I took a few lessons with a cheapo classical guitar. Wasn't interested in playing "The Volga Boat Song". A little later, I got an "E-Z" Beatles songbook. That got me started wanting to play. In college, my roommate played drums, and convinced me to get a guitar for the following year. I went out and bought a Gibson Marauder and Ampeg V-4 and 4x12 bottom. Played hours and hours a day that summer of '75. The next year we had my rig and his double bass Rogers drum set in our dorm room. We would practice in the laundry room of the girls' dorm next door. Never did get any good then, but we sure made a lot of noise (and enemies!) Also spent tons of time playing along with albums through my Lafayette stereo! Many moons later, once tab came along and I finally got a decent guitar (Hamer Artist Custom), I started to improve. Still unworthy of the Hamers, though! I play in a monthly jam, and am trying to broaden my skills with some Frank Sinatra stuff besides all the classic rock.