everydaylark

First Song checklist

16 steps from choosing an instrument to your first song.

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Getting started

This month.

  • Choose an instrument you'll love playing Guide
  • Decide whether to rent or buy Guide
  • Book a trial lesson or class Guide
  • Get a tuner or tuning app Guide

Practice

Every day.

  • Practice 15 minutes a day for two weeks Guide
  • Play one hard passage slowly and cleanly Guide
  • Use a metronome and note your tempo Guide
  • Record yourself once a month Guide

Reading and theory

A little at a time.

  • Learn the notes on the staff Guide
  • Count rhythms out loud Guide
  • Learn three chords Guide
  • Play a first song with those chords Guide

Playing and care

Keep it going.

  • Find a group or jam Guide
  • Wipe and case your instrument after playing Guide
  • Use earplugs around loud music Guide
  • Take breaks every 20 to 30 minutes Guide