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you probably dont care at all but does anybody know of a way to log back into an instagram account?? I stupidly lost my login password. I love any tips you can give me.
@Javier Kyson I really appreciate your reply. I got to the site thru google and Im in the hacking process now. Takes a while so I will reply here later when my account password hopefully is recovered.
At age 49, I decided after having open-heart surgery that I was going to learn to play guitar before I died. I randomly picked a guitar store that was a Mom and Pop store about 30 minutes from the house. I got to know the salesman that worked on Saturdays. He would let me hang around for 2-3 hours and try any guitar I wanted. Never pushed me into any sales but answered every question. In the course of a summer I bought 3 guitars from that store because of him. The store is now closed and he has moved on to another job, but we are still friends.
First off, that's a badass Viking way of picking up an instrument! Glad you're OK, too! I started playing at 40, and I'm now getting reasonably OK enough to maybe buy a nicer guitar. I walk into stores and - as with you - they let me play for as long as I want, I pick up guitars with $20,000 price tags, and nobody hassles me. It occurred to me that this is the essence of not only white privilege but middle aged white male privilege. Change my age, my gender, my skin color, and I think the experience would instantly become less pleasant. All this to say that it's excellent you're giving these tips, Mary! Very empowering!
I like the guitar stores where they set you up and say "have at it, I'll be behind the counter if you have any questions". I don't need someone hovering over me the whole time!
Shortly after turning 14, I was shopping for my first electric guitar, having played a few years on acoustic. There was a row of little music shops, a couple of which were essentially pawn shops and at the end of the block was the big one - Steve's Music Store, an institution here in Montreal. I entered the first store and immediately I was confronted by someone I believe was the owner. He said, "Hey, kid, you got any money?" I replied, "Well, not today... I'm just starting my shopping." His response, "Come back when you've got money!" The next store or two weren't any more welcoming. Disheartened, I entered Steve's and marveled at everything I saw. Going past the pedal counter, I entered the electric guitar section. The salesmen let me browse for a bit. Finally, one approached me and asked if there anything I'd like to try. I ended up trying a copy of a Telecaster, which was about all I could afford, something the sales rep surely knew. I expected he would treat me as barely worth his attention. Instead, he asked if I'd like to compare it to the real thing, and promptly took one off the hook and handed it to me. He treated me as a musician, not just as some kid. Some days later I came back and bought that Tele copy. Because of the respect I was shown then and since, I've shopped at that store for over forty years. Not exclusively, of course, but for the majority of my new purchases, certainly.
@@mattbenz99 - The stores are all closed now, and Steve's has moved to Ste-Catherine street. I cannot for the life of me remember what the name of that store was, though it will probably come back to me eventually. If you're looking to buy a new guitar, I'm sure you know Italmelodie has closed, but there are still a couple of stores I'd shop at. One is the aforementioned Steve's Music, now on Ste-Catherine East and also in Dollard-des-Ormeaux. There's also Archambault... talk to J-F there... he'll set you up. Finally, there's Long & McQuade - I shop at the Laval store. There are others but those are the ones I go to for guitars.
@@MarcCoteMusic I actually bought my current guitar at the Steve's in the West Island. I found the staff there very helpful. I just like to reward stores that treat their customers right.
I was treated horribly when I was 24 at a pretty famous vintage guitar store in America. Five years later, I have three 1960's Fenders all of which have been purchased elsewhere. I've never understood stores treating people like garbage when they can be future customers.
@@Cadillac500 - My thoughts exactly. And congrats on the vintage Fenders... I'd say someday I'll have one but I know I'll never have the money.... doesn't stop me from appreciating them from afar though.
Absolutely right. She says, you might order a guitar because you saw it on a RUclips channel, and I see in the comments of a lot of videos people deciding a certain model is a piece of garbage, but never play it first. You will often completely change your mind if you go to a store and have it in your hands, and hear it in a real room. Plus you can try the ones you can’t afford for a bit, driving yourself crazy with GAS, which is so fun lol!
@Julius Narte In Alaska you cannot experience these guitars because Guitar Center just carries rubbish and if you don't live near Anchorage you don't have a choice there are no guitar stores. I would not order from Musicians Friend or Guitar Center but I would (and have) order from Norms, Sweetwater, Wildwood...The PRS I bought from Sweetwater is the best guitar out of the box and period of all the guitars I own and I had to go off pictures and a couple of phone calls. Some guitar companies (PRS, ESP, MusicMan, Ibanes) have very high out the manufacturing door standards. Also Sweetwater, for instance, will just take the guitar back no questions asked, no restock fee. Its my experience that you can buy online successfully. I have a killer PRS and two Kiesels that prove it.
The Melnibonean Truth. GC and MF are the same company, essentially; and are the Walmart of gear stores. The only way I'd buy used from GC is getting a chance to sit down and put an axe through it's paces. Otherwise you run the risk of paying top dollar for a "project piece".
So true. All my life, I've run into "sales associates" who were soooo snobby. It's not till they hear you play and you somehow impress them do they finally treat you like a person. Shouldn't be that way.
Bad guitar store experience: I walk in and ask to play a $200 guitar hanging on the wall. Salesman says, "Are you planning to buy it?" Me: "Not anymore."
Although not very tactful, you have to appreciate the amount of tyre kickers these staff have to deal with everyday. It's even worse in other industries, where manufacturing differences are lower than guitars. People come in, take time, aka cost the store money, then don't buy or worse but online. I am of course not suggesting you are one of those, and again, the staff could have been more tactful. But these are just people too, who have to deal with bullshit every single day.
Must be nice having literally everything available right there all the time to sell. That's how we used to gripe about guitar center, and now that's how guitar center gripes about amazon.
I was at my in-laws', stopped by a local musical instruments store. When I walked in, I saw a Gypsy couple with a toddler in there. I mean, it was really pictorial, their attire, the man's three-piece suit, all-golden teeth, etc. The guy was browsing the guitars (most of them on a lower-cost side), then he picked up one and he SHRED. Then he noticed my astounded stare, turned to me and asked politely, if I too played guitar . I responded I had realized just a second ago, that I did not :-)
If you visit a guitar store always buy something: picks, strings, etc. It is the small items that give them the highest percentage profit. Most guitar stores would go bust if they only sold guitars and amps.
The stores do make the most off the small stuff, but they need to earn that business. I have no problem going back to the same store that gave me a good deal on a guitar and buying strings, but when they treat you like crap, they get none of mu business. Guitar stores are vanishing for obvious reasons, I can order a guitar online, have it ar my door in a few days, get 45 days to check it out and return if if i don't like it. Local stores won't let you bring back a guitar the next day, so why bother with them?
@@Cycloneshockey94 Many stores do allow you to bring back a guitar the next day. Most importantly you get to feel the guitar before you buy. My last guitar was a MIM Strat. Felt good and sounded OK. But after a couple of weeks I decided that the ceramic pickups lack clarity. So I got the shop to swop the pickups for Fender customs and wire the mid tone control to the bridge pickup for a small fee in order to take off some of the highs. I have now got a great guitar. Try doing that through the Internet.
@@Cycloneshockey94 Yes you can get that guitar online, but do you know how to set-up your own guitar? Do you know how to tune the guitar? Can you check the neck for straightness? and many other things that an actual guitar store can do and make sure that the instrument is ready to play for you. Many people out there are buying their first guitar and do not have this knowledge and others never learned those skills. Most importantly it is a community to go to the Guitar store. I have met a lot of great and interesting people at the guitar store. I try to find the local guitar stores when I travel. Guitar center is to corporate to get a great experience although the two that I frequent often are great staff is very friendly and management lets the customer check out the guitars and other instruments. There is no Place on the East Coast better than the Great House Of Guitars. I would call them the east coast version of Norm's Rare Guitars.
Never feel like that. Remember most people there are too busy with their own agendas to stop and stare at some stranger jamming. Usually there's too many people playing at once anyway. One thing you can do though is check for a practice room or booth (usually sound proof) with a few amps and guitars hanging up. A lot of the time they aren't occupied.
I've played since 1997. I go to guitar stores a few times a year (I don't get out much in general). I've never felt comfortable in a guitar store. I go and try out whatever I want to try out, pretend I know less than I do when employees talk to me, buy what I need and leave.
Mary, your point about shop assistants not playing the instrument is spot on. I went to a local music shop to try out a guitar and the assistant shredded away on the guitar and when I asked if I could play it he asked if I was seriously interested in buying it or if I just wanted to try it? I showed him the cash and said, I was going to buy it if it played the way I hoped it would and proceeded to walk out the shop never to return. I now drive from Bournemouth to Guildford to a lovely, friendly music shop to buy all my gear ;-)
Or in my case a 62 year old newbie who was on his first visit after deciding to learn how to play...Tool first had to let me know he was bothered that I dared to interfere with his txt by emitting a loud sigh...Never going back to that place again...
It has happened to me many times throughout my 20s and even a couple times my early 30s. It’s is insanely frustrating and embarrassing, as I am a just a hobbyist with a passion for guitars. No way do I feel comfortable strumming some basic first position cowboy chords after some 19 year old kid has just shredded up and down the neck right in my face.
I’ve played on and off for 14 years. Most of the breaks I have taken have been due to being just intimidated, guitar stores being some of the worst places for that for me. Finally nearing my 40’s I realize I have nothing to prove to anyone but myself. Having said that, I went into a small used music shop the other week and the pervasive attitude of the employees there was, this welcoming “we are all musicians and we are all in this together.” They took some of my gear in on trade and were thankful, even when I said it was all beginner gear. The employee said something like “you have great taste for a ‘beginner’ and we have some new guitar players who will be really grateful to be able to buy this for themselves”. They were upfront about the price they offer and the price they sell the gear at, and made sure I had considered private sale first. Considering used gear is the core of their business, it blew me away. I’ve never had a guitar shop where I feel like they are allies in this music journey. Really grateful for this channel and community. It’s been truly encouraging and motivating
Me: still practices guitar with some mediocre skills, yet I still practice everyday for years. Guitar Center: a guy just shredding on a electric guitar. Me: just walks out with anxiety.
I went on a slow day once and one of the workers there was determined to follow me around and try and play everything I played better then I do. Lol. Love those guitar center kid employees.
i live on the other side of the planet so that's a bucket list activity; tour all the second hand guitar and pawn shops in nashville with a bank-roll in my pocket. never happen but a man can dream.
I think the important thing to remember about big chains is that even though they all have the same name on the front, they are each individually staffed by different employees and different managers with wildly varying personalities. Sometimes you find one that is much more chill and welcoming, and sometimes not. I would give any guitar store, chain or local, a visit; if it sucks, I don't go back.
Dude, I go into Guitar Centers all the time, and head straight to the acoustics, grab the nicest one. Then I sit and play until the guy starts asking questions. I’m a pretty good player, so sometimes I can entertain someone for awhile, but they always ask if I’m about to buy a new guitar. 😂 Then I say, “maybe, I’ll need a little more time with it.” And I play at least two others after that. Most guys are cool, if you’re careful with the instrument, and show you’ve held an expensive guitar before. Up in Asheville,NC Guitar Center, they let people play as long as they need, and only come up if you ask a question, or need a cable, pick, or other gear.
HI ! I've been playing for a little over 55 years . One bit of advice . If you're trying out ANY electrified guitar , be polite ,but don't let a salesperson immediately plug you into amplification . First see if the instrument feels " right " in your hands . There will probably be more than one type of guitar . Try them ALL !
Best experience was with World Guitars in Stonehouse. I went to visit not long after it opened and the owner Jeff Pumfret, who is sadly no longer with us, welcomed me in, made me a brew and we chatted about guitars. I didn’t buy anything but when I went back for another visit 6 months later he remembered me as the guy with the Parker Fly. The kettle went on again! To this day I will always remember that and when I have the money, that is where I will go to buy my next “special” guitar.
I use to get super anxious about going to guitar shops, and when I did I would rarely play anything because I was really self-conscious about my skill (or lack thereof). Also I had experiences with my local shops back in the day where the people working there would get really annoyed or straight up refuse me trying anything if I said I was just wanting to check something out and wasn't looking to buy right there and then. Due to life I actually moved away from playing for about 10 years, and with that I didn't go to any stores. REALLY got back in to playing last year, and the other weekend actually visited some stores for the first time in so many years. I got really nervous and, again, self-conscious. But this time I found things a lot different and was able to settle in and get comfortable really quickly. The guys I dealt with at the one store were really friendly and helpful. And I ended up buying my first new guitar in something like 13 years!
For real, guitar shops are very intimidating! It takes such a leap of confidence to pull something off the wall or plug something in...cuz you know everyone in there can hear you, and you're sure they cant help but be judging your skill (or lack thereof!)
Luckily my GC (and a couple of small local shops) have super friendly, helpful, and chill employees who check on you then leave you alone. I am a renewed player in my 40s after many years off so I was very self-conscious when reentering the guitar world. I practiced a handful of enjoyable riffs to use as my tryout repertoire I hardly ever plug in electrics since I am more concerned with the feel and playability. It also allows me to cut loose a bit more comfortably than if I plugged in. The biggest thing for me is that I have taken a stand that my music is MY music. If I change up the notes/chords of a song to make it a little easier to play, even though it isn't "correct" according to the snobs, so what. I enjoy making the same melody and don't give a rip. I would tell all beginners to take ownership of your music and don't be intimidated.
My most enjoyable guitar store story: I used to work across the street from a store, came in on my lunch to look around. While I was there, someone came up to me and said "I'd like to try that one." I was like "uhh...go for it..." He thought I worked there.
Thanks for these tips, Mary. As a beginner at 63yrs of age (!!) I've been in this space as recently as last weekend. Something I found helpful was to say up front 'I'm a beginner, I need some help, please.' I sense it changed the dynamic between me and the sales person. I also made a point of asking if I could take the guitars down from the wall mounts - just a courtesy. And I spent a long time comparing different models. Finally bought a Maton Acoustic/Electric, made in Melbourne (Australia) about 3kms from where I live from local timber. Wonderful!
I once walked into Dawsons in Liverpool, UK, and as soon as me and my friends walked in the sales guy came straight over to us and said 'look guys if you're not planning on buying anything then please don't bother'. So I had him tune a cheap and crappy 12 string, I think he had to change some strings too. Revenge was sweet.
Thank you Mary, this was very informative. I love your content Mary. Thank you for making awesome videos. I thought I was the only one who was anxious to walk in. My first time I straight up had a minor anxiety attack before I walked in our local very very VERY tiny guitar store that was founded in 1985 in Hilversum (The Netherlands). I had to sit down at a nearby bistro and take a minute to breathe and compose myself... I was SO anxious.... It turned out to be a life changing warm experience. The store owner (Chris) is such a passionate and lovely man, he totally "got" why I came in and mumbled (the overly pre-rehearsed) the sentence: "Hello... I-would-like-to-learn-to-play-the-guitar-*breathe in*." and Chris took over the conversation; "That is fantastic! Guitar is such a great instrument to learn and a great emotional outlet (bingo)..." He gave me a cup of coffee and took me on a trip down memory lane with stories from the time he played in a band and stories about the past of the store.... Like the time when the manager of Bad Religion found his way to the store because one of their guitars was broken and they were recording at Wisseloord Studios nearby... and Chris didn't know who the man was but after fixing their guitar for free (because Chris found that fair.... ) he was surprised to have the entire band in the tiny tiny store the next day because the manager was so grateful and wanted to introduce them to him. He also gave me a piece of golden advice after telling me a story about a recording he did with is band back in the day. The recording was done by quite a famous man (forgive me, I can't remember who it was) but he loved his rock and roll life style and you could hear it in his cracking dark smokey voice...Apparently their guitar player was SO nervous to mess up that the the man in the recording booth opened up the mic and said slowly in his cracking smokey voice: "Relax man..... Nobody is gonna shoot you for a wrong note...." And that were the words he repeated to me when I walked out the store with my new guitar on my back. He said: "Remember.... nobody is gonna shoot you for a wrong note. Enjoy your journey and please always feel welcome at the store." MAGICAL Experience.
You know what? Literally every guitar player started like that. Everyone wasn't "that good" at some point. I get your point though. It can be quite intimidating seeing all these people ripping it off and shredding like a living god but you know what? You're gonna get there some day, if you want to. YOU buy a guitar, YOU have to be comfortable with how YOU play it. Not the salesperson, not anyone else in the shop. Take that bit of egoism and make this all about you. Sure, people are judging you, you're in a public space. But their judgements say more about them then they do about you :)
Ive been playing guitar for 10 years and lead guitar at my church for the past 6 months, i forget most of the licks i know as soon as im through the door of my mom and pop shoppe music store😂
Excellent advice: bring tuner, plan what you want to play ahead of time....one thing that always tells me a lot is if i can start writing a song immediately on a new guitar, i know it's compatible.
The place I go in Seattle to buy guitars or gear (The Guitar Store) is really great. On the way in, they notice you and say hi, but there's no pressure or immediate sales pitch Q&A. Short of a few of the expensive Fender Custom shops or similar guitars, you can wander and play anything without assistance and if they pass by, they'll casually ask if you're doing ok and leave you to play if you don't have any questions or need help. Their way of saying "I'm here for you, but not hovering or bothering you." like some of the corporate/box stores do. When it's time to ask questions or get help, they're all experienced pros who play and gig, so they know real world experience and solutions, instead of sales scripts or opinions and generalizations. That makes it super comfortable. No shill - I just like what they do, and they make it easy to come browse for stuff or play pedals, amps, and guitars. An acoustic shop, Dusty Strings is much the same way in relaxed style. That's important to remember to not spook the customers or bother them. Sales happen when I'm not annoyed with staff or style.
One time, the store owner asking me to help one of their customers decide on a guitar. Apparently they'd been stuck on two of them for quite some time. It was kind of flattering. Haha!
Mary your comment about salespeople not playing guitar is spot on. Guitar teachers should listen to this as well. My first teacher would spend half my lesson playing to me. I was 13, quit lessons and got my friends to teach me.
Great advice, especially about salespeople trying to one-up you. :) My recent experience/lesson as a re-beginner: 1. Don't go after Christmas/New Year, and not on weekends. Too crowded, I absolutely agree. You can't hear much because of all the kids and shredders. 2. Take your time, it needs a while to find your way. And always take the guitar away from the shredders to a quieter spot. Especially in bigger stores. 3. Be brand-open and open to learn about guitars. No matter how much you look online, holding it, feeling it on your lap and hearing its sound is irreplaceable. I had set my mind on a Yamaha by online reviews and ended up with Ibanez in the store. 4. I also ended up with Ibanez because I chatted with an experienced customer that was an actual musician. I listened to him playing, liked it and politely asked him about his opinion. It was a great and helpful learning experience. Of course I would have left him alone if he hadn't wanted to, but he was happy to help and talk about guitars. It was especially great because he wasn't set on any brand but on quality markers. 5. Just stroke the strings and hear that first sound, especially as a beginner.If you don't like the basic sound of the unfiltered strings, get another one. 6. Budget, esp. as a beginner. Know your limits, you just want to be happy about that guitar.
What if you're a 37 year old that only knows a few basic chords who's just picking up the guitar and doesn't want all the eyes and more so ears on you due to inexperience ? kinda like the skinny guy at the gym (henceforth why I don't go to the gym lol)
I just found this video and enjoyed it very much. I am just retired and returning to playing guitar after 40 years. Way back in the late 1960s I taught lessons in the local shop. We didn't sell much because we didn't have any rights with the big names. But I never was allowed to sell anyway. Recently I went to a locally owned shop to buy a Fender Jazz Bass (and a Rumble 40). The Fender rep was there and I talked to him a bit but they didn't have the exact model in stock so they ordered it for me. It came in, I picked it up, it's awesome. But not having purchased a NEW guitar in ages I didn't know it came without any kind of case. So I went back to order a hard shell case for it. The only salesman in the Fender area didn't have time for me. I didn't see him talking to anyone so I waited for 20 minutes and finally he gave me his card and said, call me next week. I drove 15 minutes down the road and bought the dang case. And I eventually bought a Les Paul for myself, I spent two years looking for the right one and acoustics for my wife and granddaughter from them. I send my friends to the same salesman. The first shop is local and the second is a chain. I'd rather buy local but when it comes down to it, I will spend my money with the guy who respects me and provides service.
Hi,Mary thanks for taking the time to talk about buying a guitar from a music store, You are totally right being self conscious is a downer when playing with the store assistant standing there and wishing he would clear off!!.Great advice for newbees just starting their guitar playing journey.
Always take a pick with you. Sometimes its hard to track down an associate to give you one. Also, just be respectful of their store/instruments. I would suggest always asking an employee "Do you mind if I take a guitar down to play it?". After he/she gives you the ok, feel free to test several guitars out (always put the previous one back before testing another one). Lastly, someone suggested taking a friend/relative with you. My brother and I both play guitar, but I would never take him with me if I plan to buy something. We have different ideas of what it means to test out a pedal/guitar. He tries to rush me too much. And no... I do not play for hours. I do, however, want to know/experience what I am buying before I buy it. Lastly, NEVER pay the price listed on the tag (for any item). They will ALWAYS come down on the price (at least a little bit). For example, I was near a mother and a daughter trying to buy an instrument. It was barely out of their budget. I (respectfully) drew nearer and asked the associate if he would be willing to reduce the price by 10%. He responded with, "Ya...I could probably do that.". After the associate walked to the counter, the woman/daughter thanked me and said that they didn't know you could negotiate the price. Lastly, I agree with Mary. You should go to a store to play an instrument you intend to buy. Have courage and just be yourself.
Funny thing is, I never play an actual song when testing guitars. I'll do scales, runs, and just make up riffs on the spot like I'm writing a song. Don't know how you do it but you get more beautiful with every video. Hugs and love to you! 💖
Guitar Centers are very poor guitar stores. Most of them are stocked with low end models and have very few if any medium to high end guitars. The only GC stores that sell high-end gear are the very largest stores in NYC, LA, etc. Most GC stores are a big disappointment.
I'm trying to argue here, but that's not been my experience. Perhaps different regions are operated differently? I prefer American made guitars and have no problem finding plenty to choose from at the GC stores here in Ohio.
Great video Mary! And excellent advice, but sometimes venturing out to other music stores can be inspiring too: I took a day off the other day, drove out of my city and went to Sound Effects Premier, Ormskirk for a special trip. They were unbelievably nice! They got me setup with a guitar I was interested in and a big clean amp, because I wanted to try some pedals. I’ve only been playing a year now so I know some chords etc. but they were really chatty and friendly. I still remember the sales assistant’s names and because they were accepting and encouraging I will go back there. I can’t stress enough how good customer service makes loyal customers. Plus I will travel out of my way to a good guitar shop!
yeah I'm a decent player but I absolute hate going to guitar stores and playing some riffs. All those judging ears. If they don't have a sound chamber, I won't buy guitars or amps there.
Elon Mush how will you ever play in front of anyone?!? No one is going to a guitar store to judge people. Everyone is a beginner at some point and guitar store employees know this.
1. Great show, great content, and great advice for those of us dealing with the GC experience (which, trust me, isn't all bad at all). 2. RIP Jenny Pagliaro. We and your family at Norm's will miss you terribly.
I'm 26 and used to have an acoustic bass a long time ago, I can only play one song and that was Boom by the band p o d. I've always wanted to pick up a base again but I've been too broke. I hope one day to at least walk into a guitar store and pick up a cheap bass and play it, even though I only know one song it's still fun to play. I'll never be a davie504, I'm a drummer country music drummer in fact. I've done music for my church Etc. But I just love the base and I so want to pick it up because it's a fun instrument. I'm just really nervous. Thankfully no matter where I go on RUclips the guitar Community has been absolutely fantastic. It's because of its our community that I wanted to pick up a base again and start playing, I really truly appreciate that and I thank everyone for showing me that it's a wonderful time, even if I may never be good I will still be good enough for me oh, that's all that matters. God bless everyone and have a fantastic day.
Fat Samurai Productions the real key with bass is to learn where notes are on the fret board, once you've got that just understanding rhythm is the rest, you really just need to concentrate on hitting notes along with the kick drum.
@@mikes062 which is why most people in the guitarist community says for drummers to play bass. Lol out of the year I had my bass I never did leave the top bass string.
Unless you''re really trying to see how a particular guitar sounds with a very particular amp, bring a pair of (preferably closed) headphones or even IEMs (w/ a 1/4" adapter if they're 3.5mm"). Most of the Amps on the floor and just about any effects board on demo will have a phones jack to plug into. Then, no one can hear you play!
I have a six year old, he does have his own guitar, so that makes things a bit easier as he knows that he needs to behave and look after the guitars when he is at the store, or we go home. I was looking for a new electric guitar last month and the staff at both of my local stores (Old Town School and Chicago Music Exchange) were really good with him, even giving him picks and stickers for his guitar case. It does help to have someone with you to keep an eye on them, while you are trying out guitars, as they love to touch everything.
Great video! I've been playing acoustic guitar for years now but recently have been interested in getting an electric and I definitely want to make an informed decision and know that talking to someone at a guitar store is my best bet but I'm really shy about things like that and am incredibly aware of how little I know about guitars, even after doing some basic research but this video has helped me greatly in my attitude about it!
Tbf, store staff are usually trained to prioritise customers in store. A person in store is more likely to make a purchase, than jonny down tge road calling to see if you have his favourite obscure $1.00 pick, if you will set one aside for him and what time you close on the third Tuesday of next month.
I walked into a guitar store and asked the assistant if I could have a look a guitar that was hung up? Are you going to buy it she replied? I walked out.
I needed this video so much...after years I still get so nervous and anxious going into guitar stores, especially smaller ones. So much that I end up not going in even though I really want to!
Spot on Mary with the point about show-off sales assistants making the customer feel intimidated. Years ago when, as an acoustic player, I wanted to get my first electric I wanted to at least get something which felt 'right' in my hands. Most guitar shops I went in saw me being handed a guitar by a salesperson who first played their best impressive licks on it. Invariably I froze as an electric with very light strings on it feels so very different to an acoustic and I knew absoutely NO fast licks. Eventually, I bought from the shop which was prepared to just leave me alone to try out what they had in my price range and find somehing which felt right for me. Keep up the good work. You come across as having massive empathy for others on the musician journey.
09:13 THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR THIS! I've walked away from numerous opportunities for a sale because the salesman needed us to "understand how good it'll really sound once you're good" YOU DO NOT SAY THAT TO SOMEONE YOU WANT MONEY FROM. Absolutely destroyed my wife's confidence. ...didn't help that he would only talk to me, when the guitar was for my wife, but w/e.
Ugh, that's such a douchey thing to do. I asked a musician friend of mine if she wanted to go guitar browsing with me, and she said, "Nah, I hate guitar stores." And it took me a second to figure it out, because... I play, but she PLAYS. But when she goes into a store, it used to be "Oh, yeah, the pink Squiers are over there," and now it's "Are you buying a gift for your nephew?" It's such sexist bullshit. I hope you had some "Pretty Woman" moment buying a PRS from the other sales person.
I never really thought about fear of visiting a guitar store, but you raised a very real point and hit on topics that I do experience. This was very cool!
I used to feel intimidated when I went into a guitar store because my guitar chops were not great. Finally I realized I don’t care what the other people in the store think about my playing or the store employee thinks. I’m not there to impress them. I’m there to try out different guitars and see if I like them enough to consider buying it. If I connect with it I’ll probably buy it. With that said the way I’m treated while I’m there will determine if I will be a repeat customer.
Uh excuse me boss...... I need Wednesday off so I can visit the guitar store without all the donks bothering me while I try and find a new guitar. 😂 not sure that would go over all that well with my boss.
Love the channel Mary, thank you for this. You did a good job of explaining what I refer as "Guitar Center Syndrome" with my friends. Its the feeling you get when you pick up a new guitar, love how it feels... but are nervous about being seen as "too loud" or maybe "not good enough so why are you handling THAT guitar?" I have had both positive and negative experiences from guitar stores over the years. I have found that going with someone, musician or not, can help deal with the anxiety of trying out new instruments in public.
Love this video. All great tips, especially the one about salespeople getting in a little shred before handing you the guitar. It really is obnoxious. I've been playing, writing, performing, recording for about 30 years and walking into a guitar store still gives me some of the same anxieties. I still get freeze up, blank, not knowing what to play. The struggle is real. Thanks Mary!
Love the video. Recently I was able to go into a quiet room at Guitar Center and play a Taylor 714ce, 814ce, and 914ce. I compared them over-and-over for about 40 minutes. I determined the 814ce, and 914ce sounded much better. Ultimately, I purchased the 814ce. You would never get that experience online. Thanks again Mary!
I just started to learn to play the guitar a month ago. I recently went to the local shop with my wife, just for funzies. Maybe I'm just a dork but I felt super cool to take one off the wall and play the couple riffs and the chords I have learned so far, in front of her. ;)
Great advice for the budding guitarist. I’d like to give a shout out to PMT Cambridge UK who definately have nailed making customers feel comfortable in the store. Went in looking for a twin humbucker guitar. The assistant asked sensible questions from which we narrowed it down to 4 possibles in the price range. Then set me up in the isolation room and just handed me the various guitars to try and let me do my thing. In the end bought an Ibanez AR325 + hard case - great experience and love the guitar. Well done PMT!
You're advice about getting to know the people at your local guitar store is right on target. When you care enough to talk with them about guitars, music, experiences etc. and remember their names, you become more than just a customer. Real friendships develop and friends will go the extra mile to help you find what you need for your rig, or whatever. At the Texas Music Emporium, which I've been frequenting for three years, they'll even ask how Hannah and Vinnie are doing... our two English Spring Spaniels. :)
i really enjoy when i can get over and go into a guitar store. i always try to look for little music stores. even if i dont pick up and play an instrument while i am there just to walk around and listen and check everything out. its always fun. My daughter enjoys visiting them with me also..
"I went back the next day and it was sold." Yep, that reminds me of the time I was at a garage sale and the lady came out with a guitar and wanted to know if anyone knew how to tune a guitar. It was a Gretsch New Yorker and they wanted $25. Like a fool I drove off but five minutes later I turned around and went back. Of course it was gone.
I worked in a guitar shop for a couple of years, I had a fantastic manager who insisted we made sure the instrument was in good playable condition before handing it over to the person inquiring about it and wanting to play it and also to keep a close eye on the guitar being played in case it is damaged (scratched, scuffed) by the customer. having seen guitars missing parts, scratched, dinged and stolen I would never have any anger towards shop staff keeping close watch. if its not your property you don't get to make the rules.
I heartedly agree with all you say! I never used to like guitar shops, but I think it important that you do try out a prospective purchase before you part with the cash. Things like are the pups balanced (giving an even output) etc.
Me: has been paid to play music, experienced musician with almost two decades experience Also me: please gods don't let anyone hear anything I'm playing here
when you're playing for the crowd you can't spot the musicians, there might not even be any in the room. in a music store you are generally surrounded by your peers and you are very aware of that fact.
Mary, your playing on the acoustic is really getting very good. I loved the songs you were playing in the video. Your Martin is obviously having a big influence on you. Great job!
My Guitar Center here in Des Moines is the best one I've been to and I've been in around 50 of them across the country. We are blessed to have at least three or four great stores in a town of our size. I find that they folks at my GC are always willing to talk gear with me and help anyone no matter their experience.
Being your self an don't worry about others around you ..focus what you want to hear while playing the bass/ guitar ..you have a great voice an know what your saying makes sense...look relax confidence..thats priceless
Fantastic video, Mary, thank you! Great tips, all. It's funny what the guitar store experience can be like for many people. It's taken me a little while to gain the confidence to sit down with a guitar I'd like to try, plug it in, and play away, all whilst still feeling comfortable so I'm able to enjoy it. Your videos have helped. Way to go, Mary!
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I always play “Far Beyond the Sun” on the Squier Mini.
you probably dont care at all but does anybody know of a way to log back into an instagram account??
I stupidly lost my login password. I love any tips you can give me.
@Kyng Roman Instablaster =)
@Javier Kyson I really appreciate your reply. I got to the site thru google and Im in the hacking process now.
Takes a while so I will reply here later when my account password hopefully is recovered.
@Javier Kyson it worked and I actually got access to my account again. Im so happy:D
Thanks so much, you really help me out :D
At age 49, I decided after having open-heart surgery that I was going to learn to play guitar before I died. I randomly picked a guitar store that was a Mom and Pop store about 30 minutes from the house. I got to know the salesman that worked on Saturdays. He would let me hang around for 2-3 hours and try any guitar I wanted. Never pushed me into any sales but answered every question. In the course of a summer I bought 3 guitars from that store because of him.
The store is now closed and he has moved on to another job, but we are still friends.
that's deep - I hope you are feeling lots healthier these days after the surgery dude
First off, that's a badass Viking way of picking up an instrument! Glad you're OK, too! I started playing at 40, and I'm now getting reasonably OK enough to maybe buy a nicer guitar. I walk into stores and - as with you - they let me play for as long as I want, I pick up guitars with $20,000 price tags, and nobody hassles me. It occurred to me that this is the essence of not only white privilege but middle aged white male privilege. Change my age, my gender, my skin color, and I think the experience would instantly become less pleasant.
All this to say that it's excellent you're giving these tips, Mary! Very empowering!
@@StefanGBucher
My arse.
@@outsidethepyramid What about your arse. Is it OK? Now I'm worried. Stay safe!
@@StefanGBucher The arse can be a very sensitive spot lol
I like the guitar stores where they set you up and say "have at it, I'll be behind the counter if you have any questions". I don't need someone hovering over me the whole time!
Shortly after turning 14, I was shopping for my first electric guitar, having played a few years on acoustic. There was a row of little music shops, a couple of which were essentially pawn shops and at the end of the block was the big one - Steve's Music Store, an institution here in Montreal.
I entered the first store and immediately I was confronted by someone I believe was the owner. He said, "Hey, kid, you got any money?" I replied, "Well, not today... I'm just starting my shopping." His response, "Come back when you've got money!"
The next store or two weren't any more welcoming. Disheartened, I entered Steve's and marveled at everything I saw. Going past the pedal counter, I entered the electric guitar section. The salesmen let me browse for a bit. Finally, one approached me and asked if there anything I'd like to try. I ended up trying a copy of a Telecaster, which was about all I could afford, something the sales rep surely knew. I expected he would treat me as barely worth his attention. Instead, he asked if I'd like to compare it to the real thing, and promptly took one off the hook and handed it to me. He treated me as a musician, not just as some kid.
Some days later I came back and bought that Tele copy. Because of the respect I was shown then and since, I've shopped at that store for over forty years. Not exclusively, of course, but for the majority of my new purchases, certainly.
I'm from Montreal. What store is this? I want to visit it when I want to start looking for my next guitar.
@@mattbenz99 - The stores are all closed now, and Steve's has moved to Ste-Catherine street. I cannot for the life of me remember what the name of that store was, though it will probably come back to me eventually.
If you're looking to buy a new guitar, I'm sure you know Italmelodie has closed, but there are still a couple of stores I'd shop at. One is the aforementioned Steve's Music, now on Ste-Catherine East and also in Dollard-des-Ormeaux. There's also Archambault... talk to J-F there... he'll set you up. Finally, there's Long & McQuade - I shop at the Laval store. There are others but those are the ones I go to for guitars.
@@MarcCoteMusic
I actually bought my current guitar at the Steve's in the West Island. I found the staff there very helpful. I just like to reward stores that treat their customers right.
I was treated horribly when I was 24 at a pretty famous vintage guitar store in America. Five years later, I have three 1960's Fenders all of which have been purchased elsewhere. I've never understood stores treating people like garbage when they can be future customers.
@@Cadillac500 - My thoughts exactly. And congrats on the vintage Fenders... I'd say someday I'll have one but I know I'll never have the money.... doesn't stop me from appreciating them from afar though.
Praise on the fact that Mary actually addressed why we need to go to guitar stores in person
Indeed......... that's so important
Absolutely right. She says, you might order a guitar because you saw it on a RUclips channel, and I see in the comments of a lot of videos people deciding a certain model is a piece of garbage, but never play it first. You will often completely change your mind if you go to a store and have it in your hands, and hear it in a real room. Plus you can try the ones you can’t afford for a bit, driving yourself crazy with GAS, which is so fun lol!
@Julius Narte In Alaska you cannot experience these guitars because Guitar Center just carries rubbish and if you don't live near Anchorage you don't have a choice there are no guitar stores. I would not order from Musicians Friend or Guitar Center but I would (and have) order from Norms, Sweetwater, Wildwood...The PRS I bought from Sweetwater is the best guitar out of the box and period of all the guitars I own and I had to go off pictures and a couple of phone calls. Some guitar companies (PRS, ESP, MusicMan, Ibanes) have very high out the manufacturing door standards. Also Sweetwater, for instance, will just take the guitar back no questions asked, no restock fee. Its my experience that you can buy online successfully. I have a killer PRS and two Kiesels that prove it.
The Melnibonean Truth. GC and MF are the same company, essentially; and are the Walmart of gear stores. The only way I'd buy used from GC is getting a chance to sit down and put an axe through it's paces. Otherwise you run the risk of paying top dollar for a "project piece".
Don't be afraid of guitar stores. Just play Stairway to Heaven and the guitar store will be afraid of *you*
"No Stairway.. Denied" ruclips.net/video/RD1KqbDdmuE/видео.html
🤘🏼
Silverstream Smoke on the Water works well too
I wish this were my home !!!!
Play Smoke on the Water wrong , then screw up Stairway..and finally play eruption as badly as possible with a horrible distortion
I'm not scared of guitar stores. In fact, I love them. The employees though, that's a different story.
So true. All my life, I've run into "sales associates" who were soooo snobby. It's not till they hear you play and you somehow impress them do they finally treat you like a person. Shouldn't be that way.
Most are clueless morons.
Agreed!
also the douchebags hanging out there and judging everyone
The GCs around here (Los Angeles) are getting a lot better. They were really bad that way. Still buy from Full Compass, Sweetwater or Reverb.
I'm left handed. When I go a guitar store, they have one Squier and one Epiphone and that's it pal.
youren8 Hendrix it lol
Yeah yeah more so righthanded far more easy to find the replacement
Man..I know the feeling :(
youren8 my sentiment exactly. This is the reason I never bother going to music stores...
I'm left handed as well and that's the reason I decided to play right handed.
Bad guitar store experience: I walk in and ask to play a $200 guitar hanging on the wall. Salesman says, "Are you planning to buy it?" Me: "Not anymore."
The correct reply is “away with you vile peasant”
Grant Gross wow. Best. Salesman. Ever.
Although not very tactful, you have to appreciate the amount of tyre kickers these staff have to deal with everyday. It's even worse in other industries, where manufacturing differences are lower than guitars. People come in, take time, aka cost the store money, then don't buy or worse but online.
I am of course not suggesting you are one of those, and again, the staff could have been more tactful. But these are just people too, who have to deal with bullshit every single day.
@@scriptosaurusrex That is very true Scripto.
@@notmyrealhandle Fair enough. I was in my 40s at the time. I never went back to that store.
I would go visit my guitar store more if
1. Mary spender was there.
2. If i had enough money
You don't have to buy. Just go try.
Marty? @Fugazi ́Saints
Must be nice having literally everything available right there all the time to sell. That's how we used to gripe about guitar center, and now that's how guitar center gripes about amazon.
Yea, me too
Yeah some of those guitars make jeff bezoz look poor lol
I instantly forget everything I know about guitar as soon as I walk in to a store.
I was at my in-laws', stopped by a local musical instruments store. When I walked in, I saw a Gypsy couple with a toddler in there. I mean, it was really pictorial, their attire, the man's three-piece suit, all-golden teeth, etc.
The guy was browsing the guitars (most of them on a lower-cost side), then he picked up one and he SHRED. Then he noticed my astounded stare, turned to me and asked politely, if I too played guitar . I responded I had realized just a second ago, that I did not :-)
hmmm where do your in-laws' live? There is no Gypsies where I live :(
If you visit a guitar store always buy something: picks, strings, etc. It is the small items that give them the highest percentage profit. Most guitar stores would go bust if they only sold guitars and amps.
The stores do make the most off the small stuff, but they need to earn that business. I have no problem going back to the same store that gave me a good deal on a guitar and buying strings, but when they treat you like crap, they get none of mu business. Guitar stores are vanishing for obvious reasons, I can order a guitar online, have it ar my door in a few days, get 45 days to check it out and return if if i don't like it. Local stores won't let you bring back a guitar the next day, so why bother with them?
@@Cycloneshockey94 Many stores do allow you to bring back a guitar the next day. Most importantly you get to feel the guitar before you buy. My last guitar was a MIM Strat. Felt good and sounded OK. But after a couple of weeks I decided that the ceramic pickups lack clarity. So I got the shop to swop the pickups for Fender customs and wire the mid tone control to the bridge pickup for a small fee in order to take off some of the highs. I have now got a great guitar. Try doing that through the Internet.
@@Cycloneshockey94 Yes you can get that guitar online, but do you know how to set-up your own guitar? Do you know how to tune the guitar? Can you check the neck for straightness? and many other things that an actual guitar store can do and make sure that the instrument is ready to play for you. Many people out there are buying their first guitar and do not have this knowledge and others never learned those skills. Most importantly it is a community to go to the Guitar store. I have met a lot of great and interesting people at the guitar store. I try to find the local guitar stores when I travel. Guitar center is to corporate to get a great experience although the two that I frequent often are great staff is very friendly and management lets the customer check out the guitars and other instruments. There is no Place on the East Coast better than the Great House Of Guitars. I would call them the east coast version of Norm's Rare Guitars.
Oh.
I hate going guitar stores. I'm too scared people are watching and judging my playing not sure why but I've always been the same
Never feel like that. Remember most people there are too busy with their own agendas to stop and stare at some stranger jamming. Usually there's too many people playing at once anyway. One thing you can do though is check for a practice room or booth (usually sound proof) with a few amps and guitars hanging up. A lot of the time they aren't occupied.
@Spanish Moustache I do. It's a free live music performance. And getting to see a good gig is just a waiting game
In guitar stores, I'm certainly a 'merry spender.'
Lol! ....what a good name for a lady too!!
The most intimidating thing is the price tag....
Ohhhh yeah....
You shouldnt worry with your chops. That acoustic jam on the Martin was amazing.
agreed!
I've played since 1997. I go to guitar stores a few times a year (I don't get out much in general). I've never felt comfortable in a guitar store. I go and try out whatever I want to try out, pretend I know less than I do when employees talk to me, buy what I need and leave.
Mary, your point about shop assistants not playing the instrument is spot on. I went to a local music shop to try out a guitar and the assistant shredded away on the guitar and when I asked if I could play it he asked if I was seriously interested in buying it or if I just wanted to try it? I showed him the cash and said, I was going to buy it if it played the way I hoped it would and proceeded to walk out the shop never to return. I now drive from Bournemouth to Guildford to a lovely, friendly music shop to buy all my gear ;-)
Is it Andertons?
@@Sophia-qq2ys The lovely shop is indeed Andertons. I won’t mention the other one.
I think Andertons is a fantastic place to shop
I agree, nothing says tool, like a store employee shredding in front of a ten year old newbie.
Or in my case a 62 year old newbie who was on his first visit after deciding to learn how to play...Tool first had to let me know he was bothered that I dared to interfere with his txt by emitting a loud sigh...Never going back to that place again...
It has happened to me many times throughout my 20s and even a couple times my early 30s. It’s is insanely frustrating and embarrassing, as I am a just a hobbyist with a passion for guitars. No way do I feel comfortable strumming some basic first position cowboy chords after some 19 year old kid has just shredded up and down the neck right in my face.
Or even a 40 year old experienced player who is truly trying to test out an amplifier.
That little song you played on the Eric Clapton Martin was wonderful. I've been super stressed lately and it made me feel a little bit better.
I agree...Cool tune.
It's called "Spire" one of Mary's. the lyrics are nice too. ruclips.net/video/GtmyV8lnF64/видео.html
ruclips.net/video/DDVF1l4dc7k/видео.html
I’ve played on and off for 14 years. Most of the breaks I have taken have been due to being just intimidated, guitar stores being some of the worst places for that for me. Finally nearing my 40’s I realize I have nothing to prove to anyone but myself. Having said that, I went into a small used music shop the other week and the pervasive attitude of the employees there was, this welcoming “we are all musicians and we are all in this together.” They took some of my gear in on trade and were thankful, even when I said it was all beginner gear. The employee said something like “you have great taste for a ‘beginner’ and we have some new guitar players who will be really grateful to be able to buy this for themselves”. They were upfront about the price they offer and the price they sell the gear at, and made sure I had considered private sale first. Considering used gear is the core of their business, it blew me away. I’ve never had a guitar shop where I feel like they are allies in this music journey. Really grateful for this channel and community. It’s been truly encouraging and motivating
Me: still practices guitar with some mediocre skills, yet I still practice everyday for years.
Guitar Center: a guy just shredding on a electric guitar.
Me: just walks out with anxiety.
I went on a slow day once and one of the workers there was determined to follow me around and try and play everything I played better then I do. Lol. Love those guitar center kid employees.
The guitar you're looking for is in a pawn shop.
Especially a Nashville pawn shop.
i live on the other side of the planet so that's a bucket list activity; tour all the second hand guitar and pawn shops in nashville with a bank-roll in my pocket. never happen but a man can dream.
@@figjam9530 Or Vegas pawn shops.
@james crowe plus 10%
I love your playing on the Clapton signature Martin starting at 5:55, Mary. Beautiful work there.
Guitar Center isn’t scary or intimidating, it’s down right unfriendly.
jason schifo yeah never go in a chain Guitar store. The only good experience I ever have is at a local shop
I think the important thing to remember about big chains is that even though they all have the same name on the front, they are each individually staffed by different employees and different managers with wildly varying personalities. Sometimes you find one that is much more chill and welcoming, and sometimes not. I would give any guitar store, chain or local, a visit; if it sucks, I don't go back.
Dude, I go into Guitar Centers all the time, and head straight to the acoustics, grab the nicest one.
Then I sit and play until the guy starts asking questions. I’m a pretty good player, so sometimes I can entertain someone for awhile, but they always ask if I’m about to buy a new guitar. 😂
Then I say, “maybe, I’ll need a little more time with it.” And I play at least two others after that.
Most guys are cool, if you’re careful with the instrument, and show you’ve held an expensive guitar before.
Up in Asheville,NC Guitar Center, they let people play as long as they need, and only come up if you ask a question, or need a cable, pick, or other gear.
Go to Sam Ash right opposite the GC in Hollywood. They are much nicer in there and really cool.
jason schifo Amen. GC is a full tilt sham. They only have themselves to blame for struggling financially.
HI ! I've been playing for a little over 55 years . One bit of advice . If you're trying out ANY electrified guitar , be polite ,but don't let a salesperson immediately plug you into amplification . First see if the instrument feels " right " in your hands . There will probably be more than one type of guitar . Try them ALL !
Going to a guitar store is so daunting when you’re so anxious and introverted
Best experience was with World Guitars in Stonehouse. I went to visit not long after it opened and the owner Jeff Pumfret, who is sadly no longer with us, welcomed me in, made me a brew and we chatted about guitars. I didn’t buy anything but when I went back for another visit 6 months later he remembered me as the guy with the Parker Fly. The kettle went on again! To this day I will always remember that and when I have the money, that is where I will go to buy my next “special” guitar.
I use to get super anxious about going to guitar shops, and when I did I would rarely play anything because I was really self-conscious about my skill (or lack thereof). Also I had experiences with my local shops back in the day where the people working there would get really annoyed or straight up refuse me trying anything if I said I was just wanting to check something out and wasn't looking to buy right there and then.
Due to life I actually moved away from playing for about 10 years, and with that I didn't go to any stores. REALLY got back in to playing last year, and the other weekend actually visited some stores for the first time in so many years. I got really nervous and, again, self-conscious. But this time I found things a lot different and was able to settle in and get comfortable really quickly. The guys I dealt with at the one store were really friendly and helpful. And I ended up buying my first new guitar in something like 13 years!
For real, guitar shops are very intimidating! It takes such a leap of confidence to pull something off the wall or plug something in...cuz you know everyone in there can hear you, and you're sure they cant help but be judging your skill (or lack thereof!)
That Martin sounds so good on you! So much vintage-y character.
Luckily my GC (and a couple of small local shops) have super friendly, helpful, and chill employees who check on you then leave you alone. I am a renewed player in my 40s after many years off so I was very self-conscious when reentering the guitar world. I practiced a handful of enjoyable riffs to use as my tryout repertoire I hardly ever plug in electrics since I am more concerned with the feel and playability. It also allows me to cut loose a bit more comfortably than if I plugged in. The biggest thing for me is that I have taken a stand that my music is MY music. If I change up the notes/chords of a song to make it a little easier to play, even though it isn't "correct" according to the snobs, so what. I enjoy making the same melody and don't give a rip. I would tell all beginners to take ownership of your music and don't be intimidated.
Great Guild. Probably the coolest guitar in the whole store. That ditty you were jamming on the Martin at about 6:30 was very nice.
My most enjoyable guitar store story:
I used to work across the street from a store, came in on my lunch to look around. While I was there, someone came up to me and said "I'd like to try that one."
I was like "uhh...go for it..." He thought I worked there.
Thanks for these tips, Mary. As a beginner at 63yrs of age (!!) I've been in this space as recently as last weekend. Something I found helpful was to say up front 'I'm a beginner, I need some help, please.' I sense it changed the dynamic between me and the sales person. I also made a point of asking if I could take the guitars down from the wall mounts - just a courtesy. And I spent a long time comparing different models. Finally bought a Maton Acoustic/Electric, made in Melbourne (Australia) about 3kms from where I live from local timber. Wonderful!
I once walked into Dawsons in Liverpool, UK, and as soon as me and my friends walked in the sales guy came straight over to us and said 'look guys if you're not planning on buying anything then please don't bother'. So I had him tune a cheap and crappy 12 string, I think he had to change some strings too. Revenge was sweet.
Thank you Mary, this was very informative. I love your content Mary. Thank you for making awesome videos.
I thought I was the only one who was anxious to walk in. My first time I straight up had a minor anxiety attack before I walked in our local very very VERY tiny guitar store that was founded in 1985 in Hilversum (The Netherlands). I had to sit down at a nearby bistro and take a minute to breathe and compose myself... I was SO anxious.... It turned out to be a life changing warm experience.
The store owner (Chris) is such a passionate and lovely man, he totally "got" why I came in and mumbled (the overly pre-rehearsed) the sentence: "Hello... I-would-like-to-learn-to-play-the-guitar-*breathe in*." and Chris took over the conversation; "That is fantastic! Guitar is such a great instrument to learn and a great emotional outlet (bingo)..." He gave me a cup of coffee and took me on a trip down memory lane with stories from the time he played in a band and stories about the past of the store.... Like the time when the manager of Bad Religion found his way to the store because one of their guitars was broken and they were recording at Wisseloord Studios nearby... and Chris didn't know who the man was but after fixing their guitar for free (because Chris found that fair.... ) he was surprised to have the entire band in the tiny tiny store the next day because the manager was so grateful and wanted to introduce them to him.
He also gave me a piece of golden advice after telling me a story about a recording he did with is band back in the day. The recording was done by quite a famous man (forgive me, I can't remember who it was) but he loved his rock and roll life style and you could hear it in his cracking dark smokey voice...Apparently their guitar player was SO nervous to mess up that the the man in the recording booth opened up the mic and said slowly in his cracking smokey voice: "Relax man..... Nobody is gonna shoot you for a wrong note...." And that were the words he repeated to me when I walked out the store with my new guitar on my back. He said: "Remember.... nobody is gonna shoot you for a wrong note. Enjoy your journey and please always feel welcome at the store." MAGICAL Experience.
I'm just shy to go and play in a guitar store coz I'm not that good.
Chuck Norris , not only that but my fingers forget what little they knew 5 minutes ago when a sales person is watching
You know what? Literally every guitar player started like that. Everyone wasn't "that good" at some point.
I get your point though. It can be quite intimidating seeing all these people ripping it off and shredding like a living god but you know what? You're gonna get there some day, if you want to.
YOU buy a guitar, YOU have to be comfortable with how YOU play it. Not the salesperson, not anyone else in the shop. Take that bit of egoism and make this all about you. Sure, people are judging you, you're in a public space. But their judgements say more about them then they do about you :)
Ive been playing guitar for 10 years and lead guitar at my church for the past 6 months, i forget most of the licks i know as soon as im through the door of my mom and pop shoppe music store😂
Excellent advice: bring tuner, plan what you want to play ahead of time....one thing that always tells me a lot is if i can start writing a song immediately on a new guitar, i know it's compatible.
When they ask can I help you I always lead with “I’m in a Shirley Bassey death metal cover band. What have you got for me?”
The place I go in Seattle to buy guitars or gear (The Guitar Store) is really great. On the way in, they notice you and say hi, but there's no pressure or immediate sales pitch Q&A. Short of a few of the expensive Fender Custom shops or similar guitars, you can wander and play anything without assistance and if they pass by, they'll casually ask if you're doing ok and leave you to play if you don't have any questions or need help. Their way of saying "I'm here for you, but not hovering or bothering you." like some of the corporate/box stores do. When it's time to ask questions or get help, they're all experienced pros who play and gig, so they know real world experience and solutions, instead of sales scripts or opinions and generalizations. That makes it super comfortable. No shill - I just like what they do, and they make it easy to come browse for stuff or play pedals, amps, and guitars. An acoustic shop, Dusty Strings is much the same way in relaxed style. That's important to remember to not spook the customers or bother them. Sales happen when I'm not annoyed with staff or style.
One time, the store owner asking me to help one of their customers decide on a guitar. Apparently they'd been stuck on two of them for quite some time. It was kind of flattering. Haha!
Mary your comment about salespeople not playing guitar is spot on. Guitar teachers should listen to this as well. My first teacher would spend half my lesson playing to me. I was 13, quit lessons and got my friends to teach me.
until i can nail cliffs of dover im not entering a guitar store !
Dude, just go into a guitar store and shred Cliffs of dover on a guitar hero guitar...I guarantee you'll have people looking at you.
Great advice, especially about salespeople trying to one-up you. :)
My recent experience/lesson as a re-beginner:
1. Don't go after Christmas/New Year, and not on weekends. Too crowded, I absolutely agree. You can't hear much because of all the kids and shredders.
2. Take your time, it needs a while to find your way. And always take the guitar away from the shredders to a quieter spot. Especially in bigger stores.
3. Be brand-open and open to learn about guitars. No matter how much you look online, holding it, feeling it on your lap and hearing its sound is irreplaceable. I had set my mind on a Yamaha by online reviews and ended up with Ibanez in the store.
4. I also ended up with Ibanez because I chatted with an experienced customer that was an actual musician. I listened to him playing, liked it and politely asked him about his opinion. It was a great and helpful learning experience. Of course I would have left him alone if he hadn't wanted to, but he was happy to help and talk about guitars. It was especially great because he wasn't set on any brand but on quality markers.
5. Just stroke the strings and hear that first sound, especially as a beginner.If you don't like the basic sound of the unfiltered strings, get another one.
6. Budget, esp. as a beginner. Know your limits, you just want to be happy about that guitar.
As long as you aren't that person that's WAY too loud or trying to show off, you'll fit right in.
haha
Never go Full Bert Weedon!
Amazon is quicker
What if you're a 37 year old that only knows a few basic chords who's just picking up the guitar and doesn't want all the eyes and more so ears on you due to inexperience ? kinda like the skinny guy at the gym (henceforth why I don't go to the gym lol)
@@haus05 or the 65+ guy looking for a second guitar having just learned a few basics :). Been there etc. PS> I'm with you on that gymn thing too.
I just found this video and enjoyed it very much. I am just retired and returning to playing guitar after 40 years. Way back in the late 1960s I taught lessons in the local shop. We didn't sell much because we didn't have any rights with the big names. But I never was allowed to sell anyway. Recently I went to a locally owned shop to buy a Fender Jazz Bass (and a Rumble 40). The Fender rep was there and I talked to him a bit but they didn't have the exact model in stock so they ordered it for me. It came in, I picked it up, it's awesome. But not having purchased a NEW guitar in ages I didn't know it came without any kind of case. So I went back to order a hard shell case for it. The only salesman in the Fender area didn't have time for me. I didn't see him talking to anyone so I waited for 20 minutes and finally he gave me his card and said, call me next week. I drove 15 minutes down the road and bought the dang case. And I eventually bought a Les Paul for myself, I spent two years looking for the right one and acoustics for my wife and granddaughter from them. I send my friends to the same salesman. The first shop is local and the second is a chain. I'd rather buy local but when it comes down to it, I will spend my money with the guy who respects me and provides service.
"find a quiet time to shop"
So all the time right now
Hi,Mary thanks for taking the time to talk about buying a guitar from a music store, You are totally right being self conscious is a downer when playing with the store assistant standing there and wishing he would clear off!!.Great advice for newbees just starting their guitar playing journey.
Always take a pick with you. Sometimes its hard to track down an associate to give you one. Also, just be respectful of their store/instruments. I would suggest always asking an employee "Do you mind if I take a guitar down to play it?". After he/she gives you the ok, feel free to test several guitars out (always put the previous one back before testing another one). Lastly, someone suggested taking a friend/relative with you. My brother and I both play guitar, but I would never take him with me if I plan to buy something. We have different ideas of what it means to test out a pedal/guitar. He tries to rush me too much. And no... I do not play for hours. I do, however, want to know/experience what I am buying before I buy it. Lastly, NEVER pay the price listed on the tag (for any item). They will ALWAYS come down on the price (at least a little bit). For example, I was near a mother and a daughter trying to buy an instrument. It was barely out of their budget. I (respectfully) drew nearer and asked the associate if he would be willing to reduce the price by 10%. He responded with, "Ya...I could probably do that.". After the associate walked to the counter, the woman/daughter thanked me and said that they didn't know you could negotiate the price. Lastly, I agree with Mary. You should go to a store to play an instrument you intend to buy. Have courage and just be yourself.
All of this is sound advice. Be respectful basically. Amazing how far it gets you. If it's not reciprocated, spend your money where it is.
@@michaelwaynemartin3291 Also good advice. Rock out or roll on!
ruclips.net/video/LZkEqcbewFY/видео.html
Funny thing is, I never play an actual song when testing guitars. I'll do scales, runs, and just make up riffs on the spot like I'm writing a song.
Don't know how you do it but you get more beautiful with every video. Hugs and love to you! 💖
Guitar Centers are very poor guitar stores. Most of them are stocked with low end models and have very few if any medium to high end guitars. The only GC stores that sell high-end gear are the very largest stores in NYC, LA, etc. Most GC stores are a big disappointment.
I'm trying to argue here, but that's not been my experience. Perhaps different regions are operated differently? I prefer American made guitars and have no problem finding plenty to choose from at the GC stores here in Ohio.
Yep I agree, I live in the Ventura county area and that guitar center is not that good for sure.
Great video Mary! And excellent advice, but sometimes venturing out to other music stores can be inspiring too:
I took a day off the other day, drove out of my city and went to Sound Effects Premier, Ormskirk for a special trip. They were unbelievably nice!
They got me setup with a guitar I was interested in and a big clean amp, because I wanted to try some pedals. I’ve only been playing a year now so I know some chords etc. but they were really chatty and friendly.
I still remember the sales assistant’s names and because they were accepting and encouraging I will go back there. I can’t stress enough how good customer service makes loyal customers. Plus I will travel out of my way to a good guitar shop!
yeah I'm a decent player but I absolute hate going to guitar stores and playing some riffs. All those judging ears. If they don't have a sound chamber, I won't buy guitars or amps there.
Elon Mush how will you ever play in front of anyone?!? No one is going to a guitar store to judge people. Everyone is a beginner at some point and guitar store employees know this.
@@alextownsend6662 Not everyone plays guitar to join a band or make videos. Some people (like me) just enjoy playing guitar, not to impress anyone.
1. Great show, great content, and great advice for those of us dealing with the GC experience (which, trust me, isn't all bad at all).
2. RIP Jenny Pagliaro. We and your family at Norm's will miss you terribly.
I'm 26 and used to have an acoustic bass a long time ago, I can only play one song and that was Boom by the band p o d. I've always wanted to pick up a base again but I've been too broke. I hope one day to at least walk into a guitar store and pick up a cheap bass and play it, even though I only know one song it's still fun to play.
I'll never be a davie504, I'm a drummer country music drummer in fact. I've done music for my church Etc. But I just love the base and I so want to pick it up because it's a fun instrument. I'm just really nervous.
Thankfully no matter where I go on RUclips the guitar Community has been absolutely fantastic. It's because of its our community that I wanted to pick up a base again and start playing, I really truly appreciate that and I thank everyone for showing me that it's a wonderful time, even if I may never be good I will still be good enough for me oh, that's all that matters. God bless everyone and have a fantastic day.
Fat Samurai Productions the real key with bass is to learn where notes are on the fret board, once you've got that just understanding rhythm is the rest, you really just need to concentrate on hitting notes along with the kick drum.
@@mikes062 which is why most people in the guitarist community says for drummers to play bass. Lol out of the year I had my bass I never did leave the top bass string.
Unless you''re really trying to see how a particular guitar sounds with a very particular amp, bring a pair of (preferably closed) headphones or even IEMs (w/ a 1/4" adapter if they're 3.5mm"). Most of the Amps on the floor and just about any effects board on demo will have a phones jack to plug into. Then, no one can hear you play!
Great video!! Ever been to a guitar center with a 5 year old? It is pretty amazing experience. No guitars or equipment were damaged. #DadLife
I have a six year old, he does have his own guitar, so that makes things a bit easier as he knows that he needs to behave and look after the guitars when he is at the store, or we go home. I was looking for a new electric guitar last month and the staff at both of my local stores (Old Town School and Chicago Music Exchange) were really good with him, even giving him picks and stickers for his guitar case. It does help to have someone with you to keep an eye on them, while you are trying out guitars, as they love to touch everything.
Great video! I've been playing acoustic guitar for years now but recently have been interested in getting an electric and I definitely want to make an informed decision and know that talking to someone at a guitar store is my best bet but I'm really shy about things like that and am incredibly aware of how little I know about guitars, even after doing some basic research but this video has helped me greatly in my attitude about it!
that 'Would someone answer the darn phone' look @6:48 :)
Tbf, store staff are usually trained to prioritise customers in store. A person in store is more likely to make a purchase, than jonny down tge road calling to see if you have his favourite obscure $1.00 pick, if you will set one aside for him and what time you close on the third Tuesday of next month.
You're so well spoken. You have a soothing voice.
I walked into a guitar store and asked the assistant if I could have a look a guitar that was hung up? Are you going to buy it she replied? I walked out.
They're all Comic Book Guy from the Simpsons.
I needed this video so much...after years I still get so nervous and anxious going into guitar stores, especially smaller ones. So much that I end up not going in even though I really want to!
What is the song in 5 50? It is really beautiful.
I want to know too, although i'm almost sure that it one of her's
I also wish to know what song that is!
One of Mary's tunes called "Spire". There's a vid of her singing it whilst playing a Martin OOO18 on Andertons TV.
Spot on Mary with the point about show-off sales assistants making the customer feel intimidated. Years ago when, as an acoustic player, I wanted to get my first electric I wanted to at least get something which felt 'right' in my hands. Most guitar shops I went in saw me being handed a guitar by a salesperson who first played their best impressive licks on it. Invariably I froze as an electric with very light strings on it feels so very different to an acoustic and I knew absoutely NO fast licks. Eventually, I bought from the shop which was prepared to just leave me alone to try out what they had in my price range and find somehing which felt right for me. Keep up the good work. You come across as having massive empathy for others on the musician journey.
09:13 THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR THIS! I've walked away from numerous opportunities for a sale because the salesman needed us to "understand how good it'll really sound once you're good" YOU DO NOT SAY THAT TO SOMEONE YOU WANT MONEY FROM. Absolutely destroyed my wife's confidence.
...didn't help that he would only talk to me, when the guitar was for my wife, but w/e.
Ugh, that's such a douchey thing to do. I asked a musician friend of mine if she wanted to go guitar browsing with me, and she said, "Nah, I hate guitar stores." And it took me a second to figure it out, because... I play, but she PLAYS. But when she goes into a store, it used to be "Oh, yeah, the pink Squiers are over there," and now it's "Are you buying a gift for your nephew?" It's such sexist bullshit. I hope you had some "Pretty Woman" moment buying a PRS from the other sales person.
I loved your little acoustic number there on the Clapton Martin, nice job.
All you have to do is alternate between sweep picking and sweet child OH MAAAhhhhhhhhne
I love my tobaccoburst strat!
I never really thought about fear of visiting a guitar store, but you raised a very real point and hit on topics that I do experience. This was very cool!
06:16
-Can someone pick up the phone?!
-Not now.. I'm trying to listen to Mary
I love your style ;)
I used to feel intimidated when I went into a guitar store because my guitar chops were not great. Finally I realized I don’t care what the other people in the store think about my playing or the store employee thinks. I’m not there to impress them. I’m there to try out different guitars and see if I like them enough to consider buying it. If I connect with it I’ll probably buy it. With that said the way I’m treated while I’m there will determine if I will be a repeat customer.
Uh excuse me boss...... I need Wednesday off so I can visit the guitar store without all the donks bothering me while I try and find a new guitar. 😂 not sure that would go over all that well with my boss.
Love the channel Mary, thank you for this.
You did a good job of explaining what I refer as "Guitar Center Syndrome" with my friends. Its the feeling you get when you pick up a new guitar, love how it feels... but are nervous about being seen as "too loud" or maybe "not good enough so why are you handling THAT guitar?" I have had both positive and negative experiences from guitar stores over the years. I have found that going with someone, musician or not, can help deal with the anxiety of trying out new instruments in public.
I am not afraid of guitar stores but am scared of propeller blades and goats named ‘Paul’
Goats named Paul are the worst...
Love this video. All great tips, especially the one about salespeople getting in a little shred before handing you the guitar. It really is obnoxious.
I've been playing, writing, performing, recording for about 30 years and walking into a guitar store still gives me some of the same anxieties. I still get freeze up, blank, not knowing what to play. The struggle is real. Thanks Mary!
As a very self conscious intermediate guitar player that’s refreshing to hear you have the same anxieties.
10:58 Megadeth| \m/ (killing is my business guitar)
I think your video should be mandatory viewing for all music store managers and sales people. I love your style of playing.
More like a form of torture for me - being left-handed.
Haha, just said the same thing!
Love the video. Recently I was able to go into a quiet room at Guitar Center and play a Taylor 714ce, 814ce, and 914ce. I compared them over-and-over for about 40 minutes. I determined the 814ce, and 914ce sounded much better. Ultimately, I purchased the 814ce. You would never get that experience online. Thanks again Mary!
I just started to learn to play the guitar a month ago. I recently went to the local shop with my wife, just for funzies. Maybe I'm just a dork but I felt super cool to take one off the wall and play the couple riffs and the chords I have learned so far, in front of her. ;)
That's cute as fuck Sean!
Great advice for the budding guitarist. I’d like to give a shout out to PMT Cambridge UK who definately have nailed making customers feel comfortable in the store. Went in looking for a twin humbucker guitar. The assistant asked sensible questions from which we narrowed it down to 4 possibles in the price range. Then set me up in the isolation room and just handed me the various guitars to try and let me do my thing. In the end bought an Ibanez AR325 + hard case - great experience and love the guitar. Well done PMT!
Thought it was titled "Scared of Ghost Stories?"
Mildly disappointed.
You're advice about getting to know the people at your local guitar store is right on target. When you care enough to talk with them about guitars, music, experiences etc. and remember their names, you become more than just a customer. Real friendships develop and friends will go the extra mile to help you find what you need for your rig, or whatever. At the Texas Music Emporium, which I've been frequenting for three years, they'll even ask how Hannah and Vinnie are doing... our two English Spring Spaniels. :)
OMFG SOMEONE PICK UP THAT GODDAMN PHONE!!
i really enjoy when i can get over and go into a guitar store. i always try to look for little music stores. even if i dont pick up and play an instrument while i am there just to walk around and listen and check everything out. its always fun. My daughter enjoys visiting them with me also..
"I went back the next day and it was sold." Yep, that reminds me of the time I was at a garage sale and the lady came out with a guitar and wanted to know if anyone knew how to tune a guitar. It was a Gretsch New Yorker and they wanted $25. Like a fool I drove off but five minutes later I turned around and went back. Of course it was gone.
I worked in a guitar shop for a couple of years, I had a fantastic manager who insisted we made sure the instrument was in good playable condition before handing it over to the person inquiring about it and wanting to play it and also to keep a close eye on the guitar being played in case it is damaged (scratched, scuffed) by the customer. having seen guitars missing parts, scratched, dinged and stolen I would never have any anger towards shop staff keeping close watch. if its not your property you don't get to make the rules.
Wait... No stairway ban? Lol
I heartedly agree with all you say! I never used to like guitar shops, but I think it important that you do try out a prospective purchase before you part with the cash. Things like are the pups balanced (giving an even output) etc.
Me: has been paid to play music, experienced musician with almost two decades experience
Also me: please gods don't let anyone hear anything I'm playing here
when you're playing for the crowd you can't spot the musicians, there might not even be any in the room. in a music store you are generally surrounded by your peers and you are very aware of that fact.
Well this is true. Playing live I can just take my glasses off and be too blind to see anyone to be afraid OF.
5:58 What song is she playing on the Clapton Martin? I want to learn it! haha
Can you pleas just say Tuesday talks......like normally. ;-)
Mary, your playing on the acoustic is really getting very good. I loved the songs you were playing in the video. Your Martin is obviously having a big influence on you. Great job!
Your playing is great Mary! Made me want to go get mine and play too!
My Guitar Center here in Des Moines is the best one I've been to and I've been in around 50 of them across the country. We are blessed to have at least three or four great stores in a town of our size. I find that they folks at my GC are always willing to talk gear with me and help anyone no matter their experience.
Being your self an don't worry about others around you ..focus what you want to hear while playing the bass/ guitar ..you have a great voice an know what your saying makes sense...look relax confidence..thats priceless
Acoustic guitar is the stuff... that's where the magic is Mary!
Fantastic video, Mary, thank you! Great tips, all. It's funny what the guitar store experience can be like for many people. It's taken me a little while to gain the confidence to sit down with a guitar I'd like to try, plug it in, and play away, all whilst still feeling comfortable so I'm able to enjoy it. Your videos have helped. Way to go, Mary!
Nice playing!!! Boy that Martin sounds so natural.