If you have ever dreamed of strumming a song around a braai, joining a local band, or even standing on a stage under a spotlight, the guitar is a wonderful instrument to bring those dreams to life.
Across South Africa, from the vibey, arty streets of Cape Town to Joburg’s lively music venues and Durban’s surf-side cafés, the guitar is part of everyday soundscapes. Knowing how to play a guitar is not only a rewarding personal journey, but it can also connect you with communities, opportunities, and a lifetime of enjoyment. Whether you are exploring music for the first time, or trying to improve your guitar grades, this guide will help you to understand everything from guitar for beginners to where to find the right tutor for your level, right now.
The guitar is the most expressive instrument I know because it’s so intimately connected to the player’s touch.
Steve Vai
Starting Out: Why the Guitar is so Popular
Few instruments are as versatile as the guitar. You can use it to play classical pieces, township jazz, or the latest amapiano-influenced pop songs. It fits easily into most genres, and because it is relatively portable and affordable compared to larger instruments, it is a natural choice for beginners. If you are wondering how to play guitar for the first time, you will be pleased to know that South Africa has plenty of resources, supportive communities, and affordable ways to get started.
Choosing the Right Guitar for Beginners
Some students lean toward the acoustic guitar because it is simple and does not need an amplifier. Others prefer the electric guitar, which can produce a wider variety of sounds. Many parents who look at buying a guitar for beginners also consider nylon-string classical guitars, which are easier on the fingers of children.
Remember this: you do not need to spend a fortune on your first instrument. National retailers such as Paul Bothner Music and Marshall Music have long been trusted in South Africa for offering reliable entry-level instruments. They stock both local and international brands, and their staff are usually musicians themselves who are able to give good advice. These and many other stores also have online shopping options, which makes it easy to browse and compare prices before you buy.
If you are not sure whether you or your child will stick with playing, renting a guitar is another option. If you want to know how to play a guitar before you actually invest in your own, check out community music schools and private shops in larger cities that provide short-term rentals.
How to Play Guitar Your Way
Once you have the instrument in your hands, the next question is how to play a guitar in a way that fits your lifestyle. Some learners prefer structured lessons, while others enjoy a more relaxed approach where they learn songs they love by ear or through online tutorials.
A good way to decide is to think about your goals. If you want to play casually for fun, informal learning might suit you. If you are interested in building a strong foundation, or if you would like to perform, teach, or study music more seriously one day, then a structured path with a qualified guitar tutor is one of the most valuable investments you can make.
Superprof is an excellent platform for finding a guitar tutor to suit you. Here, you’ll find many South African tutors who list their services, qualifications and general vibe on their profile. You can also read their reviews and easily see whether they offer online, in-person lessons or both. This can be helpful if you live outside of big cities where music schools are harder to find. A guitar tutor will not only correct your technique but also guide your progress so that you avoid bad habits, which are harder to unlearn later.
The Role of Guitar Grades
For learners who thrive on structure, taking formal music exams can be a motivating milestone. Guitar grades are a recognised way to measure progress, much like belts in karate. Each grade requires a mix of performance pieces, technical exercises, and music knowledge, gradually building your skills.
In South Africa, there are several respected options for graded exams. RSL Rockschool and RSL Classical both offer modern and classical syllabi, and students can take exams face to face, via live stream, or through a recorded digital submission. This flexibility makes it easier to fit assessments for guitar grades into a busy schedule. Trinity College London also runs music exams here, with local centres and digital entries, and they are well regarded internationally. For those who want a proudly South African option, UNISA’s Directorate Music has a long history of offering music examinations, complete with detailed syllabi and codes for centres across the country.
While not everyone chooses to pursue guitar grades, they can provide direction and motivation, especially for younger learners. Remember that recognised qualifications, can also be useful for those who want to teach or study further.
Balancing Learning with Daily Life
Life can be busy, and many people struggle to balance work, school, family, and personal goals. Learning the guitar does not have to be overwhelming. You can start with ten to fifteen minutes of practice a day, focusing on a few chords or a short exercise. Over time, those small steps add up especially when consistency is the goal rather than marathon practice sessions.
Keep your guitar within easy reach at home, this way, you will be more likely to pick it up for a quick play in between other activities.
If you are a parent supporting a child’s learning, creating a routine helps. Encourage your child to practice before school or homework, rather than leaving it until late at night. If you are an adult learner, keep your guitar within easy reach at home, this way, you will be more likely to pick it up for a quick play in between other activities.
Local Spaces and Communities
Beyond the classroom, music is about community, and many South African cities have spaces where guitarists meet to share music. In Cape Town, for example, local cafés and markets often host open mic nights where beginners and experienced players perform side by side. In Pretoria, for instance, the vibrant university scene has given rise to jam sessions and acoustic evenings that welcome newcomers. Durban has its own flavour, where beachside venues often invite young guitarists to showcase original songs.
These opportunities are valuable because they provide real-world practice. Remember though, that playing in front of others, even a small group of friends, also builds confidence. You will also meet fellow musicians, which often leads to collaboration and lasting friendships.
Writing and Performing Your Own Music
South Africa has a rich tradition of guitar-driven songwriting, from the fingerstyle genius of Vusi Mahlasela to the rock influence of bands like Springbok Nude Girls. If you or your child begin to write original work, it is important to know that SAMRO, the Southern African Music Rights Organisation, administers performing rights and pays royalties for public use of your music. This is a vital step for anyone moving from hobbyist to professional musician.
The Lifelong Journey of How to Play a Guitar
Learning how to play guitar is not just about reaching a destination. It is a journey that unfolds over years, sometimes decades. There will be moments of frustration when your fingers refuse to cooperate, and there will be moments of triumph when you finally master a song you love.
Working with a guitar tutor can help you stay motivated through the ups and downs especially because they will often mix technique with encouragement, reminding you why you started. Guitar grades can also provide a sense of accomplishment, as each level completed gives you confidence to take on more challenging material. Even if you never step onto a formal stage, the act of playing for friends, family, or yourself can be deeply fulfilling.
Bringing It All Together
If you are wondering how to play a guitar in South Africa today, you are in a fortunate position. Firstly, instruments are more accessible than ever, with retailers like Paul Bothner Music and Marshall Music making it easy to find something within your budget. Next, digital platforms allow you to easily connect with a guitar tutor in your area or online, while organisations such as RSL, Trinity, and UNISA ensure that you have access to respected examination paths if you choose them. Also, communities across the country continue to welcome new voices, giving you plenty of opportunities to share your music.
The important thing is to start. Whether you are picking up guitar for beginners in Soweto, taking formal lessons in Stellenbosch, or strumming your first chords in a small town in the Karoo, the journey is yours to shape. Through patience, practice, and the right support, you can move from those first tentative notes, to playing with confidence on any stage that calls to you.
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