Learn to play the guitar
Guitar
A string instrument of the lute family. It is either strummed (rhythm guitar) or plucked (lead guitar) and it usually has fingerboard frets. The modern classical guitar has a wooden resonating chamber and six strings.
Why learn?
Whether you play classical or rock, the guitar is always popular at parties and around campfires. Like the piano, it is ideal for learning about harmony and it is great to sing along to, as it is so self-sufficient - you don't need anyone to accompany you.
Getting a Taste
The Art of Segovia
Andres Segovia
DG 471 697-2
Rodrigo
Concierto de Aranjuez
John Williams / Philharmonia Orchestra
Sony SK37848438
Buying advice
You can buy a good instrument for a relatively small price - about £65 - but if you spend £150 or so on a solid-top instrument it is well worth it. This means that the top side is crafted from two pieces of wood, rather than from plywood. Of course, the sky is the limit for top-quality guitars, and needless to say, the more you spend and the better quality the wood, the easier it will be to play and of course, the better the sound.
Webwatch
Fascinating articles on practice, history and construction and interviews with world-class guitarists can be found in Guitarra Magazine. For good links to music publishers, guitar societies and players, visit the World Guitarist site. The Guitar Circle promotes composers, players and teachers.
You can visit the icanplayit website to access online courses in classical guitar and rock guitar with world-class musicians, or try nowplayit to learn individual songs step-by-step.
