[New 12 String Mike]

Hi Ophelia,

A 000 size guitar is probably what you need. Martin guitars use the "0" sizes. Alvarez and some other makers, use the term "folk" or "folk size" for a similar size guitar. Another option would be to consider a classical guitar. They have a small body and are easier to play with nylon strings, (easier on the fingers) with a wider neck and more space between the strings. The tone is much softer, than Gord's steel string instruments, but the notes are the same.

Like computers, or anything else, you can get tangled in technobabble very quickly. Cathy's point is an excellant one. Learn a chord or two and then you can go to guitar shops and play a few and check how they feel to you. Feel is what's important. Reaching around the neck with one hand and then trying to strum or pluck strings, while reaching over the guitar's body, with the other hand, can be like trying to pat your head and rub your stomach. It will feel very awkward at first. Trying different sizes of guitar bodies and necks will quickly give you a feel.

The one thing you really must do is to think about how much you want to do with your guitar playing. Lessons may, or may not, be where you want to go. If you already know how to read music, then lessons can be easier. If you just want to play for fun and a little self accomplishment, having a teacher throwing music notation at you can become more than you'd want to swallow. Getting a chord book and a few chord and lyric sheets to Gord's songs that you know and like is a route to the fun side. Lessons are great though and the music will be worth the time and money invested.

Don't be afraid to keep asking questions. There's lots of good info available here.

Welcome to the world of pickers and GAS.

Most of all, Have fun!