Guitar vs Piano

29 May

When it comes to guitar vs piano, most people aren’t sure which to choose. Is it easier to learn piano or guitar? Is piano or guitar better for the brain? And when it comes to getting an overall understanding of music, should I learn guitar or piano first? If you aren’t sure which one to choose, take a look at what’s good about each instrument:

Guitar overview

With just six strings, the guitar is the simpler of these two instruments. The guitar has a high range, similar to that of the human voice - they are melodic instruments. However, guitars also have a mellow sound that works equally well in the forefront as in the background of the music.

Pros

The guitar is a typical gateway instrument - the first instrument you learn. After all, the guitar is a great way to learn the basics. Most students pick up chord formations and strumming patterns so quickly that they're playing a full song in just a few weeks! Learn about electric guitar lessons here.
In addition, it's a reasonably portable instrument - just load it into your carrier and go. And for acoustic guitars with no electricity needed, you can take your guitar along wherever you go.

Cons

That said, the guitar is undoubtedly more complicated than the piano. With just six strings and at least 20 frets, all those chords will take some getting used to for your fingers.
As well as this, though you can start playing impressive, professional songs on the guitar in no time, it'll be a while before you fully understand the theory behind the music.

Piano overview

An instrument most people have had some contact with, the piano is a large instrument that is simple to play. Many of us will have had one in our homes or at school growing up and will have tinkered or messed around with it from an early age.

The piano is an excellent accompaniment to learning the basics of music theory. As you learn to read music and understand chords, you can press those keys as you learn about them.

Pros

Is guitar harder than piano? An instrument with simple chords, the piano is physically and mentally easy to learn. It’s a helpful instrument, too - the piano keyboard shows up in other instruments, like the synthesiser. Once you can play the piano, you can play any timbre.

Cons

But, pianos are much more expensive. Sure, keyboards, toy pianos or piano apps might not set you back too much, but a real piano can be quite pricey.
The learning curve is also steeper. Though you may be able to play “Mary Had a Little Lamb” in no time, it’ll be a while before you’ve mastered both left and right-hand playing on top of all those chords.
A piano also definitely isn’t portable. While you can get roll-up toy pianos, apps, or even a keytar, the batteries may die just as you set up to jam!

Similarities and differences between guitar and piano

The piano and guitar are conversely different instruments. The guitar has strings and a sound box, while the piano also has strings, but these are connected to hammers and keys. The piano and guitar also have plenty of similarities, however.

Similarities

Yes, both the guitar and the piano are great instruments for someone just starting in music. Both the guitar and the piano actually have strings, and both instruments cover a range of at least four octaves. You also play chords with both instruments. This is especially common in jazz music, which you can learn more about here.

Differences

Pianos have white and black keys that simply stick to the same pattern. A piano’s keys are grouped into octaves comprising seven white and five black notes. The sound is made by striking the keys, which makes hammers strike the strings inside the piano’s case.

A guitar, however, is entirely different. Guitars have just six strings, with a section on the neck called a fret accompanying each string, and a soundbox. The strings are strummed or plucked rather than struck as in the piano. So, in answer to “Is it easier to play guitar or piano,” they are both easy, but just in different ways.

Learning Curve (Pace of Improvement)

So, which instrument is easier to pick up? Which instrument is faster to learn? Is guitar harder than piano?

For beginners

Both the guitar and the piano have their benefits for beginners. It’s easier to understand how the piano works, for example. But the piano will teach you more about theory and notes to start with, while you’ll jump straight into chords with the guitar.

Easy to practise

Guitar vs piano difficulty, the piano is easy to play now and then. Regular practice of scales and chords on the piano will help you master music theory and understand notes. The guitar, however, is more enjoyable to practise. After learning just the basics, you’ll be able to play some good music. Plus, you have to practise the guitar every day to condition your fingertips, so it’s handy that it’s enjoyable!

From the basics to mastery

Here at Bryan Guitar, we can guide you from the basics of guitar to mastering it. From basic chords right up to full songs, whether jazz, pop, or rock, you’ll go from plucking to strumming in no time at all!

Why Guitar is Better

Covers more styles

Who is your favourite artist? Do you like to listen to a little bit of everyone? If so, you’ll probably prefer to learn the guitar. The guitar can cover more genres and styles than a piano, with a four-and-a-half octave range and a cool timbre.

More sounds

Guitar vs piano, the piano is generally suitable for playing in the background. For example, the piano can form part of an orchestra or a band. The piano keyboard is used in other instruments, too. But unless you use a keytar, a piano can’t take the spotlight in the way a guitar does. However, the guitar can create a more fantastic range of sounds making the guitar suitable for rock, jazz, and all genres.

Read about the different types of guitar and what they are best suited for.

Popularity

Is there any genre that doesn’t feature the guitar? You hear the guitar in so many scenarios, it’s impossible to imagine most music without it.

Final verdict

Ultimately, the choice of which instrument to learn is yours. Sure, the piano may be easier to grasp, but guitars can do more. Equally, while guitars are simpler to start learning, the piano plays that reliable, supportive role in bands and orchestras. In addition, it has a timeless sound that you won’t get with anything else.

Learn more about the benefits of playing guitar, which may help you make a more informed decision.

Personal preference

Would you like to learn a classical, grand instrument? Or would you prefer to learn a more versatile instrument that can do more?

Lead by musical genre

Perhaps you already like a particular genre of music. Maybe you want to join an orchestra or band. Choose the instrument that matches your plans.

Find a teacher

When you’re sure about which instrument you want to learn, look for a teacher who specialises in that genre or instrument. If you're going to teach yourself, you can find free resources online. But if you want to pick up the basics a little faster, look into the pros and cons of learning guitar by yourself vs having a private tutor. Our unique guitar teaching methods will have you up and running with the guitar in no time.