The Guitar Family

Accoustic Guitar - Electric Guitar - Bass Guitar - Ukulele

Plucked string instruments are a type of string instrument that are played by, you guessed it, plucking strings. Plucking is a way of pulling and releasing the string, much like flipping through files in a drawer. Plucks and strums causes the strings to vibrate. Plucking can be done with either a finger or a pick.

Acoustic/Classical Guitar

Everyone knows what a guitar is, but do you why the guitar is so special?

You may enjoy playing acoustic guitar if you enjoy listening to classical, folk, country, or pop music.

In jazz ensembles, the guitar is part of the rhythm section and is occasionally played as a solo instrument.

Best age to start: 5 and up

Electric Guitar

Your parents are always letting you to get off your electronics, but how can they argue with you when you’re practicing your electric guitar!

Instead of a hollow instrument that transmits the sound through the air, the electric guitar uses one or more ‘magnetic pickups’ to convert the vibration of its strings into electrical signals. These electrical signals go right into the amp, which gives the electric guitar its unique and unforgettable sound. Electric guitars can be found in most rock and pop bands.

Best age to start: 6 and up

Bass Guitar

Do double duty as a guitarist and member of the rhythm section!

The bass guitar is shaped a lot like an electric guitar, however it is a bit longer. The electric bass has many of the same parts as an electric guitar. But, unsurprisingly, the bass guitar produces lower tones! Plucking or picking close the bridge produces a more muted sound, while strumming the string closer to the neck produces a full, more resonant tone. Many times you are supporting the drummer in keeping the band together.

Best age to start: 7 and up

Ukulele

The ukulele has four strings. Ukuleles are part of the guitar family of instruments. The smaller size and typical nylon strings make this a perfect beginner instrument. The ukulele was invented in 1879 in the great state of Hawaii, where they were influenced by the small guitar-esque instruments which were brought to the island by the Portuguese sailors. There are 4 sizes of the ukulele, the most common size being the soprano, which is around 2 feet long. Other sizes include: concert, tenor, and baritone.

Best age to start:4 and up