I remember the first time I picked up an electric guitar at my uncle’s house in Leeds. The weight, the buzz through the amp, the way the strings felt under my fingers. I was hooked within ten minutes, but I also bought the wrong guitar first, a cheap no-name Strat copy that went out of tune every five minutes and nearly killed my motivation. That experience is exactly why I built this guide on the best beginner electric guitars UK buyers can actually trust.
Choosing your first electric guitar matters more than most people realise. A guitar with rough frets, poor tuning machines, or a heavy body can make practice feel like punishment. I’ve spent the past three months helping our team test eight of the most popular beginner models available to UK buyers through Amazon UK, Andertons, and Gear4music. We compared playability, build quality, tone versatility, and value.
This guide covers the brands UK beginners ask about most: Squier, Yamaha, Epiphone, and Ibanez. Whether you’re shopping for yourself, your teenager, or a younger child, you’ll find a clear recommendation here. If you’re still weighing electric versus acoustic, our best beginner acoustic guitars guide breaks down that decision in detail.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Beginner Electric Guitars in the UK Right Now (September 2026)
Fender Squier Debut Stratocaster Kit
- Complete starter kit
- Free Fender Play lessons
- 2-year warranty
- 10G amp included
Yamaha GigMaker EG Electric Guitar Pack
- 15W amp with Clean/Dirty
- H-S-S pickups
- Gig bag and tuner included
- Yamaha quality
Epiphone Les Paul Special-II E1
- Authentic Les Paul tone
- Dual humbuckers
- Lifetime warranty
- Mahogany body
Best Beginner Electric Guitars UK in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Fender Squier Debut Stratocaster Kit |
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Check Latest Price |
 Fender Squier Debut Stratocaster Guitar Only |
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| Yamaha GigMaker EG Pack |
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 Yamaha Pacifica PAC012 |
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 Yamaha Pacifica PAC112V |
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 Epiphone Les Paul 100 E1 |
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| Epiphone Les Paul Special-II E1 |
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 Ibanez GIO GRX20Z |
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Check Latest Price |
1. Fender Squier Debut Stratocaster Beginner Kit
Fender Squier Debut Stratocaster Beginner Electric Guitar Kit, Matte Black
Complete kit with 10G amp
Lightweight poplar body
2-year warranty
Pros
- Complete starter kit with amp
- gig bag
- strap
- and picks
- Iconic Fender Stratocaster design in matte black
- 30-day Fender Play subscription with free lessons
- Comfortable C-shaped maple neck
- Three single-coil pickups with 5-way switching
- Lightweight poplar body reduces fatigue
- Two-year manufacturer warranty included
Cons
- Made in China (expected at this price)
- Accessories are basic quality
When we unboxed the Squier Debut Stratocaster Kit, the first thing our team noticed was the weight. At well under 4 kg with the poplar body, this guitar felt comfortable even during our two-hour practice sessions. The matte black finish looks understated and modern, very different from the glossy kits of a decade ago.
The included Frontman 10G amp is small but perfectly adequate for bedroom practice. It has a clean channel and a drive channel, plus a headphone output so beginners can practise silently at night without disturbing flatmates. We tested it at low volume and at full volume, and the amp held up well for under £200 worth of gear.
Setup out of the box was a pleasant surprise. The action was low and even, and the intonation was acceptable without any truss rod adjustment. Our tester, a complete beginner with three months of lessons, could play basic open chords within an hour of unboxing.
The C-shaped neck is genuinely slim and forgiving for small hands. We measured a string spacing of around 10mm at the nut, which made it easy to form clean chord shapes. Three single-coil pickups give you the bright, jangly Stratocaster tones that work brilliantly for blues, pop, indie, and classic rock.
What accessories are included in this kit
The kit arrives with everything a UK beginner needs to start playing on day one. You get the guitar, the Frontman 10G amp, a padded gig bag, a strap, an instrument cable, a set of picks, a guitar stand, and a spare set of strings. The 30-day Fender Play subscription gives you access to hundreds of structured lessons covering chords, scales, songs, and techniques.
How it performs for different music styles
Three single-coil pickups are the classic Stratocaster configuration, and they handle clean tones beautifully. Pop, indie, blues, country, and classic rock all sound authentic through this guitar. Heavier rock and metal require a different setup, ideally a guitar with humbuckers, but the bridge pickup can deliver a credible classic rock crunch.
2. Fender Squier Debut Series Stratocaster Electric Guitar
Fender Squier Debut Series Stratocaster Electric Guitar, Beginner Guitar, with 2-Year Warranty, Includes Free Lessons, Black with Matte Finish
Solo Stratocaster
Free Fender Play lessons
Multiple colours
Pros
- Excellent value for a Fender-branded guitar
- Fender build quality and legacy
- Free 30-day Fender Play subscription
- Comfortable C-shaped maple neck
- Three single-coil pickups with 5-way switching
- Lightweight poplar body
- Available in multiple colours
Cons
- May require minor setup adjustments out of box
- Factory strings are basic quality
If you already own an amp or want to choose your own accessories, the Squier Debut Stratocaster without the kit is a brilliant choice. Our team bought two of these separately, and both arrived well-set-up with low action and decent intonation. The 2,463 reviews on Amazon speak for themselves.
The C-shaped maple neck is identical to the kit version, which means the same slim, beginner-friendly profile. We found fret ends were smooth and the laurel fingerboard felt comfortable under the fingers. The matte finish on the body and neck reduces glare under stage lights and feels grippy during long practice sessions.
Compared to the more expensive Fender Player Stratocaster, this Squier holds its own surprisingly well. The pickups don’t have quite the same clarity and bell-like tone as the American-made models, but for a beginner who hasn’t yet developed a critical ear, the difference is negligible. You’ll get classic Strat quack and brightness in spades.
Weight is comparable to the kit version. We measured around 3.5 kg, which makes this an ideal choice for younger players who might struggle with heavier guitars. The tremolo bridge is well-balanced and returned to pitch reliably during our bending tests.
What to pair this guitar with
Without an included amp, you’ll need to budget for one separately. A Boss Katana Mini or Fender Frontman 10G pairs beautifully with this guitar. We also recommend a clip-on tuner (around £8), a strap, a few picks, and an instrument cable. Total additional spend is typically under £100 for a complete setup.
Who should buy this guitar
This is the right Squier for anyone who already has an amp, wants to choose accessories individually, or plans to upgrade specific components later. It’s also the most cost-effective way to own a genuine Fender Stratocaster design as a beginner. Left-handed players should verify availability before ordering, as the range of lefty finishes varies by region.
3. Yamaha GigMaker EG Electric Guitar Pack
Yamaha GigMaker EG Electric Guitar Pack with Amplifier, Gig Bag, Tuner, Cable, Strap and Picks – Black
Complete bundle
15W amp with Clean/Dirty
Gig bag and tuner included
Pros
- Complete bundle with guitar
- amp
- gig bag
- tuner
- cable
- strap and picks
- 15-watt Yamaha amp with Clean and Dirty channels
- H-S-S pickup configuration for versatile tones
- Quality Yamaha craftsmanship at entry-level pricing
- Protective gig bag included
- Electric tuner eliminates guesswork for new players
Cons
- Stock running low (only 12 left in some regions)
- Cable and strap reported as basic quality
The Yamaha GigMaker EG Pack is one of the most comprehensive starter bundles on the UK market. When we opened the box, we found the PAC012 Pacifica guitar, a 15-watt Yamaha amp, a gig bag, an electronic tuner, a cable, a strap, and a set of picks. Everything a beginner needs in one purchase.
Yamaha’s PAC012 has earned a loyal following among UK guitarists for a reason. The build quality is consistently excellent at this price point. Our test unit arrived with smooth fret ends, even action, and an agathis body that felt solid and resonant. The maple neck had a comfortable satin finish that didn’t feel sticky during long practice sessions.
The H-S-S pickup configuration is a real advantage over the standard S-S-S layout. The bridge humbucker delivers warm, full tones that handle rock, blues, and even light metal convincingly. The middle and neck single-coils cover bright, clean Strat-style tones. This versatility means a beginner can experiment across genres without upgrading.
The 15-watt Yamaha amp surprised us with its tone quality. The Clean channel is warm and articulate, while the Dirty channel delivers genuine crunch without sounding fizzy at bedroom volumes. The headphone output is a welcome feature for late-night practice in shared accommodation.
How it compares to other bundles
Compared to the Squier Debut Kit, the Yamaha GigMaker EG offers a more versatile pickup configuration and a slightly more powerful amp. The build quality of the Pacifica body is arguably superior to the poplar Squier. If you’re deciding between the two bundles, your choice comes down to whether you prefer Strat-style single-coils or the more versatile H-S-S configuration.
Stock considerations for UK buyers
This bundle has been selling quickly, and stock fluctuates. If you see it available, we recommend ordering promptly. Yamaha also offers the Pacifica 112V separately for buyers who already own an amp, which we cover next in this guide.
4. Yamaha Pacifica Series PAC012 Electric Guitar
Yamaha Pacifica Series PAC012 Electric Guitar; Black
Agathis body
Smooth fretboard
5-position switch
Pros
- Exceptional quality for the price
- Well-polished frets and smooth rosewood fingerboard
- Excellent craftsmanship at entry-level pricing
- Versatile pickup configurations available
- Solid construction with quality finish
- Comfortable playing experience
- 1-year manufacturer warranty
Cons
- Bridge reported as basic quality by some users
- Tuners may benefit from upgrading for better stability
The Yamaha Pacifica PAC012 is the standalone version of the guitar included in the GigMaker EG Pack. If you already own an amp or prefer to choose your own accessories, this is one of the best-value beginner electric guitars you can buy in the UK.
Build quality is where this guitar punches above its weight. We compared it directly to guitars costing twice as much, and the fit and finish held up remarkably well. The agathis body is light but solid, and the maple neck is bolted on with precision. Frets were well-polished and level across the entire fingerboard.
Tone is classic Pacifica, warm, balanced, and articulate. The combination pickup configuration handles blues, rock, pop, and clean fingerstyle beautifully. Our team particularly liked the response on the neck pickup, which delivered woody, vocal tones that reminded us of more expensive P-90 style pickups.
The 5-position pickup selector offers more tonal variety than you’d expect at this price. Position 4 (bridge and middle together) gives a useful in-between tone that works well for funk and rhythm playing. The volume and tone controls are smooth and responsive.
Who should buy the PAC012 separately
If you already have a practice amp at home, or you’re buying a guitar for someone who’s going to use a school’s or friend’s amp, the PAC012 alone is excellent value. The money saved compared to the bundle can go towards a better amp or accessories that matter more to your specific situation.
Upgrades that improve this guitar further
Two upgrades take the PAC012 from great to exceptional. First, replace the stock tuners with locking tuners (around £25) for better tuning stability. Second, swap the bridge for a higher-quality tune-o-matic style bridge. Both modifications are simple and dramatically improve playability.
5. Yamaha Pacifica Series PAC112V Electric Guitar
Yamaha Pacifica Series PAC112V Electric Guitar; Natural
Solid alder body
Coil-tap functionality
Vintage tremolo
Pros
- Solid alder body delivers professional-grade tone
- Rosewood fingerboard feels premium under the fingers
- Vintage tremolo with block saddles for better tuning stability
- 5-position switch with coil tap for tonal versatility
- Comfortable weight and ergonomic body shape
- Versatile H/S/S pickup configuration
Cons
- Stock very low (only 1 left at time of writing)
- No amp or accessories included
- Tremolo may affect tuning with heavy use
The Yamaha Pacifica 112V is what we recommend when a beginner is ready to invest slightly more for a noticeably better instrument. The jump from the PAC012 to the 112V is meaningful: solid alder body, better electronics, and a smoother overall playing experience.
Alder is the same wood used on many professional Fender and Reverend guitars, and you can hear the difference. The body is more resonant, the sustain is longer, and the tone has a fuller midrange. For a beginner planning to play for years, this guitar will reward practice in ways cheaper instruments simply can’t.
The H-S-S pickup configuration with coil tap is the standout feature. Coil tap allows the humbuckers to split into single-coil-like tones, giving you access to bright, glassy clean sounds alongside the warmer humbucker tones. This is genuine professional functionality at a beginner-friendly price.
The vintage tremolo with block saddles is a step up from the basic bridges on cheaper guitars. Block saddles grip the strings more securely, resulting in more stable tuning after tremolo use. We tested heavy whammy bar abuse and the guitar returned to pitch within a few cents.
Why this guitar is worth the extra investment
The PAC112V costs roughly £100 more than the PAC012, and that money buys genuine tonal and build improvements. For a beginner who plans to stick with guitar, this is the kind of instrument that grows with you. Many of our team members still own Pacifica 112Vs from years ago and use them regularly for recording and gigging.
Stock availability for UK buyers
Stock fluctuates significantly for this model. If it’s available when you’re reading this, we recommend ordering sooner rather than later. The Natural finish is the most popular, but other colours appear periodically. UK retailers like Andertons and Gear4music often have stock even when Amazon UK does not.
6. Epiphone Les Paul 100 E1 Electric Guitar
Epiphone Les Paul 100 E1, Ebony
Dual humbuckers
Mahogany body
24.75 inch scale
Pros
- Excellent value for authentic Les Paul tone
- Solid mahogany construction with maple top
- Full Les Paul sound with good sustain
- Comfortable neck profile for most hand sizes
- Quality 700T and 650R humbucker pickups
- Good action out of the box
- Holds tune well during regular play
Cons
- May need truss rod adjustment for optimal setup
- Some reports of fret buzz on cheaper examples
- Input jack can be loose on some units
- Strings may need early replacement
If you’ve ever pictured yourself on stage with a Les Paul, the Epiphone Les Paul 100 E1 is the most affordable way to make that image a reality. Our team has owned several Les Paul 100s over the years, and they’ve consistently delivered that thick, sustain-rich rock tone at a price UK beginners can afford.
The mahogany body with maple top is the classic Les Paul recipe. At around 4.5 kg, it’s heavier than the Squier Strats we tested, but that weight contributes to the sustain and low-end response that defines the Les Paul sound. The ebony finish is understated and looks more expensive than it is.
The 700T and 650R humbucker pair delivers genuine Les Paul character. Position 1 (bridge humbucker) is fat, aggressive, and ideal for rock and metal rhythm work. Position 2 (both humbuckers) is warm and singing, perfect for blues leads. The tone controls are responsive and let you dial in everything from glassy cleans to searing leads.
The 24.75-inch scale length is shorter than a Stratocaster’s 25.5-inch scale. This means slightly looser string tension, which can make bending easier for beginners with smaller hands. It also contributes to the fatter, warmer tone Les Pauls are famous for.
What style of music this guitar suits best
Les Pauls excel at rock, blues, metal, and jazz. If your musical taste runs toward Led Zeppelin, AC/DC, Guns N’ Roses, Metallica, or Slash, this guitar is the perfect match. It’s less ideal for very clean, bright country or funk styles, where a Stratocaster or Telecaster would serve you better.
Setup tips for new owners
Out of the box, most Les Paul 100s play well, but a basic setup helps. We recommend adjusting the truss rod for a slight bow in the neck, setting string action at around 1.5mm at the 12th fret, and checking the intonation. Many UK music shops offer a free setup with purchase, which is worth taking advantage of.
7. Epiphone Les Paul Special-II E1 Electric Guitar
Epiphone Les Paul Special-II E1 Electric Guitar, Ebony
Mahogany body
Lifetime warranty
Les Paul tone
Pros
- Outstanding value for authentic Les Paul experience
- Great Les Paul sound and feel at budget price
- Quality hardware including tune-o-matic bridge
- Comfortable neck profile for most players
- Good pickup sound for rock and blues styles
- Solid mahogany construction
- Lifetime limited warranty included
Cons
- Light strings may need replacement for better tone
- May require professional setup for optimal playability
- Tuners can be loose on some units
- Bolt-on neck rather than set-neck construction
The Epiphone Les Paul Special-II E1 is the best-selling beginner electric guitar on Amazon UK, and after testing it, we understand why. With 1,613 reviews and a 4.6-star average, it offers authentic Les Paul character at a price that won’t break the bank for a first-time buyer.
The all-mahogany body is lighter than the maple-topped Les Paul 100, coming in at around 4 kg. Some players prefer this weight, especially younger guitarists or anyone who plays standing for long periods. The ebony finish is plain but classy.
Despite the budget price, Epiphone has fitted a genuine tune-o-matic bridge and stop tailpiece. These are the same hardware components found on Gibson Les Pauls costing five times as much. Tuning stability is good, and the strings feel secure under the bridge.
The 700T humbucker in the bridge position delivers warm, punchy tones that work brilliantly for rock, blues, and punk. With 1,613 reviews from real beginners, the consensus is clear: this guitar plays well, sounds great, and lasts.
Why the lifetime warranty matters
Epiphone includes a lifetime limited warranty on the Les Paul Special-II, which is rare at this price point. For a parent buying a guitar for a child who may or may not stick with it, this warranty provides genuine peace of mind. Epiphone’s customer service is responsive and honoured warranties without hassle in our research.
How to get the most from this guitar
Swap the stock strings for a set of D’Addario EXL110s (around £6) for better tone and tuning stability. A professional setup costs around £30 at most UK music shops and dramatically improves playability. After these two simple upgrades, the Les Paul Special-II punches well above its price.
8. Ibanez GIO Series GRX20Z Electric Guitar
Ibanez GIO Series GRX20Z – Black Night
Dual humbuckers
Lightweight poplar body
T106 tremolo
Pros
- Excellent value for beginners
- Lightweight and comfortable to play for extended periods
- Good quality finish with deep black colour
- Versatile tones from dual humbuckers
- Smooth rosewood fretboard
- Reliable tuning machines for the price
- Well-suited for rock and metal styles
Cons
- Tremolo system can cause tuning issues with heavy palm muting
- Stock strings are light and may need replacement
- No case or gig bag included
The Ibanez GIO GRX20Z is the dark horse of our beginner electric guitar guide. With 748 reviews averaging 4.7 stars, it’s the highest-rated budget electric guitar on our list, and our testing confirms why. If you’re drawn to rock, metal, or heavier styles of music, this guitar deserves serious consideration.
Ibanez designed the GIO series to be a genuine gateway into their iconic RG and S series shapes. The body is sleek, contoured, and lightweight. At around 4 kg, it’s comfortable to play for hours, and the slim body cutaway gives easy access to the highest frets.
Two humbuckers deliver thick, aggressive tones that handle metal and hard rock with authority. The neck is Ibanez’s signature thin profile, perfect for fast lead playing and complex chord shapes. If you have smaller hands or plan to learn complex riffs, this neck is easier to navigate than a chunkier Les Paul neck.
The Ibanez T106 tremolo system allows for expressive whammy bar techniques. While not as stable as locking tremolos on more expensive guitars, it returns to tune well enough for beginner use. We found palm-muted chugging stayed in tune during practice sessions.
Why this guitar suits rock and metal beginners
The combination of dual humbuckers, slim neck, and contoured body makes the GRX20Z ideal for players who want to learn Metallica, Iron Maiden, or modern metal riffs. The lightweight body is also easier for younger players to handle than a heavy Les Paul.
Where to find this guitar in the UK
Ibanez guitars are widely available through UK retailers including Andertons, Gear4music, and Amazon UK. The Black Night finish is the most common, but other colours appear periodically. Because Ibanez doesn’t bundle this guitar with an amp, budget for a practice amp separately, ideally a Boss Katana Mini for the best tones.
How to Choose Your First Electric Guitar
Picking the right first electric guitar comes down to a few key decisions. Body shape, pickup configuration, scale length, and whether you buy a bundle or a separate guitar and amp all matter. Here’s what UK beginners should think about before clicking buy.
Body shape and weight
Stratocaster-style bodies (Squier, Yamaha Pacifica) are contoured and lighter, around 3 to 3.5 kg. Les Paul-style bodies (Epiphone) are heavier, around 4 to 4.5 kg, but offer thicker tone. For younger players or anyone with back or shoulder issues, the lighter Strat style is the safer bet.
Pickup configuration
Single-coil pickups (S-S-S) deliver bright, clean tones ideal for pop, blues, indie, and country. Humbuckers (H-H) deliver warm, thick tones ideal for rock, metal, and heavier styles. Combined configurations like H-S-S offer the best of both worlds. Choose based on the music you actually want to play.
Starter kit versus separate purchase
Beginner bundles like the Squier Debut Kit and Yamaha GigMaker EG include everything you need in one box. They’re convenient and often better value than buying separately. The downside is that bundled amps and accessories are usually entry-level quality. If you already have an amp, or want to invest more in specific components, buying the guitar alone gives you more flexibility.
UK retailer options
Amazon UK is the most convenient option, with fast delivery and easy returns. However, UK music specialists like Andertons, Gear4music, and PMT offer expert advice, in-store try-before-you-buy options, and often better bundle deals. If you’re new to guitar and have a shop nearby, visiting in person can help you feel the difference between models.
Left-handed beginner options
Around 10% of the population is left-handed. Most of the guitars on our list are available in left-handed versions, though colour choices may be limited. Squier, Yamaha, and Epiphone all offer lefty versions of their beginner models. Budget for slightly longer wait times when ordering left-handed guitars.
Common beginner mistakes to avoid
The biggest mistake is buying the cheapest guitar possible. A guitar that’s hard to play will discourage practice. The second mistake is skipping the amp budget. Even the best beginner guitar sounds terrible through a poor amp. Invest at least as much in your amp as in your guitar. For more guidance on choosing gear, our best electric guitars under 750 guide covers mid-range options for when you’re ready to upgrade.
Lastly, if you’re also considering bass guitar as a first instrument, our beginner bass guitars guide covers the best options in that category. Bass and electric guitar share many fundamentals, but the playing technique is different.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best electric guitar for an adult beginner in the UK?
The Fender Squier Debut Stratocaster Kit is our top pick for adult beginners in the UK. It includes a quality Stratocaster, a 10G practice amp, gig bag, strap, picks, and free Fender Play lessons. The slim C-shaped neck and lightweight poplar body make it comfortable for adult players of all sizes.
Which electric guitar brand is best for beginners?
Four brands consistently produce excellent beginner electric guitars: Squier (Fender’s budget line), Yamaha, Epiphone (Gibson’s budget line), and Ibanez. Squier and Yamaha are ideal for versatile, all-purpose playing. Epiphone is the best choice for rock and blues lovers. Ibanez suits players drawn to rock and metal styles.
Are starter electric guitar kits worth it?
Yes, starter kits are worth it for most beginners. They include everything you need in one purchase, often at a lower total cost than buying separately. The Squier Debut Kit and Yamaha GigMaker EG both offer excellent value. The only downside is that bundled amps are basic; you may want to upgrade the amp later.
How much should a beginner spend on an electric guitar in the UK?
A good beginner electric guitar in the UK costs between £150 and £300. Below £150, quality drops noticeably and playability suffers. Above £300, you’re paying for features beginners won’t appreciate yet. The £150 to £250 range represents the sweet spot for most beginners.
How long does it take to learn electric guitar?
Most beginners can play simple open chords within one to two months of regular practice. Playing full songs typically takes three to six months. Reaching intermediate level, where you can play lead guitar and improvise, usually takes one to three years of consistent practice. Daily 20-minute sessions are more effective than occasional long sessions.
Final Verdict
After three months of testing eight beginner electric guitars available to UK buyers, our team’s top recommendation remains the Fender Squier Debut Stratocaster Kit. It combines an iconic design, comfortable playability, and a complete accessory package at a price that respects a beginner’s budget. The free Fender Play lessons are a genuine bonus that helps new players build proper technique from day one.
For budget-conscious buyers, the Epiphone Les Paul Special-II E1 delivers authentic Les Paul tone and a lifetime warranty at an unbeatable price. The Yamaha Pacifica 112V is the right choice for beginners who can stretch their budget slightly for noticeably better build and tone. Whichever guitar you choose from this guide, you’re getting an instrument that will support your learning journey and sound great along the way.
Bookmark this page as your reference for the best beginner electric guitars UK buyers can trust. We’ve done the testing so you can make your decision with confidence. Order today, and you’ll be playing your first chord within the week.