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"Dummy" or "Idiot"?

A couple of months ago, I mentioned that I got a guitar. 

Now, I am not that busy of a person.  Yes, I work full-time, some side stuff (this blog, mentoring, continuing academic obligations), etc. etc... but I really could be spending more time with María (said guitar's name).

At least she didn't cost what this Spanish guitar did...

As seen at Guitar Center, Hollywood, CA
 So far, I've actually learned a few songs -- a lot of chord progressions, which basically means that you strum chords rather than play the individual notes of the melody.  I've also dappled into the true Spanish guitar form, but this is not really why I got a guitar.  I want to play Green Day, Adele, and even acoustic versions of Red Hot Chili Peppers, haha.  YouTube has been one of my primary teachers, along with books:



A while back, I received a copy of The Complete Idiot's Guide to Guitar to compare against the Guitar for Dummies that I already had at home.  I took to the challenge and worked through both books with about the same thoroughness (as in, I pick up what I desire without drudging through too many things I don't care for or find "too hard"...I'm bad).

I am not sure if I can say which is a clear-cut winner.  Each has its advantages -- I feel like the Dummies book as more thorough and methodic, whereas the Idiots book was cleaner (in print and layout) and more inviting overall. 

After I play my guitar more, I wonder what the next "Dummy vs. Idiot" comparison I should make... I know they both make running books, but after six years of running, I'm not really sure either would be very helpful to me.....

What has been your experience with any of these types of "how-to" books?
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Comments

  1. Abby @ Have Dental Floss, Wil TravelDecember 21, 2011 at 4:53 AM

    Brent and I each came to this relationship with guitars that we'd purchased but never learned to play. They sit on display in our living room, gathering dust and still unplayable :)

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  2. CalvinDecember 21, 2011 at 1:05 PM

    I am definitely a "Dummies" guy. They tend to break things down to the simplest level possible and break it down some more. Plus I appreciate the amount of laughter that they go out of their way to make sure you have while learning whatever concept you are trying to learn. So I'd probably lean towards that. Now I wanna get a guitar!

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