The classical guitar marks the instrument in its purest form. Yet these guitars, first standardised by Antonio de Torres in the 19th century, are far from the most valuable instrument. Virtually every other type of guitar, whether electric or steel-string acoustic, has been sold for more at auction. Perhaps it's no surprise. Music is about emotion more than history. Kurt … [Read more...] about What is the most expensive classical guitar ever sold?
Guitar Construction
Inside the guitar: how bracing affects sound
One of the first things a guitarist does when weighing up an instrument is to look at the type of wood. Yet few will consider the bracing that sits just under the soundboard. Bracing refers to the wooden strips of wood that are glued to the inside of the guitar. They strengthen the top, which vibrates in response to the plucked strings, and help shape the overall sound. … [Read more...] about Inside the guitar: how bracing affects sound
What is a tornavoz?
The tornvoz was a standard component of many guitars built in the second half of the 19th century but is rarely seen today. A simple bronze conical tube attached to the inside of the guitar's sound hole, it accentuated the instrument's bass register and directed the sound towards the listener. "There is no doubt that the sound of the guitar with a tornavoz acquires a … [Read more...] about What is a tornavoz?
Is the Yamaha C40 a good guitar for beginners?
Beginner guitarists need a low-cost instrument that is durable, yet easy to play. The C40 is Yamaha's solution to this demanding set of criteria. In fact, the C40's low price and consistent quality has made it one of the most popular nylon string guitars in the world. It is a favorite among guitar teachers and their students. I recently bought a second-hand Yamaha C40 to … [Read more...] about Is the Yamaha C40 a good guitar for beginners?
Why guitar reviews aren’t always right: trust your own ears, not someone else’s
A group of skilled classical guitarists were unable to consistently rank 12 instruments from best to worst even after playing them, according to a new study. The surprising result raises questions about the role of subjectivity when attempting to assess an instrument's sound. "There was rough consensus on the most and least desirable instruments, but no clear subjective … [Read more...] about Why guitar reviews aren’t always right: trust your own ears, not someone else’s
Flamenco guitar vs. classical guitar construction
The flamenco guitar sounds radically different than the classical guitar yet the differences in construction are subtle. They are not separate instruments in the way that a violin differs from a viola, which are closely related but significantly different in size, pitch, and sound quality. Some have compared the difference to a violin and a fiddle, given a fiddle is a … [Read more...] about Flamenco guitar vs. classical guitar construction