If you are starting the classical guitar, the fastest way to build good habits is to learn the foundations correctly from day one. In this tutorial filmed at Siccas Guitars, the acclaimed guitarist Alexandra Whittingham teaches the essentials of how to play. The full lesson is below; this guide summarises what it covers so you can follow along and revisit each step.
Sitting and holding the guitar
Everything begins with posture. The classical guitar is traditionally played seated, with the instrument supported on the raised left leg (using a footstool or a support cushion) so the neck angles upward and both hands are free. Sit tall and relaxed; the guitar should be stable without you gripping it. Good posture prevents tension and makes every later step easier.
The right hand: where the tone lives
The right hand plucks the strings, and it is where your sound is made. The thumb (p) plays the bass strings; the index, middle and ring fingers (i, m, a) play the trebles. Aim for a relaxed hand with the fingers approaching the strings so that flesh and nail meet together for a warm, clear tone. (For the detail, see our guides to the right-hand position and nails.)
The left hand: clean notes with ease
The left hand presses the strings against the frets. Place the fingertips just behind the fret, press only as hard as needed for a clean note, and keep the thumb relaxed behind the neck. The goal from the very start is efficiency and relaxation, not force. Our guide to left-hand technique goes deeper.
First sounds and first pieces
Begin with single open strings to get a feel for tone, then simple scales and a first easy piece. Approachable starting repertoire includes Pachelbel's Canon in D and Satie's Gymnopédie No. 1. Learning to read standard notation early will open the whole repertoire to you.
The full series
The lesson above is the complete tutorial; Whittingham also released it as a three-part series covering posture, the hands and first playing in turn. Work through it slowly, a little each day, and prioritise relaxed, even playing over speed.
What you need to start
A well-set-up, properly sized classical guitar with nylon strings makes learning far easier. If you are still choosing one, read our guide to the best classical guitar for beginners.
FAQ
How should a beginner hold a classical guitar?
Seated, with the guitar on the raised left leg (footstool or support), sitting tall and relaxed so both hands are free and the neck angles up.
What should I learn first on classical guitar?
Posture and relaxed right- and left-hand technique, then open strings, simple scales and an easy first piece like Canon in D.
Do I need to read music?
For the classical repertoire, yes — learning standard notation early opens the whole repertoire. Tab can help alongside it.
