The Evolution of the Spanish and Classical Guitar

Summary

The Spanish and classical guitar has a rich history that spans centuries, evolving from the vihuela and guitarra latina of the Renaissance to the concert guitar of today. This article explores the instrument's journey, highlighting key figures like Torres and Tarrega, and its resurgence in popularity thanks to virtuosos like Andres Segovia. Discover the intricate details and lesser-known facts about the guitar's evolution and its impact on music worldwide.

The Renaissance and the Birth of the Spanish Guitar

The Lute's Dominance

During the Renaissance, the lute was the most popular instrument in Western Europe, largely due to the influence of Moslem learning brought back by returning Crusaders. The lute's intricate design and versatility made it a favorite among musicians and composers.

The Rise of the Guitar in Spain

In Spain, however, a new instrument began to overshadow the lute: the guitar. Two main types of guitars were prevalent:

• Vihuela: Played in courts and among the fashionable society, the vihuela had eleven strings (five double and one single) and was plucked.
• Guitarra Latina: Popular among the common folk, this guitar had four double strings and was strummed.

The vihuela reached its peak popularity in the first half of the 16th century, with many composers writing works specifically for it. Around the same time, a fifth string was added to the guitarra latina, which quickly gained favor and eventually displaced the vihuela throughout most of the Iberian Peninsula.

The Spread of the Spanish Guitar

17th Century Expansion

As lute-playing declined in the 17th century, the guitar began to spread to other parts of Europe, including France, Germany, and Italy. Known as the "Spanish Guitar," it was played at the court of France's Louis XIV, who even took lessons on it. By the mid-18th century, the guitar was firmly established in fashionable circles across Continental Europe.

The Addition of the Sixth String

Towards the end of the 18th century, a sixth string (the low E string) was added to the guitar, likely by a music master from Dresden named Naumann. This innovation standardized the six-string guitar across Europe.

The Virtuosity of Spanish Guitarists

During this period, Spanish guitarists like Ferdinand Sor (1778-1839) emerged, showcasing unprecedented virtuosity and flair. Sor was not only a gifted performer but also a diligent composer and transcriber of works for the guitar. His tours across Europe and England had a tremendous impact on the musical community, helping to revive the guitar's popularity.

The Concert (or Classical) Guitar

The Need for Volume

Until about 150 years ago, guitars were typically played solo or with accompanying voices to relatively small audiences. As the guitar became a concert instrument, it needed more volume to be heard in larger halls and alongside other instruments. This led to increases in size and volume, resulting in the concert guitar we know today.

Innovations by Torres and Tarrega

Two Spaniards, Antonio de Torres (1817-1892) and Francisco Tarrega (1852-1909), were instrumental in the development of the concert guitar.

Torres' Contributions

• Size and Shape: Torres increased the size of the instrument, particularly the bouts of the soundbox, and standardized the scale length at 26 inches.
• Fingerboard: He flattened the fingerboard and reduced its width to about two inches, making fingering easier.
• Internal Structure: Torres redesigned the internal structure of the soundbox, adding seven fan braces and extra braces at the tail and around the sound hole. This strengthened the instrument, improved its tone, and increased its volume.

Tarrega's Innovations

• Playing Techniques: Tarrega pioneered the playing techniques used by concert guitarists, known as the "Tarrega method." This includes proper positioning of the guitar, correct hand placement, string plucking procedures, and effective use of the right hand.

The Modern Concert Guitar

Influential Concert Guitarists

Since Tarrega, many outstanding concert guitarists have captivated audiences worldwide. Notable figures include Andres Segovia, who was the first concert guitarist to achieve mass media success. Through radio, records, concerts, and teaching, Segovia established playing patterns, repertoire, and attitudes that have prevailed for over 50 years.

Expanding the Repertoire

Several great guitarists, such as Julian Bream, John Williams, and Leo Brouwer, have contributed to expanding the Segovian repertoire. Despite their efforts, many classical guitarists still draw from the foundational work established by Segovia.

Interesting Stats and Facts

• Global Popularity: The guitar is one of the most popular instruments worldwide, with an estimated 50 million players globally (source: Statista).
• Economic Impact: The global guitar market was valued at approximately $1.2 billion in 2020 and is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.2% from 2021 to 2028 (source: Grand View Research).
• Cultural Influence: The guitar has played a significant role in various music genres, from classical and flamenco to rock and jazz, influencing countless musicians and shaping the sound of modern music.

Conclusion

The history of the Spanish and classical guitar is a testament to the instrument's enduring appeal and versatility. From its origins in the Renaissance to its modern-day prominence, the guitar has evolved through the contributions of innovative musicians and craftsmen. Today, it continues to captivate audiences worldwide, a symbol of musical expression and cultural heritage.