[timmer]

Since I bought my Martin 000-28EC I've decided to give my niece my GC Ovation Celebrity acoustic electric and was wondering if I should include a "primer" of sorts.

My brother bought her a cheapo Fender a few years back and she doesn't like to play it because it hurts her fingers. I agree on that point because I've played it and it sucks. It got me through Katrina and that is the nicest thing I have to say about that guitar. He shipped to me in while I was in exile in Florida.

Anyway, I'm going on vacation in June and I am going to surprise her with it - with the hope that she will take up the guitar again, with gusto.

Are there any "courses" that would be suitable for a 12 year old that would help her get "over the hump" and maybe decide to take lessons afterwards? I'm also toying with the idea of paying for a year of lessons for her.

Another issue is she's left handed and the cheapo Fender my brother bought was a righty and so is my Ovation.

I'm tempted to order a lefty guitar for her from MF to see what she likes best and then either return the one I ordered or keep my Ovation for a vacation guitar.

Any advise will be greatly appreciated.