We built our Academy Series guitars around the needs of entry-level players, with the goal of creating an inspiring first-guitar experience that clears obstacles that can frustrate new learners. Comfort is tantamount, and for this beginner-focused family of guitars, we’ve distilled the experience down to the essential ingredients for a smooth introduction to playing guitar: easy-playing necks, rich sound and an accessible price. Steel-string models feature a narrower 1-11/16-inch nut width paired with light-gauge strings and a slightly shorter-than-standard scale length of 24-7/8-inches, adding up to low action, a slinky handfeel and easy fretting while players learn to navigate the neck. All models feature a built-in armrest, a comfort-enhancing feature usually reserved for higher-priced guitars, and acoustic-electric models include an onboard digital tuner and 3-band equalizer. This year, we’ve added more tonal and aesthetic options to the mix with a pair of walnut-topped models that offer a duskier sonic flavor compared to the vibrant sound of spruce. Whichever you choose, you’re guaranteed a solid-wood top for clear, punchy tone that’s sure to provide ample inspiration on the first steps of your musical journey.
Academy Series
- Back/Sides Layered Sapele or Layered Walnut
- Top Sitka Spruce, Lutz Spruce (Nylon) or Walnut
- Finish Matte
- Rosette Three-Ring Baltic Birch
- Fretboard Inlay Italian Acrylic 4mm Dots
- Body Edge Treatment Beveled Armrest

Available Models
Academy 12
Academy Series
Our signature Grand Concert body shape brings our high standards of comfort and playability to the Academy Series, our line of budget-friendly guitars.
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Academy Series
Taylor’s Academy Series makes the playing experience more accessible in every way, packing signature Taylor playing features into an affordable package.
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Academy Series
This nylon-string Grand Concert from our Academy Series may be the best nylon-string guitar you’ll find for the money.
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Academy Series
This acoustic/electric nylon-string Grand Concert from our Academy Series may be the best nylon-string guitar you’ll find for the money.
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Academy Series
Designed and built with beginner guitar players in mind, the Academy Series 10 combines the full-bodied tone and response of the classic dreadnought shape with Taylor’s standards of comfort and playability.
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Academy Series
This Dreadnought distills the essential features of a great acoustic guitar into a budget-friendly form.
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Academy Series
Layered walnut back and sides with a solid walnut top make this Dreadnought acoustic-electric an ideal choice for new players seeking a big, bold sound with a comfortable feel.
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Academy Series
This Grand Concert boasts back and sides of layered walnut with a solid walnut top, serving up a punchy, warm sound in a compact, accommodating frame.
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