2 Facts That You Need To Know When Buying A Classical Guitar
What should you look out for when shopping for a classical guitar at a music store?
The two most important things to look out for when shopping for a classical guitar are: guitar size and string action.
GUITAR SIZE
The best way to check if the guitar size is suitable for the child is to go to the music store and try it while sitting in the perfect guitar position. Here are the different sizes of classical guitars related to the child's age:
Learning becomes more enjoyable when the guitar fits well and is easy to play. The child can easily connect with the guitar which makes them ready to learn right from the start!
GUITAR STRING ACTION
The second most important thing to consider when buying a classical guitar for your child is the guitar’s string action.
Why is correct guitar string action so important?
Let's define string action: string action is the space between the strings and the fret board. Correct string action benefits the child when they’re fretting (i.e. pressing) the string with their left hand fingers.
It’s important to make sure that this is set right on the guitar, so that there is no extra effort needed to sound the notes. Too high of a distance between the fret board and the strings means: the child will need to exert extra energy to depress the string to sound the notes. This extra energy exertion takes away from learning about the deeper connection to the guitar and music.
Overall, the correct guitar string action and guitar size helps both the child and teacher do the things they do best.
As a teacher I focus on the big things, like establishing the child’s connection to the guitar through the tactile feel of the right and the left hand fingers. I focus on teaching the child how to play effortlessly, so that there is space in their practice to explore their creativity and bring out their authenticity through music.
Overall, the correct guitar string action and guitar size helps both the child and teacher do the things they do best.
When a child has the right guitar they can learn without having to fight the guitar, they can learn with ease.
Read my blog post: 4 Reasons Why This Is The Best Guitar For Beginners if you want to know why classical guitar is the best guitar for your child who’s taking beginner lessons.
