what to buy a guitar player

3 min read 25-12-2024

Finding the perfect gift for a guitar player can feel overwhelming. Do you get them picks? A new strap? Or something more substantial? This guide breaks down gift ideas for guitarists of all levels, from beginners to seasoned pros. We'll cover everything from practical accessories to luxurious upgrades, ensuring you find the ideal present, no matter your budget.

For the Beginner Guitarist

Beginner guitarists often need the fundamentals. Focusing on practical gifts helps them build their skills and enjoyment.

Essential Accessories:

Tuner: A clip-on tuner is a must-have. It makes tuning quick and easy, crucial for beginners learning chords. Look for a tuner with both visual and audible feedback.
Guitar Strap: A comfortable strap is essential for playing standing up. Choose a durable strap with adjustable length.
Picks: A variety pack of picks in different thicknesses is a great starting point. They’ll discover their preferred pick thickness over time.
Guitar Case or Gig Bag: Protecting their instrument is key. A gig bag offers basic protection, while a hard case provides more robust security.
Method Books/Online Courses: Learning resources are invaluable. Consider a beginner method book or subscription to an online guitar learning platform like Fender Play or JustinGuitar.

Beyond the Basics:

Capo: A capo allows them to play chords in different keys without changing finger positions.
Metronome: Developing a good sense of rhythm is crucial. A digital metronome offers versatility and accuracy.
Guitar Stand: A sturdy stand keeps their guitar safe and readily accessible.

Gifts for the Intermediate Guitarist

Intermediate players are often looking to refine their technique and explore new sounds. Here are some thoughtful gifts:

Upgrading Their Gear:

Higher-Quality Picks: As they progress, they might appreciate picks made from higher-quality materials like Tortex or Ultem.
Effects Pedal: An overdrive, distortion, or delay pedal can add versatility to their sound. Start with a single, versatile pedal.
New Strings: A fresh set of strings significantly impacts tone and playability. Consider offering a selection of different string gauges.
Straplocks: These prevent the strap from accidentally detaching during a performance—a valuable safety feature.

Expanding Their Horizons:

Guitar Tuner App (with features): Many apps offer more than just tuning; they can help with metronomes, chord libraries, and more.
Lighter Gauge Strings: This can be a good way to improve playability for those with smaller hands or those who struggle with heavier gauges.
Books on specific techniques: Focus on a technique they're looking to improve, such as fingerstyle or lead guitar.

Gifts for the Advanced Guitarist

Advanced guitarists often appreciate high-quality, specialized equipment or unique experiences.

Luxury Gifts:

High-End Guitar Strap: A leather strap from a reputable brand adds a touch of elegance and comfort.
Boutique Effects Pedals: These pedals offer unique sounds and build quality. Research pedals from brands like JHS Pedals, Strymon, or Wampler.
High-End Guitar Strings: Strings made from premium materials offer superior tone and longevity.
Guitar Maintenance Kit: This can help to keep their instrument in top condition and shows that you care.
Custom Guitar Pickguard: A custom pickguard adds a personal touch to their instrument.

Experiences:

Tickets to a concert: Seeing their favorite artist live is an unforgettable experience.
Lessons with a renowned instructor: A masterclass can dramatically elevate their skills.
Recording studio time: Allowing them to record their own music is a rewarding experience.

No Matter Their Skill Level:

Guitar Cleaning Kit: A thoughtful gift showing you care about their instrument's upkeep.
A Gift Certificate: This allows them to choose exactly what they need or want.
Subscription to a guitar magazine: A continuous stream of inspiration and information.

Remember to consider the guitarist's playing style, musical preferences, and current gear when selecting a gift. Happy shopping!