My name is Damian from the Pittsburgh PA area. I first picked up an acoustic guitar I was gifted with by a friend in fall of '09. The first song I learned to play was Use Somebody by The Kings of Leon. About 6 months later, there was a particular day where I heard Sultans of Swing by Dire Straights on the radio…from that, I just HAD to get an electric guitar! I acquired The Dean Playmate electric guitar kit as my first ever “rig”.
In spring of 2010 I came across Justin’s YouTube lesson series he put out a few months prior on how to play the entire song (both rhythm and lead guitar parts) and I was stuck to those lessons for DAYS - one of the best guitar lessons out there.
That led me to Justin’s website. I peeked around a little, learned the spider and a few other things but started dabbling here and there over the years. 15 years later, I’m pleasantly unsurprised at how well the site has evolved and this community seems well in reflecting Justin’s philosophy and positive, genuine vibe. (Much thanks to Justin, his team, and everyone here for making this a great place to be.)
I’m here to reach my big picture goal (thanks to Justin for explaining how crucial that is) as I’ve realized I’ve set out without a clear destination in mind when I first started and have been in the intermediate stage with a many gaps in knowledge and skill I’m looking to fill.
But looking forward to meeting you and learning here.
Hello Damian. Songs and music do inspire us so keep on learning and learn songs as much as you can.
Welcome to JustinGuitar and this fantastic community. Please take your time to look around and get to know the wider space. View by Categories.
We are a supportive and encouraging group of students and guitarists from across the world. Essentially, we are all here for music and to improve as players. We truly are a ‘community’. Members help and support one another and a friendly, positive attitude underpins this. We hope that all - young or old, experienced or new players - adopt and foster the pay-it-forward ethos that Justin personifies and embedded all those years ago when he started the website and forum.
Also, please make sure to read the Community Etiquette announcement for some important information and guidance.
If you want to record yourself to show your progress and / or seek feedback there is our ever popular Community Recordings section.
Behind the scenes there is a small and dedicated team who work to make the JustinGuitar experience as good as it can be. Check out the Onboarding sessions provided by Fanny. Justin also has a small group of Approved Teachers he recommends for people wanting 1-to-1 lessons to supplement his courses.
That is plenty to be going on with. It is a vast community space so if you need help as you find your way around just ask.
Cheers. Richard
| Approved Teacher, Official Guide & Community Moderator |
Just wanted to introduce myself.
