By Carvel Avis in History and Information

The classic guitar, often interchangeably referred to as the "classical guitar," is an instrument steeped in history and tradition. Its unique construction and the techniques developed for it have been honed over centuries, making it a subject of endless fascination for musicians, historians, and aficionados alike. This article aims to provide an in-depth look into the evolution of classic guitar techniques, tracing its rich lineage from ancient civilizations to the modern era.

The Ancestry of the Classic Guitar

The Ancient Roots

The history of stringed instruments dates back thousands of years, with various cultures contributing to the development of the guitar. The Greek kithara, the long-necked lutes of Mesopotamia, and the Coptic lutes of Egypt all had features that would later influence the guitar. These instruments were often used in religious ceremonies, royal courts, and public festivities, serving both sacred and secular roles. The kithara, for example, was a central instrument in ancient Greek education and was used to accompany epic poetry.

The Spanish Influence

By the late 18th century, Spain had become a hub for guitar development. The Baroque guitar, originating in Spain, was a pivotal instrument that influenced future generations. This five-course guitar had a tuning that closely resembles that of modern guitars. It was the instrument of choice for composers like Alonso Mudarra, whose works are still studied today. Mudarra's "Tres Libros de Música" is a seminal work that includes music for the vihuela and the four-course guitar, showcasing the evolving techniques of the time.

The Birth of Classic Techniques

The Vihuela's Legacy

The vihuela, a lute-like instrument popular in 15th and 16th-century Italy and Spain, was a direct precursor to the classic guitar. It had three varieties: the vihuela de penola, played with a plectrum; the vihuela de arco, played with a bow; and the vihuela de mano, plucked with the fingers. The vihuela de mano was particularly influential, as it had a tuning that closely resembled the modern guitar and was played without a pick, a technique that would be carried over to the classic guitar. The vihuela was also significant in the development of musical notation for plucked string instruments, with composers like Luis de Milan publishing books that used a form of tablature.

The Right Hand Revolution

The classic guitar technique involves intricate right-hand movements, using the thumbnail and fingernails instead of a pick. This allows for a multi-layered approach to music, enabling the guitarist to handle bass lines, chords, and melodies simultaneously. This technique was a natural evolution from the vihuela and Baroque guitar, both of which were also played without a pick. The right-hand technique has been refined over the years, with various schools of thought advocating for different hand positions, nail shapes, and stroke types. The rest-stroke (Apoyando) and free-stroke (Tirando), for example, are foundational techniques that have been discussed and refined in countless method books.

Playing the Free Stroke vs Playing the Rest Stroke

The rest stroke is executed by placing a fingernail on a string (with the finger almost straight but slightly curved) and, using the joint at the base of the finger to move the fingernail across the string, stop the stroke by resting the finger on the string just below it. The free stroke is executed by placing a fingernail on a string (with the finger curved at the middle joint) and, using the middle joint to move the fingernail across the string, stop the stroke by resting the finger freely above the string.

The 20th Century and Beyond

20th Century Pioneers of the Classic Technique: 

Andres Segovia - The Father of Modern Classic Guitar

Andrés Segovia is often considered the father of modern classical guitar. His influence is immeasurable, not just in the techniques he refined, but also in the legitimacy he brought to the guitar as a classical instrument. Before Segovia, the guitar was often relegated to folk music and was not considered worthy of the concert stage. Segovia changed all that by not only mastering the instrument but also by commissioning new works from contemporary composers. His collaborations with composers like Heitor Villa-Lobos, Federico Moreno Torroba, and Manuel Ponce expanded the guitar's repertoire and brought it into the classical mainstream.

But Segovia was not alone. Other pioneers like Julian Bream and John Williams further pushed the boundaries of what the classical guitar could do. Bream, in particular, was known for his interpretations of early music, often played on period instruments, while Williams brought a level of technical mastery that set new standards for the instrument.

Christopher Parkening - The Maestro of Classic Guitar

Christopher Parkening is a luminary in the world of classical guitar, often hailed as one of the world's preeminent virtuosos. His artistry has been compared to the legendary Andrés Segovia, and he's known for his impeccable technique and emotive performances. Parkening has brought classical guitar to a wide audience through numerous recordings and performances with orchestras, in solo recitals, and in chamber music settings. His discography is extensive, but some standout recordings include "Parkening Plays Bach" and "A Bach Celebration," both of which have received critical acclaim. His collaborations with soprano Kathleen Battle in "Angels' Glory" and "Pleasures of Their Company" are also highly regarded. Parkening's contributions to classical guitar have made him a household name for enthusiasts and a standard-bearer for aspiring guitarists.

The Influence of Jazz and Popular Music

The classic guitar technique has not been confined to classical music. Artists like Earl Klugh and Ralph Towner have applied classical techniques to jazz, creating a unique fusion that has expanded the horizons of both genres. Klugh's fingerstyle technique, influenced by the likes of Chet Atkins and classical guitar, has been a significant contribution to the world of jazz guitar. This cross-genre application has led to a broader acceptance of the classical guitar in various musical circles, further enriching its techniques and repertoire.

The Modern Classroom and Institutionalization

The 20th century also saw the classic guitar enter formal educational settings. Programs and curricula were developed to teach classic guitar techniques, often influenced by the works and teachings of Segovia and other masters. This institutionalization has helped standardize techniques and has provided a structured pathway for aspiring guitarists. Method books, often accompanied by recordings, have become a staple in the modern guitar classroom. Schools like the Juilliard School in New York and the Royal Academy of Music in London now offer specialized courses in classical guitar, a testament to the instrument's elevated status.

The Globalization of Classical Guitar

The latter part of the 20th century and the early 21st century have seen the classical guitar gain global popularity. Artists from Asia, such as Kazuhito Yamashita, and from Latin America, like Yamandu Costa, have brought diverse influences into classical guitar techniques. International competitions and festivals have sprung up, providing platforms for emerging talents from around the world. The internet has also played a role in this globalization, allowing artists to share their techniques and interpretations with a global audience.

Evolution of the Classic Guitar Technique

While the classic guitar was the instrument most known for the development of classic technique, the classic technique’s influence has reached beyond the classic guitar. Many guitarists have borrowed from the classic technique substituting a pick for their thumb and adding the fingers of the right hand to combine bass, chords and melody much like classic guitarists have done for a few hundred years. Some notable guitarists from the jazz genre are Jim Hall and Pat Metheny and in the country genre, the one and only Chet Atkins. The list goes on but I’ll shine a light on a few of them here.

Jim Hall - The Jazz Guitar Innovator

Jim Hall was a luminary in the world of jazz guitar, revered not just as a performer but also as a profound musical thinker. His deep understanding of music theory, harmony, and especially counterpoint set him apart from his contemporaries. Hall's intricate interplay between melody and harmony transformed simple musical phrases into complex harmonic landscapes, making him a significant influence on younger guitarists like Pat Metheny. This intellectual approach to the guitar has been cited by Metheny as a major inspiration, particularly in his own exploration of harmonic language and ensemble dynamics. Hall's landmark recordings, such as "Undercurrent" with Bill Evans and "Concierto," serve as masterclasses in the application of counterpoint and sophisticated harmonic structures within a jazz context. His legacy is that of a scholar and innovator who elevated the role of the guitar in jazz, leaving an indelible mark on the genre and its future luminaries.

Pat Metheny - The Harmonic Explorer

Pat Metheny is a modern jazz guitar virtuoso known for his intricate harmonic language and innovative approach to improvisation. His expansive knowledge of music theory and counterpoint is evident in his compositions and playing style, which often feature complex chordal structures and interwoven melodic lines. Metheny has cited Jim Hall as a significant influence, particularly in his approach to harmony and the guitar's role within an ensemble. This influence can be heard in recordings like "Bright Size Life" and "Question and Answer," where Metheny's deep understanding of counterpoint allows him to create multi-layered musical conversations. His work has not only pushed the boundaries of jazz guitar but has also expanded the genre's harmonic vocabulary, making him a pivotal figure in contemporary jazz.

Chet Atkins: The Country Virtuoso with a Classical Touch

Chet Atkins stands as a towering figure in the world of guitar, particularly in the country genre. However, his influence extends far beyond just country music; he was a master of adapting classical techniques to a wide range of styles. Known for his "fingerstyle" technique, Atkins often used a thumb pick to handle bass lines while employing his other fingers for melody and harmony, a clear nod to the classic technique. His approach allowed him to produce a rich, orchestral sound that was both intricate and emotive.

Atkins was not just a performer but also an educator, sharing his techniques through instructional books and videos. His recordings, such as "Chet Atkins' Workshop" and "The Most Popular Guitar," serve as masterclasses in the application of classical techniques to modern guitar playing. His collaborations with other guitar legends like Mark Knopfler in "Neck and Neck" further showcase his versatility and deep understanding of guitar techniques across genres.

His legacy is not just in the music he left behind but also in the countless guitarists he influenced. From country to jazz to classical, Atkins' adaptation of classic techniques has had a lasting impact, making him a pivotal figure in the evolution of guitar playing.

Future Tech - What’s New and On the Horizon

Riff Lab: The Future of Guitar Technology and Learning

A New Paradigm in Guitar Education

In an age where technology is reshaping the way we learn and interact with music, Riff Lab emerges as a revolutionary platform for guitarists of all styles and levels. It transcends traditional learning methods, offering an interactive, intuitive, and intelligent approach to mastering the guitar.

The Power of Visualization

One of the most compelling features of Riff Lab is its advanced visualization capabilities. Forget about flipping through pages of sheet music or pausing and rewinding videos. Riff Lab offers an interactive fretboard that allows you to see scales, arpeggios, and custom note sequences in real-time. This visual approach makes complex musical concepts more accessible, helping you to internalize them more quickly.

Beyond Passive Learning: The Interactive Edge

What sets Riff Lab apart from other learning tools is its high level of interactivity. You're not just a passive consumer of information; you're an active participant in your own learning journey. The platform allows you to create your own note sequences by clicking on the fretboard, offering immediate transcription into musical notation. This hands-on approach encourages experimentation and deepens your understanding of guitar theory.

Intelligent Assistance with the "IQ" Feature

The "IQ" feature in Riff Lab is like a virtual mentor that guides you through the intricacies of advanced guitar techniques. With a single click, it scans your note sequence and suggests opportunities for hammer-ons, pull-offs, string bends, and slides. It even optimizes your picking direction for maximum efficiency. This feature is like having a seasoned guitarist looking over your shoulder, offering expert advice tailored to your current project.

Rhythm Remix: Unleashing Creativity

Riff Lab's "Add Rhythm Remix" button is a creative powerhouse. It allows you to inject new life into your note sequences by randomly altering their rhythm. You can even customize the probabilities for different note durations, offering a rich tapestry of rhythmic possibilities. This feature not only keeps your practice sessions fresh but also challenges you to adapt and improve your rhythmic skills.

A Collaborative Learning Ecosystem

Riff Lab is more than just a tool; it's a thriving community of guitar enthusiasts. The platform allows users to share their custom sequences, tips, and insights, fostering a collaborative learning environment. Whether you're a beginner seeking guidance or an advanced player looking to share your wisdom, Riff Lab offers a space for meaningful interaction and growth.

What's Next for Riff Lab?

As we look to the future, Riff Lab is poised to continue breaking new ground. Plans for AI-driven feedback, multi-instrument integration, and even virtual reality experiences are on the horizon. In a rapidly evolving technological landscape, Riff Lab stands as a beacon of innovation, setting the stage for the next chapter in guitar education.

Conclusion

The classic guitar is an instrument with a rich history and a bright future. Its techniques have been shaped by centuries of innovation and adaptation, each generation contributing its own insights and refinements. As technology continues to advance, the classic guitar is poised for yet another transformation, but its deep-rooted techniques and storied history will always serve as a foundation for future generations.