"As a style of music making it incorporates World music, influenced not only by consumable music but also Jazz, Blues, Rock, Metal, Latin and all things in-between."
The Classical Guitar
Classic/Classical guitar is a term used to describe the instruments form/design, materials and construction as well as many of the techniques that allow players to express themselves.
To me the classical guitar is a 6 stringed guitar featuring 3 nylon strings, which help give it its characteristic sound. It has a form which has not changed considerably since its inception, but - just as with all things change does occur even if its not immediately obvious.
In its relatively short life composers and players have brought elements of Spanish and Latin folk music to it - as well as Jazz, Bebop, Blues and World music. If you can name it - it can and has been played on the 'classic' guitar, just check out the work of Bret Williams, Carlo Domeniconi, Leo Brouwer or Richard Charlton.
Why I love to play the classical guitar
As a musician I've benefitted greatly from studying and playing the diverse repertoire of this instrument. From classical with its many evolutions to world and folk music. Latin, Jazz and Blues too. Through this and researching its great practitioners I have learnt so many techniques that transfer to other guitar styles.
Although I have played Classical guitar for a long time, I have only scratched the surface and am still excited by the possibilities in terms of repertoire and technique. Ultimately learning to play the classical guitar has taught me patience and perseverance.
There is more to the classic guitar than the name suggests and I would encourage anyone thinking of taking up the guitar to maintain an open mind, let go of preconceptions and embrace this wonderful member of the guitar family.
Like to learn to play the classical guitar?
There's so much music to explore and learn
on the classical guitar.
From Boureé to Bossa, Rock, Blues, Jazz and all things in-between. With so much choice there's sure to be something for everyone to learn from.
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"The repertoire includes music from composers long gone, to those alive and creating today."
Should I learn to play the classical guitar?
Of course! However, choosing an instrument to learn to play is an incredibly personal thing and you should only take up learning to play one after some consideration. Here are a few important things to start you off with:
- Musical interests - enjoyment is key.
- Goals - what do you want to achieve?
- Commitment - even if you enjoy a style of music, making it for yourself is time consuming and frustrating at times. You will hit road blocks but you have to be prepared to work through them. For me this is a key one.
- Space - do you have the room for a collection of guitars? or sympathetic neighbours willing to put up with the noise as you practise?
Learning to master an instrument and play it's repertoire is a challenging yet very enriching experience.
If you believe you can set aside regular time to devote to this endeavour and be prepared to to work through challenges then please do take it on. I'm here to help you when you feel you need it, just click or call.