Changing Guitar Strings - Guitar Lessons with Fresh Music Aberdeen

Changing guitar strings can be a bit of a thought if you have never done it before.  It can be tricky as it requires a steady hand, some tools and a bit of patience.  Tuning the guitar after stringing can also be a challenge if you're new to it.

A few blogs back I wrote about how to change strings easily so if you want a tutorial on how to do it feel free to scroll back through the archives to find that article. 

Today's blog is less about how to change your strings and more about when.  I teach my students within their guitar lessons with Fresh Music Aberdeen on knowing the signs of string wear before they break.

Every player is different thus making string changing unique to each player.  Some may get away with changing their strings every 6 months, others may require a string change after 3 months and others who play frequently and whose fingers sweat a lot when playing may require a string change every month.

Obvious signs of string wear include the strings feeling dirty/rough to the touch.  This is often a sign that the strings are now corroded and need changed.  You may get away with simply cleaning the strings but this will only last for so long.  Another sign is a lack of tone in the instrument.  If you feel the strings are getting duller in sound or that they even start to sound out of tune - it's time to get your wire snips out! Another example is string fraying.  You will begin to notice fraying most commonly around the body of the guitar (where you strum or pick).  String fraying is a clear sign of wear and shouldn't be ignored.  Finally, discolouration in the strings is often a sign of dirt/wear.  Again you can try to clean them but if the discolouration doesn't go after cleaning then it's time for a new set of strings.

Most modern day strings are built to last and not rust but no set of strings are invincible. Ensuring your guitar strings remain dry and clean will give you longevity and a regular check of your strings will ensure they don't break before they're due to be changed.

For reference strings can break at any time and that's OK - we just want to take measures to prevent that from happening unnecessarily where possible.

Look after your string and you'll be rockin' out with confidence.  At Fresh Music Aberdeen students get their strings changed for FREE as a part of their guitar lessons.  Find out more by checking out Fresh Music Aberdeen online!