An Argument for the Study of Music and the Guitar
The study of music, when approached from a position of honesty and respect, teaches us, among other things, form, structure, logic, discipline, and an appreciation of order and beauty. It gives us an awareness of things outside of ourselves and an understanding of things deep within us.
But most important, it teaches us humility. If you don’t believe this, undertake the study of the classical guitar. If it does not humble you, you will probably never be able to unlock the profound beauty and magic of this noble instrument. I feel that it is very important, especially for our young people, to pursue a study of serious music and to learn to perform on an instrument, in particular the classical or nylon stringed guitar.
Why the Classical Guitar?
The classical, or nylon-stringed guitar, has a rich history going back over 400 years. During that time a well-defined technical system has been developed to guide the student toward mastery of the instrument and a rich library of music has been written.
Musical masters through the ages have written, arranged, or had their music transcribed for the guitar including Bach, Beethoven, Mozart, Chopin, Hayden, Mendelssohn, and Scarlatti, just to name a few.
Not only is there a rich library of music for classical guitar but the methods by Sor, Carcassi, Aguado, Guiliani, and others are unchallenged for their rich music and splendid exercises for developing technical control.
Benefits
The study of the classical guitar is challenging but the rewards are worth the effort. It will test you, for the guitar can be a difficult and demanding instrument. There are no shortcuts and it will allow for no cheating. But when you reach that spot of physical, mental, and spiritual alignment and the music begins to flow effortlessly - well, it’s transcendental. Some days I come away from my practice session disappointed and discouraged, for things haven’t gone as I wanted. But when I reach that “spot” a wave of contentment and relaxation washes over me that is indescribable. I know that it is good for my soul.
