Learning Classical Guitar

The Basics

Spend around $200 - $250 Size, tone, buzzed notes, intonation, balance,

tone colors, volume. If possible, bring someone that has played for

a while to the store.

The First Guitar

The classical guitar playing position requires a

support. Foot stool.

Very common. Adjustable. Can cause back problems.

EFEL support. Concealable. Comfortable. Limited adjustability.

Supports

ErgoPlay.

Very adjustable. Sturdy. Use of suction cups is debatable. Many different designs.

GR-2 Guitar Rest Very flexible. Clamps to guitar. Adjustable rod lengths.

Supports Cont.

Stretching the whole body before playing is

generally a great idea. Stretching the hands is extremely important!

Multiple stretches A great deal of injury can come from being ill

prepared to play. It feels great!

Stretching

Nail shape and maintenance is important!

Nails should be very slightly visible over the tip of the finger.

Shape the nails with a very fine, metal nail file. Sand the roughness away with 500 grade open coat

sandpaper. Alternatives to natural nails. Demonstration of flexor and extensor muscles. Right hand arpeggio exercises are key to early

success. Finger names.

The Right Hand

Fretting the notes relies on larger muscles of

the arms, NOT the thumb. This is where serious injury can occur.

Strive to use the least amount of pressure with the fingers.

Keep movement to a minimum. Scale exercises.

Start slow. Alternate i m fingers.

The Left Hand

Straight back. Elbows slightly out. Head up. Feet planted firmly. Right hand wrist is straight/slightly bent. Left hand is slightly curved around the neck.

Posture

Thank you!

Enjoy playing!