by Holroyd Hammond

Created on: July 20, 2008   Last Updated: July 21, 2008

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.

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. What this means is that the student of the classical guitar has a proven system available to guide him or her toward success. A qualified teacher is very helpful in the beginning stages but once the basics are mastered the well-intentioned student can, with diligence and focus, progress on his own.

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 and there are many beautiful works being composed for guitar by contemporary composers as well.

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.

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.

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