Yes! yes and Yes! There is no substitute for having a great instrument. Although it is like a scale of perception that once you've played the best you can't go back to cheap, starting with quality can ONLY be a positive thing in my opinion. great instrument= easier to play=easier to learn= more inspiring= you learn/progress faster=you want to continue!

Also, if it is a decent quality instrument, it will hold its value so really you're not throwing anything away.

I have a friend who has only been playing for a few months and he already owns a Gilmour strat and another 2 very nice strats.

Best,

Owen Gillett