I think teaching yourself is a great idea, if you already have knowledge about music. I started teaching myself cello a few years ago and now Im playing in a simi-pro trio, ofcourse I already know the music theroy stuff from playing violin for almost 10 years...

I just started tuesday and I all ready know how to play the G, d, scales ,and rondino . the thing is is that you won`t know were to put your fingers at unless you have those dots that are on the finger borad. I think they are much better then the frets. you should get the book ESSENTIAL ELEMENTS 2000 becuase it comes with a cd and a dvd, and its only around $10.00 .