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Guide to Classical Guitars

Classical guitars are also called "nylon string guitars" and are of Spanish origin. They can be recognized by certain characteristics such as their modern shape, nylon strings, and by how they are played - usually with fingers or fingernails instead of a pick.

A classical guitar is not limited to classical music as the name implies. It can also be played with other styles of music including jazz, folk, and flamenco. The sound of this type of guitar is produced the same way as a modern-day acoustic guitar - through the vibration of strings. The guitar transmits the vibrations to the soundboard through the saddle and bridge. The quality of the strings, soundboard, saddle, and bridge can greatly affect the sound of a guitar. Cheap materials and/or poor construction often result in a poor sound.

Differences between Classical and Steel-Stringed Guitars

The classical guitar differs from the steel-stringed acoustic guitar in several ways. It has nylon guitar strings instead of steel strings with low string tension, and nylon strings are much easier on the fingers. It has a wide fingerboard, which gives more room for finger playing. The strings are longer to enhance the bass sounds. The body of the classic guitar is lightweight, easier to hold, and smaller than many steel-stringed acoustic designs. There are even specially designed guitars for backpacks, such as the Martin guitars backpacking series, which has a very skinny body for the perfect fit!

The steel string guitar is used more for pick playing and has a slimmer neck with the strings closer together. Playing a steel string guitar will require patience - and a little pain - as the fingers get use to it. It usually takes a few weeks of practice to develop calluses on the fingers.

Buying a Classical Guitar

When buying a classical guitar, consider your goals for owning a guitar. What type of music will you play and how often? If you want a guitar for mere casual enjoyment, then buy an inexpensive guitar. If you need the instrument to be amplified for concert playing, then an acoustic-electric option would be helpful. Find a reputable musical instrument dealer, preferably one that specializes in classic guitars. A dealer that specializes will usually carry a larger selection of the type of guitar you want at all price ranges.

Try out the guitar before buying. Make sure the size is just right for you. Also, consider the feel of the strings and the sound. If possible, take someone with you so they can play it as you listen. This will allow you to judge the sound objectively. Consider the timbre, or tone color, the bass notes, the treble notes, the neck shape and thickness, and the string height above the fingerboard.

Also consider the workmanship of the classical guitar. Is the wood of fine quality? What about the binding, the finish, and the polish and seating of the frets? Do the heads turn smoothly for easy pitch control? Even a cheaper factory model should have a great sound though it may be lacking in areas of quality.

Pricing for a classical guitar ranges anywhere from $150 up to $20,000. This is a fairly broad spectrum, but as with any product, you get what you pay for. So choose wisely.

Look for classical guitars online or check with a local dealer to find one that's right for you. You can also use online resources to find great classical guitar sheet music, nylon guitar strings, guitar stands, and other guitar accessories at reasonable prices.

~~~ Written by Candice Pardue

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