this is a great thread!!!!

hi Lynne,

i don't read music or read Tab at this point. still, i can accompany myself just fine on the guitar. many others can do the same. i play in the keys of C, A, G, E and D. i can play in the different keys and figure out which key better suits my voice for the song i'm singing. it's *not* hard to do :) some people choose to play in two or so keys and let their capo do the rest...which is fine too. if someone really wants to achieve their musical goals, they will find a way. their are others in our communities who can at least give us a free lesson and/or tips to guide us in the right direction. songbooks with the chords above the music also make it possible to make music easily without knowing how to read music (especially when you already know the song). if the key is too low or too high for your voice, use a capo or change the key (without using a capo) to another key that better suits your voice.

i hope this all makes sense. my point is, it is not hard to make music if you are willing to put in the work. i've never had a guitar lesson (couldn't afford them, but, i didn't let that stop me). by using Mudcat's forum of "guitar Q & A", chord books, practicing my chord changes daily, playing along to my folk albums, etc., led me to my goal of learning to play the guitar. after i learn the guitar really well, i'll teach myself the autoharp! i'm looking forward to it! i'm now teaching myself music theory (i found a guitar book in a used bookstore that explains theory in a simple way. it's called "How To Play Guitar" by Roger Evans. the information and help is out there when we seek it. please don't be shy about asking for help. there were times when i wanted to give up, but, the desire to learn guitar to accompany my singing, burned deep within me.

believe in yourself, work smart, keep at it even when you feel like giving up, and one day you will surprise yourself in a good way!

peace and love,
Scott