The Melodious Wonder of Acoustic Guitars: Why the Strum of Steel Strings Captivates So Many of Us.
Since the early days of humankind, music has been a thing of wonder, a way of expressing emotions and conveying messages without ever having to say a word. Of all the instrumental mediums which have been used to create sounds over the years, guitars stand out as one of the most versatile and recognizable instruments. Of the many types of guitars available to musicians, acoustic guitars, with their unmistakeably mellow sound and warm resonance, have become one of the most popular choices amongst aficionados of music of all styles and stripes. Whether you are a novice strummer or professional player, the acoustic guitar holds an appeal that simply cannot be denied.
There are two main components which combine to create the unmistakeable sound of the acoustic guitar; the body and the strings. It is the body which gives the instrument its unique resonance, with tonality being dependent on the type of wood used in the construction. Prime examples of tonewoods widely used in the construction of acoustic guitars include mahogany and spruce, making guitars containing these woods among the best in terms of tonality, projection and resonance.
The strings of an acoustic guitar play an equally important role in determining the sound of the instrument. In most cases, acoustic guitars are equipped with steel strings, although some variation can be found such as coated strings and those with different levels of gauge. Although steel strings will require a slightly longer break-in time when changing strings, once this period has passed, you will be rewarded with a well-rounded and strong sound.
Although guitar playing is an individual experience and each guitarist brings something unique to the table, there are certain sounds and techniques which are more commonly found when playing an acoustic. From intricate fingerpicking styles to aggressive strumming and beyond, the variety of sounds available is almost infinite. Beyond the technical side of playing, the soulful and emotive qualities of the acoustic guitar are undeniable; something which is often to be felt far more than heard.
The ever-growing popularity of the acoustic guitar can be attributed to its mass appeal; it is an instrument which requires very little in terms of accessories and equipment, yet is capable of producing some of the most beautiful sounds imaginable. Regardless of whether you are strumming along to your favourite tunes or composing music of your own, acoustic guitars can create the perfect atmosphere for your music to come alive.
Therefore, when considering adding an instrument to your collection, an acoustic guitar should almost always be at the top of the list. It is hard to beat the warmth, soulful resonance and timelessness of an acoustic guitar… which is why so many of us are captivated by the strum of steel strings!