How to Learn to Play Spanish Guitar

The Spanish guitar and classical guitar is synonymous. The acoustic guitar used in is made of wood and has six plastic or gut strings. Rosewood is often the wood of choice for the back and sides of the classical instrument. Spruce and cedar usually make up the front plate of the guitar. The ancestry of the Spanish guitar goes back to the Greek kithara lyre.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Spanish guitar
• Classical instructor
• Beginner's instruction book
• Footstool
• Time to practice
• Spare set of strings

1. Set aside time dedicated to practice before you even purchase the classical instrument. As with all musical instruments the more you practice the better you become.

2. Learn how to read music. Spanish guitar is all about notes. You must be able to read the notes in order to know where your fingers need to go.

3. Study music with a teacher. Dedication to the craft comes easier when you work with another person.

4. Grow your fingernails long on your right hand-—this is your picking hand. Spanish guitar doesn't use a pick like acoustic and electric.

5. Find a comfort zone when holding the guitar. Many players prop their left leg by placing the foot on the wrung of a footstool. This shifts the weight of the guitar to the left leg and gives the strumming arm and hand more space to move.

6. Move your fingers up and down the neck of the guitar and listen to the sound difference in each fret. Due to the increased space between strings, there is a wider range of sounds with a Spanish guitar.

7. Select a beginner's book that you understand—not all instruction is geared to every type of learning. If you are a visual learner, make sure the instruction book you choose has a CD.

Tips & Warnings

• Always make sure you have a backup set of strings.
• If you don't practice daily you won't see the improvement in yourself; you need to be motivated.