Jazz Tan

Classical Guitar Lessons: Getting To Know the Classical Guitar

Not all guitars are created from the same materials. The classical guitar is very similar to its brother -- the acoustic guitar. Others may think they’re one and the same. Even students of classical guitar lessons, may not even be aware of the differences. In essence, both are considered ‘acoustic’ guitars. This is due to the fact that both produce sound from within the guitar itself, without the use of electric power. Yet, the classical guitar has its own merits.

Not all guitars are created from the same materials. The classical guitar is very similar to its brother -- the acoustic guitar. Others may think they’re one and the same. Even students of classical guitar lessons, may not even be aware of the differences. In essence, both are considered ‘acoustic’ guitars. This is due to the fact that both produce sound from within the guitar itself, without the use of electric power. Yet, the classical guitar has its own merits.

If you are a guitar student, it is essential to know your instrument. What are its most distinguished features that make it stand out?  How does it sound, and what type of music is most suited for it?   

A quick reference guide on getting to know the classical guitar:

Size:  Compared to the acoustic guitar, the classical guitar is relatively smaller in size.

Shape:  Both may have varying shapes. The classical guitar typically has a rounder body shape.  It is similar to that of an hourglass or a figure of eight.  

Sound hole:  A classical guitar has a decorative artwork surrounding its sound hole.

Missing Scratch plate and Strap button:  Putting it side-by-side an acoustic guitar, you would notice that a classical guitar does not have a piece of plastic plate adjacent to the sound hole.  Also, a classical guitar is not usually played with a strap on  thus, it does not have a strap peg at the bottom.

Headstock:  The headstock of  a classical guitar have hollows and are uniform in design.  However, an acoustic or an electric guitar are not hollowed, and may come in various styles.

The Neck and Fret board:  

1. A classical guitar has a wider neck than an acoustic guitar.  Hence, young children who are or would be taking classical guitar lessons, may find fingering chords more challenging.  Their tiny hands and fingers may not quite get a good grip and apply ample pressure on the strings due to the width of the guitar neck.
2. In the neck, the strings are spaced farther apart in order for the player to have ease in maneuvering fingers while picking or plucking the strings.
3. A classical guitar’s fret board does not come with dot fret markers.  

Strings:  Nylon strings are used in classical guitars.  Nylon strings are said to be more ‘child and skin friendly’.  It is less irritating on the skin, thus, minimizes the likelihood of developing blisters and scratches.  This prevents young children from experiencing the trauma of pain while learning to play the guitar.

Sound and music style:  The classical guitar has a soft and mellow tone.  It sounds best when playing classical, Latin and Brazilian music like the flamenco.  Its melancholy tone is also suited for country and folk music

Price:  The classical guitar is relatively cheaper. It has simpler  features as it does not have various buttons, knobs, pegs, and switches that come with its acoustic and electric counterparts. Yet price ranges may vary depending on the make, material used, and the brand of the guitar.

In classical guitar lessons, it pays to enrich yourself with knowledge about your musical instrument.  Exploring every nook and cranny of your guitar is a rewarding experience in itself.

Source: Free Articles from ArticlesFactory.com

ABOUT THE AUTHOR