Have you ever thought about all the different sounds a guitar can make? A standard guitar has six strings and is capable of making a lot of different sounds. Sometimes it sounds like its mimicking other instruments, like the cello. Discover all the sounds you can hear on this episode of YourClassical Adventures!
Episode 1 playlist
Prelude No. 1 in E minor, by Brazilian composer Heitor Villa Lobos; performed by Julian Bream — Villa Lobos was a cellist who enjoyed mimicking cellos sounds in his guitar music. Can you hear the guitarist sliding his fingers up and down, like a bow sliding across a cello string?
LISTEN Villa Lobos: Prelude No. 1
Intermezzo from Goyescas, by Spanish composer Enrique Granados; performed by Christopher Parkening — Can you hear the guitarist tapping his fingernails on the body of the guitar, turning it into a percussion instrument?
LISTEN Granados: Intermezzo
Agua e Vinho, by Egberto Gismonti; performed by Sharon Isbin — This piece uses something called "harmonics." You get a tiny, bright sound by plucking one of the strings while your finger lays on a certain fret.
LISTEN Gismonti: Agua e Vinho
Explore more from YourClassical Adventures!
What are you curious about?
You must be 13 or older to submit any information to American Public Media/Minnesota Public Radio. The personally identifying information you provide will not be sold, shared, or used for purposes other than to communicate with you about things like our programs, products and services. See Terms of Use and Privacy.
Love the music?
Show your support by making a gift to YourClassical.
Each day, we’re here for you with thoughtful streams that set the tone for your day – not to mention the stories and programs that inspire you to new discovery and help you explore the music you love.
YourClassical is available for free, because we are listener-supported public media. Take a moment to make your gift today.