A Guitarist's Arsenal: Exploring the Varied Types of Guitars Played by Musicians

Guitarists are known for their versatility and the diverse range of guitars they play. From the classic electric guitar to the versatile acoustic, and even more unconventional choices like drum-shaped guitars or keyboard-shaped guitars, the world of guitars is as vast and varied as the musicians who play them.

When musicians walk onto a stage or tune into a recording studio, they have a wide array of guitar options at their disposal. Some guitarists prefer the rich tones and versatile capabilities of electric guitars, while others find solace in the natural sound and traditional tuning of acoustic guitars. Here, we explore the different types of guitars played by musicians and the reasons behind their choices.

The Types of Guitars Musicians Play

Whether it's a Les Paul acoustic six- or twelve-string guitar, or an electric bass guitar, musicians play a myriad of guitars. Each type serves a different purpose and brings a unique flavor to their music. Here are some of the most popular types of guitars used by musicians:

Acoustic Guitars

Classical Guitars: Known for their nylon strings and delicate sound, these guitars are often favored by folk and classical musicians. Acoustic-Electric Guitars: These guitars have pickups and onboard electronics, allowing musicians to amplify their sound without the need for separate electrification. Dreadnought Guitars: Popular for their rich, powerful sound and traditional dreadnought shape, these guitars are favored by folk and country musicians. Parlor Guitars: Known for their smaller size and warm, full-bodied sound, these guitars are ideal for intimate performances and strumming. OM (Orchestral Mundane) Guitars: Offering a balance between the warm tones of a parlor guitar and the power of a dreadnought, OM guitars are versatile and popular among acoustic players.

Electric Guitars

Standards: With six strings, these are the most common electric guitars on the market, favored for their versatile tones and flexibility. Seven-String Guitars: Ideal for jazz and experimental music, these guitars offer an extra low note and greater range. Eight-String Guitars: Primarily used in metal and extreme music, these guitars provide an extra low and high note, enhancing the range and versatility of the instrument.

Specialty Guitars

Besides the mainstream types, there are also some unique and specialized guitars that musicians use for their specific needs or to experiment with new sounds:

Drum-Shaped Guitars

These unconventional guitars, often seen in jazz and avant-garde settings, are shaped like drums and can be played using a variety of techniques, blurring the lines between guitar and percussion.

Keyboard-Shaped Guitars

Some musicians have even opted for keyboard-shaped guitars, which offer a unique and novel playing experience, often used in experimental projects or as a personal challenge.

Personal Preferences and Musical Needs

Ultimately, the choice of guitar is heavily influenced by an individual's personal preferences and the musical context they are in. A musician's favorite guitar often stems from a combination of factors such as sound quality, playability, and versatility.

Acoustic Guitar: The Chosen Instrument

Many guitarists find that an acoustic guitar is their go-to instrument. It offers a natural and heartfelt sound that often resonates with the listener. My personal favorite is a Blueridge BR 180A dreadnought acoustic/electric six-string guitar, which I affectionately call 'Ms. Thelma Lou.' This guitar provides the warm, rich tones that many folk and acoustic guitarists love.

Electric Guitar: Choice of Controversy

Electric guitars, with their bright, distorted tones and range of effects, are second to none for creating a wide array of sounds and tones. However, they require more setup and maintenance to achieve the perfect sound, and not all musicians find them as versatile or natural-sounding as acoustic guitars.

Unconventional Choices

While most guitarists have a preferred type, some musicians opt for unconventional choices. For instance, Tom Morello, an influential guitarist, often performs with a turntable with a headstock, creating a unique sound. Frank Zappa, a multi-instrumentalist, even played a squeaky bicycle wheel and called it a guitar, illustrating his experimental and boundary-pushing approach to music.

Conclusion

No matter what kind of music a guitarist is playing, the choice of guitar is as diverse as the musicians themselves. From the classic acoustic to the experimental electric and every specialty in between, the guitar world is vast and full of possibilities. Whether it's a Les Paul, a Blueridge, or something completely unconventional, the right guitar can greatly enhance the music and the experience of playing.