The Unique Sound Of A Classical Guitar

Classical Guitar Music And My Story

When I was a kid, I had no interest in classical guitar music. To tell you the truth, I wasn't even aware that it existed. My parents loved classical music, but I hadn't gotten into it that much. I would listen to it when it was on in the background, but what I really liked was rock 'n roll.

Can't Play Rock On No Classical Guitar

I dreamed of becoming a rock guitarist, shredding in front of crowds of thousands and making millions of dollars at it. Needless to say, classical guitar didn't fit into that.

I Discovered A New Dream

Then one day, rummaging up in the attic I found my dad's old classical guitar. I did not understand that the nylon strings and headstock design were unusual compared to acoustic guitars or electric axes, since I had never seen a guitar up close before.

I figured this was what all guitars looked like, and I asked my dad to give me some lessons. He showed me a few things that evening, and I began to practice nonstop.

One of the great things about starting on the classical guitar was that it allowed me to practice a lot more than I would have been able to otherwise. When you are first starting out on an acoustic guitar, the strings really bite into your fingers. Because these instruments use nylon strings, they don't really have this problem. You can play with ease even as a beginner. This makes it much less frustrating during the first few weeks.

I Found The Beauty Of A Classical Guitar   Eventually I discovered that I was playing classic guitar music, but by then I was too into it to care.   It really was a beautiful instrument, and I was loving the stuff that I was being shown.

This Music Will Make You Stretch Your Fingers - And Musical Knowledge

The great thing about learning classical guitar is that you can also quite easily pick up rock 'n roll. Rock music, folk music, and most popular music is extremely simple. Learning classical music will give you all the tools to easily take it up anytime you want to.

As a matter of fact, did you know that some of the best lead guitar players out there nowadays are classically trained?

Classical Guitars In The Beginning

If you are thinking about learning guitar, at least give classical some thought. It is easy to find online beginner classical Spanish guitar lessons to try out for free. You can look and see what the teacher is doing and decide if you like it or not.

Regarding Some History Of Classical Guitar Music

The lute and the mandolin were the forerunners of the modern guitar that we are familiar with today. The guitar became as prominent during the 16th century and composers wrote classical guitar music compositions from this period onwards.

The technique needed for this music is sometimes difficult to master, whether for solo pieces or as part of a concerto. True virtuosos therefore, are greatly valued.

The Romantic period of the 19th century saw the blossoming of the guitar and many more composers wrote specifically for the instrument, including Niccolo Paganini (1782-1840). The 20th century continued to produce great guitarists and composers and there was a lot of interest in jazz and pop fusions and Latin music.

Previously, only guitar players had written classical guitar music but more orchestral composers began to take a serious interest in the instrument. These included Malcolm Arnold, Richard Rodney Bennett and Benjamin Britten.

Spanish Classical Guitarist Andres Segovia

Most experts consider Spanish guitarist Andres Segovia (1893-1987) to be the man responsible for making classical guitar a respectable instrument and one worthy of concert hall status. Such was his kudos in his home country; the King of Spain made him a Marquess in 1981.

He transcribed compositions for the guitar by different composers, including Bach. He also helped in the design of a new style of guitar. Segovia wanted more volume as he often played in large, cavernous halls. The new instrument was shaped differently and used another kind of wood and nylon strings.

Julian Bream

British born musician Julian Bream (1933-) has enjoyed a long career, playing classical guitar music and Elizabethan music for the lute. He has a varied repertoire and has played 17th century music, Spanish compositions and modern works. He is known for his interpretations of the works of Bach.

Many composers have written specific pieces for him to play. John Williams (1941-) was born in Australia and has the distinction of having studied under the great Segovia in Italy when he was merely twelve years old. He has had many interesting collaborations and was a member of the fusion group, Sky.

He has worked with Bream and Paco Pena and did a duet with Pete Townshend from the Who, playing their hit song, Won't Get Fooled Again. Williams had a hit single across the world when he recorded Cavatina, used as the theme tune for the 1979 movie, The Deer Hunter. Because there are guitarists and composers of this caliber, classical guitar music will continue to thrive.

One Final Thought About Playing Classical Guitar

Even if you ultimately discover that classical guitar is not your style, you won't have lost anything. If anything, you will have started with a solid musical foundation that will make you a better rock player than if you hadn't studied classical music. What's your playing goal?