Apps for learning to play guitar on your own

Learning guitar has become much more accessible with cell phones. Today there are apps that listen to you play and tell you if you hit the right note, precise tuners, and websites with millions of song lyrics. You can go from zero to playing your first songs in just a few weeks.

Ideally, you should combine a lesson app to learn the technique with a tuner and a chord app to practice with the songs you like. Check out the options.

Where to begin?

First of all, tune your guitar: an out-of-tune instrument makes any chord sound wrong and is discouraging. Then, learn the basic chords (such as C, D, E, G, and A) and how to switch between them. Only then should you move on to songs.

The most recommended apps

GuitarTuna

Free and highly accurate tuner: simply play the string near the microphone and follow the on-screen instructions. It also teaches chords.

• Precise and free tuner
• Chord Library
• Games to train your ear.

Cifra Club

The largest collection of chord charts in Brazil, with video lessons and the option to change the key of the music. Essential for practicing.

• Thousands of Portuguese lyrics
• Tone change and automatic scrolling
• Video lessons

Yousician

It works like an interactive teacher: the app listens to you play and instantly shows you if you got the rhythm and note right.

• Real-time correction
• Lessons from basic to advanced
• Free daily lessons, paid plan for everything.

Simply Guitar

It teaches step-by-step using well-known songs, ideal for those who have never picked up a guitar.

• Made for beginners
• Learn from popular songs.
• Trial period and paid plan

Ultimate Guitar

Large international collection of chord charts and tablatures, with music from all over the world.

• International tablatures
• Practice tools
• Paid extra features

How long does it take to learn?

With 15 to 20 minutes of practice a day, most people can play simple songs in one or two months. Your fingers will hurt at first, that's normal: calluses form in the first few weeks and the discomfort goes away.

The first chords to practice

A good starting point is the sequence G, D, E minor, and C. With these four chords, you can play hundreds of popular songs. First, practice each chord separately until the notes sound clear, and only then switch between them, very slowly.

Use a metronome, which many apps already include, to keep the rhythm. Start slow and gradually increase the speed. Playing slowly and correctly is always better than playing fast and incorrectly.

Acoustic guitar or electric guitar to start with?

Both are good for beginners, and the apps work with both. The acoustic guitar is cheaper, doesn't need an amplifier, and is more common in Brazil. The electric guitar has thinner strings, which hurt your fingers less at the beginning. Choose based on the style of music you want to play.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it possible to learn guitar using only an app?

You can learn a lot, especially the basics. A teacher helps correct posture and speeds up learning, but it's not mandatory.

What is the best free tuner?

GuitarTuna is one of the most widely used and accurate free software options.

Do I need to know how to read sheet music?

No. The chord charts show the chords above the lyrics, which is much easier for beginners.

Tune your guitar, learn the basic chords, and practice a little every day. With the right apps, your first song will come sooner than you think.