor or a step-by-step method book could be the ideal fit. By embracing your learning style, you can make steady, enjoyable progress.

Access to Quality Instruction

Having a skilled instructor can significantly accelerate your progress and help you avoid common beginner mistakes. At Angeles School of Music, we’ve seen firsthand how personalized lessons make all the difference. 

Our instructors tailor their approach to each student’s level, goals, and challenges, ensuring that your learning is both efficient and enjoyable.

Angeles Academy Music is Los Angeles’ top choice for guitar lessons. With a team of 74 expert instructors and over 1,200 students joining us weekly, we’ve earned our reputation for excellence. Sign up today! Don’t miss this chance to kickstart your musical journey with the best in the business!

Natural Musical Aptitude

While some people seem to have an innate knack for music, natural talent isn’t a prerequisite for success. A good ear for music or faster finger coordination might give some learners a head start, but determination and consistent practice matter far more. 

In fact, many of the most accomplished guitarists attribute their success to perseverance rather than natural ability. So, if you don’t have that “natural” musical aptitude, we have experienced that it’s somewhat of a skill that can be learned. 

Company and Environment

The people you surround yourself with and the environment in which you practice play a significant role in your progress as a guitarist. Being in a supportive and motivating setting can keep you inspired and focused, making your learning experience more enjoyable and productive. 

For instance, practicing alongside friends, being a part of a band, or joining a group class can foster a sense of camaraderie and accountability that drives consistent improvement.

If you're a parent or guardian, we suggest you affirm and encourage your child's efforts throughout their guitar learning journey. Positive reinforcement goes a long way in building their confidence and keeping them motivated, especially when they encounter challenges. Celebrate their progress, whether it’s mastering their first chord or performing a simple song.

Now, let’s get to some other common questions we get from students.

Can I learn guitar in 3 months?

Yes, you can learn guitar in three months, especially if your goal is to play simple songs using basic chords and strumming patterns. While you won’t become a master guitarist in this timeframe, it’s entirely possible to build a solid foundation and confidently play the music you enjoy.

Example Timeline for 3 Months

What You Can Achieve in 3 Months

You can learn common open chords such as G, C, D, E, A, Am, and Em. While transitioning between chords may feel slow initially, regular practice will help you achieve smoother transitions over time.

Strumming patterns are another area you could develop during this period. Once you learn enough strumming patterns and a few basic chords, you’ll be able to play 90% of the popular songs that people love at parties and campfires, such as “Let It Be” by The Beatles or “Horse with No Name” by America. 

This practice will help you build confidence as you play popular 3- or 4-chord songs.

Can I Learn Guitar in 30 days?

Yes, you can learn basic guitar skills in 30 days with consistent effort. Within this timeframe, you can master common open chords (e.g., G, C, D, E) and simple strumming patterns. You may also learn a few beginner-friendly songs with easy chord progressions. 

Try dedicating at least 20–30 minutes daily to focused practice and use beginner resources like tutorials or lessons.

Can I Learn Guitar in 7 days?

In 7 days, you can learn the very basics of guitar. You might familiarize yourself with holding the guitar, tuning it, and playing a few simple chords. With focused practice, you could play a short, basic song with minimal chord changes.

We suggest you practice the following songs if you want to learn guitar fast. 

How many Lessons Does it Take to Learn Guitar?

For basic skills like chords and strumming, 5–10 lessons with regular self-practice in between may be sufficient. For intermediate skills like barre chords or fingerpicking, 15–20 lessons are common.

Advanced skills can require months or even years of lessons, depending on your commitment and desired proficiency level. You must have heard many professional guitars saying how they’re still learning their instrument even after years or decades of playing it. 

Is 30 minutes of guitar lessons enough?

Yes, 30 minutes of guitar lessons can be effective, especially for beginners. A focused 30-minute session with an instructor can cover essential topics like chords, techniques, or troubleshooting problems. Combine lessons with at least 20 minutes of daily self-practice to maximize progress.

If you’re aiming for advanced levels, no amount of practice is sufficient. Find every chance to play the instrument because the journey of mastering the guitar is a continuous process. To excel, immerse yourself in the instrument as much as possible—play every day, explore diverse genres, and challenge yourself with increasingly complex techniques.

Final Thoughts

Now that we have discussed all timelines, our suggestion would be not to rush the process. Ask yourself why you’re learning the guitar! The guitar is one of the most versatile and beautiful sounding instruments, which can give you deep satisfaction and fulfillment learning and playing it. 

The more faith and focus you put on the process and journey rather than the final goal, the better relationship you can build with the instrument and the more enjoyable your progress will be. Treat learning guitar as an ongoing adventure rather than a race to reach a specific milestone. 

The instrument rewards patience, creativity, and consistency, offering new challenges and opportunities to grow at every stage of your journey. In a world that has conditioned us to focus on the ‘goals’ or the ‘results,’ it’s very tempting to want to learn the instrument as soon as possible, but the joy of guitar lies not only in the music you create but also in the personal connection you build with the instrument over time.

It’s a way of expressing yourself, bonding with others, or simply having a creative outlet. Hope this article was helpful. If you want to start with your guitar journey or become a better guitarist, feel free to sign up at the Angeles Academy of Music. We offer guitar lessons in Los Angeles and have our schools in Brentwood, Westwood Village, and Tarzana.