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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.

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.

Praise on the fact that Mary actually addressed why we need to go to guitar stores in person

I'm not scared of guitar stores. In fact, I love them. The employees though, that's a different story.

I would go visit my guitar store more if 1. Mary spender was there. 2. If i had enough money

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."

Don't be afraid of guitar stores. Just play Stairway to Heaven and the guitar store will be afraid of *you*

I'm left handed. When I go a guitar store, they have one Squier and one Epiphone and that's it pal.

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 :-)

I instantly forget everything I know about guitar as soon as I walk in to a store.

In guitar stores, I'm certainly a 'merry spender.'

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

The most intimidating thing is the price tag....

As long as you aren't that person that's WAY too loud or trying to show off, you'll fit right in.

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.

You shouldnt worry with your chops. That acoustic jam on the Martin was amazing.

I agree, nothing says tool, like a store employee shredding in front of a ten year old newbie.

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.

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.

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 ;-)

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’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

The guitar you're looking for is in a pawn shop. Especially a Nashville pawn shop.

I love your playing on the Clapton signature Martin starting at 5:55, Mary. Beautiful work there.

That Martin sounds so good on you! So much vintage-y character.

Guitar Center isn’t scary or intimidating, it’s down right unfriendly.

Going to a guitar store is so daunting when you’re so anxious and introverted

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?”

great vid! you have a lovely touch on the guitar!

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.

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!

until i can nail cliffs of dover im not entering a guitar store !

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!

love your playing , fantastic sound . thanks :)

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.

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.

Love your guitar store videos!

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'm just shy to go and play in a guitar store coz I'm not that good.

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 loved your little acoustic number there on the Clapton Martin, nice job.

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.

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!

You're so well spoken. You have a soothing voice.

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!

that 'Would someone answer the darn phone' look @6:48 :)

"find a quiet time to shop" So all the time right now

Thank you so much for this video. Your tips will really help me!

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!

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.

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.

Your playing is great Mary! Made me want to go get mine and play too!

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!

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.

06:16 -Can someone pick up the phone?! -Not now.. I'm trying to listen to Mary I love your style ;)

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!

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!

10:58 Megadeth| \m/ (killing is my business guitar)

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 KZfaq 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.

Excellent video. The strat sounded great and then you played the Martin...wow! Thanks!

It always lifts my spirits when I watch one of Mary's vids.

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.

What is the song in 5 50? It is really beautiful.

Nice playing!!! Boy that Martin sounds so natural.

Really helpful video, thank you very much!

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.

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.

Brilliant video. Such practical and useful information. Thank you Mary, your videos are wonderful

That acoustic jam was amazing, Mary.

All you have to do is alternate between sweep picking and sweet child OH MAAAhhhhhhhhne

I am not afraid of guitar stores but am scared of propeller blades and goats named ‘Paul’

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.

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.

Thought it was titled "Scared of Ghost Stories?" Mildly disappointed.

More like a form of torture for me - being left-handed.

Love you, I subbed!

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.

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. ;)

Its best just to buy guitars from Sweetwater.

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 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.

Wait... No stairway ban? Lol

Thanks Mary! I love what you were doing with that Martin!!

Really love this Tuesday Talks. Like the advice to sales associates/managers too.

OMFG SOMEONE PICK UP THAT GODDAMN PHONE!!

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

Great Job Mary Great tips..

gorgeous fingerstyle playing, the way you played and captured the EC signature is a really effective demo.

You go girl, some women get their cleavage out playing guitar for views and sound awful, you play great and keep it classy just like it should be

Can you pleas just say Tuesday talks......like normally. ;-)

Great thoughts Mary! I've had up and down experiences but some great ones are where they read me well and set me up in a small room to demo a guitar. Felt much better there and the wide open shred zone. My favorite tip you made was have a song/riff/library of what you want to play (and have it practiced). Then you can sit and let your muscle memory do the work and experience the instrument.

Great clip. and even better playing .

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.

Good advice, especially the bit about guitar shop staff showing off!

The Collings sounds crazy amazing when you play it. Thank you very much for sharing this content with us, it made me smile. A lot of love from France

You were rocking out on the Clapton model! Fantastic playing as always Mary!!!