Saturday 21 February 2009

Classical Guitar: The 4 Important Elements

The classical guitar is one of the most important instruments of the renaissance period and even in the contemporary times, it is considered as one of the finest musical instruments. If you have been thinking of picking up some lessons in classical guitar then you should go ahead because the entire process of playing this instrument is an experience in itself.

Some experts believe that if you can play the classical guitar to perfection then you can play any other type of guitar from rhythm to lead. Talking of rhythm, it is one of the four integral elements of music while the other three are timbre, dynamics, and pitch. Most people have a fair idea of rhythm and pitch because we are used to listening to music on television, radio, computer, internet, and live concerts as well. But you might be quite unfamiliar with dynamics and timbre. So let us take a look at what these 4 elements really are and why they are important in classical guitar.

Pitch
Pitch is mostly used for the purpose of tuning the classical guitar. The pitch of a guitar can be changed if you make any changes at the head of the guitar also known as the headstock. The headstock is the thin end of the guitar all the strings are tied to a screw. The traditional layout will have 3 strings on one side and 3 strings on the other also known as the 3+3 tuner layout. By playing the strings in different parts of the guitar or the fret board, you can take out high or low pitch sounds, which will come into play in the advanced classical guitar lessons.

Rhythm
The rhythm is at the heart of guitar playing because it consists of a single beat or a multiple beats. So when you hear a particular tune on a guitar then it is not really a tune, it is a rhythm. In a particular music composition, you will be playing several different types of beats or rhythms.

Dynamics
Dynamics is sound related and refers to the change in the volume or intensity of the sound coming out of your classical guitar. For example: if you pluck a string lightly then the intensity of the sound will be low but if you pluck a string hard then the sound will be loud and bold. Dynamics are used to highlight a particular section of a classical composition.

Timbre
Technically speaking, Timbre is defined as the actual quality of sound that is brought out by the harmonic content of that particular sound. To make it sound simpler, timbre is like adding color to your composition and is caused only when the strings vibrate. To an extent the type of timbre depends a lot on where you touch the string or pluck it to make it vibrate.

Here are some tips to determine if the classical guitar lessons are good or not:
- The lessons should include familiarizing with the classical guitar
- The lessons will start with the basic understanding before jumping to scales and chords
- The lessons should be easy to understand for a beginner

About The Author:
Guitar Lessons Singapore is the Only Guitar Agency In Singapore. Master The Guitar Quickly And Easily. Fun & Inspiring Guitar Lessons. Call Audrey @ 6844 8985. Learn more at http://www.guitarlessonssingapore.com


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