I often come across guitar players in my role as a guitar teacher in Aberdeen who are very set on playing certain genres only. Whether that be pop, acoustic, rock, heavy metal, blues, country or funk (and many more). We like what we like and we tend to navigate towards artists and songs that resonate with us – either because of the lyrics or the feel of the music (sometimes both).

I’ve found through my experience as a guitar teacher that to become a great player it’s important to dabble in all genres. It can take a long time to become proficient at one genre, let alone many. However, if you put the time into understanding (at least) some, if not all of what makes that genre unique then you can become limited in how you play and what you play.
Understanding that genres of music all stem from one another is a great place to start. Blues came from gospel, rock from blues and heavy metal from rock. All genres are connected in some way within reason and each genre offers the player a new way of thinking and working.
You will always prefer certain genres over others and you will always want to play along to songs that you enjoy the feel of more but I encourage all of my students when they have guitar lessons with me to think outside the box. Try and push yourself to listen to genres that you wouldn’t normally listen to. You will gain insight and be a better guitar player for it.
Develop your skills in all genres and you will ultimately become a more unique and competent guitar player. In your guitar lessons with your guitar teacher be sure to ask for music that is different from what you normally play – you won’t regret it in the long run.
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