#1 Online Course


#1 DVD Course

#2 Online Course

Guitar Playing Positions

There are two sitting guitar playing positions for the guitar; classical and casual. Both positions are basically the same principle.

  • Pick up the guitar and make sure that the guitar body is supported by your leg
  • Position yourself at the edge of your chair so that you are not leaning against the back of it. A stool is preferred to a regular chair.
  • Make sure that your back is slightly relaxed but still straight.
  • Lean the guitar backwards toward you slightly in order to create a more comfortable guitar playing position
  • If playing in the classical playing position then the guitar should be positioned with the neck tilted upward almost parallel to your shoulder

Standing Position

Standing might be a little easier than sitting while you learn how to play guitar. First, start by picking up the guitar of course since it is impossible to play without holding it. Next, adjust the guitar strap so that it is positioned around the middle of your body. Use your left hand in order to provide support for the neck of the guitar.

You will be needing a strap that is attached securely to both of the pins on the guitar. If there are no pins on the guitar you can either have them installed at a music store or you can simply tie the strap on if you need to. You are probably going to need to adjust the strap to get the guitar to feel as comfortable as possible. Resist the temptation of trying to play the guitar when it is positioned almost at your feet like some of the rock stars do. Right now we are just trying to get in a comfortable playing position where it is easy to learn and practice. Once you get the guitar properly positioned of course you are going to want to check yourself out in a mirror.

Since you have gotten everything adjusted, you can now begin practicing and begin to learn how to play guitar. So your jamming along and all of a sudden, your strap comes undone. My friends, you must ensure that the strap you are using fits the pins of your guitar or that it is tied on and secured properly. You do not want to use anything other than a strap that is particularly designed for guitars. Guitars do get damaged when gravity brings them to the floor. Make sure the strap is secured properly. That’s pretty much all you need to know about standing guitar positions. Just make sure that you rest your right hand over the bridge of the guitar and you are all set to start playing.

In summary:

  • Pick up the guitar and place the strap over your shoulder. Then, adjust the strap so that the guitar is positioned mid-body.
  • Use your left hand to support the neck of the guitar.
  • Rest your right hand over the bridge of the guitar.