Understanding the Benefits of Playing a Right-Handed Guitar as a Left-Handed Player

When it comes to learning to play the guitar, choosing the right-handed or left-handed version can significantly impact your learning process and comfort level. In this article, we will explore the benefits and considerations of playing a right-handed guitar as a left-handed player, drawing on personal experience and expert advice.

Advantages and Disadvantages

The decision to play a right-handed guitar as a left-handed player is a balance of advantages and disadvantages. My first classical guitar teacher was left-handed, which helped him for the initial years when learning to play right-handed guitar. Playing your guitar the wrong way can be effective for cross-training, as it means your fretting hand plucks and your picking hand frets. However, playing a right-handed guitar can also offer several benefits.

John Doe: 'They’re easier to find than left-hand models anyway.');

For instance, right-handed guitars are designed to maximize the comfort and efficiency of the right-hand technique, which is usually the dominant hand for most people. The picking hand, where the most accuracy is needed, is typically the dominant hand for 90% of the population. This design can lead to a more natural and comfortable play experience.

Historical Perspective

Many famous guitarists who are left-handed have successfully played right-handed guitars. For example, Jimi Hendrix played his guitar upside-down and still managed to play left-handed, and artists like Duane Allman, Joe Perry, Gary Moore, and Mark Knopfler were left-handed but played right-handed guitars. Despite these notable exceptions, it is generally recommended to play the way that is most comfortable for you.

Personal Experience and Advice

From my own experience, pick up a guitar and see how you hold it naturally. If you are a left-handed person, you might find that playing right-handed can be more comfortable. In my case, I initially played a right-handed electric guitar as a left-handed player, but eventually, I converted to a left-handed electric guitar and haven't looked back. Playing a left-handed guitar can help you develop your skills more naturally and make progress faster.

Personal Experience: 'I am a lefty and have been playing guitar for about 12 years since I was around 18. My first guitar was a right-handed acoustic nylon stringed guitar, and my teachers advised me to play right-handed. However, it ended up unused in the corner of my room. After a year or so, when I took it out, I noticed one of the strings had broken and one of the tuners was damaged. I later discovered I could re-string it left-handed, which I finally did 18 years later.'

Selecting the Right Guitar

Left-handed guitars can be harder to find and often come with a limited selection of models. The most common left-handed models are Strats, Teles, and Les Pauls, which are usually of lower quality and have a higher price tag. However, the quality of your guitar is less important than your playing experience and comfort level. Spending on a decent amp or pick-ups can greatly improve the sound of a cheaper guitar.

Converting a right-handed guitar to left-handed is relatively easy for electric guitars, but it requires some adjustments. For acoustic guitars, the inside bracing and bridge placement may need to be taken into account. Properly positioning the strap button can prevent the instrument from becoming top-heavy and making it uncomfortable to play.

Playing Technique and Learning Process

The picking hand is the most important for maintaining time, nuance, and discerning the nuances of playing, such as volume, force, and speed. On the other hand, the fretting hand is more of a button pressing machine. Playing a right-handed guitar as a left-handed player can help you focus on the mechanics of the picking hand and develop a more refined technique.

Expert Advice: 'If you practice by yourself for a year or so, you might find a teacher who can help refine your technique. Teachers who are right-handed can still provide effective coaching for left-handed players, as their approach can be more intuitive.

Conclusion

The key is to play in a way that feels most natural to you. If you find that playing a right-handed guitar is more comfortable, give it a try. With practice, you can develop the skills to play a left-handed guitar if you prefer it. The most important thing is to enjoy the process and express yourself through music.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Are left-handed guitars harder to find? A: Yes, they are generally less common and often come with limited selection and a higher price tag. Q: Can I convert a right-handed guitar to left-handed? A: Yes, it is relatively easy for electric guitars, but may require some adjustments for acoustic guitars. Q: Is it better to play a right-handed guitar if possible? A: Right-handed guitars are usually designed for better comfort and accuracy with the dominant hand, making them more suitable for most people's picking hand.

Ultimately, playing the guitar should be enjoyable. Experiment with different guitars and techniques to find what works best for you.