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Mar 07 2025
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guitar tuning methods by famous guitarists such as Eddie Van Halen, Steve Vai and Eric Johnson

3 Unique Guitar Tuning Methods of Famous Guitarists!

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3 Unique Guitar Tuning Methods of Famous Guitarists!

I bet you haven’t heard of these three unique guitar tuning methods used by some of the most famous guitarists! Sure, as a guitarist, you’d know how to tune a guitar. However, we’re talking about the moments when Eddie Van Halen, Steve Vai and Eric Johnson unlocked their guitars’ full potential.

guitar tuning methods by famous guitarists such as Eddie Van Halen, Steve Vai and Eric Johnson

what if we used 100% of the brain?In today’s world, digital tuners have made things so convenient that many guitarists. They tune up without truly understanding why they need to tighten or loosen a string. It’s like how Singaporeans are losing their dialects, then their mother tongues—guitarists are losing their ability to hear the notes properly! If you’re interested in sharpening your ear, check out our ear training guide.

But today, we’re diving into the crazy and brilliant tuning methods these guitar legends used to their advantage!

Sign up for guitar lessons and learn more about guitar tuning methods of famous guitarists

Learning about these unique guitar tuning methods is a great way to deepen your understanding of these famous guitarists. However, having a teacher to guide you through them and explain the nuances makes all the difference!

We are a music school offering guitar lessons at Upper Thomson Road, Singapore. Signing up for guitar lessons with us means learning from a team with over 10 years of experience running a successful music school in Singapore. Over the years, we have refined our teaching methods to ensure they are engaging, effective, and tailored to suit students of all ages and skill levels. Our commitment to excellence goes beyond lessons—we organize annual recitals! It provides our guitar students with the opportunity to showcase their progress, build confidence, and experience the joy of performing.

guitar lessons for beginner singapore bass lessons for kids

acoustic guitar lessons for adults electric guitar lessons for teenagers

Eddie Van Halen talks about his guitar tuning methods with the B string!

One of the most famous guitarists to discuss unique tuning methods is none other than Eddie Van Halen! For Eddie, tuning wasn’t just about relying on a tuner and expecting it to solve all the problems. He and his band were known for tuning to each other before recording, meaning he would adjust his guitar by ear to what sounded right, and the bassist would then match him. This was a common practice among guitarists at the time, myself included. While there were many reasons for this approach, one of the most practical was the lack of easy access to digital tuners. Reference tuning was a quick and effective way to get straight into playing and jamming.

eddie van halen running with the devil guitar tuning lessonHowever, Eddie has a special way to tune the B string on his guitar. He famously tuned his B string slightly flatter so that it would sound more in tune when he plays certain harmonies. For example, in the song “Running with the devil”, the B string would hit a major 3rd note and cause a dissonant tone against the root note. The dissonant tone prompted Eddie to go against the rule and tune his B string slightly flatter so that it fits better with the root note. Here’s what Eddie said.

It’s hard to get in tune perfectly. Any guitar. A guitar is just theoretically built wrong. Each string is an interval of fourths, and then the B string is off. Theoretically, that’s not right. If you tune an open E chord in the first position and it’s perfectly in tune, and then you hit a barre chord an octave higher, it’s out of tune. The B string is always a m*** to keep in tune all the time! So I have to retune for certain songs.

Read the transcript of the 1979 Guitar Player interview here. The devil is in the details!

Steve Vai has wonky guitar frets!

There’s no doubt that Steve Vai is a legendary guitarist with an exceptional ear for detail. If you’ve noticed the unusual frets in the cover image of the YouTube video above, you might be wondering—why do they look so wonky? This is due to a specialized fret system called True Temperament, whose slogan is fittingly, “There are no straight lines in nature!” These wavy frets are designed to improve intonation, helping chords and notes stay in tune more accurately across the fretboard. The guitar has long been known for its tuning compromises—typically, you can get an A chord or a D chord perfectly in tune, but not both at the same time! Makes you wonder how AC/DC pulls it off.

Eric Clapton adopted his tuning method from Piano tuners!

Eric Johnson once shared his unique approach to guitar tuning, and it’s quite different from the usual method most guitarists use. Typically, we tune from the low E to the high E string or vice versa, simply adjusting one string relative to another—nothing too complicated. However, this isn’t how piano tuners approach their craft. Instead, they start in the middle of the piano and work their way outward. Johnson adopted this technique for guitar tuning, explaining how it helps achieve better overall intonation.

If you’re unaware, adjusting one string affects the tension of the others. Think of the guitar neck as a bow under constant tension from all six strings. This is why breaking just one string can throw your entire guitar completely out of tune. Johnson’s method takes this into account, aiming for a more balanced and stable tuning.

Alternative tuning

So far, we are only talking about guitarists who use the standard E tuning. This means, EADGBE from the 6th to the 1st string. The standard E tuning came about after guitarists from a long time ago derived that this is the best idea to tune the guitar. It keeps chord shapes and scales easy to play and visualize. Since it was the most popular tuning, it became the standard tuning over time. However, there are more alternative ways to tune the guitar! Here is a list of tunings you can explore on your guitar.

  • Half-Step Down (Eb Ab Db Gb Bb Eb) – Used by Jimi Hendrix, Stevie Ray Vaughan, and Guns N’ Roses for a slightly darker tone.

  • Drop D (DADGBE) – Low E string is tuned down to D, making power chords easier to play.

  • Double Drop D (DADGBD) – Both E strings are dropped to D, used by Neil Young in songs like Cinnamon Girl.

  • DADGAD – Popular in Celtic and folk music, providing a droning, open sound.

  • Open G (DGDGBD) – Used by blues and slide guitarists, including Keith Richards of The Rolling Stones.

  • Open D (DADF#AD) – Great for slide guitar and blues, used by artists like Robert Johnson.

  • Open C (CGCGCE) – Used by Devin Townsend and John Butler for a rich, open sound.

  • Open E (EBEG#BE) – A bright, resonant tuning used by slide guitarists like Duane Allman and Derek Trucks.

  • Nashville Tuning (EADGBE but with high-octave strings on the lower four strings) – Creates a 12-string-like shimmer using just a 6-string guitar.

  • All Fourths Tuning (EADGCF) – Every string is tuned in fourths, making scales and chords more uniform across the fretboard.

What if I want more?

Why stop at six strings? Why not explore 7, 8, or even 9-string guitars? A quick internet search will reveal some truly wild creations, like a 21-string guitar or a 69-string bass! While adding more strings expands musical possibilities, the thickness of the strings also plays a crucial role.

Take Yngwie Malmsteen, for example—he famously uses ultra-thin 0.08 gauge strings, which allow for effortless vibrato and a lighter touch. However, thinner strings also affect intonation. Some guitarists even experiment with hybrid string gauges, using thinner strings for higher-pitched notes and thicker ones for the lower register.

Who knows? Maybe this article will spark some inspiration for you to experiment and create something entirely new!

Conclusion

Tuning a guitar is more than just matching pitches—it’s about understanding the subtle interactions between strings, tension, and intonation. Small adjustments, like compensating for string tension or fine-tuning certain notes, can make a huge difference in how your guitar sounds and feels to play. Legendary guitarists have proven that attention to these details can unlock new sonic possibilities. So next time you tune up, take a moment to really listen and experiment—you might discover a method that transforms your playing!

If you are keen to learn more about guitar tuning through proper guitar lessons, consider taking a Trial Lesson with us! I am sure with our decade-long experience, we will be of valuable help to you. Contact us through these easy channels! 🙂

Mar 03 2025
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Electric guitar or Acoustic guitar, which should you learn first?

Acoustic Guitar or Electric Guitar lessons first?

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Acoustic Guitar or Electric Guitar lessons first?

Electric guitar or Acoustic guitar, which should you take lessons first?

Should your child start with acoustic or electric guitar lessons? This is a common question we’ve encountered throughout our decade of experience at Vinnie Classroom. Many children are eager to learn the electric guitar, while parents often consider the higher start-up costs compared to an acoustic guitar. But is there a definitive right way to begin learning the guitar? If you’re facing this dilemma, let us guide you!

Yes, we offer both Acoustic guitar and Electric guitar lessons!

Unlike some guitar schools that offer only acoustic or electric guitar lessons, we provide both! This means we’re not here to claim that one is better than the other. Instead, this article aims to outline the pros and cons of each, helping you make an informed decision. But if we had to sum it up for you—there’s no wrong choice!

guitar lessons for beginner singapore bass lessons for kids

acoustic guitar lessons for adults electric guitar lessons for teenagers

We are a music school offering guitar lessons at Upper Thomson Road, Singapore. Signing up for guitar lessons with us means learning from a team with over 10 years of experience running a successful music school in Singapore. Over the years, we have refined our teaching methods to ensure they are engaging, effective, and tailored to suit students of all ages and skill levels. Our commitment to excellence goes beyond lessons—we organize annual recitals! It provides our guitar students with the opportunity to showcase their progress, build confidence, and experience the joy of performing.

Pros and cons of learning the acoustic guitar first

The acoustic guitar holds a significant place across various music genres and scenes. It’s a favorite among strum-and-sing musicians and is highly cherished by fingerstyle guitarists. If you prefer a straightforward playing experience without the hassle of effect pedals and amplifiers, the acoustic guitar’s simplicity will appeal to you. However, there are still reasons why some musicians choose electric over acoustic. Let’s explore!

acoustic guitar body shapes

Pros of Learning the Acoustic Guitar:

  1. Portability & Simplicity – No need for amplifiers, cables, or effects; just pick it up and play anywhere.
  2. Stronger Finger Development – The higher string tension helps build finger strength and dexterity faster.
  3. Great for Song Accompaniment – Ideal for strumming and singing along, making it perfect for solo performances.
  4. Lower Initial Cost – Generally more affordable than electric guitar setups, with no need for extra gear.
  5. Versatile Across Genres – Well-suited for folk, pop, country, blues, and even fingerstyle music.

Cons of Learning the Acoustic Guitar:

  1. Higher String Tension – Can be harder on beginners’ fingers, making it more challenging to press down on strings.
  2. Less Tonal Variety – Limited sound options compared to electric guitars with effects and amplification.
  3. Bulkier & Less Ergonomic – Larger body size may feel uncomfortable for younger or smaller players.
  4. Not Ideal for Rock & Metal – Lacks distortion and sustain, making it unsuitable for certain genres.
  5. Requires More Finger Strength – Barre chords and complex fingerpicking can be more demanding compared to an electric guitar.

That said, many of these drawbacks can be addressed with the right solutions. For instance, high string tension can be reduced by choosing the right strings and ensuring the guitar is properly set up by a professional. The issue of a bulky guitar body is no longer a concern, as there are various shapes and sizes available, including 3/4-sized guitars for younger children. Additionally, learning on an acoustic guitar helps develop finger strength, which can be beneficial when transitioning to electric guitar later. Its portability also allows students to practice anywhere at home. Overall, we generally recommend beginners start with the acoustic guitar.

Pros and cons of learning the electric guitar first

The electric guitar has an undeniable cool factor that many people are drawn to. Learning it allows students to experiment with sound effects and create unique tones—something not easily achievable on an acoustic guitar without technical knowledge. Electric guitars also come in a wide variety of bold shapes and vibrant colors, offering a flashier aesthetic compared to the traditional wooden tones of acoustic guitars. These exciting features often make the electric guitar the first choice for many young learners. But is starting with an electric guitar the best option? Let’s find out.

Guitar and its genrePros of Learning the Electric Guitar First:

  1. Easier Playability – Lighter string tension and a slimmer neck make it easier for beginners to press down on the strings and form chords.
  2. Greater Sound Variety – Effects pedals and amplifiers allow students to explore different tones and genres, from clean blues to heavy metal.
  3. More Engaging for Young Learners – The “cool factor” of an electric guitar, along with the ability to play rock songs early on, can keep students motivated.
  4. Lower Finger Strain – The softer strings and lower action reduce finger discomfort, making it less painful for beginners.
  5. Volume Control – With an amp and headphones, students can practice quietly without disturbing others.

Cons of Learning the Electric Guitar First:

  1. Higher Initial Cost – Requires additional gear like an amplifier, cables, and possibly effects pedals, making it more expensive than an acoustic guitar.
  2. More Complex Setup – Learning to manage amps, effects, and different guitar settings can be overwhelming for absolute beginners.
  3. Less Focus on Finger Strength – The lighter strings and lower action mean students may not develop as much finger strength early on, which can be beneficial when transitioning to acoustic.
  4. Portability Issues – Unlike an acoustic guitar, an electric guitar needs an amp for full sound, making it less convenient for spontaneous practice.
  5. Risk of Over-Reliance on Effects – Beginners may focus more on effects and distortion rather than proper technique and playing dynamics.

In general, the electric guitar lacks mobility due to its more complex setup. Even with modern solutions like headphone amplifiers, playing still involves managing multiple cables and equipment. Additionally, some budget-friendly electric guitars made from cheaper wood can be quite heavy, making them less suitable for young children. That said, as mentioned earlier, the electric guitar has its advantages. The “cool factor” plays a key role in keeping students motivated—both the acoustic and electric guitar require consistent practice, and for some, the excitement of learning electric can make practice feel more purposeful. Ultimately, we recommend starting with the electric guitar if the student has a strong interest and understanding of what it entails!

Conclusion

Ultimately, whether a student should start with the acoustic or electric guitar depends on their personal interests, goals, and learning preferences. The acoustic guitar offers simplicity, portability, and a solid foundation for finger strength, while the electric guitar provides versatility, ease of play, and an exciting range of sounds. Both instruments require dedication and practice, and there is no absolute right or wrong choice. The best option is the one that keeps the student engaged and motivated to continue their musical journey. Whatever the decision, the most important thing is to start and enjoy the process of learning and making music!

However, if you still need help, talk to us. Taking guitar lessons can help you understand more about guitar picks!

Consider taking a Trial Lesson with us! I am sure with our decade-long experience, we will be of valuable help to you.

Feb 23 2025
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corporate music workshop

How we use 3D printing to make our Corporate Music Workshops better!

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How we use 3D printing to make our Corporate Music Workshops better!

corporate music workshops3D-printing has helped many industries to prototype faster and it certainly has helped us to make our corporate music workshops better! Designing an anti-roll microphone ring has long been on my to-do list, as it could greatly improve how we run our music school’s corporate workshops and recitals. However, I never quite found the right motivation to dedicate time to it—until recently. A friend from one of the top event companies in Singapore reached out, seeking help with this very issue. It was the perfect opportunity to finally bring the idea to life, so I jumped at the chance to design an anti-roll mic ring tailored for his Shure SM58.

We are always looking at improving our Corporate Music Workshops!

During our recent Corporate Music Workshops, we faced challenges with the absence of anti-roll mic rings, often struggling to keep our microphones secure. While anti-roll rings have been around for a long time and are widely available, most follow a one-size-fits-all approach, making their effectiveness unpredictable. When these rings slip off during workshops, it not only disrupts the flow but can also leave a less-than-ideal impression on participants. Although we’ve consistently delivered smooth workshops, we believe there’s always room for improvement—and finding solutions to these small but significant issues is part of that commitment.

Kalimba Corporate Workshop

On the surface, we are a music school offering guitar lessons at Upper Thomson Road, Singapore. However, our role extends beyond that—we are passionate music educators with extensive experience conducting music programs and workshops in MOE schools and corporate settings. When you sign up for our music workshops, you’re learning from a team with over a decade of experience running a successful music school in Singapore.

Over the years, we’ve continuously refined our teaching methods to make them engaging, effective, and adaptable to students of all ages and skill levels. Our dedication to excellence goes beyond the classroom. We also organize annual recitals, giving our guitar students a platform to showcase their progress, gain confidence, and experience the thrill of performing live.

All music production needs this Anti-roll mic ring!

Anti-roll Micrphone ring Version 1

Anti-Roll Micrphone Ring Version 1

I designed two versions of the anti-roll mic ring, both featuring the Ark Media Production logo. The first version used a spring tension mechanism intended to fit any microphone within a certain diameter. While the idea was to create a universal fit, it didn’t perform as well as we hoped. The second version, however, was designed to fit into the small gap between the microphone body and the steel mesh grille. We ultimately chose this design because it stays securely in place during use and has a much cleaner appearance. Seeing how perfectly it fits the microphone, I believe this is an essential accessory for all music productions!

Anti-Roll Micrphone Ring Version 2

Anti-Roll Micrphone Ring Version 2

Putting our design to the test in a real-world corporate event!

Ark Media Production Anti-roll Microphone Ring

After 3D printing a batch of these anti-roll microphone rings, we attached them to the microphones and put them through their paces. Honestly, I was a bit anxious about how they would perform compared to what I had envisioned. There are countless factors that can cause a design to fall short—3D printing itself comes with potential pitfalls like fragile components, delamination, and deformation. While a solid design can mitigate these common issues, I wasn’t entirely sure if mine would hold up under real-world use. Thankfully, the rings were well-received by both the event participants and the team at Ark Media Production. What a relief!

What it means for our future Corporate Music Workshops

MOE Music Teachers

Although this wasn’t a major issue during our corporate music workshops, addressing it certainly enhances the overall experience for our participants. Solving one challenge opens the door for us to explore new ways to improve and further develop our programs!

If you wish to engage us for your corporate music workshop, reach us through these easy methods below!

Feb 11 2025
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when should you change your guitar pick?

When should you change your guitar pick?

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When should you change your guitar pick?

when should you change your guitar pick?

It’s obvious that guitar picks wear out and need replacing, but when is the right time to change them? When I first started learning guitar, a senior in school told me that older picks feel better with time. As a young and naive beginner, I fully embraced that idea, keeping a small tin with 3–5 of my favorite picks that I refused to replace. It wasn’t until I joined a professional band and performed regularly that I realized how much the condition of a pick affects playing. If you’re a beginner or just curious to see if your thoughts on pick longevity are accurate, this article is for you! Let’s dive in!

Guitar teachers will make sure you change your guitar pick when the time is right!

Just like checking your nail length, our guitar teachers routinely inspect your guitar pick and will let you know when it’s time for a change. A worn-out pick can affect your playing habits, so it’s important to keep it shipshape!

We are a music school offering guitar lessons at Upper Thomson Road, Singapore. Signing up for guitar lessons with us means learning from a team with over 10 years of experience running a successful music school in Singapore. Over the years, we have refined our teaching methods to ensure they are engaging, effective, and tailored to suit students of all ages and skill levels. Our commitment to excellence goes beyond lessons—we organize annual recitals! It provides our guitar students with the opportunity to showcase their progress, build confidence, and experience the joy of performing.

guitar lessons for beginner singapore bass lessons for kids

acoustic guitar lessons for adults electric guitar lessons for teenagers

Your guitar pick is going, going… gone!

In reality, a guitar pick can last anywhere from a few days to several months, depending on your playing style. An aggressive speed metal guitarist will wear out picks much faster than a disciplined student with a lighter touch. Because wear and tear vary greatly between players, time isn’t the best indicator for when to replace a pick. Instead, it’s important to regularly check its condition.

If you’re using a Vinnie Classroom guitar pick, knowing when to change it is easy—the printed logo acts as a visual guide to track its lifespan. Ideally, you shouldn’t wait until the logo has completely worn off before replacing your pick!

when should you replace your guitar pick? when should you replace your guitar pick back view

Pay close attention to the wear pattern on both sides of your pick. Some students tend to hold their pick the same way every time, leading to uneven wear. In the left photo, pick 3 (from left to right) appears more worn, while in the right photo, pick 2 shows more significant wear. However, these are actually the same picks—I simply flipped them around for the photos!

Guitar pick wear and tear pattern explained

guitar pick worn out area

Every style of music creates a different wear pattern on the guitar pick. However, there are just mainly 2 areas that will be worn out. While my list will not have every genre of guitar music, it should cover most of them and give you a general idea!

Wear area 1 alone

Wear areas 1 and 2 together

  • Blues, Jazz, Metal and Rock Guitarists
  • Guitar students who have embarked on their alternate picking journey
  • Electric guitar students taking Rockschool grade 4 and higher

However, regardless of your playing style and guitar skill level, you should not allow your pick to wear enough to affect your picking accuracies and habits.

Consistency is key!

As I mentioned earlier, it wasn’t until I joined a full-time band that I realized how crucial a good pick is for maintaining performance consistency. You’ve probably seen guitarists on stage tossing their picks into the crowd—while it’s a fun fan service, it’s also likely because those picks are too worn out to use anymore. Just ask my students, and they’ll tell you—I have a section of my table covered in worn-out picks!

Speaking of consistency, many guitarists and students tend to collect picks of different shapes, thicknesses, and materials. While it’s exciting to experiment, constantly switching between picks can hinder muscle memory and prevent the development of a consistent playing habit. After an initial exploration phase, buying picks in bulk can be a game-changer. If you’re unsure about your choice, starting with a pack of 10 is a great way to test them out. Once you find the perfect pick, consider buying them in batches of 100 or even 1,000!

Read about how to choose the right guitar pick here!

Guitar pick shape

Conclusion

In conclusion, a guitarist should change their pick when it shows visible wear, such as rounded edges, uneven surfaces, or reduced grip. If the pick starts feeling different while playing, it’s time for a replacement.

However, if you still need help, talk to us. Taking guitar lessons can help you understand more about guitar picks!

Consider taking a Trial Lesson with us! I am sure with our decade-long experience, we will be of valuable help to you. Contact us through these easy channels! 🙂

Feb 03 2025
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Guitar Part Name translate from English to Chinese

Guitar parts name translation: English to Chinese | 吉他英语翻译华语

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Guitar parts name translation: English to Chinese | 吉他英语翻译华语

Guitar Part Name translate from English to Chinese
Guitar parts name in English can’t always be easily translated into Chinese using translators. With more Chinese-speaking students enrolling in our music school for guitar lessons, we, as educators in English-speaking Singapore, recognize the need to enhance our understanding of guitar part names with accurate translations. In this article, we aim to provide a comprehensive list of guitar parts translated from English to Chinese. If you’re looking for such a resource, let’s dive in and learn together!

Why is it important to learn the guitar part’s name in either English or Chinese?

If you haven’t attended guitar lessons, you might not see the importance of learning the names of guitar parts in English, Chinese, or any language. However, knowing these names is essential for clear communication. Imagine wanting to borrow a ruler from a classmate but not knowing the word for it—you’d likely spend a lot of time describing it before they understand. The same applies to guitar lessons; being able to identify guitar parts correctly ensures that students and teachers are on the same page throughout the learning process.

If you’re into comedy, I love the sketch by VLDL about the “Flat Clicker“. It highlights the importance of knowing the item names through a funny scenario.

Taking guitar lessons can help you learn the name of guitar parts!

Guitar lessons are the definitive way to learn about the names of the guitar parts and more. You will be enriched with all the information you need to play and understand the guitar through proper and structured guitar lessons.

We are a music school in Singapore offering guitar lessons at Upper Thomson Road. Signing up for guitar lessons with us means learning from a team with over 10 years of experience running a successful music school in Singapore. Over the years, we have refined our teaching methods to ensure they are engaging, effective, and tailored to suit students of all ages and skill levels. Our commitment to excellence goes beyond lessons—we organize annual recitals! It allows our guitar students to showcase their progress, build confidence, and experience the joy of performing.

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List of guitar parts translated from English to Chinese (with Hanyu Pinyin)

As you go through this list, keep in mind that these are not direct translations from Google Translate. Instead, these are terms we’ve learned from our Chinese-speaking students from China, Taiwan, Hong Kong, and beyond. We understand that different parts of the world may have their own variations for the same guitar parts, so we’d love to hear how you name them in your part of the world—share your thoughts in the comments below! 🙂

parts of a guitar in Chinese

  • Guitar: 吉他 jí tā
  • Guitar: 六弦琴 liù xián qín
  • Capo: 变调夹 biàn diào jiā
  • Pick: 破片 pō piàn
  • Pickup: 拾音器 shí yīn qì
  • Headstock: 琴头 qín tóu
  • Tuner: 弦钮 xián niǔ
  • Neck: 琴颈 qín jǐng
  • Fret: 品格 pǐn gé
  • Fretwire: 品线 pǐn xiàn
  • Fingerboard/Fretboard: 指板 zhǐ bǎn
  • Nut: 上弦枕 shàng xián zhěn
  • Saddle: 下弦枕 xià xián zhěn
  • Soundhole: 音孔 yīn kǒng
  • Bridge: 琴桥 qín qiáo
  • Body: 琴身 qín shēn

Conclusion

Learning the names of guitar parts in both English and Chinese is essential for effective communication between students and teachers, especially in a multilingual learning environment. It ensures clarity in instructions, minimizes misunderstandings, and helps students follow lessons more efficiently. Whether discussing techniques, troubleshooting issues, or simply understanding feedback, knowing the correct terms in both languages enhances the learning experience. By bridging the language gap, students can focus more on developing their skills and enjoying their musical journey with confidence.

Taking guitar lessons can help you understand more about the guitar! Consider taking a Trial Lesson with us! I am sure with our decade-long experience, we will be of valuable help to you. Contact us through these easy channels! 🙂

Jan 16 2025
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5 things to look out for when buying an acoustic guitar

5 things to look out for when buying an acoustic guitar

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5 things to look out for when buying an acoustic guitar

5 things to look out for when buying an acoustic guitar

There are so many things to look out for when buying an acoustic guitar! Especially if you are a beginner thinking about signing up for guitar lessons in Singapore. The options available in our local guitar shops can be rather overwhelming. Through this article, we aim to help answer all the burning questions you have about buying your acoustic guitar. So let’s dive in!

Steel strings or Nylon strings

Steel string or Nylon string guitar

Beginner guitar students often struggle to choose between steel strings or nylon strings guitar. Both are classified as an acoustic guitar with the same tuning and note system on the fretboard and typically use 6 strings. However, they are also vastly different. Here’s a quick comparison chart to help you understand better.

Steel String Guitar Nylon String Guitar
A little painful for beginners to press Gentle on the fingers for beginners
Bright tone Mellow tone
Preferred by Pop, Rock, and Fingerstyle guitarists Preferred by Classical, Spanish, and Polyphia guitarists
Narrower fretboard width Wider fretboard width
Curved fretboard surface Flat fretboard surface

Wait, I realize the table might make things more confusing for beginner guitarists. Here’s our simplest recommendation: if the guitar student is a very young child, go for a nylon string guitar. It’s much easier for them to press the strings and produce clear notes. On the other hand, if you’re a teenager or older and prefer genres like Pop, Rock, or Fingerstyle, a steel string guitar would be a better fit.

At Vinnie Classroom, we don’t restrict the type of guitar you use for lessons—the same techniques can be learned on both nylon and steel string guitars. Many families have a hand-me-down nylon string guitar, but their child might prefer the look of a steel string guitar. Our advice? Stick with the nylon string guitar for building a solid foundation, then transition to a new guitar of your choice later on.

Acoustic guitar body shape

acoustic guitar body shapes

On of the things to look out for when buying an acoustic guitar is definitely the body shape! While the nylon string guitars are often made in the same guitar body shape, the steel string guitar has a wider range of options. Here’s the list of their body shape along with the descriptions.

  • Parlour – Small and narrow body. The fretboard meets the body at the 12th fret, unlike the standard 14th fret for acoustic guitar. Brighter tone with strong mids.
  • 000 – Similar shapes include Auditorium, Concert, and OM. It has the most balanced tone for guitar plucking. Favored by fingerstyle guitarists.
  • Dreadnought – It has a much bigger body as compared to Parlour and 000 guitar shape. This shape produces a tight and bright treble and deep bass tones. Due to the lack of mid-tones, it is commonly used for strumming and singing. Note-picking using a guitar pick is well-liked too.
  • Rounded Shoulder – Also known as slope shoulder Dreadnought. This is a variant of the standard Dreadnought guitar body shape. The rounded shoulder helps reduce the treble tone, resulting in a strong, deep, and tight bass frequency response.
  • Jumbo – As the name implies, this body shape is the biggest of all. You get a much louder sound out of this guitar and definitely a much deeper bass. However, this guitar is not suitable for everyone due to its massive size.

Should your guitar have a cutaway?

acoustic guitar cut-away or no cut-away

Most beginner guitar students don’t need a guitar with a cutaway, and likely won’t for a long time! Cutaways are designed for acoustic guitarists who want easier access to higher-pitched notes. Without a cutaway, reaching those notes involves stretching fingers over the guitar body, which can be challenging. However, very few songs require such high notes, and even when they do, many professional guitarists manage just fine without a cutaway.

It’s also worth noting that cutaways can alter the guitar’s tone, often making it sound slightly less full. To illustrate, here are two videos of guitarists playing high-pitched notes on standard guitar bodies.[/vc_column_text]

Full solid, Solid top, Veneer, or Laminated Acoustic Guitar?

front, sides and back of an acoustic guitar

This is perhaps the most important things to look out for when buying an acoustic guitar. Guitar stores typically have a big tag on their acoustic guitar that reads “Solid Top”, or “Full Solid”. But are they the same? Well, acoustic guitars can be categorized into 4 main types of wood, and here is their description.

  • Full Solid – The front, sides, and back are all made with solid pieces of wood. By saying solid wood, the guitar manufacturer means that what you see is what you get, with nothing glued in between anywhere.
  • Solid Top – This means the front part of the guitar body is made of solid pieces of wood. Typically acoustic guitars are made with one solid piece of wood that is sliced into 2 equal thicknesses to create the mirror effect.
  • Veneer – This refers to gluing a very thin piece of the said wood onto the laminated wood to create the required thickness. This helps with getting the aesthetic of the guitar right but provides almost nothing to help with the tone of the guitar.
  • Laminate – The common word is plywood. This means the thickness of the pieces of wood is formed by gluing multiple layers of scrap wood together. Like how a tissue gets its thickness.

Tonewood has been a subject of debate in the guitar community for decades. Some argue that the type of wood has no effect on a guitar’s tone, while others believe that the right wood is key to achieving their desired sound. Regardless of this debate, one thing is clear: solid top acoustic guitars generally sound better than those with veneer or laminated tops. This is because a solid piece of wood vibrates more effectively than multiple layers glued together. However, solid tops are also more sensitive to environmental factors and require proper care to avoid damage.

Acoustic Guitar Pickup Options

types of acoustic pickup

There are various ways to amplify an acoustic guitar through a sound system, which is why there are many types of pickups available. Here, we’ve outlined the 8 most commonly used pickups and how they perform. We hope this guide helps you choose the one that best suits your needs.

  1. Magnetic Soundhole Pickup – These works like those seen on electric guitars. They are mounted easily by securing them onto the soundhole. This also means that you can easily remove them and mount them onto the next guitar.
  2. Under Soundboard Transducer – Having such a transducer allows the sound of the surface of the guitar to be picked up. This is great if you intend to play in the style of Marcin or similar.
  3. Under Saddle Piezo – This is the most commonly found pickup style for acoustic guitar as it can be hidden under the saddle and not affect the look of the guitar. However, the quality of these pickups can greatly affect the tone.
  4. Under-string transducer – This works similarly to those under the saddle without the need to drill holes into your guitar. However, they can be rather fragile and will break if not handled carefully.
  5. Internal Microphone – These condenser microphone helps capturing the most natural sound from your acoustic guitar. However, they typically need to be used with a soundhole cover or risk the possibility of feedback with the sound system.
  6. Contact Microphone – These are rather inexpensive solutions to pick up the sound of your acoustic guitar. The position of the pickup affects the tone captured.
  7. iRig soundhole pickup – These are simply hung onto the soundhole and work both like a microphone and a magnetic pickup. They come with a specially designed preamp with feedback cancellation capability.
  8. External Condensor Microphone – These are professional options that don’t come cheap and are able to capture the very clear tone of the acoustic guitar. However, as with any microphone, there will always be a need to monitor the feedback risk.

Acoustic Guitar Preamp Options

types of acoustic guitar preamp

Most acoustic guitars with pickup options come equipped with an onboard preamp, often including an equalizer and tuner. However, modern designs are moving toward simpler systems, typically featuring just volume and basic tone controls. For more advanced sound customization, you can pair your guitar with preamps in pedal or software plug-in formats. Keep an eye out for IR (Impulse Response) technology, which can make your guitar sound like a much higher-end instrument! The topic of acoustic guitar pickups and preamps deserves a dedicated discussion, so stay tuned for a more in-depth article in the future! In this article, we shall focus on things to look out for when buying an acoustic guitar.

Do you need an acoustic guitar with a pickup?

The most common response to this question is, ‘Do you perform often?’ While that’s one way to approach the decision, performing isn’t the only reason to consider a pickup. At Vinnie Classroom, we hold annual recitals and regularly conduct video recording sessions. For this reason, we recommend that all our students opt for an acoustic guitar with a built-in pickup.

Conclusion

Choosing the right acoustic guitar is essential, as it sets the foundation for your learning experience and ensures comfort and playability. In Singapore, where recitals and recordings are common in music lessons, having an acoustic guitar with a built-in pickup is vital for versatility and seamless participation in such activities.

However, if you still have some questions, talk to us. Taking guitar lessons can help you shop for the right acoustic guitar!

Consider taking a Trial Lesson with us! I am sure with our decade-long experience, we will be of valuable help to you. Contact us through these easy channels! 🙂

Jan 07 2025
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How to choose a guitar amplifier for beginners

How to Choose a Guitar Amplifier for Beginners

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How to Choose a Guitar Amplifier for Beginners

How to choose a guitar amplifier for beginners

Choosing a guitar amplifier has become more challenging for beginners than ever before! With new brands emerging frequently and releasing both innovative models and reissues, the options can be overwhelming. Advancements in technology have also expanded the possibilities, transforming amplifiers into more than just a simple box with a speaker and a power plug. If you’re a beginner taking guitar lessons in Singapore, this article is here to guide you!

Taking guitar lessons can help you choose your guitar amplifier!

As said, buying a guitar amplifier can be really tough. You need an amplifier for practicing after your guitar lessons. There are plenty of options for buying a guitar amplifier in Singapore! Having a guitar teacher can be helpful in this case.

We are a music school offering guitar lessons at Upper Thomson Road, Singapore. Signing up for guitar lessons with us means learning from a team with over 10 years of experience running a successful music school in Singapore. Over the years, we have refined our teaching methods to ensure they are engaging, effective, and tailored to suit students of all ages and skill levels. Our commitment to excellence goes beyond lessons—we organize annual recitals! It provides our guitar students with the opportunity to showcase their progress, build confidence, and experience the joy of performing.

guitar lessons for beginner singapore bass lessons for kids

acoustic guitar lessons for adults electric guitar lessons for teenagers

7 Types of Guitar Amplifier Options for Beginners

  • Traditional Combo
  • Built-in Effects
  • Internal Battery
  • Impulse Response
  • Headphones Amplifier
  • Plugin with Audio Interface
  • Novelty
We’ve selected these seven options to help beginner guitar students find the right gear for their guitar lessons. In the professional world, you might encounter other choices like head-and-cabinet setups or effects pedals with built-in amp modeling and cabinet simulation. However, this article focuses on a limited range of brands and models tailored specifically for beginners. So, if you’re not a beginner, this one’s not for you!

Traditional Guitar Combo

In the guitar industry, the term “combo” is short for “combination.” A guitar amplifier typically consists of two main components: the head, which processes the guitar signal and shapes the tone, and the cabinet, a box with speaker(s) that projects the sound. However, separating these components can increase production costs and make things more complicated for beginners. To address this, many manufacturers offer guitar combos, which combine the head and cabinet into a single unit. Combos are a convenient solution, sparing beginners the hassle of figuring out wiring or dealing with speaker impedance.

Marshall MG-10

Marshall MG10G 10W Guitar Combo Amplifier

The MG10G might not be the best-sounding guitar amplifier out there, but it’s a straightforward, no-frills option that gets the job done. Many guitarists begin their journey with a modest amplifier like this one and upgrade later as they develop a deeper understanding of guitar tone.

Guitar Amplifiers with Built-In Effects

An amplifier with built-in effects is an excellent way for beginners to explore the world of guitar effects. In our guitar lessons, we’ve often noticed that many students are unfamiliar with effects and need hands-on experience to understand how they interact with their playing. Since individual effect pedals can be quite expensive, a guitar amplifier with built-in effects provides a cost-effective way for students to experiment and gain confidence. This makes transitioning to standalone or multi-effects pedals much smoother.

NUX Mighty Lite BT MKII Amplifier

Battery Inside!

As the world increasingly embraces electric vehicles, guitarists are joining the battery revolution too! While guitar amplifiers with built-in batteries or battery compartments aren’t a new concept, they’ve become much more common today. Many practice amplifiers now come with built-in batteries or battery compartments, benefiting from significant advancements in battery technology. With a battery-powered amplifier, guitarists are no longer tethered to a wall plug, making it easier than ever to practice anywhere!
Boss Katana Mini 7 watt combo amp

Impulse Response

Impulse Response (IR) might sound like a medical term to some and seem confusing to others, but it has been a game-changer in the guitar world. Since its introduction, IR technology has made legendary tones more accessible and affordable for the average guitarist. It enables players to achieve tones that were traditionally only possible in professional recording studios with advanced soundproofing. Many iconic tones, in case you didn’t know, require amps to be cranked to ridiculously loud volumes—so loud that the entire room would shake!

Rather than recommending a specific guitar amplifier for this section, I want to highlight the importance of IR technology. If it’s available in any of the amplifiers you’re considering, make sure to take full advantage of it!

Headphones Amplifier

Headphone amplifiers might just be the perfect solution for bedroom guitarists! Let’s face it: many of us live in close quarters where loud guitar practice can annoy family members or even drive the neighbors crazy. Noise pollution is stressful for everyone.

In the past, headphone amplifiers was an unpopular choice because they often sounded terrible. Poor guitar tone blasted directly into your ears could quickly lead to ear fatigue and frustration. However, thanks to the advancements in IR technology mentioned earlier, headphone amps now sound better than most basic practice amplifiers!

One thing to keep in mind: you’ll need wired headphones, as Bluetooth earphones aren’t compatible due to latency issues. Here’s hoping future advancements will resolve this and take headphone amplifiers to an even higher level!

Nux Might Plug Pro

Plugin with Audio Interface

If you’re tech-savvy and spend a lot of time working on your computer, the plugin and audio interface setup might be perfect for you. However, we don’t recommend this route for beginners due to its steep learning curve. Setting up and configuring the system requires some technical know-how, but the tonal benefits are immense! Imagine practicing with authentic amplifier captures of real-world amps that cost thousands of dollars.

Before diving in, you’ll need an audio interface to get started. The good news is that both the plugin and audio interface are quite affordable, making this an excellent option for those ready to explore the digital realm of guitar tones.

Neural DSP

Presonus Audiobox GO

P.S. There are free plug-ins readily available. If you are a Mac user, Garageband has quite a few good options too!

Novelty

The market is filled with novelty amplifiers, often aimed at collectors or those shopping for unique Christmas gifts. While these amps may look cute and stylish, they’re not designed with quality tone or usability in mind. Typically equipped with small speakers, they lack dynamic response, tonal depth, and sufficient volume.

Since this article focuses on guiding beginner guitar students, we recommend steering clear of these options.

Here are some examples.

Conclusion

Buying your first guitar amplifier can be overwhelming, especially with so many options available. We recommend considering how and where you plan to practice, as well as whether you want your sound to be consistent between your guitar lessons and home practice. By reflecting on these factors, along with the guidance in this article, you’ll be better equipped to narrow down your choices.

However, if you still need help, talk to us. Taking guitar lessons can help you understand what guitar amplifier fits you the best. Consider taking a Trial Lesson with us! I am sure with our decade-long experience, we will be of valuable help to you. Contact us through these easy channels! 🙂

Dec 24 2024
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Christmas song on ukulele and guitar

4 Levels of Christmas Songs (Guitar and Ukulele)

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4 Levels of Christmas Songs (Guitar and Ukulele)

Christmas song on ukulele and guitar

We tasked 3 groups of students at different levels of their guitar and ukulele lesson on a Christmas song challenge. The idea is to showcase the fun of playing the instrument regardless of their competency! It’s the most wonderful time of the year indeed!

Entry Level – Ukulele Christmas Duet!

Chord changes on the ukulele or guitar can be quite challenging, especially when tackling difficult chords like E Major and E Minor, as Ethan and Evan were doing. In fact, struggling with chord transitions is one of the main reasons people eventually give up on guitar or ukulele lessons. Many feel stuck, unable to see progress despite attending lessons for an extended period. The key to overcoming this hurdle lies in consistency, with time as our greatest ally. While we can’t fast-forward through the learning process, technology offers us a glimpse of what dedicated practice can achieve. Here’s Ethan and Evan performing “We Wish You A Merry Christmas”!

Beginner Level – Ukulele Christmas Duet With A Clone!

Fingerstyle arrangements enable us to play both harmony and melody simultaneously, but this can be quite challenging for most beginners. In our ukulele lessons, we prioritize building our students’ confidence in both harmony and melody separately. Once again, we leverage technology to help students understand how the individual parts come together as a whole. Here’s Matthias performing “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer”!

Intermediate Level – High-Speed Ukulele~

Everyone enjoys playing fast on their instrument—a common tendency not just at our music school but likely everywhere in Singapore. However, playing at a faster tempo demands greater accuracy, which means dedicating more time to self-practice beyond music lessons. That said, the results are incredibly rewarding and satisfying! Here’s Matthias (once again) with the Christmas classic, “I Saw Three Ships.”

Advance Level – Fingerstyle Acoustic Guitar for Christmas!

The ukulele is an excellent starting instrument for anyone looking to transition to the guitar, and Zachary is a perfect example of this. After successfully completing his Grade 8 Rockschool Ukulele examination, Zachary maintained his passion and seamlessly transitioned to the acoustic guitar. Thanks to the transferable skills between the ukulele and guitar, it didn’t take him long to master complex guitar techniques as well. We often receive inquiries from parents about guitar lessons for their young children, but many hesitate when we suggest starting with the ukulele. Hopefully, this article will provide clarity and insight for parents considering this progression!

Conclusion

This Christmas, we celebrate the progress of our guitar and ukulele students as they bring festive tunes to life. From mastering chords to exploring fingerstyle, their dedication shines bright. Let’s continue to nurture the joy of music and inspire growth in every strum. Merry Christmas from all of us at Vinnie Classroom!

If you wish to join us for music lessons, consider taking a Trial Lesson with us! I am sure with our decade-long experience, we will be of valuable help to you. Contact us through these easy channels! 🙂

Dec 09 2024
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5 things to look out for when buying an electric guitar

5 things to look out for when buying an electric guitar

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5 Things to look out for when buying an electric guitar

5 things to look out for when buying an electric guitar

There are plenty of things to look out for when buying an electric guitar. If you are unfamiliar with the instrument but are tasked with buying one because your child is taking guitar lessons, then this article is for you. Purchasing a guitar should be an enjoyable and exciting experience! However, the huge variety of brands and models makes it challenging to know if you are choosing the right one. Well, we hope to cover all the things to look out for when buying a guitar in this article! So let’s dive in!

Taking guitar lessons can help you choose and buy your electric guitar!

Buying an electric guitar is a chicken or egg situation! You need a guitar so that you can attend guitar lessons. However, you will only learn about what guitar is suitable for you after attending guitar lessons! There are plenty of options for buying a guitar in Singapore! Taking guitar lessons is an efficient and effective approach to help you figure out your options.

We are a music school in Singapore offering guitar lessons at Upper Thomson Road. Signing up for guitar lessons with us means learning from a team with over 10 years of experience running a successful music school in Singapore. Over the years, we have refined our teaching methods to ensure they are engaging, effective, and tailored to suit students of all ages and skill levels. Our commitment to excellence goes beyond lessons—we organize annual recitals! It provides our guitar students with the opportunity to showcase their progress, build confidence, and experience the joy of performing.

guitar lessons for beginner singapore bass lessons for kids

acoustic guitar lessons for adults electric guitar lessons for teenagers

5 summarized points on Things to look out for when buying an electric guitar

  • Budget
  • Body Style
  • Neck-to-Body Options
  • Pickup Options
  • Bridge Options

Budget – Cheap or Expensive Electric Guitar?

To those unaware, plenty of popular guitar brands own at least one subsidiary brand! These subsidiary brands often sell the same model but use cheaper materials, hardware, and manpower costs. This is great for beginners who want a guitar that looks just like their favorite guitarist. Below are some brands and their cheaper alternatives.

  • Fender – Squier
  • Gibson – Epiphone
  • Ibanez – Ibanez Gio*
  • Musicman – Sterling
  • ESP – LTD – Edwards – Grassroots

Be sure to buy your guitar from a reputable guitar retailer to avoid counterfeit guitars. Buying 2nd hand is an option but do your research before buying. If you are still unsure, you can always check with your guitar teacher in Vinnie Classroom (or the music school you are in). Guitar teachers are first guitar fanatics before they become guitar teachers, so every single one of them will be able to assist you with this.

We recommend students go with the subsidiary brand as they are relatively cheaper than the main brand. However if budget isn’t an issue, the main brand usually offers better hardware and build quality.

*Ibanez does not have a subsidiary brand, they simply name the budget models “Gio”. 

Body Style – look out for these electric guitar shapes!

Electric Guitar and their genre

The instrument’s body shape and its genre or kind have been a constant contentious issue, significant for tradition or some might say adaptability. Despite the fact that the Stratocaster is overwhelmingly regarded with rock and blues, hollow-bodied guitars with jazz, the aspect of the matter is that the shape has little relevance to the music. In the end, it is the player, not the shape, who is the true music maker. Regardless, here is a list of the most common guitar body shapes and their commonly associated music genre.

You can use any guitar design for any music genre. This is a guide to the commonly seen guitar design and its style.

We recommend beginners to choose a design that makes them happy every time they look at it! This will help motivate them to practice more frequently!

Neck-to-Body Options

Common Electric Guitar Neck-To-Body

  • Bolt-On Neck: These guitars bolt the guitar neck onto the guitar body. The benefit of doing so is to allow easy replacement of a new guitar neck should you drop and break yours.
  • Set Neck: A set neck basically means the guitar neck is glued onto the body. The benefit of doing so allows better tone transfer through the guitar strings and body. In return, a set-neck guitar typically has a longer sustain and thicker tone.
  • Through Neck: In this design, the neck and body are constructed out of a piece of continuous wood. The benefit of doing so is to allow the same tonal quality as Set Neck while making the overall design stronger and more resistant to breakage.

While Set Neck and Through Neck offer better tone and sustain, many guitar manufacturers still prefer to build their guitars using the Bolt-On Neck design. Dropping a guitar and breaking it is quite a common sight! We recommend the Bolt-on neck for ease of replacement and adjustment of the guitar neck angle when necessary.

Pickup Options

Common Electric Guitar Pickup

Electric guitars come in various pickup configurations, let’s look at some of the common types of electric guitar pickups.

  • Single Coil: Clear and bright, typically good for clean or low gain setup. Produces 60hz cycle noise when used in higher gain or distortion settings.
  • Humbucker: Double single coil connected in a way that allows hum cancellation, great for higher gain or distortion settings. However, it has a thicker clean tone that is not suitable if you want to play genres such as funk.
  • Noiseless Single Coil: These are humbucker disguised as a single coil. While they do retain a brighter tone like a single coil, they are really closer to a humbucker. They can also be designed as 2 skinny single coils that fit into the space of a standard single coil. Alternatively, they can also be designed with rails instead of poles.
  • Mini Humbucker: They have a smaller dimension compared to a standard single coil and typically have more mids and treble tones.
  • P90: A fat single coil! The P90 was designed by Walt Fuller for Gibson after WWII. The main musical influence back then was Jazz, hence you will usually see the P90 fitted on Jazz-style guitars. However, there is no stopping you from using the P90 with any other music genre!

We recommend configurations such as SSH, HSH, or HH for beginners as they offer the most tonal flexibility. S for Single coil and H for Humbucker.

Bridge Options

Common Electric Guitar Bridge

  • 6-point tremolo: These are the most commonly seen bridge design. They allow a relatively stable tuning while having some pitch bending. However, don’t expect to do dive bombs with this design.
  • 2-point tremolo: Having 2-point instead of 6-point allows the bridge to be floatier. This gives the possibility of bigger pitch shifting and even dive bombs on some models.
  • Fixed Bridge: These look just like the 6-point tremolo design but do not allow any movement. This allows stable tuning and better sustain and tone.
  • Tune-o-matic: These are also fixed bridges. The saddle and tailpiece are separated, allowing better string tension control and much quicker string height adjustment.
  • Floating Bridge: These come with a locking nut to help maintain the tuning stability. The design allows massive pitch bending. You can press the whammy bar all the way down and loosen your strings entirely in an instant. However, this design has a steep learning curve and is not recommended for beginners.

We recommend beginner guitar students either the 6-point, 2-point, or any fixed bridge design as they have the least tuning stability issues.

Conclusion: Things to look out for when buying an electric guitar

If you are confused and not sure what is the most suitable for you as your first electric guitar, we suggest you copy your favorite guitarist. Most guitarist goes through the process of trying out multiple styles of electric guitar design before they settle down for one that fits them well. There will be some wrong choices along the way but that is also what makes the journey interesting.

Taking guitar lessons can help you understand what electric guitar fits you best, consider taking a Trial Lesson with us! I am sure with our decade-long experience, we will be of valuable help to you. Contact us through these easy channels! 🙂

Dec 05 2024
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Christmas gifts for Guitarists 2024

Top 5 Christmas Gifts for Guitarists 2024

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Christmas Gifts for Guitarists 2024

Christmas gifts for Guitarists 2024

As 2024 comes to an end, we face the tough challenge of choosing Christmas gifts for guitarists once again. Just like Apple products, it seems we have hit a plateau with innovative guitar products. The Stratocaster is still very similar to the one from 1954 and the guitar pick is still the same as ever before. Therefore, we hope this article will help if you have a guitarist friend, child, or family member! Here are our top 5 picks for Christmas gifts for guitarists this 2024. Let’s dive in!

Christmas Gifts for Guitarists 2024 at a glance

Let’s save you the hassle of going through the article. Here are our top 5 picks for Christmas gifts for guitarists this 2024 ranked according to price from low to high.

  • Dehumidifier
  • Capo
  • Clip-on Tuner
  • Effect Pedal
  • Practice Amplifier

Signing up for guitar lessons can be a great gift too!

This is especially true if you have a child at home interested in musical instruments. They will thank you for signing them up for guitar lessons, especially in the competitive market in Singapore! Taking lessons ensures progress is efficient and effective, in return allowing them to enjoy playing music sooner.

We are a music school in Singapore offering guitar lessons at Upper Thomson Road. Signing up for guitar lessons with us means learning from a team with over 10 years of experience running a successful music school in Singapore. Over the years, we have refined our teaching methods to ensure they are engaging, effective, and tailored to suit students of all ages and skill levels. Our commitment to excellence goes beyond lessons—we organize annual recitals! It provides our guitar students with the opportunity to showcase their progress, build confidence, and experience the joy of performing.

guitar lessons for beginner singapore bass lessons for kids

acoustic guitar lessons for adults electric guitar lessons for teenagers

1) Dehumidifier

You are not reading this suggestion wrongly, yes a dehumidifier is a great Christmas gift for guitarists! Let’s face it, we live in the extremely humid country of Singapore. The level of humidity here is as close as 100% most of the time. We might as well be fish! However, no musical instruments or gear are made for such humidity. Metal parts rust and tarnish, electronic components fail over time, and wood rot in extreme situations. While a dehumidifier pack as shown above is adequate for most cases, you may also consider a small dehumidifier machine if you have the budget for it. However, regardless of a dehumidifier machine or a dehumidifier pack, the right way to use such devices is to use them in a small contained environment such as a cupboard or an air-tight storage box.

2) Capo

Going up on our budgeting, we think a good capo is beneficial to a guitarist. While there are plenty of choices for capo, we think some are better designed than others. A good capo should have adjustable spring/clamping tension, quality material for contact on both the strings and the neck of the guitar, ease of use, and quick action. As such, we recommend the Shubb Capo! Over the years, we have seen students struggling to open a spring-based capo and how the tight springs have caused damage to guitar necks. Shubb capo does not use a spring, instead, it has a clever lever design! Read more about the interesting history of how Shubb Capo is created.

3) Clip-on Tuner

The clip-on tuner is one of the most reliant items for all guitarists ever since its introduction! Sure, you can tune your guitar using a free app on your smartphone! However, a clip-on tuner works faster than unlocking your phone. It also allows you to tune with any type of noise your environment may be. This means your pesky guitar teacher can be reminding you about your lack of practice while you tune up. It is also an accessory that is always on the headstock of the guitar, allowing convenient access to tuning between songs. But just like a capo, the options are aplenty! Our recommendation would be the ever-accurate and reliable TC Electronics Polytune. Sure it is a little pricier than other models but trust us on this and save the hassle of going through other cheaper alternatives. 🙂

4. Guitar Effect Pedals

Guitar effect pedals are like candies for guitarists. We may already have an overdrive pedal but hey that new one is always better in every way! If your budget allows, a guitar effect pedal is always a good choice. Besides, even if they don’t use the pedal, these heavy metal enclosure makes for great paper weight and displays on the wall or shelves. Here are some of the popular effect pedals for this Christmas.

  1. Berhinger Centaur Overdrive
  2. Tonex One 
  3. Boss DS-1 Metallic White Limited Edition
  4. Zoom G1X FOUR Multi-effects Processor
  5. Valeton GP-100VT Guitar Multi-Effect Amp Simulator

5) Guitar Practice Amplifier

A guitar practice amplifier does seem like a thing from the distant past for seasoned guitarists. However, these little boxes are still very much essential for any budding guitarist. While we have the luxury of connecting our guitar directly to our computer using an audio interface before patching the signal into a plugin and sending it to our trusty monitors, this isn’t straightforward for many. I’m guessing some of you did not understand that last sentence. If you are one of those who don’t understand, the good old guitar practice amplifier is the way to go. To start your practice session, all it takes is an easy flick of the switch and jacking in your guitar! Your guitar teacher will be very happy that you are practicing between guitar lessons too!

Here are our top 3 choices for guitar practice amplifier

  1. Laney Mini Stack 
  2. Spark Mini
  3. NUX Mightly Lite BT MkII

Conclusion

It can be difficult to come up with a Christmas present since it involves a combination of being careful with what to buy, the intended purpose, and what the receiver would like. This task is made even more difficult because Christmas presents are supposed to symbolize something and many people seem to have everything that they need. However, one is able to appreciate the time spent in selecting a gift. A thoughtful present is always bound to make an impression.
While you are shopping, do not forget that the best gift to anyone who wishes to be invested in music is to invest in music lessons. So if you are looking for guitar lessons, consider taking a Trial Lesson with us! I am sure with our decade-long experience, we will be of valuable help to you.Contact us through these easy channels! 🙂
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