Why are Classical Guitars Made with Nylon Strings?
If you’re a guitarist or a music lover, you might have wondered why classical guitars are made with nylon strings. The answer to this question lies in the history of the instrument and the acoustic properties of nylon strings. In this blog post, we’ll explore the origin of classical guitars, the benefits of using nylon strings, and why some contemporary guitarists still prefer them over steel strings.
The Origin of Classical Guitars
First, let’s take a look at the history of classical guitars. The guitar as we know it today has its roots in Spain in the 16th century. Back then, the instrument had a rounded back, commonly known as the “vihuela,” and was primarily used in courtly music and dances. Over time, the vihuela evolved into the modern classical guitar we know today, with a flat back, six strings, and a longer neck.
The modern classical guitar gained popularity in the 18th and 19th centuries, especially in Spain and Latin America. Classical composers such as Francisco Tárrega, Fernando Sor, and Isaac Albéniz wrote music specifically for the instrument, and it became a staple in classical music performance and education. Today, it remains a popular instrument for classical, flamenco, and acoustic music.
The Benefits of Nylon Strings
One of the defining characteristics of the classical guitar is its use of nylon strings. This is different from steel strings, which are commonly used in acoustic and electric guitars. Nylon strings were first introduced in the 1940s, but their rise in popularity can be attributed to the famous Spanish guitarist, Andrés Segovia, who used nylon strings exclusively and helped popularize the classical guitar in the mid-20th century.
So, what are the benefits of using nylon strings? First and foremost, nylon strings produce a warm and mellow sound that is associated with classical guitar music. They have a softer attack than steel strings, which creates a more intimate and delicate sound. The nylon material also has a flexible and elastic feel, which allows for more nuanced playing and expressive vibrato.
In addition to the sound and feel, nylon strings are also gentler on the fingers than steel strings. They are easier to press down, which makes them ideal for beginners or players with hand injuries. Nylon strings also produce less tension on the guitar’s neck and bridge, which reduces the risk of damage to the instrument over time.
Contemporary Use of Nylon Strings
Despite the popularity of steel strings in contemporary music, some guitarists still prefer nylon strings for their unique sound and playing feel. One such guitarist is the world-renowned classical guitarist, John Williams. In an interview with Guitar Player, Williams explained why he continues to use nylon strings:
“I prefer nylon strings because they are much more suited for the instrument itself. A guitar with nylon strings becomes a much more subtle instrument with less attack. Like paint on a painter’s palate, you have very gradations of tone. You can also manipulate the strings more, consciously bending pitches to give a more vocal quality to the guitar.”
Other contemporary guitarists who use nylon strings include flamenco guitarist Paco de Lucía and fingerstyle guitarist Tommy Emmanuel. Even some jazz guitarists, such as Joe Pass, have used nylon strings in their recordings.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the use of nylon strings on classical guitars is deeply rooted in tradition and has become an important aspect of the instrument’s identity. Nylon strings produce a warm and mellow sound that is associated with classical and flamenco guitar music. They are also easier on the fingers and the instrument itself, which makes them ideal for beginners and professional players alike.
While steel strings have become the norm in contemporary music, some guitarists still prefer the unique sound and playing feel of nylon strings. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned player, nylon strings on a classical guitar are an excellent choice for experiencing the richness and versatility of this beautiful instrument.
Image Credit: Pexels