My wife gave a subtle hint recently that she'd like to once again have a guitar to call her own.  She played years ago but hasn't had a guitar for quite some time.  Anyway, I bought her a Seagull today; maybe a couple steps up from an entry level guitar. 

I've never played an instrument and I'm a little curious about my own chances of learning to play.  I read the responses to EEE's post.  I'm curious about your thoughts on lessons.  Do most here feel it's essential to be tutored initially and if so, for how long?  Does anyone care to recommended any instruction books, tapes, CDs?

Is there much hope for a middle aged guy with a tin ear learning to play? 

Kevin g