How to Play Baritone Guitar

The deep resonating music of the old spaghetti western was a signature of the baritone guitar. Originally introduced by the Danelectro company in the late 1950s, bands today have rediscovered the quality of the low tones that just can't be duplicated by tuning down a standard guitar. Musicians find the sultry resonation that a baritone can achieve is perfect for that dark and edgy atmospheric mood.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Learn the notes. The baritone guitar is typically tuned a fourth or fifth lower than a standard guitar, but with the same type of relative tuning. Strings are B E A D F# B when tuned at a fourth lower. Tuned at a fifth lower the strings are A D G C E A. You can even go an octave lower. Have fun with it.

2. Read music as though it is tuned like a standard guitar. Many of the baritone guitars have a scale between 680mm and 760mm.

3. Pick up the guitar and place your fingers in the proper place. It is not necessary to learn any new fingering, though you will want to alter your picking positions to get a variety of tone.

4. Sit with your legs together, feet flat on the floor and the waist of guitar on your right leg. With a larger neck and body, the baritone guitar isn't as stable as the standard.

5. Start playing. Low notes have more sustain and deeper pitch, making it important to dampen the strings with the heel of your hand when they are finished. Play around and have fun while the baritone's low tone resonates deep in your chest.