What kind of things are good things to start off with a guitar? What things shall I learn? How long would it take me to learn the basic open chords so I dont mute the strings?
Does anybody know any good ways of how to learn the fret board and strings? because when I see a tab and it says 5, 10, 8 I always have to stop and count where they are!
Cheers!
If you haven't already, I'd suggest checking out the Beginners lessons here at GN. Check out David Hodge's lessons, maybe starting with A Horse with No Name.
Following that check out some of the other lessons such as Nick's Fretboard 101 Part 1 lesson.
For a full list of the Beginners articles see here.
Beyond this, there are many ways to learn the fretboard and strings. Different methods suit different people. One such method is a free downloadable too called Fretboard Warrior.
Good luck.
From little things big things grow - Paul Kelly
Bennett covered it pretty good.
One thing to add is try learning some simple chord progressions that start to bring in a new chords one or two at a time and a couple of simple strumming patterns. To give you an idea of what I mean take a look at the strumming patterns on my web site.
As far as "how long" thats up to you and how much time you are willing to put in on a daily basis. There is no real formula for "when". Just practice and you will be surprised how quickly it will come to you.
Good luck and enjoy
