Tuners
I recommend getting a clip-on tuner for any string instrument. There are also free tuner apps available, but I recommend starting with a clip-on. I use Snark brand clip-on tuners, but most of the popular brands work great.
Metronome
For metronomes, any app will do. I personally use one called “Pro Metronome”. It’s available on Android or IOS. It has paid features but I never use any of them. You can also just google “metronome” from any device, they have one built-in to their search engine.
Sheet Music & Tabs
I recommend learning at least the basics of standard notation for any instrument. However, depending on your goals, it might not be necessary or optimal to exclusively use standard notation. In fact, for fretted instruments, most modern music is written using tablature. I elaborate on this topic here. If you’re still unsure, ask me and we’ll figure it out.
For standard notation, you can bring any books you have or prefer, but usually I start students with these method books:
Sheet Music/Tab Apps
For guitar & bass tabs, you’re welcome to use any website/app you prefer, but I recommend using Ultimate Guitar or buying physical songbooks(see below). Ultimate Guitar has premium paid features that are worth the subscription, but their free tabs are good and usually accurate. It’s both a website and they have an app that is great. This is what I use in my lessons.
For Standard Notation, I personally just buy song books but I’ve heard a lot of good things about MuseScore and MusicNotes. I believe both are subscription based.
Songbooks
For sheet music and tab books, since there are so many different companies and personal options, just search online for the specific book you’re looking for. You can search by artist, genre, era, level of difficulty, playing style, and more. Halleonard.com is a great company that most music stores keep in stock.
Social Media
A lot of what is on social media is kind of clickbait-y and trendy, but it is helpful to plug into the music community and see what other music enthusiasts are up to. Or better yet, look around your community and find other musicians!
I use my Instagram account for posting music recommendations, informative videos, just all things music and some entertaining, funny things. Just extra icing on the cake of resources. Check it out here
J Holguin Music 