Essential Guitar Equipment for Beginners

Even though it’s been around for four centuries, the guitar is one of the most modern and fun instruments to play in the 21st century. For beginners of all ages, it’s important to have a few crucial pieces of equipment to learn and play. Luckily, these can be procured on almost any budget.

A Dependable Guitar

Obviously, the guitar is the cornerstone of your gear. Whether you’re asking “Where can I find high-end guitars online,” or looking for a bargain on a budget, the reality is this: you won’t be happy with a cheap, poorly constructed guitar. The difference in quality between even a $90 and $350 model is massive, and of course, you can always scale up from there.

 

Picks, Strings, and a Strap

Whatever style of guitar you’re planning to play, it’s good to learn how to finger-pick and strum with a guitar pick. Guitar picks are usually made of plastic, and while they come in different thicknesses, they are very affordable: well under a dollar apiece and available in boxes. You should also have an extra set of strings on hand. Even though it won’t be one of the first things you learn, being able to restring a guitar is an essential skill. You could easily break a string while practicing, so it’s good practice to have a backup set.

A Solid Amplifier

Whether you’re playing electric or acoustic guitar, if you’re ever planning on performing live outside of your basement, you’ll need an amplifier. You don’t want to skimp on this either, but the size (and cost) will depend greatly on the sort of venue you plan on playing in.

Good Cables

Finally, it’s important to realize that most issues with amplified sound come from faulty or old ¼” cables. Spend a few extra bucks on good ones and replace them often.

These essential tools will set you up for success as you begin your guitar journey.

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The Amazing Triple Fret

It was a pleasure to finally meet these three beautiful and talented ladies: Iqui, Marga and Jenny during their church concert at the Römische Katholische Erlöserkirche in Zürich, Switzerland last June. They were on a three-month European tour and I was hoping they would also perform in Germany. Unfortunately, they didn't have anything scheduled for Germany and the closest performance venue was in Zürich, Switzerland. The two and a half hour drive was worth it. 

They just play the classical guitar so beautifully... mesmerizing your very being. They played folk songs like Usahay, Leron, Leron Sinta and Si Filemon, Si Filemon, classical Spanish and contemporary songs like the Queen's Bohemian Rhapsody using various classical guitar techniques during their performance / mini-concert. 

Their playing was harmonious, captivating, emotional and just heavenly. Watching them playing, it seemed as if their classical guitars came to life. And I find myself wishing I could play so beautifully too. But I guess I am better off being at the audience. I would love it though if my man can learn to play "Usahay" similar to the Triple Fret's interpretation. I just love this classic Cebuano song. Jenny, send me a copy please? Then perhaps I could purchase my man in something from www.musiciansfriend.com in return... like maybe another classical guitar? :)

I also got an autographed copy of their first album! It was a great accompaniment on our way home from Zürich to Stuttgart... with a stunning sunset view on the way!

Kudos ladies! And may you continue to move and captivate people with your unique musical style!  And oh, my CONGRATULATIONS for bringing home the Gold in the guitar ensemble category during the Tarrega Malaysia International Guitar Festival 2014 in Klang, Malaysia. I am one proud friend!

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Three Is Way Better Than One

Last Friday, the Filipino community here in Stuttgart held the annual Summer Fest. It began with the celebration of the holy eucharist. Thankfully, there were three guitarists who played: the hubby, ate Vicky and Jan, the son of one of our friends. Ate Vicky prepared the mass songs to be played and had copies distributed to the community. No, they didn't have any practice playing together but I thought they played very well, one song after another.

Hubby has a classical guitar with him. I think Ate Vicky has an acoustic guitar. Jan brought two guitars with him, one of which was his electric guitar. Now I don't quite know what the difference is between these three but I do know there is a difference. He also had a portable amplifier with him and I think a monster cable that he can connect to his instrument. Unfortunately he wasn't able to use it, since they realized using it might drown the two other guitars, which were not amplified. Monster cable or no, we were all able to hear the music coming from the three guitars playing. It may not be a perfect harmony but it was beautiful music just the same.

Hopefully in the upcoming eucharistic celebrations, there will be more guitar players who will volunteer to play. After all, three guitars playing is way better than one.

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Of Pedals and Stompboxes

I do not come from a musical family but I do love music. Although I love music, I do not know how to play a single musical instrument. Thankfully, my husband is into classical guitar playing. For three years now, he has been self-practicing and then found this online forum where he gets to have free lessons. He has made a lot of progress and is almost at the end of the "first year". I know he wants to enroll himself at a local guitar school but just doesn't have the time yet to get himself into one because of a hectic work schedule.

Anyway, he has equipped himself with some useful tools for his classical guitar lessons. He recently got himself a digital recorder that will record his music. Since he has some difficulties especially with rhythm, I think Zvex Effects stompboxes will help him to get into rhythm, or perhaps not. I am not so familiar with such tools or if effects pedals are applicable to classical guitars. I am certain though that most guitarists use this gear to help give their music that characteristic tone and unique sound.

STOMPBOXES. EFFECTS PEDALS. Two very foreign words that I thought I never would encounter in my life but just did. Hmmm... I wonder if the husband also knows... :-) Can someone tell me how they work?

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Triple Fret

Let me introduce to you a friend and classmate of mine in high school. Her name is Jenny de Vera. She is cool, she is talented, she is very gifted when it comes to music. Back in our high school days, she can already play the guitar very well, playing popular songs even without a guide. I guess the term to use is "kapa", which means the ability to play the same tune just by listening to it. I was more impressed with her ability with the guitar now that she has become a professional classical guitarist. I haven't seen her perform live yet but from her videos on the internet, I can say that she has really matured and perfected the art of classical guitar.

Jenny and her guitar. From Jenny's Facebook Timeline cover page. 

She recently performed at the Pasinaya 2012 at the  CCP Little Theater with her group, Triple Fret, a trio guitar ensemble. I am happy to learn that their performance was a success.

Triple Fret. I love the name... It has a certain ring to it. What is it? From their Facebook About Page: "Triple Fret is an all girl classical guitar trio composed of Catherine Belle, Marga Abejo and Jenny de Vera. The group was formed in October 2011. They play classical guitar trio pieces as well as solo classical guitar pieces that are dynamic in genre and time period."

I would love to come to one of her solo or band performances if the opportunity comes. My husband, who is also a classical guitar enthusiast, would surely enjoy their performance too. Maybe she can give him lessons too... Pde bang at reduced fees ang lessons Jen?

For those who love and appreciate classical guitar, you might want to watch Triple Fret or Jenny perform live. Watch out for their future performances via their Facebook Page at https://www.facebook.com/triplefret3 or send them an email at triplefretguitar@gmail.com for bookings and more info.

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