Bartek Dzikowski - teaching guitar to a student in Warsaw Wilanow, Mokotów, Sadyba, Konstancin Ursynów - musician, guitarist, singer, author and composer of songs.
Bartek Dzikowski - musician, guitarist, singer, author and composer of songs, lead guitar private lessons for children, youth and adults.
Fig. Bev Robinson

Guitar and Gear Guide in Warsaw


Expert Buying Advice for Students in Warsaw


Buying a guitar is the first step in your musical journey, but the wrong choice can make learning difficult and frustrating. As a professional musician and educator, I help my students navigate the market to find instruments that are not only beautiful but also ergonomically correct and inspiring to play.

Expert Gear Guidance and Equipment Consultancy


Choosing your first instrument can be overwhelming. Drawing on my 20 years of professional experience and studio background, I provide personalized equipment consultancy for all my students.


  • Finding the Right Fit: I help you select the ideal acoustic or classical guitar based on your hand size, musical goals, and budget.
  • Amps and Technology: For those exploring electric or semi-acoustic options, I offer advice on amplifiers, pedals, and home recording setups.
  • Pro-Grade Selection: Avoid common pitfalls by choosing gear that stays in tune and inspires you to practice.

My goal is to ensure you have a "pro-standard" setup from day one, whether you are buying new or used.


Guitar and Gear Guide: Buying Your First Instrument


1. Which Type of Guitar is Right for You?


The first choice is often the most important. Depending on your musical taste and physical comfort, we will choose between three main categories:

  • The Classical Guitar (Nylon Strings): Ideal for beginners and children. The nylon strings are softer on the fingertips, and the wider neck helps develop precise finger placement. Best for: Classical, Spanish, and early-stage learning.
  • The Acoustic Guitar (Steel Strings): The classic "singer-songwriter" sound. These strings are under more tension, offering a bright, loud, and punchy tone. Best for: Pop, Folk, Rock, and Country.
  • The Electric Guitar: Contrary to popular belief, you can start on an electric guitar. They have thin necks and "fast" strings, making them very easy to play physically. Best for: Rock, Blues, Jazz, and Metal.

2. Getting the Size Right (For Kids and Teens)


A guitar that is too large will cause poor posture and strain. For my younger students in Wilanów and Mokotów, I recommend following this general sizing chart:

Guitar Size Student Age Approximate Height
1/2 Size5 – 8 years110 – 135 cm
3/4 Size8 – 12 years135 – 150 cm
4/4 (Full) Size12+ years150 cm and above

Buying Your First Guitar
Ask Bartek Dzikowski for help


SMS/Tel: 509 955 297
Email:

Warsaw locations: Wilanów, Sadyba, Mokotów, Ursynów, Konstancin.

3. Teach how to storage, cleaning and condtioning the gitar


Storage enviroment is critical for maintaining a good guitar's condition, tuning stability, and wood health. Because it is made of wood, the guitar is highly sensitive to its environment.


The Humidity "Goldilocks" Zone

The most important factor is relative humidity (RH). Acoustic and classical guitars are particularly vulnerable because they are made of thin, solid wood.

  • Ideal Range: 45% – 55% RH.
  • Too Dry (<40%): The wood shrinks, which can lead to cracks in the body, "sprouting" sharp fret ends, and a sinking bridge.
  • Too Humid (>60%): The wood swells, causing the string height to become high and the tone of the instrument dull.

Temperature Stability

Guitars prefer the same temperatures as humans (roughly 18°C – 24°C).

  • Avoid Heat Sources: Never lean your guitar against a radiator or leave it in a hot place, like a car in the summer.
  • The "Thaw" Rule: If your guitar has been in a cold car during a Warsaw winter, do not open the case immediately once indoors. Let it sit in the closed case for at least 30–60 minutes to acclimate slowly. Opening it too soon can cause the finish to "check" (shatter in tiny spider-web lines).

Vertical vs. Horizontal Storage

  • On a Stand:Great for accessibility, but could be problematic if humidity and temperature is not right for the instrument. Also ensure the stand is "nitro-safe" if you have a high-end guitar, as some rubbers can chemically react with guitar finishes.
  • In the Case:This is the safest option. A hard shell case acts as a climate-controlled micro-environment, especially if you use a small in-case humidifier or dehumidifier packet.

Cleaning and Conditioning

  • After Each Play Session:Wipe the guitar body and strings with a soft, dry microfiber cloth to remove sweat and dirt.
  • Fretboard Care:Use a dedicated fretboard conditioner or mineral oil (like petroleum jelly) on unfinished wood (rosewood, ebony) once or twice a year to prevent drying and cracking, but AVOID using cosmetic creams.
  • Body Polish:Use a guitar polish for the finished AVOID HARSH CHEMICALS like WD-40.

String Care

  • Wash Hands: ALWAYS wash your hands before playing to keep strings cleaner.
  • Change Strings: Replace strings regularly as they lose tone and function.
  • String Cleaners: If you want, you can also use specialized string cleaners or coated strings for longer life.