Learn to Play the Guitar
2 July 2007Another category of instruments that I mentioned briefly in an earlier post about instruments is the plectrum group of instruments. This group includes the familiar guitar, electric guitar, bass guitar, steel guitar, mandolin, and banjo. A plectrum is more commonly known as a pick. This is a small, usually triangle shaped, piece of plastic that is held between the thumb and forefinger. The pick is used to pick or strum the strings on the instruments in this group. According to Wikipedia:
Guitarists in the rock, blues, jazz, and bluegrass world tend to use a plectrum, partly because the use of steel strings tends to wear out the fingernails quickly, and also because using a plectrum allows for a more ‘focused’ and ‘aggressive’ sound.
The Guitar vs. The Piano
The guitar has become the most widely played instrument in the world. It has evolved over more than 5000 years. There is evidence of ancient instruments throughout history that were “guitar like.” Guitar has become extremely popular, surpassing the popularity of the piano, in the last four decades. For over one hundred and fifty years, the piano was the most popular instrument in the home. But as culture evolved over the last 50 years, the guitar became the dominant instrument in popular music. There are many types of guitars…again, from Wikipedia:
The guitar is a musical instrument with ancient roots, used in a wide variety of musical styles, and it is also a solo classical instrument. It is recognized as one of the primary instruments in blues, country, flamenco, rock music and many forms of pop. The guitar usually has six strings, but four, seven, eight, ten, and twelve string guitars also exist. Guitars are made and repaired by luthiers. Guitars may be played acoustically or they may rely on an amplifier that usually allows for electronic manipulation of tone. The electric guitar was introduced in the 20th century and continues to have a profound influence on popular culture.
What is your experience with the guitar? Is it something you play, or would like to play? If you already play, how easy was it for you to learn? Post a comment and let me know about your experiences …
