Acoustic Tuesday | Guitar Routine Show: Recent Episodes
Tony Polecastro
Guitar playing tips and inspiration to play guitar consistently, have more fun and see more progress with your guitar routine. Every week your host, Tony Polecastro (from tacguitar.com) shows you a new guitar lick and shares new guitar gear and acoustic guitar music he‘s recently found. Tune out the overwhelm of online guitar lesson noise and let Tony be your guide to focus, fun and progress every Tuesday at 10am.
Your identity becomes clear when life happens. After 5 years of YouTube, I'm leaning into a new path.
If you're reading this, you're a steadfast supporter of the Acoustic Tuesday Show. I've released a weekly show focused on all things acoustic guitar for over five years. When people ask me what I do, I say I teach guitar and host a weekly show on YouTube.
Needless to say, the Acoustic Tuesday Show is a big part of my identity. To let it go is absolutely terrifying. Any change to your identity is complicated. If you've retired or changed the kind of work you do, you know what I'm talking about.
But there's a reason why change happens. I'm fortunate enough to have a fantastic family that I know I want to spend more time with. Ending the Acoustic Tuesday show gives me more flexibility to focus on high-quality guitar content and spend time with my family in a way that will be more meaningful and impactful to both you and me.
Acoustic Tuesday will end, but my time on YouTube is far from over. My goal is to become the best guitar guide on the internet. I want to create a place where you can be supported in mind, body, and spirit in your guitar journey.
acousticguitar
00:00 - Intro
02:36 - Change is terrifying
05:22 - Why Acoustic Tuesday is over
10:00 - Better guitarists in mind, body, and spirit
15:41 - How you helped me
18:40 - Why we're here
You know what happens when a sitcom does a clip show?
On today's episode of Acoustic Tuesday, we're going down memory lane. This particular memory lane is six years long, with endless bits of wisdom sprinkled all along the way. There truly is no shortage of things to learn from the Acoustic Tuesday catalog.
So, what's up with all the nostalgia?
There are some changes coming to the Acoustic Tuesday show. But before you go through a period of change, it's nice to take stock of where you've been and where you are right now.
Reflection is a practice in gratitude. It grounds you. It makes you remember why you do things in the first place.
And when it comes to your guitar journey, reflection is most likely one of the best things you can do on a big-picture level. Because if you don't stop to smell the roses every once in a while, what are you gardening for?
Think of this 6-year clip show as a reminder to reflect on your guitar journey. I've focused so much of my guitar journey on helping others achieve fun, focus, and progress in their playing. I'm not stopping any time soon. Things just might look different moving forward.
Hey, who said change is bad?
Featured in this episode...
- @maneli
Cut the gimmicks and tricks — it's time to sit down and LEARN.
On this episode of Acoustic Tuesday, I'm unveiling the secrets to learning a new song swiftly and effectively. Grab your guitars and notebooks because you won't want to miss this one!
In this episode, I'm breaking down the process into two fundamental parts to prevent you from feeling swamped or overwhelmed. Remember, understanding and mastering a song doesn't have to be a strenuous endeavor. Let's dive right into it!
Part 1: Mastering the Essential Skills I'm going to walk you through breaking a song into five vital skills that are your stepping stones to mastering any tune:
Technique: Breaking a song down into its essential techniques helps focus on the essentials. If you can't do what the song requires, dial it back and practice specific techniques. Licks: These are moments of flourish or melodic expression that add style and memorability to any song. Isolating these moments and solely focusing on them during a playing session can help allocate your time. Improvising: Explore the art of personalizing the song, making it uniquely yours, and getting more comfortable expressing yourself. Rhythm: It's the heartbeat of the song, and I'll share tips on how to nail it every time. Chord Transitions: We’ll go through smooth transitions to ensure a melodious flow throughout.
📖 Part 2: Understanding the Context In the second half of our episode, I underscore the importance of learning the context of a song.
Trust me, it's a game-changer. Imbibing the history and the essence of the song not only enriches your rendition but also fuels your passion to honor the song and its roots. We'll travel back in time to discover the stories behind the tunes, fostering a deeper connection and inspiration as you play.
By the end of this episode, you'll find that learning a new song is no longer a daunting task, but a joyous journey of discovery and mastery.
Featured in this episode... - David Flammang Guitars - Michael Kennedy Guitars - Cameron Knowler - Jake Eddy
Make sure your strings last as long as possible without giving you trouble when you're playing — be the 20%.
On today's episode, we're unraveling the mysteries of guitar string changes, a crucial skill every guitarist needs in their toolkit! Whether you're a seasoned player or just starting out, this guide is going to be your go-to. I'll walk you through the essential tools you'll need, pinpoint the right time to change those strings, and of course, step-by-step instructions to get it done.
Busting myths is also on the agenda — I'll debunk the age-old myth that you can't take all the strings off at once. Spoiler alert: you totally can, with a few exceptions.
Plus, I'll be bringing you tales from my recent adventure at the Fretboard Summit in Chicago. Prepare to be dazzled by the incredible builders I encountered and the unforgettable experiences that made the event a highlight of my year.
Don't miss out on this treasure trove of insights and stories!
Big shoutout to everyone I met at the Summit and I look forward to seeing everyone there next year!
Also featured on this episode...
- Dream Guitars
- Noemi Guitars
- Stew Mac
- Collings Guitars
- Santa Cruz Guitar Co
guitarstrings #acousticguitar
01:09 - Tools & When to Change
03:20 - How to Change Guitar Strings
11:44 - Easy Trick for Bridge Pins
14:20 - What 80% of Guitarists MISS
16:34 - Which way to wind strings?
25:42 - Do THIS immediately after tuning
29:45 - Acoustic Guitar News pt. 1
31:58 - TAC Guitar Lick Challenge
41:00 - Acoustic Guitar News pt. 2
Is this one of the best set-up guitars right out of the case I've ever played?
While many of you know I've often linked B&G Guitars with their electric wonders, they sent over their Caletta model for me to review, and WOW—it's an acoustic treat!
Clear projection, feather-light build, and those rich overtones that'll leave every guitar lover swooning. Today, we’re focusing on the creme de la creme, the Private Build Caletta. With a snug body size (lower bout just over 14.5 inches) and an air-dried Sitka spruce top adorned with X bracing, it's an acoustic masterpiece. The tongue on the neck block is a genius touch, easing tension and ensuring a seamless play. And, oh, the mother-of-pearl inlay - it's the kind of sparkle that'll catch every eye.
Best part? With this beauty, you don’t have to dig in or get aggressive; even the softest touch brings forth a symphony. Dive in with me and discover why the Caletta is a game-changer!
B&G makes incredible guitars and their latest effort is no exception. One of the nicest parts of the Caletta model is how easy it is to play. With just the lightest touch and effort, the guitar truly sings. This allows me to play more complicated melodies and songs like ragtime stuff without fatiguing or losing the nuance of the genre.
Also featured in this episode... - B&G Handmade Guitars - Oliver Anthony Music - Mule Resonator Guitars - Fairbanks Guitar Company - Sam Ash Music - Gibson Guitar - Reverb
Is there any tastier combination of guitars than these three Bourgeois Guitars?
On this episode, we're diving deep into the mesmerizing world of Bourgeois Guitars straight from Lewiston, ME. There's a reason they're celebrated for their world-class craftsmanship, and I'm excited to unveil that magic.
First up, we have the rustic and authentic Country Boy Dreadnought crafted from Mahogany—its tonal quality is going to leave you spellbound. Next, we'll be exploring the rich sounds of the Large Soundhole OMC with a Sitka spruce top; an absolute treat for any acoustic guitarist. And to cap things off, I'll be sharing my very own Custom OMSC, graced with an aged tone Italian Spruce Top.
Comparing these three guitars is like juxtaposing apples, oranges, and mangoes - each is unique in its own right, yet all bring something delectable to the table. Whether you're a player, collector, or just an acoustic enthusiast, there's something in here for you.
Submit your guitarsenal at the link below! https://airtable.com/shrpAVAi9HUGVUW8b
Featured in this episode... - Bourgeois Guitars - Russ Carson - Andrew Huberman - Kyle Orla Stringworks - Jason Isbell Music - Gibson Guitar - Billy Strings
Put the guitar down and listen up — no, seriously. Put it down in your lap and unlock a new way to approach the acoustic guitar.
On this episode, we're diving into something that has affected all of us guitar players at one point or another: the dreaded guitar rut. You know, that feeling when you're stuck, unmotivated, or just unable to find creativity in your playing? Trust me, I've been there, but fear not, I've got a solution for you!
In this episode, I'm going to take you on a journey into playing your guitar lap style with a slide. Now, this might seem like a peculiar solution, but it's all about gaining perspective and shifting the way you think about playing your guitar. I firmly believe this change can be a lifeline when you're stuck in a rut.
Here are the five incredible benefits of playing lap style that we're going to explore together:
- Gain New Perspective: By laying the guitar across your lap, you'll approach the instrument in a whole new way, refreshing your creativity.
- Learn Alternate Tunings: Lap style opens the door to various tunings, allowing you to explore sounds you never thought possible.
- Finger Style Proficiency: You'll see some exciting advancements in your fingerpicking technique, trust me on this one.
- Ear Training: Tuning your guitar differently and playing lap style will help you develop a more refined and trained ear.
- Innovation through Limitation: By limiting yourself to this new style, you'll find innovation in places you least expected.
Whether you're a beginner looking for new challenges or a seasoned player needing a breath of fresh air, this episode is packed with insights and exercises that will surely reignite your passion for playing. So grab your guitar, a slide, and let's break free from that rut together!
Featured in this episode... - Will McNicol - Matty Grove - Yamaha Guitars - The Bluegrass Situation - Premier Guitar - BillyStrings
Looking for a guitar with tons of flexibility and warmth for a resonator?
On today's episode, you'll get a full review of Beard Guitars' new Trailhead round neck model. Trust me, this one is going to take your breath away.
First things first, let's talk specs. The Trailhead round neck comes with a stunning solid spruce top providing a rich and balanced tonal response that will leave you in awe. Its mahogany neck is smooth and comfortable, allowing for effortless playing. The vesper cone and spider offer some unmatched tones for a guitar of this class.
Now, Beard Guitars knows that one size doesn't fit all. That's why they offer the Trailhead in a variety of options. Looking for a square neck model? They've got you covered. Fancy something a bit more unique? You can opt for various finishes. The possibilities allow any player to find the resonator that works for them.
Submit your guitarsenal at the link below! https://airtable.com/shrpAVAi9HUGVUW8b
Featured on this episode... - Lessons With Marcel - Martin Guitar - Eric Clapton - Retro Fret - Dipped In Tone - Alexa Rose Music - Acoustic Shoppe
Is it possible for modern square neck resonators to sound so different, even if they're made by the same builder?
After our previous journey into the world of vintage acoustic square neck guitars, I thought it would be fun to switch gears and introduce you to the modern side of my collection. Today, we're focusing on the square neck resonator guitars - specifically, the phenomenal creations of Beard Guitars.
I'll be presenting six beautiful models from my personal collection, each one unique, and each one a testament to Beard Guitars' stellar craftsmanship. First, we've got the Model E, a true beauty that sings with an authentic resonator sound. Then, I'll be showing you not just one, but two different Josh Swift Models, each with its own special features and tonal quality. And to top it all off, I've got a charming Vintage R model that's sure to pique your interest.
But this video is not just about these fantastic guitars in my collection—it's also an exploration and appreciation of the exceptional craftsmanship of Beard Guitars. These folks are doing some really amazing things when it comes to creating modern resonator guitars that are perfect for both traditional and contemporary playing styles.
We'll delve into the specifics of their specs, what sets them apart, and why I consider them a go-to source for high-quality square neck resonators.
Submit your guitarsenal at the link below! https://airtable.com/shrpAVAi9HUGVUW8b
Featured in this episode... - Overhaul Guitars - Michael Watts - Buffalo Kin - Tommy Emmanuel - Billy Strings - Premier Guitar - Beard Guitars - Molly Tuttle
Can you believe these three vintage '40s beauties cost less than $1000 in total?
In this episode, I'll take you on a tour of my personal collection of vintage square neck guitars. Now these aren't your typical acoustic instruments—these guitars are specifically designed to be played on your lap. And guess what? You can often find them at a bargain price.
I'll showcase three unique models that I personally own and adore. First up is the beautiful Bronson's Radio Grand, a charming piece of musical history that's got some serious personality. Next, we'll take a closer look at the Oahu Square Neck Guitar. This gem is well known for its mellow tone and vintage vibe. And last but certainly not least, I present to you the Regal square neck guitar, a model known for its robust sound and great playability.
What's exciting is that these three guitars don't typically get the spotlight they deserve, and I'm here to change that. I've chosen them not just because they're in my collection (although I do get asked about them a lot!) but because they represent a fascinating corner of the guitar world that's often overlooked.
Here's the kicker—the combined cost of these three instruments? Less than $1000. That's right! Vintage doesn't always mean expensive, and these guitars are proof of that.
Submit your guitarsenal at the link below! https://airtable.com/shrpAVAi9HUGVUW8b
Featured in this episode... - Chicago Music Exchange - Noel Gallagher - B&G Handmade Guitars - Jake Eddy - Joe Bonamassa
300 episodes later and I'm still getting asked, "how do you pick out a first guitar?" Well, here goes nothing!
This week, we're diving headfirst into the vast world of acoustic guitars to bring you my top 10 picks for the best first acoustic guitars for beginners.
In this comprehensive guide, we'll be focusing on guitars that deliver the perfect balance between quality, tone, and price—and trust me, these guitars are some of the best the market has to offer. It can be a daunting task, picking your first guitar. You want to get the best bang for your buck, a guitar that sounds good, feels good, and will be with you as you progress through your guitar journey.
Some of the shining stars on this list include the compact yet powerful Taylor GS-Mini, the incredibly valued Yamaha FG800, the always reliable Seagull S6, the pleasantly surprising Bristol BD16, and the sublime Orangewood Echo. But that's not all, we've got five more fantastic instruments for you to consider, each with its own unique qualities.
No spoilers here! You'll have to tune in to find out the rest of my top picks. Remember, everyone's journey is unique and so is every guitar, so take your time, do your research, and most importantly, enjoy the process. Get ready to pick up some key insights on what to look for in your first acoustic guitar.
Submit your guitarsenal at the link below! https://airtable.com/shrpAVAi9HUGVUW8b
Featured in this episode... - Taylor Guitars - Jalopy Records - Michael Watts - Maneli - Eddies Guitars - Lessons with Marcel
Looking for that jingly and sparkling tone that'll charm your ears without breaking the bank? Look no further than these 10 guitars.
In today's episode, we'll explore the wonderful world of 12-string guitars. I truly believe you don't have to break the bank to get your hands on a quality 12-string. That's why I'm highlighting 10 starter acoustic 12-string guitars that are under $1000! That's right, I've been on a mission to find you guys the best budget-friendly 12-strings that don't skimp on quality.
I'll include beauties like the Yamaha FG820-12, which boasts a solid spruce top with mahogany back and sides, which makes for a full, rich sound, as well as classics like the Guild D1212—a guitar that sings with warmth and clarity. The D1212 is a testament to Guild's legacy of crafting fantastic 12-string acoustics.
Whether you're a seasoned 6-string player looking to branch out or a newbie who wants to dive straight into the deep end, I'm confident this list has the perfect guitar for you.
Remember, it's not about the cost, but about finding the right instrument that fits your style and inspires you to create. Tune in to this episode of Acoustic Tuesday to start your 12-string journey with confidence.
Featured in this episode... - Trevor Gordon Hall - The Real Andy McKee - Caitlin Canty - Gems On VHS - Play Country Blues - Turn to Blues - Chicago Music Exchange
90% of new guitar players abandon playing within 1 year. Are you starting off on the wrong instrument?
Many years ago, I found myself drawn to the sound of the electric guitar, but as time passed, I was drawn to the warm, resonant tones of the acoustic guitar. For decades, I almost exclusively played acoustic guitar, until recently when the allure of electric guitar reignited my interest.
With this newfound exploration, I have fresh insights and perspectives on where to begin your guitar journey. And guess what? I'm here to share this treasure trove of knowledge with you. So, if you're just starting out, or you're an old hand considering a new path, you've come to the right place.
In this video, I delve into the 10 key differences between acoustic and electric guitars, covering everything from body styles to string gauges. It's not just about which one is better—it's about understanding the unique qualities of each and how they can influence your playing and musical growth.
If you don't have time to watch the whole video, I strongly recommend you go down the acoustic path. The acoustic guitar is not just more portable and less gear-intensive, but it also serves as an excellent foundation to build your strength and dexterity due to its string gauge and length. This makes transitioning to electric guitar easier in the long run!
Featured in this episode... - Buffalo Kin - Peter Dankelson - Michael Watts - No Sudden Movements - Fat Possum Records - Innovative Leisure - Mapache - Suzanne Santo - Laney Lou and the Bird Dogs
If you need more banjo in your life, this list was hand-picked for you.
This episode is all about the brilliant banjo players that inspire countless guitar journeys, including my own—and hopefully yours!
But first, a little storytime. I remember back when I was a fledgling in the world of bluegrass and folk music at the Old Town School of Folk. I stumbled upon my first bluegrass CD, an Earl Scruggs album. Let me tell you, that album shook my world and cast a profound influence on my guitar journey. It set me on a path of exploration into the rich and vibrant landscape of this bluegrass and folk.
Today, I'm excited to share with you some banjo wizards, divided into three sections.
First, we have "The Classics", the legends who shaped the bluegrass scene: Earl Scruggs, Sonny Osborne, and J.D. Crowe. Their work is timeless and continues to influence musicians around the world.
Then, we'll delve into the realm of "Old-Time Players", featuring the likes of Rhiannon Giddens, Nora Brown, and Chris Coole. They're keeping the traditional banjo sound aliave, fusing it with their unique styles and creating something truly mesmerizing.
Lastly, we can't forget the "Must-Know Players", contemporary artists who have reinvented the banjo wheel in many ways. Here, we have Riley Baugus, Ken Perlman, and Abigail Washburn, whose sounds are vital to any banjo or guitar enthusiast.
Listening to banjo players is an incredibly enriching experience. Not only does it help you appreciate the roots of American folk music, but it also broadens your musical horizons, contributing to both your banjo and guitar skills.
Submit your guitarsenal at the link below! https://airtable.com/shrpAVAi9HUGVUW8b
Featured in this episode... - Walking the Floor with Chris Podcast - Fretboard Journal - Folkway Music - Jody Carroll - Acoustic Shoppe - Candy Rat Records - Adrian Bellue - Michael Watts
Are you ready to banjo roll into leveling up your picking hand?
On today's episode, we're journeying into the realm of banjo picking techniques and exploring how they can elevate your guitar playing.
We'll start off with the basics: tuning your guitar. We'll transition your guitar from standard tuning into open G tuning. If you've never dabbled with alternate tunings before, don't worry, I'll guide you every step of the way. This particular tuning allows your guitar to take on a banjo-like resonance, which is exactly what we're aiming for.
Next, we dive headfirst into banjo rolls, an essential element in the banjo player's arsenal. By incorporating these fingerpicking patterns into your guitar playing, you'll discover a whole new world of rhythm and melody that can freshen up your sound. These rolls might be tricky at first, but stick with it—I promise it's worth it!
Now, onto the main event: clawhammer picking. A traditional technique, clawhammer involves a down-picking motion with the fingers, creating a percussive, rhythmic drive. We'll dissect this style in detail, taking you through each step until you feel comfortable enough to integrate clawhammer into your own playing.
The beautiful thing about learning another instrument's technique, like the banjo in this case, is that it provides a new lens to view your guitar playing. You'll uncover fresh sonic patterns and new ways of approaching the guitar that you may not have discovered otherwise. I guarantee this episode is a fantastic opportunity to broaden your musical horizons and fuel your guitar journey.
Featured in this episode... - Tom Sands Guitars - Schorrguitars - Colter Wall - Molly Tuttle - Billy Strings - Punch Brothers
Feel like you're in a guitar rut? Maybe you're craving a fresh perspective to ignite your creativity? Try using banjo tuning, specifically open G tuning. Seriously!
In this video, we're starting from scratch—taking your guitar from standard tuning to open G tuning. And don't worry, I'll guide you through each string's pitch so you can get the tuning just right.
Once we're in tune, we dive into the heart of this lesson—exploring three magical chord shapes you can use in open G tuning. I'm going to walk you through the barre-chord shape, the stairstep shape, and the reverse stairstep shape. You'll learn how to play major and minor chords with them, opening up a whole new realm of sonic possibilities!
Next up, we're focusing on scale shapes in open G tuning. Understanding scale shapes is essential for riff creation, songwriting, and simply jamming out in this vibrant and versatile tuning.
This episode isn't just about learning a new tuning, though. It's about broadening your horizons as a musician. Learning how to play another instrument, like a banjo in this case, can significantly improve your guitar playing. It unlocks new sonic patterns and presents new ways of approaching your guitar.
Submit your guitarsenal at the link below! https://airtable.com/shrpAVAi9HUGVUW8b
Featured in this episode... - McPherson Guitars - The Real Andy McKee - Trevor Gordon Hall - Calum Graham - Dustin Furlow - Andrea Stolpe
Get your twang on while expanding your musical horizons with these 10 all-star options for beginner banjos.
We're breaking out of the six-string mold and diving into the bright, toe-tapping world of the banjo. We'll look at 10 affordable banjos that are perfect for any acoustic guitar player looking to dabble in some new sonic territories.
We've split our list into two categories: resonator banjos and open back banjos. Some of you may be scratching your heads, wondering, "What's the difference, Tony?" Well, you're about to find out!
Resonator banjos, like the Deering Goodtime #2 and the Recording King RK-R20, are perfect for those looking for that full-bodied, bluegrass sound. The resonator at the back of the banjo projects the sound forward, which gives these banjos a rich, powerful tone.
On the other hand, open back banjos, such as the Goldtone CC-100, provide a mellower and more intimate sound. These banjos are lighter, easier to hold, and are often used in old-time music and clawhammer style playing.
But regardless of which style you choose, here's a pro-tip: learning to play a new instrument can have incredible benefits for your guitar playing. It can unlock new sonic patterns, giving you fresh ideas and ways of approaching your guitar. Plus, let's be honest, who wouldn't want to add a bit of banjo flair to their acoustic repertoire?
Submit your guitarsenal at the link below! https://airtable.com/shrpAVAi9HUGVUW8b
Featured in this episode... - Thompson Guitars - Trey Hensley - Fretboard Journal - Molly Tuttle - Billy Strings - Andy Hall
After almost 100 years, this Martin sounds better than ever, but how does it compare to other Martins?
Today's show is something truly special, especially for those of you who love vintage guitars just as much as I do. We'll be exploring the world of all-mahogany, pre-1950 Martin Guitars, from the craftsmanship and the sound to why these guitars are valued by guitar geeks.
We're kicking things off with a 1946 Martin 00-17, a mid-sized guitar that packs a punch. The all-mahogany build gives it a warm, mellow tone and its larger body size projects that tone beautifully. If you're all about that mid-range magic, this one is for you.
Next up, we're taking a leap back in time with a 1935 Martin 0-17. This beauty features a smaller body size that contributes to a distinct, focused tone. Despite its compact size, this all-mahogany Martin has a voice that's full of character—it's perfect for those fingerpicking blues.
Finally, we're going even further back to 1926 with the Martin 2-17. The smallest of the bunch, it surprises with its rich and warm sound. This one is proof that size doesn't always equate to sound. Its smaller stature gives it a unique tonal profile that's just simply enchanting, dry, woody, and responsive.
Throughout the episode, we'll do side-by-side comparisons of these amazing instruments to truly dive deep into the effect of body size on a guitar's tone. Not to mention, these all-mahogany Martins are more accessible in terms of price - making them fantastic options for guitarists who want that vintage charm without breaking the bank compared to other guitars from these years.
Featured in this episode...
- David and the Devil
- Bella White Music
- Rhett Shull
What's better than 10 resonator guitarists (resonatorists?) to inspire your guitar journey? How about 18?
Today's episode is for those who are passionate about resonator guitars—those distinctive instruments that have captivated artists and audiences alike with their uniquely soulful, metallic timbre. If you've ever been captivated by that robust and twangy sound, you'll love this video as we delve into the works of 18 remarkable resonator guitarists who are bound to inspire you.
From well-known artists like the incredible Charlie Parr, known for his raw, authentic, and deeply emotive blues and folk music, to lesser-known yet immensely talented musicians like Sarah Rogo, who blends her compelling voice with expert slide guitar to create a truly mesmerizing experience.
Resonator guitars are unlike any other. Their unique construction features spun metal cones that amplify the strings' vibrations. They produce a sound that's both powerful and vibrant, exuding a sense of nostalgia and a certain rawness that's hard to replicate. This unique sound—part country, part blues, part old-timey music hall—has enamored audiences across generations, making them a beloved choice for musicians worldwide.
As we journey through this list, we'll dive into what makes each guitarist unique and how they utilize the resonator guitar to bring their music to life. Whether you're an experienced guitarist looking for some new inspiration, or a beginner interested in trying out the resonator guitar, this video is for you!
Featured in this episode...
- Fretboard Journal
- The Handmade Music School
- Emerald City Guitars
- Furch Guitars Official
- Adrian Bellue
- Darrell Scott
- Fat Possum Records
Have you ever seen such tasty sunburst, slope shoulder dreadnoughts?
I'm a proud owner of two slope shoulder dreadnoughts and let me tell you, they're a real treasure in any guitarist's collection. These guitars are known for their deep, rich sounds, creating a broad audio landscape that contrasts sharply with the laser-focused sound of their square shoulder counterparts.
The first star of today's show is the Santa Cruz Vintage Southerner. This guitar is a true jack of all trades. Its high-quality woods, precise craftsmanship, and the unmistakable Santa Cruz touch all blend together to produce a sound that's as rich and full as you can get. It's great for instrumentals and recording, filling the room with balanced, vibrant tones. With its responsive top and comfortable playability, it's no wonder the Vintage Southerner has earned its place in my collection.
Next up, we have the Atkin J43. If you thought the Santa Cruz was versatile, wait until you get a load of this one. The Atkin J43 is a powerhouse of versatility, making it an excellent choice for both fingerpicking and flatpicking styles. Its balanced tone, robust volume, and the warmth it brings to the table make it a standout choice for any recording or instrumental performance. The craftsmanship is, of course, top-notch, as we've all come to expect from Atkin guitars.
So, stick around as we delve into the nuanced world of slope shoulder dreadnoughts. Whether you're a seasoned player or a beginner, there's something to learn and appreciate about these amazing instruments.
Submit your guitarsenal at the link below!
https://airtable.com/shrpAVAi9HUGVUW8b
Featured in this episode...
- Santa Cruz Guitar Co
- Atkin Guitar Company
- Candy Rat Records
- Molly Tuttle
- Chicago Music Exchange
- Colter Wall
Martin or Gibson? Boxers or briefs? Who is the most famous person I've played with?
Today, we're doing an AMA (Ask Me Anything) episode where I'll be answering YOUR questions that you've been leaving in the comments on previous episodes.
In this episode, we'll dive deep into my personal life—from my love for hockey, to the books I enjoy reading, and even where some past employees at Tony's Acoustic Challenge are today. You'll get an intimate look at my musical upbringing, how it has shaped who I am today, and some fun stories along the way.
Submit your guitarsenal at the link below!
https://airtable.com/shrpAVAi9HUGVUW8b
Featured in this episode...
- Thunder Road Guitars
- Old Town School of Folk
- Fretboard Journal
- True Vintage Guitar
- Calton Cases
- Dust to Digital
- Andrea Stolpe
In this episode of Acoustic Tuesday, we'll be exploring the life stories, unique styles, and techniques of 11 more incredible acoustic blues guitarists. By the end of this series, you'll have a wealth of 33 blues artists to add to your listening list!
In this special episode, we'll be diving into some rare, intimate concert footage from acoustic blues musicians throughout the past century. Many of these guitarists have been lost to history, with only a few archival records remaining. I'll be sharing their captivating life stories, how they were discovered or rediscovered, and the invaluable contributions they made to the world of blues music.
Get ready to immerse yourself in the world of these 11 acoustic blues legends:
Kid Bailey
Sylvester Weaver
Bo Carter
Son House
Frank Stokes
Pink Anderson
Reverend Gary Davis
Blind Willie Johnson
Sam Chatmon
Josh White
Reverend Robert Wilkins
Don't forget to check out parts 1 and 2 of this series if you haven't already, and let me know what you think in the comments!
Submit your guitarsenal at the link below!
https://airtable.com/shrpAVAi9HUGVUW8b
Duluth leadership guitar fundraiser:
https://www.gofundme.com/f/leadership-duluth-music-for-life-project
Featured in this episode...
- Old Town School of Folk Music
- Fretboard Journal
- The North American Guitar
- Thompson Guitars
- Bourgeois Guitars
- Alexandr Misko
- National Guitars
- Luca Stricagnoli
- Carter Vintage Guitars
- Martin Guitar
Is there such a thing as too much blues? If you're looking for more deep-cut hidden gems in the world of blues guitar, you don't wanna miss this episode.
After the overwhelming response to our previous episode featuring 11 incredible blues artists, I knew I had to share 11 MORE acoustic blues artists that'll help you play better and inspire you on your guitar journey.
In this episode, we're diving into the world of acoustic blues like never before, with intimate concert footage from some of the most influential blues musicians throughout the past century. We'll be exploring the captivating sounds of Mississippi hill country blues, delta blues, Chicago blues, and more, as we celebrate the rich history and legacy of this incredible genre.
Get ready to be amazed by the raw talent and authentic emotions of artists like Bukka White, JB Lenoir, Blind Willie McTell, and Jessie Mae Hemphill, as we take a closer look at the unique styles and techniques that have shaped the world of acoustic blues.
So grab your guitar, tune in, and let's embark on this blues journey together! And if you haven't already, make sure to subscribe to Acoustic Life so you never miss an episode of Acoustic Tuesday, where we celebrate the acoustic lifestyle and share our love for all things guitar.
Submit your guitarsenal at the link below!
https://airtable.com/shrpAVAi9HUGVUW8b
Featured in this episode...
- Old Town School
- Fretboard Journal
- Jason Isbell
- Gibson Guitar
- Michael Watts
- Blind Guitars
- Molly Tuttle
- Gryphon Strings
- Martin Guitar
- Hurt: The Film
Think you know the blues? Think you know acoustic blues? Chances are you haven't heard these insanely good blues guitars. It's time to get inspired.
In this episode, we'll be exploring 11 phenomenal acoustic blues artists who will not only inspire you but also help you play better. I've handpicked these legends from all corners of the U.S. and spanning the last 100 years, to give you a true taste of acoustic blues history.
Featuring breathtaking concert footage and unforgettable recordings, you'll experience the incredible artistry of these musicians up close and personal. Some of the notable names we'll be discussing include the likes of Robert Belfour, Barbecue Bob, Charley Patton, and Mississippi John Hurt — just to name a few.
So grab your guitar, sit back, and get ready to be inspired by the captivating sounds of these acoustic blues masters. Whether you're an experienced player or just starting out, you'll walk away with new insights and a fresh perspective on your own playing.
Featured in this episode...
- PPLDTV
- Old Town School of Folk Music
- Fretboard Journal
- Andy Hall
- Mule Resophonic Guitars
- Pisgah Banjo Company
- Rhiannon Giddens
- Wondrium
Do you dream about bluesy and dirty tones, but feel like your guitar isn't right for it? Boy howdy, do I have some guitars you NEED to hear.
We're exploring three phenomenal instruments from Mule Resophonic Guitars. Get ready for an in-depth comparison of these unique resonator guitars, showcasing their distinct sounds and features.
The first guitar we'll be discussing is my beloved Mule Tricone resonator. This was the first Mule guitar I ever got my hands on, and it's a true work of art. Handmade with an all-steel body, this tricone resonator in a single cone resonator body offers a deep, bluesy tone that'll make you fall in love with resonators and slide guitar all over again.
Next up is the Mule Mavis resonator guitar – a super-slim, acoustic-electric marvel. If you're looking for versatility, this guitar has got you covered. We'll be exploring the wide range of tones this beauty can produce, from warm and mellow to bright and punchy.
Finally, we'll be checking out the Blue Mule Resonator. This gem sports a stylish cutaway for easy access to those higher frets, and when mic'd up, you'll be amazed by its round tone with less bite than the other resonators.
Submit your guitarsenal at the link below! https://airtable.com/shrpAVAi9HUGVUW8b
Also featured in this episode...
- Mule Resophonic Guitars
- Rob Ickes and Trey Hensley
- Pharis and Jason Romero
- Taylor Ashton Music
- Ryan Guitars
- Furch Guitars
- Dust to Digital
Ever thought that a laminate guitar might be too "cheap" or catered to beginners for your guitar collection? Just wait until you hear this resonator guitar.
In today's episode, we're going to dive into a comparison between two stunning resonator guitars from my personal collection—both of which are from @nationalguitars .
The first contender is a gorgeous National Supro Collegian resonator guitar. This beauty sports a striking duco finish that immediately catches your eye. With a rosewood fingerboard and a mahogany neck, it has plenty of bark and bite that you'd expect from a top-notch resonator guitar. We'll explore its unique tonal qualities and discuss why this guitar is perfect for those who love that classic resonator sound.
Our second guitar is the elegant National Estralita Deluxe resonator guitar. This one has a deeper, more mellow tone that sets it apart from its competition. Although it's a laminate guitar, don't let that deter you from considering it as a viable option! We'll delve into the Estralita's distinctive character and find out what makes it a must-have in any resonator guitar enthusiast's collection.
Whether you're a seasoned resonator guitar player or just getting into the world of these unique instruments, this is a great starting point for hearing how certain resonators with specific features sound. Be sure to drop your favorite resonator guitar or any you are interested in in the comments below!
Submit your guitarsenal at the link below!
https://airtable.com/shrpAVAi9HUGVUW8b
Also featured in this episode…
- Epiphone
- Gibson Guitar
- Chris Stapleton
- Trey Hensley
- Mama's Broke
- Old Town School of Folk
- Fretboard Journal
Ready to hear the difference between Spruce and Mahogany guitars? Same builder, similar models, but different tonewoods — which one would you choose?
I'm beyond excited for today's Acoustic Tuesday episode. We have a special treat as we dive into the world of Thompson Guitars, handcrafted in Sisters, Oregon. This time, we'll be comparing two absolutely incredible guitars from their lineup: the Thompson DC-MA and the Thompson MAD-ADI. Grab your pick, sit back, and get ready for a tonal adventure!
The first guitar I'll be showcasing is the Thompson DCMA. This mahogany dreadnought beauty boasts deep and dark tones that will make your ears swoon. I'll be sharing my thoughts on the build quality, playability, and how that mahogany goodness provides a rich and resonant sound that'll leave you craving more.
Next up is the Thompson MAD-ADI, crafted from Adirondack spruce. This guitar is the perfect contrast to the DC-MA, offering a much brighter and lighter tone. I'll delve into what makes the Adirondack spruce so special, and how its unique properties contribute to the guitar's overall sound and projection.
Throughout the episode, I'll be playing both of these incredible instruments side by side, so you can hear the distinct differences in their tonal qualities. I'm excited to share my insights and help you decide which one might be the right fit for your playing style and taste.
We'll also cover two fundraisers that are very near and dear to me. Please consider donating to make sure these musicians' lives are honored properly.
The first documentary is called ORACLE: The Life & Music of Michael Hedges. You can donate by clicking the link below:
https://seedandspark.com/fund/oraclefilm#story
The second fundraiser is for the Mississippi John Hurt Documentary Film. Click the link below to learn more and get involved:
https://www.gofundme.com/f/mississippi-john-hurt-foundation-documentary-film
Submit your guitarsenal at the link below!
https://airtable.com/shrpAVAi9HUGVUW8b
Also featured in this episode...
- Thompson Guitars
- Tommy Emmanuel
- Molly Tuttle
- WesternAF
- Willi Carlisle
- Chandler Huntley
We're taking to the skies as I share my top 10 tips for flying with your acoustic guitar! Join me as I walk you through the best practices and pro-tips I've picked up on my own journeys, ensuring your precious instrument arrives safe and sound at your destination.
Whether you're a touring musician or simply taking your guitar on vacation, these tips are essential to keeping your guitar protected and your travels stress-free. I'll cover everything from shipping your guitar to "green tag gate checking," and even the secret of asking for the closet.
Here's a quick rundown of what we'll discuss in this episode:
- Packing your guitar 📦
- Using air tiles or tags
- Padding your case properly
- Using some common human decency 🙏
...and 6 more amazing tips!
Make sure you don't miss out on these valuable insights—hit that subscribe button and join the Acoustic Tuesday family, where we share our passion for all things acoustic guitar! And, as always, I'd love to hear your own experiences and tips for flying with a guitar, so drop a comment below and let's chat!
Happy flying and strumming, my friends! 🛫🎶
Submit your guitarsenal at the link below!
https://airtable.com/shrpAVAi9HUGVUW8b
Also featured in this episode...
- Chicago Music Exchange
- Nat Myers
- Gibson Guitar
- Gems On VHS
- Billy Strings
Today, I'm excited to share two beautiful guitars that, on paper, I hated. Seriously. But sure enough, I bought them. So what changed my mind? Why are they two of my favorite guitars now?
This episode is dedicated to judging a book by its cover, and why you shouldn't do it. Here's the skinny: I spent most of my career as a guitarist convinced that maple was not the tonewood for me. I avoided it like the plague. And then I discovered a guitar that aversion completely on its head.
It was a custom Martin OM with a maple body back and sides. This guitar is a true work of art, with its maple tonewoods and beautiful finish. I'll be demonstrating its sound and feel, as well as discussing the process of how this guitar entering my arsenal.
Next up is the Huss & Dalton L13 Crossroads Deluxe. This guitar is simply stunning, with a solid Adirondack spruce top and solid East Indian rosewood back and sides. I'll be giving you an in-depth review of its tone, playability, and overall craftsmanship.
As always, I'll be providing plenty of tips and techniques along the way, so whether you're a seasoned player or just starting out, there's something for everyone in this episode. So sit back, relax, and join me as we explore the world of acoustic guitar!
Submit your guitarsenal at the link below!https://airtable.com/shrpAVAi9HUGVUW8b
Featured in this episode...- MusicisWin - Chicago Music Exchange - Reverb - Jody Carroll - PRS Guitars - Mule Resonator Guitars- Julian Lage- Marty Music
Whether you identify as a purist or you're curious about this technique, flatpicking can take your playing to the next level.
In this video, we dive into the fascinating world of flatpicking and explore the techniques that make this style of guitar playing so popular.
We'll discuss the best ways to explore this incredible technique. I'll guide you through essential flatpicking aspects like alternate picking, crosspicking, and flatpicking runs, providing detailed instruction and practical tips to help you master these skills.
Whether you're a beginner or an experienced guitarist, this video is the perfect introduction to flatpicking and a valuable resource for improving your technique. If you're ready to take your guitar playing to the next level, be sure to try all seven exercises!
Submit your guitarsenal at the link below!https://airtable.com/shrpAVAi9HUGVUW8b
Featured in this episode...- Dolly Parton - Billy Strings - Normans Rare Guitars - Trey Hensley - Gryphon Strings - Molly Tuttle
Huss and Dalton has been making beautiful, fine-tuned acoustic guitars for decades now. But how do you tackle their catalogue and find the right one for you and your budget?
On today's episode, I'll walk you through my 5 favorite Huss and Dalton guitars. The origin of this episode is born from a major snafu on my end. However, Huss and Dalton's incredible customer service and lasting value they provide to customers led me to making this episode.
Huss and Dalton is known for making powerful guitars. Every guitar I play from them is also extremely comfortable. The neck feels like butter, and construction is incredibly solid. Whether you're looking for crystal-clear flatpicking tones or smooth, deep fingerpicking tones, I strongly recommend you check out Huss and Dalton's acoustic guitars.
The one guitar that I currently own on this list is a true anomaly in my taste. I've always felt like on paper, the guitar that I own would be one I hate. However, this guitar sounds like nothing I've heard given its wood and construction. Seriously, you might be just as surprised as I was when you hear this bad boy.
Submit your guitarsenal at the link below!https://airtable.com/shrpAVAi9HUGVUW8b
Featured in this episode...- Eddies Guitars - Peghead Nation - Jeremy Sheppard - Mark Manson - Ariel Posen - Paul Davids - Ron Sweeney - The Milk Carton Kids - Colter Wall
Muddy Waters is one of the most, if not the most, influential blues guitarist. But what acoustic guitar lessons can we learn from his approach to music?
In this episode, we'll cover 10 aspects of Muddy Waters' playing. Each lesson focuses on a different technique, approach, or stylistic choice. From minimalism to alternating octaves, there's something to learn no matter your skill level.
So much of the blues is rooted in history, and there are plenty of blues musicians prior to Muddy Waters that informed his playing style. Much of this lesson is informed by "Can't Be Satisfied" by Robert Gordon. If you want to learn more about Muddy Waters and his influences, be sure to check out this book!
Besides learning guitar-specific techniques, you'll also see specific examples of Muddy Waters' approach to music. Some of these are a little philosophical and heady, but they're super important. From learning the meaning perseverance to finding your musical family, I hope you resonate with one of these Muddy Waters' lessons.
Featured in this episode...- Active Melody - Play Country Blues - Mule Resonator Guitars - Thompson Guitars- Rob Ickes and Trey Hensley- Mighty Poplar - Joseph The Band- Free Dirt Records - Compass Records - Nickel Creek - Candy Rat Records - Caitlin Canty - Pisgah Banjo Company
The world is filled with endless ways to discover new music. With algorithms, recommendations, and endless scrolling, where can you turn to find consistently high-quality musical inspiration?
In this episode, we'll be covering the 13 best places to discover new music. The best part about this list is, they're all YouTube channels! Whether you live in the remote forests of Alberta or the land down under, as long as you have an internet connection you can discover new music!
I chose this list of publications, record labels, documentarians, and otherwise guitar geeks because of their consistent quality and curation. There are so many artists out there, and I believe these channels are constantly working to uncover and highlight new guitarists every day.
I've also found that the actual quality of the video, recording, and art direction for the shoots are incredible. There's always new music to be heard and most of the options have an extensive backlog of featured artists.
If there are any channels that you think I overlooked, please let me and the TAC Family know by dropping a comment below. I'm always on the hunt for new music and places to find out, and I'm sure there are other TAC Family members out there who are, too!
Featured in this episode...
- @Eartrumpetlabs
- @TheBluegrassSituation
- @TomSandsGuitars
- @WesternAF
- @GemsOnVHS
- @FolkAlleydotCom
- @TheWhiteWallSessions
- @pastemagazine
- @MattyGrove
- @fretboardjournal
- @CarterVintageGuitarsNashville
- @TheNorthAmericanGuitar
- @CardinalSessions
- @MrPreston56
- @fingerstyleguitarjournal9593
- @kakiking
- @EricSkyeMusic
- @MichaelWatts
Imagine a world where carpal tunnel, aching shoulders, and back pain from playing simply vanished. Turns out you can make that world a reality with a few tweaks to your playing routine!
On today's episode, we're scaring off the pain gremlins with some tips, tricks, and pointers on preventing use injuries while playing guitar. Before I go any further, though, you need to know that I am not a doctor. If you want to try any of these physical exercises or stretches, please check in with your physician first.
Poor posture, tension, and repetition are the trifecta of any overuse injury. Any combination of these causes can result in an injury that can set you back on your acoustic guitar journey. This episode will focus on injury prevention. Rather than diagnose any pain you may feel, I'll outline some basic steps to improve posture, reduce tension, and decrease overuse injury.
One of the easiest things you can do is incorporate stretching into your playing routine. Before you start playing, try taking a deep breath, rolling your shoulders back, stretching your neck, and trying one of the stretches I demonstrate for forearms — after you talk to your physician, of course.
We hold so much tension throughout the day. Let guitar playing be a moment you can check in with yourself. Deep breaths, light stretching, and relaxing can change how you play and improve your playing longevity.
Submit your guitarsenal at the link below!https://airtable.com/shrpAVAi9HUGVUW8b
Featured on this episode...- Michael Watts - Fretboard Journal - Beard Guitars - Greensky Bluegrass - Gibson Guitar - Mark Agnesi - Eastman Guitars - Jack White - Ariel Posen
Which is better to buy: vintage guitars or new guitars? While it might seem obvious to some, you can evaluate the strengths and weaknesses on an 8-point rubric. And when you walk it through these considerations, you might be shocked at the results.
Figuring our whether a vintage or new acoustic guitar is right for you can be as standardized as you want it to be. You can go by feel, you can do a pros and cons list, or you can borrow my 8-point guide to determine your direction.
I get asked all the time which is a better purchase: vintage or new. It truly depends on what you're looking for. There are some broad generalizations you can make, but if you like a guitar even though it's outside of your preconceived idea of what you should purchase, don't feel limited.
Vintage guitars have tons of strengths, some that, in your mind, may outweigh all of the strengths of buying a new guitar. Whichever decision you think is right is the important one. If you disagree with my rubric, that's totally fine. I invite you to share yours in the comments and let people know how your rubric worked for you!
Featured in this episode...- Riddy Arman - WesternAF - Dust to Digital - Sweetwater - Mule Resophonic Guitars
How many times have you been told to humidify your guitar? How do you know if you need to? What if I told you there was a simple rule to keep your guitar in good condition for generations to come?
On today's episode, we're talking about the special relationship between humidity and your acoustic guitar. You've likely heard plenty of horror stories about too much humidity or not enough humidity. But what's the goldilocks range?
I've heard from plenty of guitar makers, players, and collectors about humidity over the years. Between temperature and humidity, there's a safe range for almost all instruments that exists between 66–77 degrees Fahrenheit and 40-55 percent humidity.
I'll cover why this band of ideal conditions is best for guitars. But if you're wondering how you can maintain this temperatures and humidity best, I'll also cover humidifiers and key signs to look out for.
Humidifying your guitar is important. If it's not taken care of, you can damage your guitar severely. Worst case scenarios include cracking and separating. Best case scenarios are reversible changes.
Submit your guitarsenal at the link below!https://airtable.com/shrpAVAi9HUGVUW8b
Featured in this episode...- Gryphon Strings - Bourgeois Guitars - Kyle Orla - Gwenifer Raymond - Bluegrass Life
How do you learn a new song? Where do you begin and how do you set yourself up for success? On this episode, I'll show you how to break any song down into five essential guitar skills.
Learning a new song is a daunting process. There are so many elements of a song to consider. From determining the style you need to play to the technical aspects of soloing and improvising.
By using this simple framework, you can establish a starting point for learning a song. Rather than focusing on a song note for note, this step-by-step guide gives you a plan. When you focus on these specific categories, the easier learning songs becomes.
Instead of being caught of guard by a tricky technique or feeling overwhelmed by the shear amount of music you have to learn and memorize, breaking a song into manageable categories is an easy way to learn it. So what are you waiting for?
Submit your guitarsenal at the link below!https://airtable.com/shrpAVAi9HUGVUW8b
Featured in this episode...- Rob Ickes and Rrey Hensley - Jeffrey Foucault - Tony Rice- Adrian Bellue - Sam Bush
Do you ever dream of having a guitar only to realize it's five—maybe 10!—times outside your budget? It's probably because of one of these seven factors that determine a guitar's price.
In this episode, we'll explore why some guitars are more expensive than others. After decades of experience playing, buying, and selling, I've picked up on seven main factors that determine price.
Some of the factors are fairly fixed. Some of them are tied to market conditions. But all of them come together to determine the price of a guitar. I'm not saying this is a definitive list. Instead, it's a great starting place for anyone who is wondering why a guitar is as expensive or cheap as it is.
I see so many guitarists dismiss a guitar based on its price. Instead of balking at a number or judging it on its value, ask yourself why. Why does it cost that much? Is it because of branding? Materials? Endorsements? Manufactured scarcity? The list goes on.
Also featured in this episode...- Music Emporium- Emily Hopkins - Polar Bear Effects - Candy Rat Records - Chris Thile
Learning how to play guitar ain't easy. It's like hopping on a train: difficult to get on, easy to fall off, but there's nothing like it once you're on.
On today's episode, I'll go over the common pitfalls beginner guitarists face at the start of their journey. From never setting a goal to the comparison mindset, discover how you can thrive in your guitar journey.
I've seen thousands of beginner guitar players play for a few weeks and then never pick up the guitar. This episode will guide you away from that outcome and towards a rewarding, lifelong journey of guitar playing.
As much as techniques and warmups might make a difference in your journey, I highly encourage you to think of the more meta—or mental—aspect of playing. Uncover your why. Set a routine. Ask questions. It's these small elements of a guitar journey that make all the difference for learning how to play guitar.
Get your guitarsenal shirt at the link below!https://tonypolecastro.com/product-category/apparel/unisex-mens-tee-shirts/
Submit your guitarsenal at the link below!https://airtable.com/shrpAVAi9HUGVUW8b
Featured on this episode...- Will McNicol- Jake Eddy- Trey Hensley - Herbie Hancock
You've got the inspiration, the drive, and the courage to record your first song on acoustic guitar. But how do you truly record your guitar's tone without being a sound engineer?
On this episode of Acoustic Tuesday, you'll get a crash course in using microphones to capture the sound that you want out of your acoustic guitar. From choosing the right microphone to placement in your recording space, we'll go through the basics you need to know.
One brief disclaimer though: I am not a sound engineer. I'm a working musician who's learned over the years how to get the sound that I want depending on my gear and space. There are plenty of more in-depth perspectives out there on YouTube, so if you're looking for a scientific analysis of recording acoustic instruments this is not it.
Now with that out of the way, I wanted to show you how different microphones and placements sound. I'll play the same licks, back to back, within different recording configurations. I hope this demonstration will point you in the right direction!
Submit your guitarsenal at the link below!https://airtable.com/shrpAVAi9HUGVUW8b
Featured in this episode...- Shure - Ear Trumpet Labs - MattyGrove - WesternAF
Grab your guitar and add some "Big Bill-isms" into your life! It's time to infuse the Chicago acoustic blues legend Big Bill Broonzy into your life.
Before I go any further I want to acknowledge Chris Walz from Old Town School of Folk Music and Tom Feldman from Play Country Blues. Many of the lessons I teach today come from these two. I'm grateful for their instruction and be sure to check out their channel's below.
Now, back to Big Bill Broonzy. There are so many elements that make up his signature sound. He's got a big, full, sound. But he also nimbly executes rolls for a melodic flare.
I spend a few of the lessons focusing on thumb technique. That's because Big Bill Broonzy drove so many of his songs with the bass line on his thumb. You can't not hear it. Be sure to pay attention, but don't be afraid to modify or play things in your own style!
Submit your guitarsenal at the link below!https://airtable.com/shrpAVAi9HUGVUW8b
Featured in this episode...- Old Town School - Play Country Blues - Buffalo Kin
In true countdown fashion, I'll be ranking 11 of my favorite Martin Guitars. There are hundreds of guitars, lines, and years to choose from. Which one will take my number one spot?
Martin Guitar has been in the business longer than most American companies. With immigrant roots, Martin Guitars revolutionized the guitar multiple times in the 1900s. From dreadnought builds to X bracing, they've made some incredible strides.
Today, they're one of the most recognizable acoustic guitar brands. They're prized for their value, playability, and collectability. So, given all this, how could I possibly pick my favorite martin — let alone, narrow it down to just 11?
Obvious price is a huge concern. I could sit here and pick out museum quality, six-figure guitars. But I won't. Instead, I'm picking guitars that might be attainable for you. That's right. We're not just daydreaming here. This could be how you find your favorite Martin!
Overall, I wanted these 11 guitars to represent the wealth of offerings that Martin Guitar has. If there was a guitar that struck a chord with you, let me know in the comments! I'd love to see what you liked about it and whether you went through with seeking it out!
Also featured on this episode…
- Maurys Music
- Acoustic Letter
- The Guitar Spa Singapore
- Sweetwater
- Seymour Duncan
- Andrea Stolpe
- Blueguitone
You already know listening to music makes you a better musician. But what happens when you listen to some of the most revolutionary, insane, and technically dazzling acoustic guitar music?
This episode is dedicated to some of the best acoustic guitar instrumental albums. I'll go through 12 different albums that any acoustic guitar player needs to know. I know I've done episodes like this before. All I'll say is that this is filled with deep cuts that you probably haven't heard before. Why?
Because these beautiful records are honest, stunning expressions of what the acoustic guitar can do. Many of the albums are filled with originals. Some songs are solo acoustic guitar. Some have a jazz foundation. But all of them will blow your mind as a guitar geek.
From Ariel Posen to Bill Frisell, I want this list to inspire you. I want you running to the record store and hunting one of these albums down — if not more! Whether you're lost or looking to expand your creative potential, you're bound to find something unforgettable in these records. Let me know in the comments what you find!
Submit your guitarsenal at the link below!
https://airtable.com/shrpAVAi9HUGVUW8b
Featured on this episode…
- ArielPosen
- Rob Ickes
- Bill Frisell
- Ivan Rosenberg
- Gwenifer Raymond
- Guitar World
- Beard Guitars
- Larkin Poe
- Old Town School
- Normans Rare Guitars
Why do you sound so good in the shower? Can you replicate that sound on your acoustic guitar? What's stopping you from getting that cathedral sound? It all comes down to reverb pedals.
On this episode, we'll talk about using reverb pedals on acoustic guitar. Using pedals on guitar feels like mixing oil and water, but it's easy and intuitive once you understand how to do it. Reverb can feel like a particularly tricky effect on the acoustic guitar, but I promise it's worth adding.
I'll start by giving a quick rundown of how reverb works. From there, you'll hear when to use reverb. Finally, you'll get the top five reverb pedals I recommend to students and friends. Whether you want something simple or a complete mind-bending reverb pedal, I have a recommendation for you.
Reverb on acoustic guitar shouldn't be an afterthought in you rig. Even if you're new to guitar, it's worth springing the funds for. Here's why: if it helps you pick up the guitar, play, and find joy in your guitar playing, then just do it.
You don't need to justify getting a delay pedal. You don't have to wait until you're "good enough." I highly encourage you to take the plunge, have fun, and explore effects pedals on your acoustic guitar.
Featured in this episode... - Earth Quaker Devices - Strymon - Collision Devices - K & K Music - Tom Sands Guitars
What started off as a mild interest in this builder has become an obsession. So what's the big deal about a guitar maker hailing from the Czech Republic?
Furch Guitars focuses on making high-quality guitars at a relatively affordable price. Sounds like the pitch from almost any guitar company, right? Here's the thing about Furch Guitars, though…
Furch Guitars make exceptional Swiss-Army Knife guitars. Whether you want to finger pick, flat pick, plug-in on stage or play in your bedroom, these guitars can do it all.
Here's a little more about Furch Guitars. Founded over 40 years ago, Furch has expanded over the years to include travel guitars, master-grade guitars, and more. Most Furch guitars are organized by color, which you'll hear more about on this episode. There's also the Vintage series which I highly recommend you look into.
Whether you're into small, punchy guitars or deep, warm dreadnoughts, Furch has a guitar for you. If your favorite Furch isn't on this list, please let me know in the comments! I'm always on the hunt for new guitars and would love to hear what you're playing and why you love it!
Featured in this episode…
- AlamoMusicCenterSanAntonio
- HeartbreakerGuitars
- Adam Grant
- Gruhn Guitars
- GreenfieldGuitars
- Billy Strings
Submit your guitarsenal at the link below! https://airtable.com/shrpAVAi9HUGVUW8b
I used to think using a delay pedal on acoustic guitar was crazy. Now, I recommend every acoustic guitar player to get a delay pedal. Why?
Delay pedals have the ability to fill space. When you're playing by yourself, it can feel empty sometimes. By using a delay pedal, you can almost hear harmonies and dissonance when your playing a run, practicing scales, or playing melody and fills.
Besides filling space, using a delay pedal helps you learn to groove. Because of the delay in notes, you have to keep time. If you don't your notes will overlap in odd ways. If that's the effect you're going for, rock on. But if not, you'll learn to keep time quickly!
Delay pedals are also expressive. If you feel like you've hit a creative rut, try playing some scales through a delay pedal. Seriously, you'll be surprised by what you hear.
Delay pedals have tons of knobs, features, and switches. It can look intimidating to a first-time buyer. I'll go over some of the features in this video, but if I didn't address an aspect of a delay pedal, let me know by leaving a comment!
Featured in this episode... - Collision Devices - Strymon - LR Baggs - Fishman Music - Adam Grant - Christie Lenée - Martin Guitar - American Airlines - Jesca Hoop
You told yourself you'd be a guitar player this year. Have you met your goals and aspirations? Or are you guilty of telling yourself one of these 11 lies? Watch now to learn how to find progress again.
Every year, thousands of people pick up the guitar. They dream of playing songs, solos, and licks that sounds like their guitar heroes. Every year, though, people give up on playing guitar or don't touch it for months on end.
In this episode, we'll talk about what's going on when this happens. I've found that it most of this boils down to 11 common lies we tell ourselves. It can be something as small as saying you don't have "enough" time or as large as gatekeeping yourself.
Whatever lie you tell yourself, I'll show you how to move beyond your pattern of self sabotage. This all sounds like a self-help seminar. In some ways, it is. But I stand by examining your obstacles and roadblocks to progress on guitar.
Whether you've just started playing guitar or you've played for decades, there's plenty to learn in this episode, so be sure to watch the whole way through. You never know what you'll find!
Submit your guitarsenal at the link below! https://airtable.com/shrpAVAi9HUGVUW8b
Featured in this episode…
- Emerald City Guitars
- Martin Guitars
- Dead Horses
- Adam Grant
- Mary Spender
- Normans Rare Guitars
Billy Strings is one of the best instrumentalists of our time. Hands down. But what can you learn from Billy Strings? Even if you're picking up a guitar for the first time?
From drone strings to using chromatics, there's something every guitarist can learn from Billy Strings. Primarily a flatpicking guitarist, Billy Strings is also a talented finger picker, electric guitarist, and banjo player.
Billy's life experience, emersion in the musical world, and consistency has led him to being one of the best instrumentalists of our time. A master of tension-building and even melodic phrasing, Billy Strings is a guitarist who deserves close attention.
So what is this video going to do for you? And, more importantly, what won't it do? Well, I'm hoping to inspire you with some quick lessons on important techniques or philosophical lessons. What I won't do is teach you a specific song.
With that in mind, I want you to be open to learning some new techniques that borrow heavily from Billy Strings' playing. Whether you've been playing for years or you've just picked up guitar, there's a lesson for you.
Submit your guitarsenal at the link below!
https://airtable.com/shrpAVAi9HUGVUW8b
Also featured in this episode…
- Bryan Sutton
- AustinCityLimitsTV
- Tommy Emmanuel
- The Art Of Listening
- Luca Stricagnoli
Blade angles. Metal or plastic. Weight. Thumbpicks come in a variety of specifications, which makes choosing the right one important. See which thumbpick is fit for you in my top 10 countdown of the best thumbpicks to use!
Using a thumbpick is an easy way to change up the tone on your guitar. If you enjoy fingerpicking, this will give you a brighter attack. However, you can also use a thumbpick like a flatpick—it's just attached to your thumb!
Because the thumbpick has a sharper attack, you can use it to bring out the treble and lower the dull attack of your thumb. However, if you like that percussive effect of the thumb, a thumbpick might not be for you.
But when it comes to choosing thumbpicks, there are many considerations to make. From the blade angles to the materials the thumbpick is made out of, you want to make sure the thumbpick is built for the kind of music you want to play.
Featured in this episode... - Grit Laskin - Charlie Parr - Spider John Koerner - Greg Koch - Songbirds Foundation
Jeffrey Foucault is a triple threat. He rights bone-chilling lyrics, is an incredible guitar player, and has an unforgettable voice. So what can you learn from the master of the Americana genre?
If you haven't heard of Jeffrey Foucault, I'm going to feature some great clips that'll help you open your eyes to his artistry. More importantly, though, you're going to learn 10 lessons from Jeffrey Foucault.
From emphasizing the "one" to using your personal experience in songwriting, there's so much you can learn from this guitar player. Jeffrey flies under the radar too often, and I believe his songwriting and artistry deserves closer attention.
I love Jeffrey Foucault's playing because it's unique without sounding "out there." He rides a fine line between fingerpicking and flatpicking, blues and country, folk and bluegrass. His lyrics cut deep. His voice is unmatched.
If you're interested in learning how to play like Jeffrey Foucault or want to know how to incorporate some of his style into your playing, be sure to watch the whole episode!
Featured in this episode... - Jeffrey Foucault - Bob Minner - The Bluegrass Situation [ BGS ] - Billy Strings - Ryan Truettner - GrassRoots Community Network - WYCEradio - Red Ants Pants Music Festival - Wayne Griffith - Alex Inselberg - WKU PBS - Mule Resonator Guitars
Immerse yourself in the world of guitar-themed podcasts. These 10 guitar podcasts are sure to keep you motivated, inspired, and committed to playing!
I'm a huge fan of podcasts. Whether it's more story-based or interview style, there are so many great podcasts being made. When it comes to guitar geek content, though, there's a handful I find myself turning to time and time again.
From the family of @Fretboard Journal podcasts to @Cory Wong and his podcast "Wong Notes" I am always surprised at how much I learn from podcasts.
In addition to being awesome educational tools that help me stay engaged with guitar playing, guitar podcasts are fun and entertaining. Seriously. If you don't believe me, be sure to check them out!
As always, if I missed your favorite podcast, let me know in the comments below! I'm always on the lookout for new shows.
Submit your guitarsenal at the link below! https://airtable.com/shrpAVAi9HUGVUW8b
Featured in this episode… -Rattlesnake Cable Company -Tom Feldmann ~ PlayCountryBlues -James Clear -Acoustic Guitar Magazine -Thompson Guitars - Goose Island - Chicago Blackhawks
Songwriting and the craft behind it are mysterious. From lyrics to melody to rhythms, there are so many pieces to juggle. To help you get inspired and write your first song, check out these 12 songwriters to help kickstart your songwriting journey!
Writing a song is a daunting process, but it doesn't have to be. It should be a liberating process that allows you to express yourself. If that doesn't sound like your process, I want you to check out some of the songwriters in this episode.
There's a little something for everyone. Whether you're into moody and dark explorations of the soul, or the more whimsical moments of life, these songwriters are sure to inspire you. The key is to listen widely and find what makes you want to sing, write, and play more.
Songwriting isn't an easy process, but it doesn't have to be a lonely one—unless, you prefer it that way! This episode is for the creatively-blocked or the too-shy-to-start. No matter where you are on your songwriting journey, you can find something that'll inspire you today!
Featured in this episode... - Simon Flory - Jeffrey Foucault - Caitlin Canty - Dead Horses - Courtney Hartman - Bayou Concerts - Tom Catmull - 11thAndGrant - Travis Yost Music - Riddy Arman - Benjamin Tod - John Moreland - Old Town School
Resonator guitars can make the bluesiest, dirtiest sounds—making them unmatched as instruments. But does this Michigan-based small bench luthier make the best resonators?
Mule Resonator Guitars makes, in my humble opinion, some of the best resonator guitars. There are so many reasons why I love Mule Resonator Guitars, from the human-centered design to the community.
This episode outlines the biggest reasons why Mule Resonators are simply the best in the industry. I know that's a big statement—controversial, even. But I stand by it. Be sure to watch the episode to see why I've become a zealot for this great guitar brand.
I'll also be addressing comments from previous shows, including but limited to the question, "what is the TAC Family?" I love answering questions about the guitars and the TAC Family, so be sure to leave a comment if a question crosses your mind!
Featured in this episode…
- Emerald Guitars
- Jamie Dupuis
- Guitar Girl Magazine
- Yasmin Williams
- Rushadicus
- Billy Strings
- Gibson TV
- The Acoustic Shoppe
Resonator guitars can make the bluesiest, dirtiest sounds—making them unmatched as instruments. But does this Michigan-based small bench luthier make the best resonators?
Mule Resonator Guitars makes, in my humble opinion, some of the best resonator guitars. There are so many reasons why I love Mule Resonator Guitars, from the human-centered design to the community.
This episode outlines the biggest reasons why Mule Resonators are simply the best in the industry. I know that's a big statement—controversial, even. But I stand by it. Be sure to watch the episode to see why I've become a zealot for this great guitar brand.
I'll also be addressing comments from previous shows, including but limited to the question, "what is the TAC Family?" I love answering questions about the guitars and the TAC Family, so be sure to leave a comment if a question crosses your mind!
Featured in this episode…
- Emerald Guitars
- Jamie Dupuis
- Guitar Girl Magazine
- Yasmin Williams
- Rushadicus
- Billy Strings
- Gibson TV
- The Acoustic Shoppe
Fretboard Summit is a HUGE guitar festival held every year, sponsored by Fretboard Journal. But is it worth it? Check out my highlights from this intensely guitar-geek festival.
It was a whirlwind, but the Fretboard Summit festival truly opened my eyes up. From the incredibly talented musicians showcased—day after day, night after night—to the BIGGEST lesson I've learned, I cannot recommend this festival enough.
There are so many incredible folks I met, and so many more I'm looking forward to meeting again. The level of instruction and talent that was present was wholly inspiring.
If you ever have the opportunity to attend the Fretboard Summit, I highly encourage you to go. The folks at Fretboard Journal and the Old Town School of Folk Music know how to put on a great show. Don't miss out next time!
Featured in this episode…
- Old Town School
- Halland Guitars
- Thompson Guitars
- Julian Lage
- Mule Resonator Guitars
Fretboard Summit is a HUGE guitar festival held every year, sponsored by Fretboard Journal. But is it worth it? Check out my highlights from this intensely guitar-geek festival.
It was a whirlwind, but the Fretboard Summit festival truly opened my eyes up. From the incredibly talented musicians showcased—day after day, night after night—to the BIGGEST lesson I've learned, I cannot recommend this festival enough.
There are so many incredible folks I met, and so many more I'm looking forward to meeting again. The level of instruction and talent that was present was wholly inspiring.
If you ever have the opportunity to attend the Fretboard Summit, I highly encourage you to go. The folks at Fretboard Journal and the Old Town School of Folk Music know how to put on a great show. Don't miss out next time!
Featured in this episode…
- Old Town School
- Halland Guitars
- Thompson Guitars
- Julian Lage
- Mule Resonator Guitars
Bourgeois acoustic guitars are stunning. The problem? They come in so many models and customizable options. In this video, I'll go over the 5 Bourgeois Guitars that are sure to knock your socks off.
Bourgeois Guitars, based in Maine, make about 400 guitars a year. Started By Dana Bourgeois, their small team is dedicated to quality, tone, and consistency. The result? Some of the consistently best guitars I've ever played.
In the comments below, be sure to let me know which Bourgeois Guitar you're most excited to try. If you're lucky enough to have played one, which one was your favorite? Your comment might just be featured in a future episode of Acoustic Tuesday!
In addition, I'd love to feature you in an upcoming episode with your guitarsenal! It's easy and quick, and you end up supporting Guitars 4 Vets, a music rehabilitation group for veterans in the US. Just follow the link below to see the instructions!
⬇Guitarsenal shirts⬇ https://tonys-acoustic-challenge.creator-spring.com/listing/guitarsenal_polecastro?
⬇Guitarsenal submission⬇ https://airtable.com/shrpAVAi9HUGVUW8b
Featured in this episode... - Bourgeois Guitars - Thompson Guitars - Charlie Parr - Guitar World - Mule Resonator Guitars - Fretboard Journal
Bourgeois acoustic guitars are stunning. The problem? They come in so many models and customizable options. In this video, I'll go over the 5 Bourgeois Guitars that are sure to knock your socks off.
Bourgeois Guitars, based in Maine, make about 400 guitars a year. Started By Dana Bourgeois, their small team is dedicated to quality, tone, and consistency. The result? Some of the consistently best guitars I've ever played.
In the comments below, be sure to let me know which Bourgeois Guitar you're most excited to try. If you're lucky enough to have played one, which one was your favorite? Your comment might just be featured in a future episode of Acoustic Tuesday!
In addition, I'd love to feature you in an upcoming episode with your guitarsenal! It's easy and quick, and you end up supporting Guitars 4 Vets, a music rehabilitation group for veterans in the US. Just follow the link below to see the instructions!
⬇Guitarsenal shirts⬇ https://tonys-acoustic-challenge.creator-spring.com/listing/guitarsenal_polecastro?
⬇Guitarsenal submission⬇ https://airtable.com/shrpAVAi9HUGVUW8b
Featured in this episode... - Bourgeois Guitars - Thompson Guitars - Charlie Parr - Guitar World - Mule Resonator Guitars - Fretboard Journal
Learn cross picking on acoustic guitar in just 4 easy steps with this simple, easy-to-use approach!
Cross picking is a picking pattern that involves skipping strings in your picking pattern. It doesn't use fingers, instead opting for a pick. It's a great way to get that cascading finger pick sound but with more bite!
The hardest part of cross picking lies in switching pick directions. While normal strumming strikes all the strings in one direction, cross picking has you alternating pick direction with each string you strike.
To help you learn how to cross pick, I've created 4 easy steps — think of them as checkpoints or mini-lessons. Once you feel good at one part, move on to the next one!
On one final note, don't forget to check out the cross picking musicians that I've listed in the episode. They're incredibly talented and worth giving a listen to if you're interested in learning this great strumming pattern.
Featured in this Episode... - Gwenifer Raymond - Bob Minner - SantaCruzGuitarCo
Learn cross picking on acoustic guitar in just 4 easy steps with this simple, easy-to-use approach!
Cross picking is a picking pattern that involves skipping strings in your picking pattern. It doesn't use fingers, instead opting for a pick. It's a great way to get that cascading finger pick sound but with more bite!
The hardest part of cross picking lies in switching pick directions. While normal strumming strikes all the strings in one direction, cross picking has you alternating pick direction with each string you strike.
To help you learn how to cross pick, I've created 4 easy steps — think of them as checkpoints or mini-lessons. Once you feel good at one part, move on to the next one!
On one final note, don't forget to check out the cross picking musicians that I've listed in the episode. They're incredibly talented and worth giving a listen to if you're interested in learning this great strumming pattern.
Featured in this Episode... - Gwenifer Raymond - Bob Minner - SantaCruzGuitarCo
Looking for music documentaries that'll inspire you? Whether you're a hardcore guitarist or just getting started, these music docs will get you rearing to grab your guitar and start playing again!
About this time, every year, I start thinking about movies. With the sun setting earlier and school starting again, it feels like the perfect time to watch a movie. And, if you're bemoaning the end of a summer concert series, music documentaries are a great workaround.
Whether you're just starting out on your guitar journey or you've been playing for years, there are some hidden gems and deep cuts on this list that are sure to inspire you on your guitar journey.
From documentaries on Native American musicians in rock and roll history to @Machine Gun Kelly and his new documentary, I really want you to take the time to pick at least one of these films.
In addition to talking about some of my recommendations for music documentaries, you'll hear about...
- Omeleto
- Dan Tyminski
- Gwenifer Raymond
- Guitarbench
- Mule Resonator Guitars
- Marcus King
What do Eric Clapton, Richie Havens, Stevie Ray Vaughn, and John Denver have in common? They all played Guild acoustic guitars. They make good guitars, but are they worth the hype?
In short, absolutely. Guild Guitars makes some incredible acoustic guitars. Whether you're looking for a punchy sound that will stand out in a jam session or a mellow, dark guitar that'll evoke a woodsy spirit, you're sure to find a Guild that'll suit your needs.
I've had the luxury of playing most of these guitars, but there are some that I've only heard on youtube and in demos. That being said, they were so good, I couldn't not include them on this list.
Whether you're in the market for a new guitar or you're just curious about Guild guitars, I highly encourage you to play one of the guitars on this list. They all sound great, but for entirely different reasons.
In addition, there are plenty of price points on this list. Even beginners can find a great guitar on this list for an affordable price. If you're unsure about what guitar on this list suits you, just leave comment and I'll try to respond to it within a couple of episodes!
Featured in this episode... - Old Town School of Folk Music - John Mayer - Riddy Arman - Western AF - Caitlin Canty - the local honeys - Music Villa - Gibson TV - Tommy Emmanuel
Is a $50 guitar pick worth it? Is a wooden pick right for you? Does plastic reign supreme? All this and more will be revealed in this episode on my 10 favorite guitar picks ever made.
Guitar picks are the cheapest way to experiment with your sound. The thickness, material, and shape can all have huge impacts on your acoustic guitar's tone.
From super-hard mandolin picks to sharper tortoiseshell picks, you're going to hear how some of these picks impact your tone. Whether you want round, woody tones or piercing, steely tones, there's a pick in this list for you.
In addition to talking about acoustic guitar pick tone, I'll cover the comfort and usability of some of these picks as well. If you have trouble holding pick or if you find the pick is flying out of your hands all the time, you might just find something on this list that'll help you.
In addition, you'll see... - Adam Grant - Piedmont Blūz - Folkway Music - Emerald Guitars
Modern fingerstyle guitar is, quite possibly, the greatest extension of the instrument — an orchestral sound contained within one instrument. But there's so many modern fingerstyle guitarists out there. Where do you begin?
On this episode of Acoustic Tuesday, you'll hear about 15 modern fingerstyle guitarists you need to check out. From commercially successful artists to up-and-coming Youtubers, you're going to see some incredible guitarists.
What I love about this style is that it pushes the guitar to new heights. It's not just about mastery of the guitar. It's about pushing the limits of what playing a guitar means.
From the percussion to the harmonics and sweep picking, there's some incredible techniques to check out from all these guitarists. You'll notice there is a percussive and rhythmic quality to all these guitars. That's just part of the beauty of this style.
If you want to hear more of this style, be sure to check out all of the artists featured in this episode. There's something for everyone, whether you've heard modern fingerstyle guitar before or not!
Featured in this episode...
- Kelly Joe Phelps Tribute
- Western AF
- Mule Resonator Guitars
- Willi Carlisle
Two-hand tapping on guitar isn't easy. It's even harder on acoustic guitar. But what if there was an easy, step-by-step guide for learning how to tap on acoustic guitar?
Tapping on guitar is an advanced technique. It provides a bright, ethereal sound (as long as you're not using overdrive or distortion!). And, for most of the guitar's existence, it's been used primarily on electric guitar. It's that classic shredding sound that was popularized by Eddie Van Halen and other electric guitarists.
But what if the same technique is applied to acoustic guitar? On today's episode, you'll get an easy step-by-step guide to learning how to two-hand tap on acoustic guitar. It requires a good amount of dexterity and finger strength, but Tony's Acoustic Challenge members should be up for the challenge.
By tuning down the guitar, breaking the technique into chunks, and creating actionable steps where you feel confident in your playing, I hope you can successfully apply these techniques to your playing. It's a bit of a specialized skill, but you never know what kind of creative horizons you may expand.
Two-hand tapping is a fairly new technique for acoustic guitarists. If you want to hear more examples of this technique, I highly recommend you visit the modern fingerstyle acoustic guitar genre. Many of the players in this style are virtuosos, but you'll get a taste of what kind of sonic possibilities exist.
Featured in this episode... - Hawktail - Molly Tuttle - Tommy Emmanuel - Martin Guitar - Billy Strings - Taylor Guitars - Mule Resonator Guitars - Carter Vintage Guitars - National Guitars
Colter Wall's guitar playing is like no other. Here are 10 lessons you can learn from this real country guitarist that'll help you progress on your guitar journey.
Colter Wall has captured the hearts and minds of the country, folk, and bluegrass world. His guitar playing is incredibly unique. From the way he strums to the stories he spins, I truly hope this episode gets you to check out his work.
But you're also going to learn some important lessons about playing acoustic guitar through the lens of Colter Wall. By the end of this episode, you'll have 10 lessons about how this incredibly unique guitarist approaches the acoustic guitar.
We'll be covering his thumb technique, his gear, and his general attitude when it comes to playing and composing songs. I promise you, this is not an episode you want to miss.
Featured in this episode…
- Kelly Joe Phelps
- Jeffrey Foucault
- Charlie Parr
- Daisy Tempest
- Megan Linford
- Atkin Guitars
- The Fellowship of Acoustics
Epiphone guitars have quite the reputation. But does their street cred match up with how they sound? Check out my list of the 10 best Epiphone acoustic guitars ever made.
@OfficialEpiphone guitars are kinda known as the less desirable branch of the Gibson family. They aren't as expensive, are made with cheaper parts (usually), and don't have the same prestige as a Gibson guitar. But does that really matter? Doesn't it all come down to the sound?
Fortunately for you, that's probably the biggest consideration I have when I'm making recommendations. So, after reviewing thousands of guitars in my lifetime, I've gained a certain understanding of what to look for in a guitar.
As a result, this is my list of the 10 best Epiphone guitars out there. The prices on this list run from as high as $6,000 to, well, much more affordable than that. There's a little something for everyone here so be sure to check out the whole episode.
Featured in this episode... - Epiphone - Gibson - GemsOnVHS - National Guitars - Recording King Guitars
Learning closed position, moveable chords can unlock your understanding of the fretboard. More importantly? You will be able to play a song or lick in any key, anywhere on the fretboard.
In this lesson behind the lick, you'll learn all about closed position moveable patterns. Closed position movable patterns involve NO open strings. That means that you can easily move the pattern to a different key without a capo or a changing your tuning.
Closed position patterns truly unlock the fretboard for you. When you play in closed position, you learn a pattern rather than specific frets or open string patterns.
This means that you can play in a variety of keys. When you start playing with others or you want to sing along, you'll find you mind need to play in different keys. If you've learned a scale, chord pattern, or lick in closed position, this transition will be very easy.
I want you to try learning closed position. You may find that you'll have even more flexibility on the fretboard.
Featured in this Episode - Martin Guitar - Ear Trumpet Labs
Charlie Parr is one of the most under-the-radar living guitar legends out there. He's known for his wild country blues and roots sound. In this video, you'll learn how to sound like this guitar legend and learn some tips and tricks from my years of knowing and playing with him!
Charlie Parr is first and foremost a folk artist. He's incredible talented, humble, and dedicated to carrying on the traditions of folk music. Whether its hill country blues or a one of his original compositions, I highly recommend you check him out!
Once you've gotten a taste of his sound, you're probably wondering how you can incorporate his techniques and style into your own playing. Luck for you, that's why I made this episode. I'll be serving 10 guitar lessons to help you emulate Charlie Parr.
But more importantly, you'll learn how to find your own sound via the wisdom of Charlie Parr — just check out the episode and you'll know what I mean!
Featured in this episode... - Charlie Parr - Smithsonian Folkways - Sam Bush - Taylor Guitars - Chicago Music Exchange
Gibson has an incredible history of making some of the best acoustic guitars. But after 100 years, which ones are their best acoustic guitars ever made?
Whenever I talk about Gibson Guitars, I'm always sure to upset, puzzle, dazzle, and mystify some folks. So, before you go any further, I want you to know this is just my perspective on things. Take it for what it's worth. I've played thousands of guitars for even thousands of more hours.
When I made this list I wanted to remove some of the super expensive, vintage Gibson acoustic guitars that are truly cost prohibitive. Many Gibson acoustic guitars are just way too expensive, but just know I considered putting them on this list.
From the Keb Mo signature to the True Vintage J-200, there are some incredible guitars on this list. Be sure to watch the full episode to see if your favorite Gibson acoustic guitar is on this list!
In addition to talking about some of the best acoustic guitars Gibson has made, we'll take a look at some comments from the episode I did on the 10 best guitar albums from the '80s. Seems like a ruffled some feathers, so be sure to tune and see if you agree with your fellow TAC Family members!
Featured in this Episode... - Gibson TV - Metallica - Dead Horses - Beard Guitars - Atkin Guitars - Thompson Guitars - Billy Strings
Drop D tuning can open up an entire new sonic soundscape, but do you know how best to practice your shapes and scales in this alternate tuning?
On today's episode of Acoustic Tuesday, you're going to get a lesson behind the acoustic guitar lick of the week. Every Tuesday, I offer you a quick lesson on learning an awesome lick. But this week, you'll get to see the theory, rationale, and benefits behind learning the lick this week.
Specifically, this lick focuses on drop D tuning for the acoustic guitar. Drop D tuning is when you turn your low E string to a low D. This gives you awesome bass sounds and can infuse your playing with bluesy mojo sounds.
If you aren't a fan of the blues (to which I say, check yourself!), drop D tuning is used in a variety of different genres. From American Primitive to modern fingerstyle, you're sure to find a great way to apply drop D tuning to your playing.
Besides covering drop D tuning, you'll also hear from TAC Family member Shannon and how building a solid guitar routine helped her in a difficult point in her life. Perhaps her story could inspire you, no?
Featured in this Episode - Jeffrey Foucault - Heartbreaker Guitars - Martin Guitar - SantaCruzGuitarCo - Luca Stricagnoli - Normans Rare Guitars - Dean Guitars - Gibson TV
Ever wondered what slide is the best for playing slide guitar? Brass? Bronze? Glass? Heavy? Light? All this will — and more — will be covered in this episode of Acoustic Tuesday!
Bottleneck slides are perhaps the most important piece of gear for playing slide guitar...besides your guitar, of course! That's why I've dedicated a whole episode to discussing the importance of picking out the right slide.
There are so many choices out there. It can be totally overwhelming. And sometimes, when you're overwhelmed, you just go with the cheapest price. I'm here to advise you against doing that. Instead, take a look at these 10 slide manufacturers to see what to look for in a high-quality slide that can work within your budget.
I'll also add that I have a preference for bronze or brass slides. I explain why in the video, but it ultimately boils down to a combination of tone and feel. I really love the heavy feeling of a slide that sits comfortably on my finger and has enough weight that it isn't bouncing off the strings.
In addition to talking about slides for slide guitar, you'll also hear from a TAC Family member and Guitars For Vets member on how she is able to achieve all of her guitar goals this year. Inspiring stuff, and I highly recommend you heed her advice!
Featured in this Episode... - Robert Barnett - Caitlin Canty - Marcus Miller - Scott's Bass Lessons - Paste Magazine - Cristina Vane
Resonator guitars have so many myths tied to them. They have to be played differently. They're way too expensive. They are only good for one style. But is any of this actually true?
On today's episode of Acoustic Tuesday, you'll get a chance to see my top 10 favorite resonator guitars. This list is made up of many different resonator guitars at different price points. Every guitar on this list is a great bang for your buck regardless.
I love resonator guitars because they have some great punchy tones. Like a banjo, the decay on resonators can be really quick, but as a soon as you add a slide, the tone morphs so much. But this brings us to the first common misconception: resonators have to be played with a slide.
This couldn't be farther from the truth. Resonator guitars can be played like a normal guitar. Sure, using a slide gives it a very bluesy or country sound, but in reality, they sound just as good without a slide. You don't need any different techniques really.
There's also a perception that resonator guitars are expensive. Well, I'm here to tell you that there are so many options that don't have to break the bank. Just make sure to watch the full segment to see my picks for the best affordable resonator guitars!
Featured in this Guide... - Gold Tone - National Guitars - RecordingKingOfficial - Beard Guitars - Gretsch Guitars - Mule Resonator Guitars - RepublicGuitars
Featured in the Acoustic Guitar News - Michael J. Miles - Eric Lugosch - Adam Grant - Chicago Music Exchange - Fretboard Journal - Old Town School of Folk Music
Synthesizers. BOOMING snare hits. Shredding. The 80s aren't known for acoustic guitar playing. But that's will change in this episode of Acoustic Tuesday!
We'll be taking a look at the 10 best acoustic guitar albums of the 80s, paying close attention to some of the best flatpickers and fingerpickers of that decade. I'm not talking about one-off power ballads that use an acoustic guitar in the intro. I'm talking about whole albums that pushed the genre of acoustic guitar music.
You'll recognize some classics on here like Tony Rice's "Church Street Blues," and Michael Hedge's "Aerial Boundaries." With each of the albums chosen, I'll highlight my favorite song off the album in the hopes that you can check them out for yourself.
In addition to discussing the 10 best acoustic guitar albums of the 80s, you'll hear a very important story from TAC Family member Johnny. He noticed that he actually enjoys playing guitar now more than he did when he was younger. Why is this? Be sure to listen to him tell his story about building a routine that lets him find more fun, focus, and progress on his guitar journey.
Last but not least, we'll also cover some of the latest acoustic guitar news. From chatting coffee with one of my favorite acoustic duos to checking out the beautiful craftsmanship of metal engravers and inlay workers, this episode is sure to scratch that acoustic guitar content itch.
Featured in this episode... - Mule Resonator Guitars - Small Glories - Doglio Coffee - Carter Vintage Guitars - Eric Skye - SantaCruzGuitarCo - Martin Guitar
Santa Cruz Guitar Company has been making some of the best guitars on the market for almost 50 years. Check out this episode to see why these guitars make tones like no other guitar can.
From the classics like the Vintage Southerner to the tiny but mighty Firefly, there's something for everyone on this list. I've had the pleasure of playing many guitars in my life, and @SantaCruzGuitarCo has always had high standards, and excellent craftsmanship.
In addition to talking about my 8 favorite guitars from this small-bench, boutique luthier, I have a whole slew of new music releases that I'm excited to share with you. From Pharis and Jason Romero to John Moreland, there's some awesome music for you to listen to this week!
Featured in this Episode
- Santa Cruz GuitarCo
- Eddie's Guitars
- Tom Sands
- Adrian Bellue
- Pharis and Jason Romero
- Smithsonian Folkways
- John Moreland
- Jeffrey Foucault
Harmonics on acoustic guitar can be tricky! You can't rely on the gain of your amp, which means accuracy is super important. This episode will cover everything you should practice to start playing harmonics on acoustic guitar.
Before we go any further, you might be wondering what harmonics are. Harmonics create a bell-like tone you can make on your guitar by gently placing your finger above certain positions on the fretboard and plucking the string. It creates an overtone on the guitar. The end result is an airy, bell-like tone.
Between natural and false harmonics, there's a whole sonic landscape to discover with harmonics. The only problem is that playing harmonics on an acoustic guitar is much harder. Electric guitars benefit from having amplification, which means harmonics can be played even if you miss the sweet spot of where the harmonic is.
Natural harmonics are located on the 12th, 5th, and 7th frets on a guitar. There are other locations, too, but these are the common places guitarists play natural harmonics. These are considered the easiest harmonics to play on your guitar.
Additionally, there are also false harmonics, located all over your fretboard. Playing false harmonics requires accuracy, a gentle touch, and a little bit of trial-and-error.
Be sure to catch this whole episode to see how you can get better at playing harmonics on acoustic guitar!
Also featured on this episode... - Charlie Parr - Cristina Vane - kyle orla stringworks - Billy Strings - Post Malone - Jon Gomm
Chord modifications, or mods, can elevate your rhythm and lead guitar playing. If you're ready to transform your open chords into deeper, complex chords with just a few adjustments, stay tuned!
This episode will cover chord modifications by way of learning a lick. We'll start by seeing how chord modifications come up in the guitar lick I call "cement mixer." This lick reveals so much about playing within a chord shape.
"Cement mixer" is the perfect gateway into chord mods. There's a perception that chord mods are an advanced technique. However, the sooner you can practice them, the more your sonic landscape will really open up. So, whether you're a beginner or advanced guitar player, you're going to learn so much from working on your chord mods.
Chord mods on guitar allow you to add melody to chord playing. It can add another layer of musicality to your rhythm playing. If you play just by yourself, I promise that employing some chord mods will spice up your playing.
In addition to learning the "cement mixer" lick and how chord mods can improve your playing, we'll get a chance to hear from Darren, a TAC Family member's experiences on building a guitar routine. It's well worth your time, so don't skip!
Featured on this Episode…
- Rick Turner Guitars
- Chicago Music Exchange
- Willi Carlisle
- Western AF
- Dion guitars
- Watchhouse
- Mule Resonator Guitars
The Byrds were pioneers of psychedelic and folk rock. While acoustic guitars weren't their main axes, there are still plenty of lessons to learn from this incredible band.
The Byrds have a rich history of rocking out and pushing the boundaries of rock. They weren't afraid to crossover into different genres. And, as a result, they took a variety of different techniques and applied them to non-traditional situations.
From the way they modified chords to how they reimagined certain arrangements, there are plenty of technique lessons you can learn from the Byrds. I want to specifically focus on 7 key areas of The Byrds' music.
By the end of this lesson, you'll learn some Byrds-inspired techniques that are sure to help you discover that '60s folk-rock sound on your guitar.
Besides discussing the techniques we can learn from the Byrds, you'll also get to hear more about the Tony's Acoustic Challenge Family, slide guitar technique from an earlier AT episode, and the interview that's inspiring me on my guitar journey right now.
Featured in this episode…
- Atkin Guitars
- David Bowie
- Chatham Rabbits
What if I told you my favorite acoustic 12-string guitar was less than $300? This episode will cover my top 10 favorite acoustic 12-string guitars. From the high-end to the low-end, you'll get a wide variety of takes on 10 guitars.
12-string guitars are known for their full, rich sound. It gives a natural chorus sound to an acoustic guitar. They can be a little difficult to play. Sometimes they're even harder to tune. But I promise, it's well worth your time.
The 12-string guitars that made my top 10 list are judged on value, tone, and beauty. They're all great guitars — especially the cheapest one. But for those who are loyal to Taylor Guitars, you'll be happy to know there are two Taylors on my list!
Featured in this episode…
- Charlie Parr
- National Guitars
- Orangewood Guitars
- Taylor Guitars
- Fender
- Martin Guitar
- Guild Guitars
- Seagull Guitars
- Larrivee
- Yamaha Guitars
I messed up a few weeks ago. I made a top 10 guitar YouTube channels to follow. But there weren't enough acoustics. All that changes this week.
This week, we're taking a look at my favorite acoustic guitar YouTube channels. From the more popular to the under the radar, this list is sure to dazzle and delight you. Did I mention there are no electric guitarists?
The whole point of the episode is to get you learning. However, I have a big caveat. YouTube is a super easy way to get distracted. You can go down a rabbit hole, through a worm hole, and out in the land of procrastination.
To avoid that situation, I want you to stay focused! Don't click on the suggested videos or get sidetracked. You're here on a mission. I want you to enjoy checking out these other YouTube guitar channels, but make sure you don't get too distracted!
Featured on this episode…
- Lessons With Marcel
- Banjo Ben Clark
- Jake Workman
- Brandon Johnson
- Music With Ryan
- Fretboard Confidential
- Tom Feldmann ~ PlayCountryBlues
- daddystovepipe
- Justin Johnson
- tobywalker123
They take your breath away, step on your toes, sound like pianos, and play like a summer's breeze. Signature guitars are more than just a marketing gimmick — mostly. In this video, we're looking at the 10 best signature guitars.
There's a perception that signature guitars, also known as spec guitars, are only for really serious guitarists. That's because most of the guitars are 1) expensive, 2) built to an artists' specifications, 3) use high-quality materials. No expenses spared.
While there are many that are expensive, I have a couple on this list that are totally for beginners. This is a great opportunity to hear some of the best offerings from guitar makers like Martin, Taylor, Thompson, and so many more.
If you're excited to see how you can emulate a certain artists' sound, or you just want something that is vetted by your favorite artist, this episode is totally for you!
Now, I have to warn you. There's a fairly large plot twist at the end of this episode. So, in the comments below, be sure to let me know what you think my number one pick is. I'm almost 100% certain you aren't going to see it coming.
Featured in this episode…
- Martin Guitar
- The Fellowship of Acoustics
- Taylor Guitars
- ElderlyInstruments
- SantaCruzGuitarCo
- Thompson Guitars
- Gibson TV
- Collings Guitars
- Western AF
Guitar scales are incredibly important. But they're also a little overwhelming. Why are there so many? Why is it all complicated? Does it have to be?
This episode is all about a acoustic guitar scale that I think simplifies a lot of things. To illustrate this, we'll start by learning a lick in the key of E. I'll continue by illustrating how and why this lick works.
You'll see what the lick teaches about the horizontal scales, how to apply the lick in your playing, and so much more. Think of the lick as the creative launching pad and the lesson behind it as the secret sauce that makes everything work.
The episode is part of a new series called Lesson Behind the Lick. I hope you like this format and find that it helps contextualize the licks. If you enjoy this and want to see more, be sure to leave a comment and let me know!
Also featured in this episode... - The Nashville Predators - The North American Guitar - Carter Vintage Guitars - Avril Lavigne - John Lee Hooker Official - Music is Win - Hofner Guitars
Slide guitar is zippy, twangy, and classic. On today's episode, you're going to learn how to use a bottleneck slide to bring those classic tones to your acoustic guitar. In 6 easy steps, I'll show you how to hold the slide properly, which tunings to use, and how to make single-string melodies!
Slide guitar is the open sky where the buffalo roam and where the waves lap the shore at sunset. It evokes a different time and place that the all-too-digital world we live in now. I've always been drawn to this sound and I can't wait to share it with you!
When I first started playing slide guitar, I thought that a slide was used for barre chords. Almost like a capo! Little did I know, the slide was for so much more than that.
I personally prefer using lap slides where you can see the fretboard more easily. Bottleneck slides are typically more accessible to players, especially if you are transitioning between playing slide and playing normally.
Slide guitar unlocks new sonic possibilities for your playing. If you are in a guitar rut, I highly recommend you pick up a slide. It will make you see the fretboard in a new way, and have you seeing new patterns and possibilities.
Be sure to watch the video to see my full thoughts on slide material (glass vs. metal vs. ceramic), which tunings to use, and how to properly work your slide!
Look, I'm not saying Taylor Swift is like the Beatles of pop music right now, but she's a huge deal. Which is why this episode is dedicated to T-Swift and the incredible wisdom we can get from her guitar playing.
Taylor Swift's career is prolific. And through ever phase of her career, the acoustic guitar has been a mainstay. Whether it's her debut album or her folk revival albums of the past couple of years, she has fine-tuned her playing over the years.
Taylor Swift has so many tricks up her sleeve. From being a masterful palm-muter to her use of open tunings, Taylor is a source of inspiration for so many guitarists. I mean, why not take a few lessons from the most famous acoustic guitarists out there today?
If you liked this episode, be sure to leave a comment and let me know what you part of Taylor's acoustic guitar playing resonates with you!
Featured on this episode…
- Taylor Swift
- The Marcus King Band
- Gibson Guitars
- Jared James Nichols
Taylor Guitars raises the bar for acoustic guitars. But how do you know which Taylor Guitar is right for your needs? Stay tuned to hear about some of the best Taylor Acoustic Guitars for 2022.
Taylor Guitars has been at the forefront of guitar making for decades. And they show no sign of stopping. Taylor Guitars was named one of the most innovative manufacturers by Fast Company — but that's just the tip of the iceberg.
Taylor Guitars actually stand the test of time. They look phenomenal. They play incredibly with a variety of tones and body styles to accommodate any player.
I haven't liked every Taylor Guitar I've played, though. Sometimes they're too chime-y or thin. Despite this, I think Taylor still makes some unforgettable acoustic guitars. That's why this episode is covering the five best Taylor Acoustic Guitars.
In addition to hearing about Taylor Guitars, you'll also see... - Jeff Jewitt - New York Rangers - Mike Dawes - Bluegrass Life
Are you struggling to find good guitar geeks on YouTube? Can't find funny, inspirational, and interesting guitarists on YouTube? Check out this episode for a round-up of the 10 must-follow guitar geeks on YouTube!
There are thousands of guitar personalities on YouTube. How do you know who to watch, who gives good advice, and who you should steer clear of?
This list of must-follow guitar geeks includes some teachers, some musical artists, and usually a combination of both. All of their YouTube videos are informative, entertaining, and interesting.
Honestly, one of the filters I used is whether I'd want to hang out with these YouTube guitar personalities. Whether it was their sense of humor, their technical prowess, their approach to learning, or some combination of all of the above, this is my list of the 10 must-follow guitar geeks on YouTube.
These guitar geeks have wisdom to impart, regardless of whether you're just starting your guitar journey or are years into it. I think they're content is incredibly accessible, entertaining, and educational (most of the time!).
If you have a favorite guitar personality on YouTube, be sure to drop a comment below and let me know who they are! I am always excited to read your comments, and I look forward to exploring some new artists on YouTube!
What can guitar players learn from one of the best banjo players of all time? In this episode, we'll take a closer look at Earl Scruggs, his banjo technique, and how guitar players can apply these techniques to expand their tonal horizons!
I am a huge Earl Scruggs fan. His banjo playing definitely cements him in the hall of fame of banjo musicians. Earl Scruggs was filled with wisdom, which is why I wanted to dedicate a whole episode to the legend. Even though he mostly played banjo, I think there are so many life and technique lessons to learn from Earl Scruggs.
One of the inspirations for this episode came from a video clip of Earl Scruggs. In the footage, he swaps his banjo for a guitar. Without hesitation, Scruggs was able to dive right into the role of rhythm guitar. Scruggs' flexibility and rhythmic prowess allowed for spontaneity and collaboration — something I think all of us could benefit from learning!
As far as specific technique we can learn from Earl Scruggs' playing, I really want to emphasize alternate chord voicing. Additionally, his use of the Carter scratch and the "rolls" in the picking hand can open up a wide variety of tones and rhythms for you to explore.
If you have any questions about Earl Scruggs, the techniques he used, or anything else, be sure to leave a comment on this episode! I always love to hear what you thought about this episode of the Acoustic Tuesday, and I look forward to reading your comments!
Featured in this Episode…
- The Earl Scruggs Center
- Molly Tuttle
- YourGuitarSage
Looking for a technique that can help you stand out with relative ease? Try staccato playing with this in-depth lesson! Add staccato playing to your tonal toolbox and start jamming away!
This episode will dive into a technique called staccato playing. Staccato playing involves using short, punchy notes to create rhythmic drive and tonal separation from other notes. If you've never heard or tried this technique, don't worry — I'll show you how to both use the technique and how to apply it to your playing.
I love staccato playing because it allows rhythmic playing. It has a choppy sound that can give you more options to approach playing a lick or song. When you add staccato to a single-note phrase, it stands out so much more.
In addition to learning how to use staccato playing, I'll also show you how staccato notes can help you control dynamics in your playing. Because it has a loud but punchy tone, you can insert notes without burying others you are playing with.
If you're worried about this being a music theory lesson, you can rest assured that this isn't about music theory. Rather, this lesson focuses on technique rather than note choice. I'll offer plenty of examples of how to use staccato playing, so be sure to leave a comment on which example was your favorite or most helpful!
Featured in this episode…
- Iris Carr Restoration
- Atkin Guitars
- Punch Brothers
- Lost Dog Street Band
- Western AF
It's the king of the flattops, but could the Gibson J200 also be the king of the (guitar) world? Find out by tuning into this episode dedicated to the Gibson J200!
The J200 has been used by incredible musicians throughout the decades. It's got a massive, iconic tone that has carved out its place in the guitar world and pop culture. It's an incredible guitar, which is why I decided to dedicate this episode to it!
From the mysterious history of the Gibson J200 to the way it melded into pop culture around the world, I really cannot stress how much of an impact this guitar had. It's beautiful, stylish, and able to produce a monster tone for an acoustic guitar.
One of biggest reason I love the Gibson J200 is that it's a blank slate. There are so many customizations for the guitar that it can truly be anything you want it to be. Subtle but stylish? Check. Dressed to the nines and flashy? Can do.
In addition to talking about the Gibson J200, you'll have the chance to learn a new lick and get a roundup of the latest acoustic guitar news you can use!
Featured in this episode…
- Tim Kill Custom
- Will McNicol
- Alexandr Misko
- Charlie Parr
- Martin Guitar
- Gibson TV
Drone strings aren't used by many guitar players, but it is a crucial tool for helping you practice and even perform! This video will cover all the basics of using drone strings, when to use them, and how to use this technique to the greatest effect.
I love drone strings because they add so much body to your playing. Depending on what key you're playing in, drone strings can make a huge difference. They can fill out your sound, give you a nice bass-y foundation, and make your playing much more musical.
One of the easiest ways to start experimenting with drone string playing is tune your low E string to a low D. Then, you can play an D minor scale on the middle D string. This can give you a load of melodic phrases.
You can apply this technique to any of your open strings. But there's one important thing to remember: drone strings don't have to be lower than the string your playing melody on. You can use an open G string and play the G minor or major scale on the A string.
My hope is that you walk away from this episode feeling a little more inspired to use drone strings. If you're a guitarist who plays by yourself, drone strings really add depth to your playing. It sounds, almost, as if there was another guitar player backing you up!
So go ahead and try to add some drone string playing to your guitar routine this week. It might just become your new favorite technique.
In addition to discussing drone strings, here's what else is packed into this episode…
- Cristina Vane
- Western AF
- Charlie Parr
- Smithsonian Folkways
No, we're not covering Bob Dylan or Simon & Garfunkel. We're going deeper in the vault. So, are you ready to experience the 10 best, rare acoustic albums from the 1960s?
The '60s were an incredible decade for music. There was so much change, so much turbulence that fueled creative expression and artistic freedom. While titans like The Beatles, Rolling Stones, and Bob Dylan typically dominate the music conversations of the decade, I want to try something different this episode.
Instead of rehashing the genius of those artists, I want to take a closer look at some lesser known albums. From Son House to John Fahey, the artists featured in this episode eschewed mainstream success. However, their impact on the genre of acoustic music is huge.
Some of these artists and albums you may have heard of. Some of them may be completely new to you. And that's okay! Part of my mission is to inspire and help you live your best acoustic life. And one way to live your best acoustic life is to expand your music horizons. So, be sure to give a listen to each of the albums on this list and find inspiration in a new light!
Did any of these albums inspire you or make you think differently about how you approach the guitar? Be sure to leave a comment below to let me know what you've found!
Featured on this episode... - Kenny Wayne Shepherd - Béla Fleck - Molly Tuttle - Adam Grant
Hybrid picking, also known as Chicken picking, is a tricky picking technique. But it doesn't have to be. This episode will break down this complex technique into 4 simple steps so you can add this technique to your acoustic guitar repertoire!
The basic premise of hybrid picking is to use both your flatpick and your fingers to play a picking pattern. The result is a super-fast, textured, and pronounced sound that is different from both fingerstyle and flatpicking. It's extremely fun once you get it under your belt, and it's sure to turn some heads when you bust it out.
Hybrid picking is difficult because it requires you to maintain control over your flatpick strokes while still executing a fingerpicking pattern. However, when done properly, you'll be able to play some great riffs. For example, this week's TAC Guitar Lick Challenge uses hybrid picking!
By the end of this episode, you'll have four actionable steps to work towards to help you hybrid pick. So, whether you're just looking to add a new technique to your arsenal or there's a specific song that requires you to hybrid pick, I hope this lesson was helpful for you!
If you want to share what you thought about hybrid picking, be sure to drop a comment below and let me know how you use hybrid picking in your guitar routine!
Featured in this Episode…
- The Fellowship of Acoustics New Featured Guitar
- Atelier Rosenkrantz
- J.B. Hart Music Co.
- Dave Grohl's New Book "The Storyteller"
Larrivee Guitars makes incredible guitars that fly under the radar way too often. In this episode, you'll see 5 Larrivee guitars that you must hear. From the classic Larrivee 000-50 Traditional to the robust SD-40, you're going to fall in love with at least one of these guitars!
@LarriveeMedia has been making high-quality guitars for decades. Hailing from Canada, Larrivee was founded by master luthier Jean Larrivee in 1967. The level of craftsmanship and quality is absolutely superb.
Each of the Larrivee guitars on this list offers a different price point and different style. I'm hoping you'll find something that works for your playing needs. Additionally, none of the guitars on this list are subpar — really, truly!
I especially recommend watching to the end of the Larrivee segment so that you can hear about the first solid-wood guitar I bought. That guitar, which I wish I had never sold, was a true swiss army knife of a guitar. Balanced, clear, and able to handle a variety of styles, that Larrivee was one of the best guitars I've ever owned.
Also featured on this episode... - Easy Eye Sound - Son House - Tony Rice - Stern Pinball
Doc Watson is perhaps one of the most versatile guitarists to grace the music world. In this video, I'm going to extract 9 huge takeaways from Doc Watson's extensive career. You'll learn how to apply these lessons to your guitar journey to help you find more fun, focus, and progress every day.
I chose Doc Watson because he had such a vast career. Whether he was playing banjo, guitar, country music, blues, or somewhere in between, Doc was a legendary musician. The techniques he used changed many genres and inspired generations of guitarists — myself included!
Doc Watson also had some unique approaches to music. I love the way he weaves jokes into he sets, never afraid to use humor. Doc wasn't afraid to tell authentic stories. And, it just so happened that his stories were often humorous, contributing to his incredible stage presence.
While Doc Watson passed away almost a decade ago, guitarists worldwide are still inspired every day by the way he played and the way he lived. I hope you learned some invaluable lessons today. Even if you take just one or two of these lessons from Doc Watson's life, I hope they help you find fun, focus, and progress on your guitar journey!
Featured in this episode... - The North American Guitar - Iris Guitars - Blind Guitars - Trey Hensley - Machine Gun Kelly
Learning guitar in 2022 is no different than learning guitar in 2021. But you're different. Your life is different now. Your guitar journey is either developing or just getting starting. By following the 5 mantras in this episode, you'll prime yourself for consistent progress, fun, and focus on your guitar journey.
I've had a rollercoaster of a year in 2021. But the thing that I kept the same was consistent progress in playing guitar. Even with a new child and all the pandemic-related disruptions, I made sure to play (almost) every single day. Because any amount of time playing guitar is better than no time playing guitar.
So, after having a successful year teaching, learning, and sharing some of my insights, I've found 5 mantras that can help you on your guitar journey. Whether you're lost on the path to guitar geekdom or you just need a little inspiration, turn to these mantras. Let them guide you. Let yourself discover what you need to do on your guitar journey. The rest will follow.
In addition to sharing these insights with you, I cant wait to show you the first Tuesday Guitar Lick Challenge of 2022. It's going to be a blast! I strongly encourage you to follow along, even if you aren't part of the TAC Family yet!
Featured in this episode... - Mule Resonator Guitars - Driftwood Guitars - The North American Guitar
If you haven't had one of these experiences in your guitar journey, you need to check out this video. From meeting the most eclectic, creative, and supportive people to having a first gig, these are the guitar geek experiences that change lives.
I've created this episode as a retrospective to spark reflection. While I draw some insights and lessons from my own personal experiences, this is a great moment for you — yes, YOU! — to think about experiences you've had on your guitar journey...
Which moments have shaped you? Which experiences taught you the value of music? How many friends have you made through your music?
These are all great launching points for introspection. And, since it's the end of the year, I think there's no better time to start reflecting on the year. By the end of this episode, you'll have examples of experiences that change a guitar geeks life. But I want you to reflect and think about the experiences that have changed your life.
In addition to covering these pivotal moments in our guitar journey, we'll cover a stellar blues lick titled "Sleigh Bells." The holidays are upon us, so we'll have that motif every day this week at TAC. But additionally, we'll be "breaking" some "rules" in music — and it totally works! Just be sure to watch the episode to see why it works...
Featured this week... - Madi Diaz - Eric Clapton
In this episode, we explore the idea of sustainable guitars — something guitar geeks should be thinking about for the future...here's why.
We'll take a look at some great companies like Taylor Guitars and Tom Sands that are creating instruments with sustainable materials such as reclaimed wood and ethically sourced materials, and more.
I've always been fascinated by tone woods. From their acoustic properties to their aesthetic qualities, I loved learning about different kinds of tone woods. But recently I've been thinking more about where tone woods come from, how they're harvested, and what us guitarists can do to make sure there are guitars for future generations.
This video won't seek to provide definitive solutions to the issues of deforestation or other negative aspects of the guitar industry. Instead, I want this to be the launch-pad for further conversations.
Feel free to share resources, makers, luthiers, and others who are helping ensure that there are guitars for our grandchildren and their grandchildren to play.
Streaming music has a lot of benefits. But it can also have some downsides. In this video, I explain the five main disadvantages to streaming music and show you how to avoid them.
Music streaming, whether it's through Spotify or Youtube, has to be one of the greatest expansions in music consumption. For a few bucks a month, you have access to millions of songs. You have seemingly infinite choices.
But there are plenty of negatives to this easy consumption of music. Do you remember the days where you had to go to a music store, search for an album, purchase the album, and invest time into making that album worth it?
With streaming, you lose all of the process and ritual that made the discovery of new music magical. We've lost the cultural touchstone of sharing music through word of mouth recommendations. Instead, we're fed recommendations by an algorithm — which is incredibly helpful at times, but lacks a human touch.
There are plenty of reasons to like streaming music, but there is a dark side to all the convenience that streaming music provides. This episodes seeks to address some of those issues.
In addition to talking about the dark side of music streaming, you'll get a big update from Heartbreaker Guitars on everything from new models to supply chain explanations.
Featured in this episode... - Heartbreaker Guitars - Furch Guitars - Molly Tuttle - Chicago Music Exchange - Billy Strings
Quit doom scrolling and start learning! And don't worry — you don't have to stop scrolling! Today, you'll hear about 10 must-follow guitar builder accounts on Instagram and Facebook that will inspire, educate, and entertain you with stories about building guitars.
Each of these guitar builders, or luthiers, was selected because they have beautiful images, incredible stories, and insights on the creation of the most magical instrument.
My goal is to help immerse you in the world of guitars. So, even if you aren't playing or sitting with the guitar in your lap, you can still learn about different aspects of the guitar.
These luthiers have incredible stories to share with the world, and I want to help them get the word out! And, I want to help you discover a new world of guitar builders that you may have not even known about.
And, let's be real for a second...we could all use some positivity in our social media feeds, which is another reason I wanted to share this list with you. All of the luthiers are sure to share incredible photos, stories, and demos of some incredible guitars played by incredible musicians.
Without further ado, here's the list: - @hallandguitars (https://www.instagram.com/hallandguitars/) - @ejhendersonguitars (https://www.instagram.com/ejhendersonguitars/) - @matsudaguitars (https://www.instagram.com/matsudaguitars/) - @prewarguitars (https://www.instagram.com/prewarguitars/) - @Mule Resonator Guitars (https://www.instagram.com/muleresonatorguitars/) - @Greenfield Guitars (https://www.instagram.com/greenfieldguitars/) - @benjaminpaladacciguitars (https://www.instagram.com/benjaminpaldacciguitars/) - @dionguitars (https://www.instagram.com/dionguitars/) - @tempestguitars (https://www.instagram.com/tempestguitars/) - @Tom Sands (https://www.instagram.com/tom_sands_guitars/)
Also featured in this Episode... - @Eric Clapton and his '68 Martin D-45 - @Jake Workman and "Whiskey Before Breakfast" - Ryan Acker's "Ear to the Ground"
It doesn't matter what you're playing, where you are, or how long you have left on the clock. Here's a list of 5 ways to keep practicing your guitar — even during the busy holiday season!
The holidays can be a time where you feel like you're too busy to play guitar. Between travel, visiting family, and balancing everything else in life, this time of the year can derail your guitar routine.
Fortunately, this episode is going to walk you through five common scenarios you might face during the holiday season. And, for that matter, you might encounter these situations any time during the year!
The important thing to remember is that there are so many ways to "play" guitar — even when you don't have a guitar with you. And, if you're lucky enough to have the guitar by your side, there are plenty of tips in this video to help you make progress even in the most stressful moments of the day.
To prove my point, you'll also hear from TAC Family member Dirk who overcame an enormous interruption to his guitar routine.
Additionally, you'll get all the best acoustic guitar news to close out today's show. Featured in this episode…
- LEGO and their Fender Guitar
- Nora Brown
- Michael Watts and an interview with Irvin Somogyi
- Casimi Guitars
- John Lee Hooker Graphic Novel
I love acoustic guitar covers. They're so good for calming my nerves, and they always sound so nice. But with so many to choose from, it can be hard to find the best ones! So in this video I'm sharing ten of my favorites that are perfect for relaxing or inspiring you to pick up your guitar.
So, how are we going to talk about these acoustic guitar covers? We'll talk about the cover, why I picked it, and give you a quick sample in the video to see if it's up your alley.
All of the songs I pick today highlight some incredible acoustic guitarist. There isn't a dull moment in this countdown, and I promise the list gets better and better the closer we get to the #1 spot!
In addition to talking about acoustic guitar covers, you'll get a chance to work on a guitar lick title "You Hoser"...I'll explain it all in the video! But just know that you'll be flatpicking up a storm in the key of G.
Last but not least, you'll get my picks for acoustic guitar news you can use. Featured in this Episode...
- Brennen Leigh on Western AF
- Joni Mitchell's Latest Release
- Guild Guitars and their Bob Marley Model
Learn how to unlock open D minor tuning magic! This video will show you four easy steps that are vital in creating the perfect sound. Open D minor has a rich, full, and haunting tone. Buckle up for this spooky tuning!
If you like the guitar I'm using in this episode, be sure to visit Mule Resonator Guitars to learn more about their resonator guitars.
Open D minor tuning has one key difference between normal open D tuning: the G string is tuned to an F instead of an F sharp. Otherwise, the tuning is the same.
Once you get into open D minor tuning, you're going to learn how to play a D minor scale, create chord shapes, and even improvise over the key of D minor. It's tons of fun playing in this open tuning and can provide haunting tones that are perfect for the Halloween season!
In addition to talking about open D minor tuning, this week's Tuesday TAC Guitar Lick Challenge will utilize an open D minor tuning. So, if you're looking for a slick lick to throw into your D minor playing, be sure to check out the challenge this week!
Last but not least, we'll cover the latest acoustic guitar news you can use. Featured on this episode... - Old Town School celebrating John Prine Way - Dead Sled Coffee and their spooky brews - Billy Strings, Gruhn Guitars , and a vintage Martin Guitar
If you've ever wondered how some of these crazy, intricate designs on acoustic guitars are made, you're not alone. In this video you'll see how some of the greatest masters of inlay create beautiful inlay design!
The artists selected this week are world-renowned inlay artists, working with everything from lacquer to mother of pearl to create incredible art right on the guitar. We'll be featuring the folks who have created some of Martin Guitar's stunning instruments, as well as the incredibly talented Simon Haycraft who works on Thompson Guitars.
Whether you're just starting to play acoustic guitar or you've been playing for decades, I always love to show people that acoustic guitars can be incredible art pieces, whether their inlay work is subtle or over the top.
You'll also have a chance to preview an incredible documentary called Dragons & Vines. Brought to you by the folks at the Museum of Instrument Making, this 3-part documentary is a must-see for anyone interested in guitar design or inlay work. Be sure to check it out on the Museum of Instrument Making's website or YouTube channel!
In addition to discussing acoustic guitar inlay, you'll get to see how valuable playing the guitar for at least 10 minutes a day is, especially when dealing with this week's TAC Tuesday Guitar Lick Challenge. And, just to drive that concept home, you'll hear from a TAC Family member who has used the 10 minutes a day method to launch his guitar journey to new heights.
Last but not least, you'll get your weekly dose of acoustic guitar news you can use! Featured this week are…
- New Norman Blake album titled "Day by Day".
- Justin Townes Earle's Signature Model from Recording King
- Courtney Hartman's New Single
- The Lostines featured on Western AF's YouTube Channel
In this video, I'll show you the 5 best Canadian acoustic guitars under $800. These are the top 5 acoustic guitar made by trusted and respectable brands from Canada that I think are worth checking out in 2021!
This list includes all of the brands that are inside the Godin Company. And, while I'm sure there are plenty of guitars out there that are also under $800, I'll need your help to discover those. So be sure to leave a comment in the description about your favorite Canadian-made acoustic guitars that are under $800!
Now, back to our list! I chose each guitar on this list because they strike the perfect balance between quality, value, and sustainability. There are so many incredible things going on at each of these guitar builders, and I really hope you take a chance to check them out individually.
Once we're done with the 5 best canadian guitar under $800, I want to take a moment and talk about how awesome the live guitar party at TAC was. What an incredible turnout, and it was so great talking with all of the TAC members and hearing about their experiences.
Last but not least, I want to recognize the incredible amount of work Santa Cruz Guitar Company has done for the industry over the last 45 years. In fact, to help recognize and celebrate it, SCGC actually made a video highlighting the challenges they've faced over the last few years. I highly recommend you check it out!
Lightnin' Hopkins is one of the greatest guitar players in American history — his playing has influenced generations of blues artists. If you want to learn how to play Lightnin's songs, watch this lesson where he talks about some of his riffs and philosophy.
This episode will show you some important mechanics of Lightnin' Hopkins' playing while also diving into his musical philosophy. By the end of the video, you'll gain some key insights on his playing and be able to apply some of his style and technique to your own guitar journey.
I love focusing on Lightnin' Hopkins because so much of it has to do with feeling the music in your heart. Don't get me wrong, theres plenty of technique to work on when emulating Lightnin's playing, but there's also a mindset you need to play music in his style.
Hopefully by the end of this episode, you'll have a greater appreciation for this master of blues guitarist. Be sure to let me know in the comment which one of his blues guitar lessons helped you the most!
In addition to learning Lightnin' Hopkins' style, you'll get a chance to try the TAC Tuesday Guitar Lick Challenge. You'll be focusing on pull-offs and "punching" the rhythm.
And, finally, I've got a host of artists that I want to talk about on the Acoustic Guitar News segment. I also want to address some of my concerns about @Gibson TV and their new guitar line.
Featured on this episode: - Alexandr Misko - Sean de Burca - Elderly instruments - Gibson Guitars
In this episode we're going to talk about the 10 most impactful singer-songwriter albums. We'll explore each album, and share what makes it so special. And in the end I'll reveal my favorite song from each one!
Each of these singer songwriter albums had a huge impact on acoustic music. In this episode specifically, I'm taking a closer look at the lyrics that really take some of these songs to the next level.
From Bob Dylan to Joni Mitchell to Jeffrey Foucault, I'm excited to hear what you think of my list! Be sure to leave a comment and tell me what your favorite singer songwriter album is!
In addition to featuring the 10 most impactful singer songwriter albums of all time, I'll be giving you the rundown on this week's Tuesday TAC Guitar Lick Challenge. We'll be cleaning things up in Open D tuning!
Last but not least, I have a whole host of music releases to share with you — including, but not limited to, Béla Fleck, Daisy Tempest, Courtney Hartman, and Riddy Arman!
In this episode, I will teach you the 10 kinds of guitar snobs, what they LOVE to say and how to overcome their personalities — once and for all! Learn how to keep your ego in check when it comes to playing guitar or learning music theory!
Guitar snobs can be a difficult obstacle on your guitar journey. However, it's important to remember that there is a deeper, psychological reason behind the snobbery and trolling.
After years of experience in dealing with all the different kinds of guitar snobbery, elitism, and egotism, I've discovered the root of all of it: guitar playing.
It may sound like circular logic, but I want you to hear me out on this. Once you understand why these folks act the way that they do, you can overcome their attempts to make you feel insecure and gain greater mental strength and clarity on your guitar journey.
Besides chatting about guitar snobs, you'll get the chance to try out a new lick and see it used in a musical context! Let me know in the comments if you dig this new segment!
Last but not least, you'll get a dose of acoustic guitar news you can use! Featured this week…
- Trevor Gordon Hall and "This Beautiful Chaos"
- Billy Strings and "Renewal"
- Watchhouse and Andrew Marlin's custom guitar
There are a lot of different DI pedals out there. But how do you know which one is best for your needs? Watch this video and I'll tell you all about the 6 best acoustic guitar DIs, so that you can find the perfect one for your sound.
DI pedals are one of the more essential pedals for acoustic guitarists. A DI pedal allow you to capture the sound of your guitar and allow it to be processed on a soundboard. This allows a sound engineer or AV tech to change the balance on your guitar.
If you ever plan on playing live or playing through a PA, you'll really need a DI. Because you can't just plug your guitar straight into a soundboard, the DI allows your guitar to be processed through a soundboard.
Each of the acoustic guitar DIs featured in this episode have a slightly different sound. I'll play the same guitar and run it through different DIs to allow you to hear how each DI captures the same guitar's sound differently.
In addition to hearing my 6 favorite acoustic guitar DIs, you'll hear about what it's like to start a guitar journey. From imposter syndrome to creating expectations, you'll hear how one TAC Family member overcame those negative thoughts to start their journey on the right step.
Last but not least, you'll get my curated list of acoustic guitar news you can use.
If you're looking for the best acoustic guitar album, this list is for you. Here are ten of my favorite acoustic guitar albums ever recorded. From folk to country to rock, these albums represent some of the most iconic and timeless records in all of music history.
Each one of these albums was carefully selected after years of listening, playing, jamming, and learning songs off of these tracks. All of the albums featured on this list are live recordings, meaning there was an audience and the musicians didn't have the chance to do multiple tracks or takes.
Additionally, each of these albums prominently features the use of acoustic guitar. I'm not talking about just some chord strumming — each of these albums really showcases the abilities of acoustic guitarists.
If there was a live acoustic guitar album that you think belonged on this list but was left off, be sure to leave a comment below and let me know! I'm always excited to hear new music and get inspired from artists around the world!
From there, you'll hear a little more about the 90-Day progress parties at Tony's Acoustic Challenge. And, while you may have heard me tell you that your guitar success is directly related to your guitar routine, I want you to hear how this worked for a fellow TAC Family member.
To end things, as always, you'll get your weekly dose of acoustic guitar news you can use. This week's highlights include a D-18 battle from The North American Guitar, Heartbreaker Guitars highlight, and Luca Stricagnoli and his performance of "Smooth Criminal."
In this Technique Check, I show you how to execute hammer-ons and pull-offs.
A "hammer on" is when you use one finger (usually your first) to play a note on the guitar over an open string. A "pull off" is when you use one finger (usually your last) to play a note on the guitar by pulling it away from the strings.
Each of these techniques can help take your guitar playing to the next level. However, if not done properly, these techniques can be frustrating to practice and learn. That's why it's important that you watch this technique check on hammer-ons and pull-offs.
In the video, I'll define what a hammer-on and pull-off is, what it sounds like, how to best execute the technique, and the best ways to practice learning the technique. Whether you're a beginner guitar player or have been playing for years, these exercises can help fine-tune your hammer-on and pull-off technique.
Besides learning about these two crucial guitar techniques for beginners, you're also going to hear about one TAC family member who really took his playing to the next level by following his guitar routine.
Last but not least, you'll get my weekly roundup of guitar news you can use. From a guitar made to look like it was hand-built in the '20s to a cello bandit playing in an airport, don't miss this week's acoustic guitar news segment!
Pete Huttlinger was one of the best fingerstyle guitarists in the world. What can you learn from him?
In this video, I'll cover 7 life lessons from Pete Huttlinger that cover everything from fingerstyle guitar to playing. If you're a beginner or intermediate player, these are great ways to improve your technique and bring fun, focus, and progress to your guitar journey.
It's not everyday that you get to interview Pete Huttlinger. I remember bringing him into the studio and feeling an incredible energy that day. Since then, Pete has passed away, but his legacy lives on in the hearts of thousands of guitarists and fans.
This video will show some of the most important things I learned from Pete. By extension, I hope these lessons are helpful for you on your guitar journey. Whether you've been playing for a year, had to relearn the guitar after a setback, or you've hit a guitar rut, this will video will no doubt be inspirational.
In addition, I'll go over some comments from a previous episode of Acoustic Tuesday, feature a guitarsenal or two, and finally send you on your way with some guitar news you can use!
In this video I'm going to talk about 5 common mistakes people make when they first learn how to play guitar. I'll share the top tips and tricks that will help you avoid those mistakes, and get your playing off to a great start!
Deciding to learn how to play the guitar is the first step on your guitar journey. But too often, you might go about your guitar journey in a way that will slow progress, derail your learning, and lead to frustration.
To help avoid any of that from happening, I want you to be aware of the most common guitar learning mistakes. In addition, I'll give you tips on how to shift your mindset, make the necessary changes, and get your guitar journey back on track!
Learning acoustic guitar isn't easy, it doesn't happen overnight, and can be a challenging instrument to learn. Fortunately, if you make a few adjustments in your approach to learning it, you can find fun, focus, and progress every day you play guitar! Just watch the video to start learning and playing!
Besides talking about guitar learning mistakes, you'll get to hear about TAC Family member Dennis's story of perseverance on his guitar journey. To round things out, you'll get the hottest and latest acoustic guitar news you can use!
After selling acoustic guitars around the U.S. for 15 years, I've come to realize not all guitars are made equal. But when it comes to value and price-point, Yamaha is always one of the top contenders. In this video I review 5 different models and share why each of these guitars has left such a huge impact on me!
Being in music retail helped me see why cheaper isn't always better. But I was always surprised at the quality of Yamaha acoustic guitars. In fact, one of my favorite Yamaha acoustic guitars in today's list is also one of the cheapest guitars that I've ever put my "stamp" of approval on!
The beauty of Yamaha acoustic guitars is that they offer a little something for every kind of guitar player. Whether you have small hands, you just started playing, or you're looking to upgrade from your current guitar, it feels like there's a Yamaha acoustic guitar for almost every occasion.
That's why I took the time to make a video on my 5 favorite Yamaha Acoustic Guitars. And, while I technically am looking at nine different guitars, many of these models are similar enough that they basically are the same guitar.
If I've left out your favorite Yamaha acoustic guitar model, be sure to let me know in the comments!
Have you ever wanted to take your slide guitar playing to the next level? In this video, you're going to hear everything you need to know about weissenborn-style guitars. From its history, top builders, and entry level models, this episode will hit on the essentials of weissenborn-style guitars.
Weissenborn-style guitars are a type of lap slide guitar that were originally designed by Hermann Weissenborn in the 1920s. These guitar were unique in that they were played in your lap and the neck was entirely hollow. This resulted in many different brands of guitar making weissenborn-style models that are absolutely stunning.
This video features six weissenborn-style builders that are sure to please any guitar player who is interested in playing slide guitar. Even if you aren't able to get your hands on a weissenborn, I also want to talk about some of the essential pieces of gear for turning your guitar into a lap slide guitar.
In addition to talking about this unique style of lap slide guitar, I also want to share with you an incredible story from within the Tony's Acoustic Challenge community, Molly Tuttle and the comment she left behind on our special episode on clawhammer guitar, and the hottest acoustic guitar news you can use.
In this video, I give you a list of 10 things every guitarist needs in their case. These are the essentials that will make your life easier at gigs, jam sessions, and rehearsals.
Each of these items are in my case wherever I go. From the case itself to sentimental mementos to finger clippers, I'll cover why every guitar player needs to have these things in their case.
In addition to talking about the essential things every guitar player needs in their cases, you'll also get my recommendations for which ones to buy. To be totally clear, each tool or item I recommend works for me and my style of playing — it may not work best for you, so be sure to experiment and explore!
Besides talking about essential tools, I want to share with you an incredible TAC Family story. It's inspirational, it's heartwarming, and it's a great way to charge your guitar journey with positivity.
Last but not least, you'll get updates from Heartbreaker Guitars on their latest guitars, including Furch Guitars, Santa Cruz Guitars, and more!
The acoustic guitar has been a staple of Hollywood soundtracks for decades. But who are the artists behind some unforgettable soundtracks? In this video I share my top 5 favorite acoustic guitar heroes!
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A good acoustic guitar in a movie's soundtrack has a huge impact on the movie. From setting the scene to becoming the subject of movie, there are so many incredible acoustic guitarists who've scored movie soundtracks. From Neil Young to Dire Straits' Mark Knopfler, I've got a great list of unsung guitar heroes behind some incredible movies.
One of my favorite parts about acoustic guitarists who work in film is the emotional depth they can bring to any moment in a movie. Each of the acoustic guitarists on this list brings another level of emotion to each of the featured movies, and I truly hope you enjoy!
If there's an acoustic guitarist who worked on a film that I missed, be sure to let me know in the comments below!
In addition to featuring the acoustic guitarists behind some of my favorite soundtracks, I want to take a moment to talk about two huge obstacles on any guitar journey: the "drone zone" and distraction.
The drone zone can derail any guitar journey fairly quickly. Be sure to watch the video to get the full scoop on how one TAC Family member was able to overcome being stuck in the drone zone.
To finish things off, you'll get your weekly dose of guitar geek news, including highlights from some metal acoustic guitarists!
You've been waiting for someone to show you how to play fast on guitar like a pro. Well, now's your chance!
The main thing that separates the pros from amateurs is their ability to play as quickly as possible without sacrificing quality. In this video I'll share some of my best tips and tricks for playing fast on guitar with precision.
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There are four different approaches to playing fast that I want to cover. Starting with the metronome and ending with a fun exercise, you're going to walk away from this video with a few strategies to help you start playing fast.
In addition to developing your speed chops on guitar, you'll get to hear from a TAC Family member and how they were able to revamp their guitar routine.
Last but not least, we're covering a few geometric-inspired guitars. You'll see a beautiful guitar from Nathan Ball Guitars as well as a stunning Somogyi guitar demoed by Paul at Dream Guitars.
Alright...don't laugh at me, but I really think this song is absolutely foundational for learning guitar. And, even though everyone treats it like a punching bag, it's one of the best vehicles for learning chords, improvising, and phrasing.
Yep, we're talking about Darius Rucker and his hit classic "Wagon Wheel." Whether you're a beginner guitar player or experienced, you need to learn this song. There's so much to unpack in this simple, 4-chord song. The sky's the limit on this one, and it provides a solid framework for so many other songs.
Additionally, you'll get a chance to see what's going on inside the TAC community and hear from one of our members.
Last but not least, I'm dishing the latest acoustic guitar news you can use. There's plenty to cover this week, and I hope you enjoy!
Does the blues have the biggest impact on acoustic guitar? Check out this video to see the 10 best acoustic blues albums to ever be recorded — ever!
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In this video, you're going to see how truly impactful and inspiring acoustic blues can be. Whether you started playing guitar because of the blues or you started listening to the blues because you played, this video is for you.
This list of the best acoustic blues albums was incredibly difficult to make. There's so much great acoustic blues out there! So, I had to leave plenty of great albums off the list.
If you notice that there's an acoustic blues album that I missed, please let me know in the comments!
Here's my list of the top 10 best acoustic blues albums:
- Mississippi Blues - Bukka White
- Leadbelly - Lead Belly
- Lightnin' Hopkins - Lightnin' Hopkins
- Trouble in Mind - Mance Lipscomb
- Skip James Today! - Skip James
- Live at Gaslight Cafe 1965 - Sun House
- Big Bill's Blues - Big Bill Broonzy
- Today! - Mississippi John Hurt
- The Complete Recorded Works Vol. 1- Charley Patton
- King of the Delta Blues Singers - Robert Johnson
If you want to learn more about these artists and their work, I highly encourage you to listen to more of their albums! Immersing yourself in guitar is a great way to stay motivated and keep rocking!
In addition to talking about the 10 best acoustic blues albums, you'll also hear about a TAC Family member who was a dabbler for 41 years — and how he finally committed to becoming a guitar player.
Last but not least, you'll get my curated collected of acoustic guitar news you can use!
Elizabeth Cotten is one of the most famous guitar players that has a style that is close to impossible to replicate. In this video, you'll learn about her life, her impact, how to play one of her songs, and some of her best albums.
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Fingerpicking is a difficult technique to learn on guitar, especially when trying to copy Elizabeth Cotten's style. Because she played the guitar upside down, she played the bass notes with her fingers and her thumb played melody.
This is perhaps one of the most unique aspects of Elizabeth Cotten's fingerpicking style. There's plenty more to look at, and you'll get a chance to learn all about her and her playing style in this video.
To wrap up the lesson on Elizabeth Cotten, I'm recommending some of the best Elizabeth Cotten albums. Whether you've never heard of Elizabeth Cotten or you've been playing "Freight Train" for years, there's always something new to find when you listen to her music.
In addition to covering Elizabeth Cotten, I want to tell you about Jessica, a TAC Family member who created routines to find more fun, focus, and progress on her guitar journey!
Last, but certainly not least, you'll get your weekly dose of acoustic guitar news you can use!
Have you ever wondered how you can play clawhammer guitar like Molly Tuttle ? In this video, you'll get step-by-step directions on how to learn this incredibly rhythmic and melodic technique on guitar.
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Clawhammer technique started off on banjo, but has since made its way into the guitar world. Named after the claw-like position your hand is in, clawhammer technique is technically challenging but incredibly rewarding.
The basic principle of clawhammer technique involves a brush, a thumb, and a note. These terms are each defined within the lesson. When you put these three terms parts together and practice them, you'll be well on your way to working your clawhammer guitar technique.
In addition to learning clawhammer guitar in this video, you'll also learn how to play a scale, a song, and a harmonized scale using clawhammer guitar technique. By the end of this video, you'll have an essential baseline of clawhammer guitar that you can use to learn more advanced techniques within the clawhammer world.
I also want to take a moment to highlight the work of Molly Tuttle, Michael Stadler, Steve Baughman, Chris Coole, Adam Hurt, and Cara Luft.
Could THIS single design element be the key between a crappy guitar and a guitar you never want to put down? I'm not kidding — this tiny change can have HUGE impacts on your acoustic guitar.
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In this video, you're going to see the 4 underrated acoustic guitar design elements that have a massive impact on a guitars sound. In addition, you'll hear how one Tony's Acoustic Challenge member overcame an injury. Last but not least, you'll hear from Charlie Parr and Molly Tuttle on their new music releases.
This video is really geared towards acoustic guitar players interested in guitar builds. If you're looking for the reasons why different guitars sound better than others, most people chalk it up to the materials. But, in reality, the design elements of the guitar are just as important.
Too often in the acoustic guitar world, we fixate on tone woods and different materials. Instead, I think it is time guitar geeks start paying more attention to the design elements of a guitar like the bracing and binding.
While design elements of an acoustic guitar aren't as flashy or easy to understand as wood selection, if you can learn just a little from watching this video, you'll be well on your way to finding how an acoustic guitar sounds different from others.
Big thanks to Emerald Guitars, Bourgeois Guitars, Elderly Instruments , and Acoustic Letter for sharing these demo videos. Please check out those channels for more information!
Stop fearing the metronome and start having fun when you practice guitar with it! Seriously, if rhythm and timing is what you need to work on, you gotta learn how to play with a metronome.
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In this video, you'll see five steps to help you understand timing and how to easily play with a metronome. Learning how to play with a metronome is key to learning rhythm and timing. Neglect it, and you'll be fighting an uphill battle — trust me!
For each of these lessons, you'll see I play with a metronome and the different practicing techniques I use to have fun while working on my timing.
One of my favorite exercises, "Boil the Frog," will have you increasing the beats per minute (bpm) by tiny increments, so that you barely notice that the tempo is increasing. Don't miss this exercise!
After we cover how to play with a metronome without wanting to smash your guitar, you'll get to hear from TAC Family member Sarah and how she uses TAC to see consistent fun, focus, and progress.
Last but not least, we'll cover acoustic guitar news you can use. This includes a heartfelt announcement, a new building to be on the lookout for courtesy of Eddie's Guitars.
Martin Guitars makes some of the most famous, most recognizable guitars in the world. But are luthiers taking Martin's general design to make better Martin guitars than Martin can make?
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Now, I love Martin Guitars. Specifically, I love their bluegrass dreadnoughts that have become the gold-standard in the acoustic guitar industry. But, given the reach and breadth of Martin's market share, I think it's fair to shed some light on the smaller builders.
That's why in today's episode, you're going to see 6 guitar makers who are making better Martin guitars than martin.
If you've ever wondered which guitars are better than Martin, specifically when it comes to bluegrass dreadnoughts, this video is for you!
I'll share with you 6 guitar makers, where they're located, their building philosophy, and a quick review of one of their best bluegrass dreadnoughts.
You'll get a chance to hear from Collings Guitars, Bourgeois Guitars, Thompson Guitars, and so many more!
Are you ready to learn some of the most important singer-songwriter lessons from the legendary Townes Van Zandt?
In this video, you'll have the opportunity to see 6 vital lessons for anyone who wants to play guitar or write music. So many of these lessons have to do with the "meta" side of playing, rather than the technique.
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Whether you've heard of Townes Van Zandt or not, this episode will open you up to new possibilities on your guitar journey. I'll feature archival interviews with Townes and a whole host of other characters.
By the end of this video, you'll be filled with inspiration and ideas for your own guitar journey.
Besides taking a deep-dive into Townes Van Zandt's career, you'll also get the chance to hear about a Tony's Acoustic Challenge Family member who is rocking their guitar routine day-in and day-out.
Last but not lease, you'll get your weekly dose of acoustic guitar news you can use!
Worried that you can't use effects pedals on acoustic guitar? Or that you're going to use the wrong ones? This video will have 6 side-by-side comparisons of effects pedals, how they work, and how they sound on an acoustic guitar!
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The land of effects pedals is typically ruled by electric guitar players. But, it's time that you start to feel comfortable with using effects on the acoustic guitar!
Using effects pedals can unlock TONS of creative potential on your acoustic guitar. To help you understand this, the video will have side-by-side comparisons of what an acoustic guitar sounds like with 6 different effects pedals.
The last thing I want you to do is by a pedal you'll never use. The demos on this video will give you a wide brush-stroke of what these pedals can do for your guitar and your sound.
As always, you'll also hear about Tony's Acoustic Challenge Members and how they TAC, as well as the latest acoustic guitar news you can use!
Highlights this week include Watchhouse , The North American Guitar and their new digital magazine, and plenty more!
Ever looked at an instrument and thought, "What can I learn from this thing?" Today, we're looking at the instruments used in Mariachi Music and how you can get inspired to try new things on your guitar after studying these instruments!
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From the more familiar bajo sexto to the vihuela, this video will take a close look at the instruments that make up a traditional mariachi music. From there, you'll join me in the studio to see how you can apply instrument-specific techniques to the acoustic guitar.
You'll learn how to arpeggiate like mariachi harp, strum like a vihuela player, and provide rock solid rhythm like a bajo sexto player!
In addition to looking at guitar lessons from mariachi music, you'll hear about how TAC Family members overcame their fear of playing for others. It's not always easy to put yourself out there, but after hearing this story, I think you'll be a little more inspired.
Last but not least, you'll hear from Daisy Tempest of Tempest Guitars on how to design a custom guitar. You'll also hear about The Infamous Stringdusters new album and Submarine Pickups' new state-of-the-art pickup technology!
I am so excited to share this with you, I just had to make a video about it! This is the easiest way EVER to make a vintage guitar. The process involves torrefaction which is like smoking meat: drying out the wood but at high temperatures instead of low ones (yes, that's what smoking does too!).
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Torrefaction produces an authentic-looking finish that feels and sounds like old-growth timber. I couldn't believe how simple it was when I saw the pictures and heard the results.
On today's episode of Acoustic Tuesday, you're going to have the chance to evaluate whether this simple technique can create an instant vintage-sounding guitar.
By using this rapid-aging technique, luthiers have been able to create guitars that sound almost identical to some of the most universally loved guitars: prewar Martins and Gibsons.
Once we're done discussing torrefaction, you'll get to hear about TAC Family member Jo and her guitar journey.
Last but certainly not least, I'll fill you in on some of the latest guitar geek news and announcements.
There's nothing like two musicians, in a room together, with just their voices and instruments. This video will cover the 10 BEST Acoustic Dio albums ever recorded. If I left your favorite one out, be sure to leave a comment!
Here's the Spotify Playlist featuring my favorite songs from the featured albums:
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2yqwz33TEAJZ1UpZTwWVWq?si=W6RXf020TdukEkBtrEwAWQ
★ Learn more about starting your Guitar Journey: https://tonypolecastro.com/ ★ FOLLOW on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tac.guitar/
All of the albums I picked were selected because they are outstanding. I had to leave tons of albums out of the list, but I believe this list has 10 of the best examples of musicianship and collaboration in acoustic music.
In this video, you'll also have the chance to hear from TAC Family member Kurt. After struggling to find a way to fit guitar into his life, he's thriving and collaborating with family and friends through music!
For our acoustic guitar news you can use, you'll hear from @Heartbreaker Guitars on their latest Bourgeois arrival that is just truly stunning. You'll also hear @Trey Hensley playing his new @Thompson Guitars .
If you're a guitar player, improper fretting technique can cause frustration, injury, and fatigue. All of these things can hold you back from achieving your guitar goals. In this video, I'll show you how to fix your fretting problem!
★ What kind of guitar player are you? How should you practice? Take the quiz today: https://tonypolecastro.com/ ★ Get the show: https://tonypolecastro.com/get-acoustic-tuesday ★ FOLLOW on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tac.guitar/
Fretting technique gets overlooked too often when you play guitar. In reality, having proper fretting technique sets you up for sustained success and enjoyment on your guitar journey.
So...why would you continue to play with improper fretting technique? Sometimes the answer to this question lies in the complexity of fretting technique.
To make things easy, this video will break down fretting technique by addressing the 3 most common problems I see with guitar players of all ages and sizes. I'll offer a few solutions for each problem, as well as a possible solution if none of these technique checks improve your sound!
In addition to learning how to fret the guitar properly, I've got plenty of guitar news that you can use! From new music to drool-worthy guitars, you're not going to want to skip this week's segment!
Credits: Eric Bibb - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4gsPyQWXAc0 Larrivee Guitars - https://www.instagram.com/p/CMc6yv7MJ_Q/ Adrian Bellue - https://www.instagram.com/adrianbellue/ Amber Russell - https://www.instagram.com/amberrussellmuzic/?hl=en Tommy Emmanuel and Hensley + Ickes - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KPdwqQG2tb0
Acoustic guitars are some of the most popular instruments in the world, and there's a reason for that! It's because they're incredibly versatile. In this video, we'll be looking at 8 acoustic guitar builders who have revolutionized the way these instruments sound.
★ What kind of guitar player are you? How should you practice? Take the quiz today: https://tonypolecastro.com/ ★ Get the show: https://tonypolecastro.com/get-acoustic-tuesday ★ FOLLOW on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tac.guitar/
Now, I want to be clear about something: we're not talking about Martin or Gibson copies. You know what these guitars are.
Instead, we're talking about modern acoustic guitars. And to kick things off, there's no better place to start than with Ervin Somogyi. From there, we'll explore seven more luthiers who are changing the game when it comes to making some of the finest, high-quality guitars.
Thank you to Heartbreaker Guitars for providing the Acoustic Guitar newscast today, and special thanks to Jon Gomm for being an incredible human being
Rule #1: Don't call it guitar practice. I'm serious. Start calling it "guitar playing." Here's why…
★ What kind of guitar player are you? How should you practice? Take the quiz today: https://tonypolecastro.com/ ★ Get the show: https://tonypolecastro.com/get-acoustic-tuesday ★ FOLLOW on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tac.guitar/
Playing evokes fun, discovery, and enjoyment. Practice can conjure up some nasty associations with time limits and exercising.
Okay, now that you got that first mental reframe out of the way, let's move into how you can make your guitar playing AUTOMATIC with 6 simple steps.
My goal for this episode is to get you feeling like you can play your guitar automatically — in the same way you don't think about brushing your teeth every day…you just do it.
By using habit building, micro-routines, and plenty of other techniques, you can make your guitar playing habit as automatic as eating or brushing your teeth!
Pretty soon, if you follow these steps, you'll feel word NOT playing the guitar.
In addition to talking about playing habits, you'll also hear about a Tony's Acoustic Challenge Family member who has some exciting news to share about her progress…
You think you can't do it. You're not good enough. You don't have the experience to compete with people who've been doing this for years. But I'm here to tell you that YOU CAN DO IT! So if your goal is to nail your first open mic performance, then check out these 6 steps.
★ What kind of guitar player are you? How should you practice? Take the quiz today: https://tonypolecastro.com/ ★ Get the show: https://tonypolecastro.com/get-acoustic-tuesday ★ FOLLOW on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tac.guitar/
I think the best way to frame this is by telling you about my first open mic experience.
I was drunk, not prepared, my gear was broken, my song was unfinished, I got easily distracted, didn't have fun, and I tried to do everything alone.
Now, I want to tell you what you need to do to prevent this nightmare-ish experience from happening to you. That's why this video will provide a step-by-step guide to help you have the best open mic experience possible.
I'm also covering some big news announcements, including…
- Gibson's new factory expansion in Bozeman (footage courtesy of @Acoustic Letter )
- Thompson Guitars new Billy Strings Model
- Mule Resonator Guitars
- Heartbreaker Guitars and Eddie's Guitars new inventory
Listening to Celtic guitar and Irish guitar can introduce you to a whole host of new sonic experiences and principles that you may not be aware of. In this video, I'm diving into 10 must-hear Celtic guitarists that have left me speechless and my mind BLOWN! 🤯
★ What kind of guitar player are you? How should you practice? Take the quiz today: https://tonypolecastro.com/ ★ Get the show: https://tonypolecastro.com/get-acoustic-tuesday ★ FOLLOW on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tac.guitar/
One of the best ways to learn a new genre or style of music is to find the most inspirational players and listen to them. So, in honor of St. Patrick's Day, I'm highlighting 10 inspirational Celtic guitarists that just absolutely blew me away.
I've learned a ton about Irish and Celtic music in preparation for this episode, and I'm excited to share with you some of my discoveries about the rich musical history and tradition of these genres.
In addition to celebrating St. Patrick's Day with you, I want to revisit a topic we talked about a few weeks back: practicing 10 minutes a day. I have an exciting story to share with you that should help dispel any doubts about the TAC Method.
Last but not least, I've got my weekly picks of the acoustic guitar news you can use!
In this video, I'll show you some alternative instruments that will help you learn the basics of playing guitar. These 5 non-guitar instruments are great for beginners and even experienced players who want to learn something new.
★ What kind of guitar player are you? How should you practice? Take the quiz today: https://tonypolecastro.com/ ★ Get the show: https://tonypolecastro.com/get-acoustic-tuesday ★ FOLLOW on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tac.guitar/
If you've been struggling to learn how to play guitar, then I recommend learning some of the basics on these other instruments. These five non-guitar instruments can really help you get your fingers and ears in shape without ever touching a guitar!
From the humble mandolin to the harmonica, I'll highlight what I've learned from each of these instruments.
My hope is that you can walk away from this episode feeling inspired and excited to learn a new instrument — all in the hopes of finding fun, focus, and progress on your guitar journey!
In addition to seeing which 5 non-guitar instruments can help you learn guitar, I want to tell you about C.J. from within the TAC Family and how he's finding progress on his guitar journey.
Finally, I'll introduce you to Sierra Hull's new YouTube release, Eli West's new album, and Jeremy Garrett's Circles album as well.
As always, you can catch Acoustic Tuesday at 10 am every Tuesday in these four places:
- Acoustic Life YouTube channel
- TAC Guitar Instagram Page
- Get show notes emailed directly to your inbox.
- Listen to audio-only below or in iTunes
The guitar is an instrument that everyone wants to learn, but it's not easy! It takes a lot of practice and discipline. But what if there was a way to make sure you're practicing the right things?
In this video, we'll explore the science behind how our brains work, and show you some mindsets to help ensure you're making progress on your guitar journey — even when you've had enough of plucking those strings for the day!
★ What kind of guitar player are you? How should you practice? Take the quiz today: https://tonypolecastro.com/ ★ Get the show: https://tonypolecastro.com/get-acoustic-tuesday ★ FOLLOW on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tac.guitar/
I want to give a huge shoutout to the creatives and researchers that helped make this video possible. Below is a list of resources I sighted in this video.
- BJ Fogg TedX : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AdKUJxjn-R8
- Tom Bilyeu Impact Theory: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LCHPSo79rB4
- Rich Roll Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s9uDVVWN_ZE
- Productivity Game (Purposeful Practice): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uoUHlZP094Q
- Productivity Game (Positive Thinking): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OBfes3qFs4A
Playing like Jerry Garcia is cool — but what about thinking like Jerry Garcia? In this video, you'll get the 7 biggest lessons from Jerry Garcia about how to be creative, musical, and happy!
★ What kind of guitar player are you? How should you practice? Take the quiz today: https://tonypolecastro.com/ ★ Get the show: https://tonypolecastro.com/get-acoustic-tuesday ★ FOLLOW on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tac.guitar/
Jerry Garcia was, without a doubt, one of the most influential guitarists in the 20th century. Countless guitarists have copied the way he plays, which is all fine and good. But what about copying the way Jerry thought about music?
On this episode of Acoustic Tuesday, I'm sharing with you the 7 takeaways from Jerry Garcia's career. I'll include interviews from the man himself, interviews from other musicians talking about Jerry Garcia, and some of his own off-camera thoughts and musings.
In addition to diving into the beautiful mind of Jerry Garcia, I want to share with you the incredible story of one guitar geek traveling the world with her guitar.
Last but not least, I've got a few YouTube series you definitely need to check out.
Looking for something more spicy than your normal guitar tone? Check out these cheap and easy guitar tone experiments that are sure to put some spice back into your guitar playing!
★ What kind of guitar player are you? How should you practice? Take the quiz today: https://tonypolecastro.com/ ★ Get the show: https://tonypolecastro.com/get-acoustic-tuesday ★ FOLLOW on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tac.guitar/
Experimenting with your guitar's tone is an excellent way to vary your guitar playing. With these 5 easy guitar tone experiments, you're bound to find some inspiration in places you didn't think was possible.
From using an improvised dampener for your strings to a Koto converter, all of these tonal experiments are perfect for beginner guitarists or long-time players.
In addition to talking about guitar tone experiments, you'll hear about TAC Family member Daniel M., a guitar geek who went from weekend strummer to certified guitar player after using the TAC Method.
After hearing Daniel's story, you'll get my rundown of acoustic guitar news you can use. We'll be covering Tempest Guitars, started by Daisy Tempest from Tom Sands Guitars, how you can book Michael Watts to play in your home (virtually, of course), and a whole bunch of stuff on Jon Gomm!
Put your listening skills to the test in this step-by-step guide to emulating Nick Drake's tone and style! After this video, you'll have the tools you need to play in Nick Drake's style!
★ What kind of guitar player are you? How should you practice? Take the quiz today: https://tonypolecastro.com/ ★ Get the show: https://tonypolecastro.com/get-acoustic-tuesday ★ FOLLOW on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tac.guitar/
Before I go any further, I want to thank Josh Turner for his incredible video on Nick Drake's tone and style. You can watch his video here.
In addition, the Vinyl Rewind episode on Nick Drake provided tons of useful information about Nick's life and recordings, which helped make this video. You can find that episode here.
Besides chatting about the 5 steps to replicate Nick Drake's iconic tone and style, you'll have the chance to hear about one of the incredible transformations that is happening inside the Tony's Acoustic Challenge community.
This week, you'll hear from Brandon K., a guitar geek that used the power of reflection and evaluation to get excited about his progress and process in TAC.
Finally, I have my acoustic guitar news you can use! This week, you'll hear about developments with Dead Horses as well as Iris Guitars and Guild Guitars.
As always, you can catch Acoustic Tuesday at 10 am every Tuesday in these four places:
- Acoustic Life YouTube channel
- TAC Guitar Instagram Page
- Get show notes emailed directly to your inbox.
- Listen to audio-only below or in iTunes
Do you feel lost when you look at a guitar's spec sheet? Wondering how tonewood actually impacts the sound of a guitar? In this video, we're going to talk about 10 of the most common tone woods guitars are made of and how they can transform tonal qualities.
★ What kind of guitar player are you? How should you practice? Take the quiz today: https://tonypolecastro.com/ ★ Get the show: https://tonypolecastro.com/get-acoustic-tuesday ★ FOLLOW on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tac.guitar/
Guitar tonewoods can have a HUGE impact on your guitar's sound. That's why understanding what certain tonewoods sound like is important for playing and purchasing guitars.
Especially when it's difficult to physically play a guitar in a shop, knowing the tonal properties of specific tonewoods can give you an idea of any given guitar's sound.
You'll also learn about how certain tonewoods interact with each other to create distinct sounds. Who knows, maybe you'll discover the perfect tonewood combination after watching today's episode!
In addition to talking about guitar tonewoods, you're going to hear about TAC Family member Krozz, whose guitar journey has had many ups and downs but has hit its stride after following the TAC method.
Last but certainly not least, you'll see the coolest acoustic guitar performances from around the web as well as a special surprise performance from my son, Ayden!
BIG innovations are coming from guitar makers in 2021. Learn about the latest and greatest guitar models from luthiers that are making waves in the acoustic guitar industry!
★ What kind of guitar player are you? How should you practice? Take the quiz today: https://tonypolecastro.com/ ★ Get the show: https://tonypolecastro.com/get-acoustic-tuesday ★ FOLLOW on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tac.guitar/
In today's video, I'm showing you the 10 guitar makers that you need to watch in 2021. Some of them are small bench makers, some of them are huge multinational makers. But all of them are making incredible acoustic guitars in 2021.
From Taylor to Mule Resophonic Guitars, each of these guitar makers is either pushing the envelope on acoustic guitar innovation or providing guitars that are priced just right.
In addition to talking about the 10 guitar makers you need to watch in 2021, I'm going to share with you the latest acoustic guitar news from the industry. Whether it's mergers, album releases, or artist announcements, I got you covered!
Tired of feeling out of the loop when folks talk about guitars? In this video, you're going to learn how to talk about guitars like a pro in just 4 easy steps.
★ What kind of guitar player are you? How should you practice? Take the quiz today: https://tonypolecastro.com/ ★ Get the show: https://tonypolecastro.com/get-acoustic-tuesday ★ FOLLOW on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tac.guitar/
Guitar tone terminology is essential. Without it, guitar geeks don't have a common language to describe guitar tones. This video will help you discover precisely how to talk about guitar tone so that you sound like a professional.
From the dark and focused sounds of some guitar tones to the thin and string sounds of others, you're going to hear the 4 tonal categories to describe guitars with.
In addition, you'll get a chance to hear how each of these categories applied to a real guitar, that way you know exactly what sounds I'm trying to describe.
This video will also cover the latest acoustic guitar news and headlines, and, as per usual, you'll get my take on some of the news and how it'll impact the industry. That's right, I'm looking at you Gibson!
Nick Drake tuning? Open G? Unlock new sounds on your guitar by exploring the 5 alternate tunings that changed acoustic guitar history today!
★ What kind of guitar player are you? How should you practice? Take the quiz today: https://tonypolecastro.com/ ★ Get the show: https://tonypolecastro.com/get-acoustic-tuesday ★ FOLLOW on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tac.guitar/
Alternate tunings on acoustic guitar can truly expand your sonic vocabulary. If you're feeling fatigued or tired of playing the same things, spend some time exploring one of the 5 alternate tunings I offer in this episode of Acoustic Tuesday.
You get a chance to hear very popular tunings like DADGAD and Open D Maj while also learning how to play on the fretboard with them. With each alternate tuning, I'll provide some basic chords or picking patterns that can be used with each alternate tuning.
Each one of these alternate tunings can take your guitar playing to places it has never been before. And that's a good thing! Hearing your instrument make new sounds you didn't think were possible is truly inspirational!
In addition to exploring alternate tunings on acoustic guitar, I also want to share with you the inspirational story of a veteran who overcame PTSD by learning to play guitar — oh, and he went on to teach other veterans how to play guitar, too!
Last but not least, you'll get my roundup of the latest headlines in the acoustic guitar world. This week, we'll take a look at three different YouTube series that are designed for guitar geeks of all interests!
Is 2021 the best chance to make changes to your guitar routine? It is if you watch this video to avoid the 5 most common mistakes guitarists make when setting New Year's Resolutions!
★ What kind of guitar player are you? How should you practice? Take my quiz today: https://tonypolecastro.com/ ★ Get the show: https://tonypolecastro.com/get-acoustic-tuesday ★ FOLLOW on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tac.guitar/
Besides showing you the 5 most common mistakes, I also want to give you solutions and fixes for these common problems. For every negative aspect of goal setting at the New Year, I'm offering up a positive solution!
By the end of this video, you'll have 5 tips for creating a rock-solid guitar practice at the start of the new year. Be sure to leave a comment below if I'm forgetting anything or you think more should be added!
In addition to talking New Year's Resolutions for guitar players, I have an inspiring story from the TAC Family...and it includes the story of a guitarist who took a 25 YEAR hiatus on his guitar journey!
Last but not least, I'll give you my thoughts on the biggest headlines in the acoustic guitar world. This week, I'll talk about Tony Rice's legacy, PRS's podcast, and more!
Intimidated by acoustic guitar pickups? Say no more. I'm breaking down the biggest myth about acoustic guitar pickups while also offering some pros and cons of the 5 most common pickup types.
★ What kind of guitar player are you? How should you practice? Take my quiz today: https://tonypolecastro.com/ ★ Get the show: https://tonypolecastro.com/get-acoustic-tuesday ★ FOLLOW on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tac.guitar/
This video covers the most common pickup types you'll encounter for your acoustic guitar. From the under-saddle pickup to the internal mic pickup, I'll give you the pros and cons of each acoustic guitar pickup.
Finally, I'll round out each category of acoustic guitar pickup with my recommendation for each type.
Besides talking acoustic guitar pickups, you'll also hear from TAC Family Member Guy — trust me, you're going to love his story!
Last but certainly not least, I'll give you a breakdown of the biggest headlines and under-the-radar stories that are going on in the acoustic guitar world!
No guitar geek should own a guitar without having these 10 must-have guitar tools. Don't believe me? See for yourself!
★ What kind of guitar player are you? How should you practice? Take our quiz today: https://tonypolecastro.com/ ★ Get the show: https://tonypolecastro.com/get-acoustic-tuesday ★ FOLLOW on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tac.guitar/
In this video, I'm going to break down the 10 must-have guitar tools every guitar geek should own. Some of them you may already have, while others you've just been thinking about getting. Either way, I'll show you how to use these tools and prevent common mistakes when using these guitar maintenance tools.
In addition to talking about guitar maintenance, I'll also introduce you to Bernie F., a TAC Family member whose progress has accelerated since he joined TAC.
As always, I'll close out the show with some acoustic guitar weekly news. This is your chance to get caught up on the biggest headlines, album releases, and sales that are shaking up the industry!
Take the mystery and guess-work out of your acoustic guitar amp by following my 3 steps to dialing in your amp's EQ!
★ What kind of guitar player are you? How should you practice? Take our quiz today: https://tonypolecastro.com/ ★ Get the show: https://tonypolecastro.com/get-acoustic-tuesday ★ FOLLOW on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tac.guitar/
In this video, I'll show you a simple, 3-step process to making sure you have a good tone on your acoustic guitar amp. I'll cover the gain, issues with clipping, how to set your EQ, and how to manage your effects pedals. I'll also cover how to stop feedback on your acoustic guitar.
Acoustic guitar amps can be a little intimidating for acoustic players. Because we're not used to playing with amps, they can seem a little alien at first! Fortunately, it's not as bad as you think!
In addition to learning how to nail your acoustic guitar amp EQ, I'll share with you my 5 favorite acoustic guitar amps and what they can do for your guitar journey!
From the highest quality capos to guitar geeky collectors sets, these 10 gifts for acoustic guitarists will drop jaws this holiday season. Check this description to get links to all of these gifts!
★ What kind of guitar player are you? How should you practice? Take our quiz today: https://tonypolecastro.com/ ★ Get the show: https://tonypolecastro.com/get-acoustic-tuesday
On this episode of Acoustic Tuesday, I'm covering the 10 best gifts for acoustic guitar players.
I've combed through some of the hottest, latest, and greatest tools, toys, and trinkets. This holiday gift guide has something for every guitar geek, so be sure to listen to the whole episode!
In addition to helping you find the best gift for an acoustic guitarist in your life, I also want to tell you about a 30-year beginner who became a true guitar player in just about a year. And it's all thanks to one simple mindset. (And plenty of practice!)
Have you ever sold a guitar that meant the world to you? Only to have it land in your lap again? On this episode of Acoustic Tuesday, you're going to see what happens when an owner SELLS their original '67 Martin D-28 to a dealer who sells it to a special kind of guitar geek, who ends up giving it back!
★ What kind of guitar player are you? How should you practice? Take our quiz today: https://tonypolecastro.com/ ★ Get the show: https://tonypolecastro.com/get-acoustic-tuesday
This week is all about guitar gratitude, and what better way to showcase it than sharing an incredible story. It starts with a man named Raymond and his grandson and ends with a heartwarming reunion.
What are the most important lessons from Eric Clapton? In this episode of Acoustic Tuesday, you'll learn 6 guitar lessons from Eric Clapton that go far beyond the instrument itself. In addition, I'll show you how you can leverage your guitar heroes' wisdom!
★ What kind of guitar player are you? How should you practice? Take our quiz today: https://tonypolecastro.com/ ★ Get the show: https://tonypolecastro.com/get-acoustic-tuesday
Welcome to the Acoustic Tuesday show, your gateway to the wonderful world of acoustic guitar! As always, this video is designed to help you find fun, focus, and progress on your guitar journey.
This week, I'm diving into Eric Clapton's guitar journey. I wanted to see the most important pieces of wisdom from the legendary guitar player himself. Once I share with you the 6 most important guitar lessons from Eric Clapton, I'll tell you how best to use this knowledge.
Be sure to catch the full video so you can see the transformative journey one TAC Family member took in the last 5 years!
Last but not least, I have a ton of guitar geek news that will get you excited and pumped about playing guitar and learning it, too!
Are you ready to make a difference in a guitar geek's life? Thanks to Guitars 4 Vets I've got three ways you can transform someone's life in today's episode of Acoustic Tuesday.
★ Transform a veteran's life: https://guitars4vets.org/ ★ What kind of guitar player are you? How should you practice? Take our quiz today: https://tonypolecastro.com/ ★ Get the show: https://tonypolecastro.com/get-acoustic-tuesday
In celebration of Veterans Day, I'm highlighting an incredible organization: Guitars 4 Vets. Through the support of guitar geeks around the country, they have given over 40,000 lessons to 4,000 veterans.
If you're looking for ways to get involved, I strongly encourage you to visit their website:
★ https://guitars4vets.org/
Besides featuring Guitars 4 Vets on today's episode of Acoustic Tuesday, I want to share the special story of one TAC Family Member who became involved with G4V and how it helped him on his guitar journey.
Last but not least, I have a TON of guitar news for you. From manufacturer news to artist news, there's a lot of ground to cover this week!
In this episode of Acoustic Tuesday, you'll see why these 5 travel guitars under $500 are really unmatched. And if you're still on the fence about owning a travel guitar, you need to watch this video!
★ What kind of guitar player are you? How should you practice? Take our quiz today: https://tonypolecastro.com/ ★ Get the show: https://tonypolecastro.com/get-acoustic-tuesday
The holidays can be a difficult time to maintain your guitar routine. That's why I highly recommend looking into travel guitars.
They offer unparalleled portability, are perfect for folks with smaller hands, and can sound incredible with a very small investment.
You'll see my pick of the 5 best travel guitars under $500. In addition, I'll give my analysis of the benefits of owning a travel guitar — and why you should have one!
Tired of only having one use for a single lick? Check out this video to see how you can vary one simple lick nine different ways...and the best part? I'll demonstrate on 9 different guitars — from my 1926 Martin 2-17 to my Beard Decophonic Sidecar!
★ What kind of guitar player are you? How should you practice? Take our quiz today: https://tonypolecastro.com/ ★ Get the show: https://tonypolecastro.com/get-acoustic-tuesday
Acoustic Tuesday is all about helping you find fun, focus, and progress on your guitar journey. And more often than not, licks can be a source of frustration for many guitarists. Sometimes, they're difficult to learn and we only use them in specific applications.
Today, you're going to see how you can apply a single blues lick to 9 different styles and tempos to maximize the most out of just a single blues lick.
This is also just a fun way to show you all of the small-body guitars in my guitarsenal! You'll get to see some of my favorite guitars as I show off this simple blues lick in nine different styles on nine different guitars!
I also want to take this opportunity to thank TAC Family member Brian S. for sharing his story with the community. Be sure to leave a comment if you thought Brian's story was inspiring!
Austin, Texas is home to some of the best music, food, and guitar-themed places in the US...which is why you gotta check out my recommendations for a guitar geek's trip to Austin!
★ What kind of guitar player are you? How should you practice? Take our quiz today: https://tonypolecastro.com/ ★ Get the show: https://tonypolecastro.com/get-acoustic-tuesday
What's up TAC Family?! While we may not be able to travel like we used to, that doesn't mean we can't prepare for a fun trip in the future! Austin, Texas is definitely going to be one of the first places I vacation to next year.
Austin is home to great music, incredible food, rich music history, awesome record stores, and unforgettable guitar shops.
To get the full scoop on where I think every guitar geek should go to, be sure to watch the full episode of Acoustic Tuesday!
In addition to talking about Austin, TX, I want to share with you the inspiring story of a TAC Family member who went from being a shy beginner to a budding guitarist!
All aboard the inspiration train as we cruise through the 10 most inspiring guitar feature films that will motivate you on your guitar journey. From Walk the Line to Crazy Heart, I'm dishing out some guitar geek classics!
★ What kind of guitar player are you? How should you practice? Take our quiz today: https://tonypolecastro.com/ ★ Get the show: https://tonypolecastro.com/get-acoustic-tuesday
This week, we're taking a look at fun ways you can escape reality for just a few hours while still staying motivated on your guitar journey.
My list of 10 most inspiring guitar feature films includes some comedies, dramas, animated features, and spoofs! Be sure to catch the whole list to find a good movie to watch this week!
In addition to the 10 most inspiring guitar feature films, you'll hear about Robert, a fellow TAC Family member who has had quite the guitar journey.
I never dreamed that my new baby boy would be giving me lessons on guitar. On this episode of Acoustic Tuesday, you'll get a special lesson on dynamics while I balance my guitar journey with raising my new son!
★ What kind of guitar player are you? How should you practice? Take our quiz today: https://tonypolecastro.com/ ★ Get the show: https://tonypolecastro.com/get-acoustic-tuesday
To kick things off, I'll dive right into the lessons that my new baby boy has taught me. We'll cover everything from why rest is important (both for baby and for guitar journeys!) to the power of joy in music.
In addition, I want to show you an exercise that will help you practice dynamics on acoustic guitar. Practicing dynamics can be difficult, but by following these dynamics exercises you can get more out of your playing!
To wrap things up on this episode, you'll get a look at my electric guitarsenal — that is, all the electric guitars in my collection.
I have 3, not including my dad's electric bass guitar, so be sure to check out what this acoustic guitar geek plays when he's plugged in!
I experienced one of my most profound moments on guitar after I realized this one thing. If you hear me out on this, I think it will unlock a new level of gratitude and inspiration on your guitar journey!
★ What kind of guitar player are you? How should you practice? Take our quiz today: https://tonypolecastro.com/ ★ Get the show: https://tonypolecastro.com/get-acoustic-tuesday
★ Shownotes: www.acousticlife.tv/atah7
On this episode of Acoustic Tuesday at Home you'll get to hear the story of my 1958 Martin 0-18. It involves some intense family moments that may just send you into a gratitudinous state!
Additionally, I've found myself playing in my home studio a lot more. As a result, my phone has become an invaluable tool for practice sessions.
You're going to get my list of 5 tips for using your phone to help elevate your practice sessions. Trust me, these apps and recommendations will help you!
Last but not least, I really want to thank you for watching and supporting the Acoustic Tuesday show. I'm so excited to welcome Emerson Townes into the world, and I'm glad I've been able to spend some more time with him since I'm doing these At Home episodes!
While you might say no, I've found that playing a famous guitarist's signature model guitar has a surprising effect on your playing — and not in the ways that you might think!
★ Request your invite to Tony's Acoustic Challenge today: https://tonypolecastro.com/ ★ All show notes and links: https://acousticlife.tv/atah6 ★ Get the show: https://tonypolecastro.com/get-acoustic-tuesday
In this episode of Acoustic Tuesday at Home, we're taking a look at the guitar that changed where I draw inspiration and creativity from on my guitar journey.
I've had so much fun filming at my home studio this week, and I have tons of goodies to share with you!
I was lucky enough to get a SIGNED version of Molly Tuttle's new album "...but i'd rather be with you." It's a beautiful album with an equally stunning vinyl that you don't want to miss!
You'll also get a sneak peak at my new baby boy Emerson Townes' FIRST GUITAR PEDALBOARD. And I know what you're thinking...how is that possible? Well, fortunately, 1915 Pedalboards made it happen!
Last but certainly not least, you'll get an inside look at Tom Sands' workshop. Specifically, you'll get to see the wood that Tom will be using to build my guitar!
How do you recover from DAMAGING your guitar? Do you cry? Mourn? Instead, check out this video to see how you can incorporate your guitar into your journey to fuel hours of practice and fun!
★ What kind of guitar player are you? How should you practice? Take our quiz today: https://tonypolecastro.com/
★ View the show notes at https://acousticlife.tv/atah5/ ★ Get the show: https://tonypolecastro.com/get-acoustic-tuesday
Getting the motivation to practice can be extremely difficult. One of the best ways to help you find inspiration is to incorporate your guitar into your guitar journey. I know it sounds confusing, but bear with me…
Your acoustic guitar is a powerful instrument. Even if you've damaged, dinged, or dented it, your guitar tells a story. If you can incorporate that story into your guitar journey, your drive to create, play, and have fun will be so much higher!
There's no better guitar I could think of to talk about this concept than my Martin 0M28 Marquis. I've banged it up quite a few times, but this Martin Guitar so intricately tied to my guitar journey that I'd never let those dents and dings tarnish my view of this beauty!
In addition to talking about my Martin Marquis, I'll also let you in on my D'Addario Nickel Bronze review — and how those strings stack up with the Santa Cruz Parabolic Tension strings…
Finally, we'll take a look at Third Man Records' new release of vinyl titled "The Rise and Fall of Paramount Records." It's an incredible box set, and I'm so excited to share it with you!
How important are the "looks" of an acoustic guitar? In today's video, you'll get a full analysis and three reasons why just focusing on tone is a mistake when choosing a new guitar.
★ What kind of guitar player are you? How should you practice? Take our quiz today: https://tonypolecastro.com/ ★ All show notes and links: https://acousticlife.tv/atah4 ★ Get the show: https://tonypolecastro.com/get-acoustic-tuesday
Many guitar players, especially experienced ones, start to discount the looks of the guitar. Too often, players are fixated on the tone of a guitar. While it's important to like how an acoustic guitar sounds, it's also important to love what you look at.
When you include looks into your evaluation of a guitar, you're adding a whole other level of consideration. While it might not impact what your playing sounds like, looks actually have a HUGE impact on how you practice. That's why this episode is dedicated to the looks of a guitar!
In addition to talking about aesthetics, I'll also give you a tour of my studio, answer a few questions, and tell you about the first time looks changed the way I looked for guitars.
Should your next guitar be vintage or a newer acoustic guitar? I've got a story that'll change your perspective on vintage instruments, some concerns for vintage guitars, and a review of a new guitar that'll turn heads...
In today's Acoustic Tuesday at Home episode, I wanted to answer one question: are vintage or new acoustic guitars better? Ultimately, that led to lots of reflecting and few definitive conclusions.
So, be sure to let me know in the comments whether you lean towards vintage or new guitars!
But, this video is an excellent starting point to help you determine whether you like vintage or new acoustic guitars. To help you find your own pluses and minuses, I'll tell the story of the vintage guitar that changed the way I thought about guitars.
Additionally, you'll get to hear a brand new Furch guitar as reviewed by Brendan from Heartbreaker Guitars in Las Vegas, NV!
★ What kind of guitar player are you? How should you practice? Take our quiz today: https://tonypolecastro.com/ ★ All show notes and links: https://acousticlife.tv/atah1 ★ Get the show: https://tonypolecastro.com/get-acoustic-tuesday
Don't make the same mistake I made when I bought my first guitar at 19 years old! By asking yourself 5 simple questions when purchasing a guitar, you can save yourself TONS of time and money.
★ Request your invite to Tony's Acoustic Challenge today: https://tonypolecastro.com/ ★ All show notes and links: https://acousticlife.tv/atah1 ★ Get the show: https://tonypolecastro.com/get-acoustic-tuesday
In today's Acoustic Tuesday at Home episode, I have three great stories to share with you. The first one involves HEAVY buyer's remorse. The second and third stories apply concepts in the 5 steps to avoid buyer's remorse to show how to successfully find your dream guitar.
In addition, I'll take some time to update you on the homefront. There's been a TON going on...between the practice contractions and a skunk roaming around in the backyard, it's been a LONG week.
Have you ever encountered a guitar that changed your relationship with someone — for better or for worse? My Martin D-41 Special did exactly that...
In this episode of...well, it's not really Acoustic Tuesday. Instead, as my wife, Whitney, and I prepare for our baby boy, I'm going to be making Acoustic Tuesday at Home! It's a little cozier, a little more uncut, and a TON more fun!
I'm also going to be working on a brand-new season of Acoustic Tuesday during this time — more details on that in the video!
So, with all of that being said, I hope you enjoy the new show as I work to welcome my son into the world and bring to you an awesome new season of the Acoustic Tuesday Show!
★ Request your invite to Tony's Acoustic Challenge today: https://tonypolecastro.com/ ★ All show notes and links: https://acousticlife.tv/atah1 ★ Get the show: https://tonypolecastro.com/get-acoustic-tuesday
Do you want to get into resonator guitars, but are not sure where to start? In this video, I'll show you the 6 best resonator guitars to start with, why they're worth the money, and the 3-step system you should use to buy your next resonator.
Every resonator guitar on this list is under $799, very accessible to new resonator players, and well worth the money. But to help you narrow it down, we'll also talk about the three qualities to look for in any resonator guitar.
I want to make a special shoutout to Mike Dowling, who is an incredible resonator player that I'm featuring in this episode! Be sure to check out his work and support him if you enjoy his music! Special thanks are also due to Norman's Rare Guitars!
★ Request your invite to Tony's Acoustic Challenge today: https://tonypolecastro.com/al-request-invite/?ref=INVITE&src=AL ★ All show notes and links: https://acousticlife.tv/at155/ ★ Get the show: https://tonypolecastro.com/get-acoustic-tuesday
Have you ever wondered what resonator guitars a professional reviewer, teacher, and player would buy? In this video, you'll get to see part 2 of my guitarsenal: the resonators and uncategorizable guitars!
Each of these resonators has a fun story behind it, so be sure to watch the whole video. And, once you get to the end, I want to hear which guitars you liked the most and whether you have any resonators!
This entire episode is dedicated to resonator guitars, which is why I'm featuring a resonator builder and an awesome resonator player. Be sure to let me know what you think about these artists!
I want to give a special shoutout for Republic Guitars and Billy Cardine for their craftsmanship and artistry that goes into their work!
If you're thinking of purchasing a resonator guitar, learning resonator, or just listening to resonators then this episode is absolutely for you!
★ Request your invite to Tony's Acoustic Challenge today: https://tonypolecastro.com/al-request-invite/?ref=INVITE&src=AL ★ All show notes and links: https://acousticlife.tv/at154/ ★ Get the show: https://tonypolecastro.com/get-acoustic-tuesday
In this episode, I'm breaking down the 10 albums that had a huge impact on my life and growth as a musician. Everything from people, places, quotes, concerts, and instruments can impact your guitar journey. But what's the common thread? Albums.
I can't make a list of top 10 albums EVER. However, I can make a list of 10 albums that changed my life. My hope is that, through the power and magic of music, I'm able to help you reflect on the albums that have changed your life.
To help spark your imagination and interest in your own guitar journey, I broke my list into 3 categories: instrumental, bluegrass, and singer-songwriter.
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★ All show notes and links: https://acousticlife.tv/at153/
★ Get the show: https://tonypolecastro.com/get-acoustic-tuesday
I'm going to bet money you haven't heard of at least seven of these incredible artists. That's going to change today when I talk about how these 10 incredible women are leaving their mark on acoustic music.
Before I go any further, I want to give a huge shoutout to two YouTube channels that I always use to help me discover new music: GemsOnVHS and Western AF. The folks at these channels are awesome, so keep up the good work! If you are into discovering new acoustic music, these channels are great resources!
In today's episode, I really stove not to feature artists who have already made it in the music industry, ie Molly Tuttle or Sierra Hull. They're incredible artists, don't get me wrong. But, the artists today are 10 brand-new artists to me and to the Acoustic Tuesday Show.
So, without further ado, let's dive right into my list of the 10 women who are leaving their mark on acoustic music.
10: Kaia Kater
@Kaia Kater is a banjo player who is a brilliant artist. Her ability to take advantage of space and silence within her music allows her voice to really fill out her arrangements and compositions. The tone she gets out of her banjo is extremely balanced, too! Effortless and moving, I highly recommend you check out Kaia Kater!
9: Libby Decamp
Another banjo player, I found Libby on both Gems on VHS and Western AF. While Kaia Kater's banjo playing was more nuanced, Libby picks more aggressively on her banjo. Her voice has a slight waver as well when she sings, which I totally love. The lyricism in her songs is also remarkable.,
8: Kassi Valazza
The word that comes to mind when I think about Kassi Valazza is cinematic. Definitely more in the genre of Country than folk, Kassi just evokes a spaghetti western vibe in her music. She paints sonic pictures in such a vivid way that I'm kicking myself over not listening to her sooner in my musical career!
7: Melody Walker
A multi-instrumentalist who I've seen in a variety of different settings, Melody Walker strikes me as an incredible songwriter and artist. I want to spotlight the lyrical prowess she displays on almost all of her compositions. In fact, she ended up writing a song with Molly Tuttle!
6: Kiki Cavazos
A voice like something between Bob Dylan and Loretta Lynn, Kiki Cavazos is a piercing songwriter that emulates the old-school country style of Hank Williams Sr. She's also a Montana resident, so I'm doubly sad that I haven't discovered her work sooner! She has such an old-school sound that sounds straight from a bygone era.
5: Rhiannon Giddens
One of the most talented, powerful songwriters on the banjo today, @Rhiannon Giddens is an expressive instrumentalist and a noteworthy songwriter. The tone that she conveys with her playing is just mind-blowing. On top of being a musical dynamo, she is an activist who I believe is steering the acoustic music community in the right direction.
To check out the full list of artists, watch their videos, and see where you can support them, and purchase their music, please visit www.acousticlife.tv/at152/
★ Request your invite to Tony's Acoustic Challenge today: https://tonypolecastro.com/al-request-invite/?ref=INVITE&src=AL
★ All show notes and links: https://acousticlife.tv/at152/
★ Get the show: https://tonypolecastro.com/get-acoustic-tuesday
If you're looking to plan a future guitar-geeky vacation, look no further than this incredible city. Whether you're into historic venues, shopping for guitars, or memorabilia, get ready to take a virtual vacation of THE Music City!
On this episode of Acoustic Tuesday, I'm taking you through the top 10 guitar-geek destinations within Nashville, Tennessee.
Besides taking a trip through Nashville, you'll hear plenty of historical tidbits and trivia, such as why Johnny Cash was banned from the Grand Ole Opry, how Gruhn Guitars got started in Nashville, and inside look at Carter Vintage Guitars.
Nashville is an absolutely incredible city. There are few cities I would recommend more to a fellow guitar geek. That being said, I've created a list of the top 10 reasons you need to visit Nashville. So, be sure to watch the whole video!
Let me know if I missed anything in Nashville. I'd love it if this became a resource for all guitar geeks looking for the best things to do in Nashville!
★ Request your invite to Tony's Acoustic Challenge today: https://tonypolecastro.com/al-request-invite/?ref=INVITE&src=AL
★ All show notes and links: https://acousticlife.tv/at151/
★ Get the show: https://tonypolecastro.com/get-acoustic-tuesday
Whether it's space travel or sustainable tonewood forests, I know the future of the acoustic guitar is bright. In this episode, I'll walk you through 5 HUGE reasons why the acoustic guitar is the chosen instrument of the future.
This entire episode is dedicated to the future of the acoustic guitar. Specifically, why the acoustic guitar will be the champion instrument in the near and distant future.
In addition, you'll hear about two guitars that I think are definitely guitars of the future. One of them is a Lowden Guitars' F50, which is truly futuristic because of the innovative tonewood combinations used on this guitar. In addition, I'll give you a review of the Fender Acoustasonic guitar, an instrument that has received a TON of hype...but is it worth it?
Last but not least, you'll get the chance to listen to a friend of mine who went viral a couple months ago. His videos include him playing a Weissenborn guitar across the wilds of Montana. His name? Dan Dubuque .
Just to give you a taste of what's to come for the acoustic guitar, here are my top 5 signs the acoustic guitar is the instrument of the future.
Reason #5: Power or No-Power, There's POWER Whether you're plugged into an amp or not, the acoustic guitar can fill a room if it needs to. It's mobile and can be adaptable in a wide variety of situations.
So if the distant future for some reason doesn't involve electricity, us acoustic guitar geeks we'll still be able to make music! If we do have power, there are plenty of effects and gear that can help sonically texture the acoustic guitar and innovate its sound.
Reason #4: Band in a Box While the guitar is useful for strumming and playing chords, you can actually pull so many different sounds and effects from your acoustic guitar.
There are hundreds of different percussive tones that can be played on the acoustic guitar. Combine that with the different chord progressions, rhythms, and more...you suddenly have a guitar that is 100% a band in a box.
Reason #3: SPACE TRAVEL Good news, everyone! The acoustic guitar is safe for space travel! As we soar into the deep, unknown vasts of space, one astronaut acknowledges how primal and powerful music is — it's one of the most basic parts of our human identity.
Astronaut Chris Hadfield proves it with his trusty Larrivee P-01 while he answered some questions in an interview he did from the space station!
Reason #2: Material Innovation Starting with sustainable harvesting, there have been tons of fun advancements in sustainably harvesting tonewoods. Instead of clear-cutting or chopping down ancient trees, @Taylor Guitars cloned a maple tree that provided high-quality and reliable tonewood.
Additionally, the folks at Emerald Guitars have been building insanely high-quality carbon fiber guitars.
Reason #1: Community Throughout my life and career, I've noticed that the acoustic guitar has an uncanny ability to create community wherever it goes. As humans, we've needed community in the past, we need it now, and we'll need it in the future. As far as I can tell, no instrument is better suited to bring together folks like the acoustic guitar.
I've been a part of the 2006-2007 record for the world's largest guitar lesson (1500 people). Being there was absolutely amazing and goes to show how incredible the community around acoustic guitar is. 10 years later, I held the Acoustic Life Festival in Bozeman, Montana. This was a festival where over 100 Tony's Acoustic Challenge members met to play together for a weekend...phew, that was something special!
Did I leave something off of my list that should have been included? Let me know in the comments below!
★ Request your invite to Tony's Acoustic Challenge today: https://tonypolecastro.com/al-request-invite/?ref=INVITE&src=AL
★ All show notes and links: https://acousticlife.tv/at150/
★ Get the show: https://tonypolecastro.com/get-acoustic-tuesday
After reviewing over 600 guitars in my career, these 7 dreadnoughts are some of the best guitars I've ever played. In this video, I'll go over each of these guitars and why they stood out after playing hundreds of other incredible guitars.
Since my guitarsenal, or guitar collection, is so large, I've narrowed down this list to just my dreadnought guitars. You'll be hearing about my dobros and small-body guitars later this year!
In addition to hearing about my guitarsenal, you'll get a chance to see a Heartbreaker of the Month: the guitar that Heartbreaker Guitars in Las Vegas has picked out for us to showcase! Also, you'll get some advice from Jeremy Sheppard , a guitar hunter who is here to help you find the guitar that works for you! Last but not least, I'll feature Dogwood Tales, an acoustic duo from Virginia.
Alright, without further ado, let's dive into my list of the 7 dreadnoughts I bought after reviewing hundreds of other awesome guitars!
1: Santa Cruz Guitar Company Vintage Southerner
This is the most different of all the dreadnoughts in my collection because it's a shorter scale. For that very reason, I tend to favor the Santa Cruz Vintage Southerner for fingerpicking. Lightly built with a spruce top and mahogany back and sides, this guitar really is a great accompaniment instrument.
2: Bourgeois Country Boy Dreadnought.
This particular Bourgeois Country Boy is an absolute bluegrass cannon. If you want a guitar that can stand out in the mix when your flatpicking through fill after fill, this is your guitar. But, this guitar isn't just a standard Bourgeois Country Boy. This guitar was originally owned by Courtney Hartman and used when she was in the band @Della Mae .
3: Martin D-41 Special
Indian Rosewood back and sides...Sitka spruce top...I mean, this guitar is a classic combination of class and power that I can't get enough of. Additionally, the forward-shifted bracing helps this guitar really open up and resonate at another level. But here's the fun part: this guitar was owned by my dad after I sold it to him while I was working at the Old Town School of Folk Music in Chicago.
4: Taylor 717 Grand Pacific Builders Edition
@Taylor Guitars has built some incredible guitars, and I've been lucky enough to have them send me this model for review. After I reviewed this guitar, I knew I needed to add it to my guitarsenal because of its remarkable laser-like projection. The V-class bracing and the torrefied Sitka spruce top definitely help give this guitar an unforgettable sound.
5: Taylor 517 Grand Pacific Builders Edition
This Taylor was actually sent alongside the 717 I mentioned previously. As I kept this specific guitar around the studio for the review, I started playing it more and more. I was captivated by the mahogany back and sides that set this guitar apart from the 717 and any other guitar in my guitarsenal — and I liked the visual look of a sunburst guitar!
6: Thompson DCMA
With an Adirondack spruce top, Cuban mahogany back and sides, this guitar really, truly, sings. After discussing Thompson Guitars with a few different friends of mine, I decided that I NEEDED to have one of these guitars. This guitar has tons of horsepower and clarity.
7: Martin HD-35
The last dreadnought in my guitarsenal, this guitar feels like a trusty old companion. This was the first "real" guitar I ever purchased. This guitar has been with me since I had my first gig, and I truly love it for its warm, woody tone.
★ Request your invite to Tony's Acoustic Challenge today: https://tonypolecastro.com/al-request-invite/?ref=INVITE&src=AL
★ All show notes and links: https://acousticlife.tv/at149/
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In this video, I'm pitting Martin vs. Gibson, two of the oldest American guitar manufacturers. Both make incredible guitars, both have played a key role in American history, but only one can be crowned as the best US guitar maker.
Is Martin better than Gibson? Is Gibson better than Martin? Am I comparing apples and oranges? Watch the full episode to see how this one shakes out. And, let me know what you think in the comments below!
Both of these companies are well-respected in the industry. In addition, they're American icons, seemingly enmeshed within the fibers of American popular history.
Both Martin Guitar and Gibson have created incredible guitars throughout history, so first I want to thank both of them for their dedication to the craft!
This entire episode is dedicated to comparing the most popular American guitar brands. While most people recognize Gibson for their Les Paul models and other electric guitars, they also have a history of creating high-quality acoustic guitars for over 100 years. As for Martin...well, they've been the gold standard for acoustic guitars for many periods throughout history.
To help organize and compare Martin guitars and Gibson guitars, I'm putting them through seven categories.
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History
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Sustainability
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Manufacturing
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Model Offering
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Innovation
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Artist Roster
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Custom Shop
I want to hear what you have to say about each of these categories. Is Gibson better than Martin? Is Martin better than Gibson? Are we comparing apples and oranges? I want to hear your thoughts in the comments below!
★ Request your invite to Tony's Acoustic Challenge today: https://tonypolecastro.com/al-request-invite/?ref=INVITE&src=AL
★ All show notes and links: https://acousticlife.tv/at148/
★ Get the show: https://tonypolecastro.com/get-acoustic-tuesday
Are you ready to learn some guitar history AND learn 5 awesome picking patterns? I'm covering these 5 picking patterns because they essentially transformed how we listen and play to the acoustic guitar.
In this video, I'll introduce each picking pattern and explain it's origins. From there, you'll get an awesome example of what the picking pattern sounds like and who has continued to use and innovate on the original pattern.
Also in this video, I'm featuring Halland Guitars in Livingston, Montana. This is an excellent builder who is making some seriously crafted acoustic guitars. Last but not least, I want to feature an Acoustic Tuesday viewer who is combining the spirit of heavy metal music with the sound of acoustic guitar.
So, without further ado, let's dive right into the 5 picking patterns that changed acoustic guitar forever!
Picking Pattern #5: The Carter Scratch
While the Carter scratch is typically associated with Maybelle Carter of the Carter Family, it actually originated with Lesley Riddle. Using the thumb to predominantly play melodies, the Carter scratch was revolutionary in its day.
Instead of being primarily a rhythm instrument, the Carter scratch allowed the guitar in folk and country music to become a melody instrument. Other names for the Carter scratch include the 'thumb brush' technique, the 'Carter lick,' and also the 'church lick.'
Picking Pattern #4: Travis Picking
Stemming from the Carteeer scratch, Travis picking gets its name from Merle Travis. You see, Merle Travis used an alternating thumb technique to drive the bass while the rest of his picking hand played a syncopated melody gets played on the higher strings.
What's interesting is that Travis didn't necessarily invent Travis picking as we know it today. He often referred to his style of playing as "thumb picking", possibly because the only pick he used when playing was a banjo thumb pick, or "Muhlenberg picking", after his native Muhlenberg County, Kentucky, where he learned this approach to playing from Mose Rager and Ike Everly.
Picking Pattern #3: Flatpicking
So, this specific conversation revolves around not just using a pick but using a pick to play fiddle tunes on guitar. While we can't tie this style of playing to one specific player, some of the early adopters of this flatpicking style include George Shuffler, Alton Delmore, Johnny Bond, Don Reno, and Bill Napier.
Prior to these players, the lead guitar was sparsely used — when it was used, it was a novelty instead of being the norm that it is today.
From these early players, we have artists like Riley Puckett, Clarence White, Doc Watson, Tony Rice, and so many others who made bluegrass and country guitar the huge success that it is today. Those artists have now handed the torch to younger artists like Billy Strings and Molly Tuttle.
Picking Pattern #2: Crosspicking
Think of crosspicking as combining the momentum of the banjo with the melodic qualities of flatpicking. It has a harp-like texture that can be simultaneously delicate and powerful.
George Shuffler is credited with creating the crosspicking technique as a way to "fill-in" sound while playing with the Stanley Brothers. Because he was playing in the "lean" years of bluegrass, the touring groups didn't use large bands with mandolin, banjo, drums, or bass. As a result, George created a unique style to cover the Stanley Brothers in between vocal phrases.
Picking Pattern #1: Percussive Fingerstyle
While simultaneously an approach to guitar and a picking pattern, percussive fingerstyle really changed the way acoustic guitarists approach the instrument.
Moving beyond the traditional restrictions of just playing fretting and plucking the strings, percussive fingerstyle utilizes the body of the guitar, harmonics, alternate tunings, tapping, and more to create a wide range of tones, sounds, and textures.
We can trace a lot of percussive fingerstyle techniques back to Michael Hedges who really revolutionized this style.
★ Request your invite to Tony's Acoustic Challenge today: https://tonypolecastro.com/al-request-invite/?ref=INVITE&src=AL
★ All show notes and links: https://acousticlife.tv/at147/
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Are you ready to get a deep insight into your guitar journey? These 6 lessons from Molly Tuttle will surely inspire you to make some big changes in your guitar playing!
Molly Tuttle is one of my guitar heroes that I have the utmost respect for. She has wisdom and technical mastery that blows me away every time I see her play. I am so excited to share these 6 lessons with you! Each one is a golden nugget of guitar wisdom, so make sure you watch all the way through!
Before I launch into the interviews, I want to make sure I give credit where credit is due. The first interview is from Q on CBC with Tom Power. The second one I'll be referencing is from eTown.
After I share these lessons, be sure to let me know what you want to hear from Molly Tuttle. I'll be interviewing her soon, so I really hope you give me a good question to ask her!
So, without further ado, let's launch into the 6 priceless lessons from Molly Tuttle!
Lesson #6: Have Fun
The guitar shouldn't be a chore. If you can focus your practice sessions and zero-in on the joy and discovery of learning the guitar, the fun will fuel your guitar journey.
If you find yourself getting bogged down in technique and you're getting frustrated, take some time to focus on one chord or technique or scale. From there, chunk it out and don't get overwhelmed with learning!
Lesson #5: Ego is the Enemy
When Molly Tuttle arrived at Berklee College of Music, she was surrounded by jazz musicians, classical musicians, and electronic musicians. When she looked at her peers, she realized that she was a beginner in their world.
While this might seem frightening or shocking, Molly handled the situation with grace. She accepted that she was a beginner, checked her ego at the door, and soaked up as much information as she could. How awesome is that?!
Lesson #4: Community
Who you surround yourself with on your guitar journey — and in life! — is extremely important. Making sure your community supports you and lifts you up is important for your success as a guitar player.
Molly had a unique experience being the first woman to be nominated (and win) the International Bluegrass Music Association's Guitar Player of the Year. The community lifted her up, and now she is excited to lift up and support other aspiring women in the industry up as well!
Lesson #3: Guitar Accessibility
Molly describes her couches at home full of instruments — so much so that you couldn't even sit on them! In fact, the only way to sit down was to have an instrument in your hands!
I strongly believe that having guitars easily accessible will help encourage you to play. If you have to take your guitar out of a case every time you want to play it, that's just one more obstacle to overcome in your guitar journey.
Lesson #2: Forever Student
Molly Tuttle has a unique technique she uses on guitar: claw hammer, which is typically reserved for the banjo. When Molly was teaching at her first music camp, she learned as much as she could about claw hammer guitar technique.
Even after achieving success and recognition, Molly Tuttle continued to expand her knowledge of the guitar and still remains a "forever student," or someone who is always learning. I think this is so crucial for guitar journeys.
Lesson #1: Embrace Who You Are
Never be afraid or ashamed of who you are. "There's nothing normal about everyone being the same," Molly wrote. I cannot agree with her more.
Our differences, our uniqueness, are what make us interesting and beautiful humans and musicians. I want to encourage you to search for and embrace who you are. You'll find that if you use this on your guitar journey, you'll see plenty of rewards.
To catch the full interviews featured on this episode of Acoustic Tuesday, be sure to visit acousticlife.tv/at146/
★ Request your invite to Tony's Acoustic Challenge today: https://tonypolecastro.com/al-request-invite/?ref=INVITE&src=AL
★ All show notes and links: https://acousticlife.tv/at146/
★ Get the show: https://tonypolecastro.com/get-acoustic-tuesday
What's a guitarist's most important body part? If you said hands, you better guess again. In today's video, I'm showing you why your mind is your most important tool as a guitarist.
I have the utmost respect and admiration for all of these guitarists. Each of the guitarists featured used their minds to overcome drastic physical limitations. I am excited to share these musicians with you because they have this inner-fire to create and share music with others...and nothing stopped them from doing it!
My hope is that you get to discover new artists on today's episode while feeling inspired to use your most important guitar tool, your mind, to create and share music with the same passion as these musicians!
At the end of the day, if you're struggling to play guitar, whether it's physical or mental limitations, just remember to adapt your playing style to what suites you. It isn't taking a shortcut to adapt. It's finding an opportunity to create, have fun, and make music. This goes for those affected by an injury or even those who may just be having a bad day with hand pain or fatigue.
Now, without further ado, let's get started with our list of 10 guitarists who use their minds to overcome physical limitations.
10) Django Reinhardt — The grandfather of Gypsy Jazz, Django lost use of his ring and pinky fingers on his fretting hand. He relearned the guitar and went on to become one of the most famous guitarists ever in the genre.
9) Phil Keaggy — A virtuoso fingerstyle player, Phil is missing half of the middle finger on his right hand due to an accident at age four involving a water pump. This limitation did not stop him from becoming a successful and innovative fingerstyle player.
8) Wesley Tuttle — Wesley was raised in California and took up music at age four, and had to relearn to play the guitar and ukulele after losing all but the thumb and one finger on his left hand. He contributed the yodeling to the "Silly Song" in Walt Disney's "Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs" and later backed Tex Ritter on guitar.
7) Billy Joe Shaver — Billy Joe Shaver took a job at a lumber mill to make ends meet. One day his right hand (his picking hand) became caught in the machinery, and he lost the better part of two fingers and contracted a serious infection. He eventually recovered and taught himself to play the guitar without those missing fingers.
6) Roy Thackerson — Roy started playing the guitar at the age of 5 and was actually learning chords. At the age of 6, like all young boys, curiosity got the best of him one afternoon when Roy injured his hand pretty bad. Later in life, Roy used his determination and drive to learn the fiddle, mandolin, dobro, and guitar
5) Jerry Garcia — In 1946, two-thirds of Jerry Garcia's right middle finger was cut off by his brother in a wood-splitting accident while the family was vacationing in the Santa Cruz Mountains. This did not stop him from being a revolutionary guitar player and cross-over bluegrass guitarist and more!
4) Barry Abernathy — Barry Abernathy was born with only a thumb and part of an index finger on his left hand. Because of his hand, he approaches the fingerboard from the top and does all of his fretting with his thumb and the end of his one-knuckled index finger. Here is a guy who absolutely wanted to play and was willing to work for it, developing his own methods as he learned. And he became a great player.
3) Mac Rebbenack — Mac Rebbenack's (Doctor John) career as a guitarist was stunted around 1960 when the ring finger on his left (guitar fretting) hand was injured by a gunshot during an incident at a Jacksonville, Florida gig. After the injury, Rebennack concentrated on bass guitar before making piano his main instrument, developing a style influenced by Professor Longhair.
2) Hound Dog Taylor — He was famous among guitar players for having six fingers on both hands, a condition called polydactyly. As is usual with the condition, the extra digits were rudimentary nubbins and could not be moved. One night, while drunk, he cut off the extra digit on his right hand using a straight razor.
1) Andres Godoy — “We must always find a way to get past our disabilities. We can’t depend on people to help us, we have to do it ourselves." Andres lost his arm when he was 14, but that didn't stop him from pursuing his career in classical guitar. What an awesome inspiration!
Be sure to visit Acoustic Life for the show notes and links for everything featured in today's episode!
★ Request your invite to Tony's Acoustic Challenge today: https://tonypolecastro.com/al-request-invite/?ref=INVITE&src=AL
★ All show notes and links: https://acousticlife.tv/at145/
★ Get the show: https://tonypolecastro.com/get-acoustic-tuesday
In this video, I'm giving you 5 reasons why flight cases are one of the best investments you can make for your guitar. They're vital to your guitar's health, and if you don't believe me, just check out these 5 reasons.
This episode of Acoustic Tuesday will also feature Calton Cases, the makers of one of the best flight cases available on the market. You'll tour their facilities and get an up-close look at how their cases are made. Finally, we'll close out the show with a review of Fireside Collective.
I know traveling might not be possible for you during these times, but I expect this to NOT be the new norm...that's why I'm so excited to talk about flight cases! But eventually, we'll be traveling and excited to visit our fellow guitar geeks across the world.
Now, let's get started with the 5 reasons why a flight case is such a good investment.
Reason #5: Protection
This is the most obvious reason, but it's perhaps one of the biggest reasons. For starters, I want to share some staggering statistics...flight cases can withstand 1,100 lbs of pressure and can keep your instrument safe from drops of 9 feet or less.
So, this means that not only is your guitar or instrument being protected in the drastic circumstances of air travel or moving, but it's also protected in everyday use. That means that if you use a flight case, you don't have to worry about the little bumps or bruises or temperature changes you may experience. It'll be safe and stable in the flight case!
Reason #4: Pizzaz
Flight cases are highly customizable. I know this isn't everyone's big concern or priority, but I think it's worth mentioning. You can match your instrument's color, your favorite color, or an overall aesthetic look for your music. Either way, you have tons of options!
I also love how sticker hungry flight cases are: you can really show off your favorite artists, cities, music stores, etc with plenty of space for stickers on your flight case. Over time, those stickers become little badges of honor as you collect them year after year.
Reason #3: Humidity
I mentioned this briefly in reason #5, but it truly deserves its own category. The last thing we ever want to happen to our guitars is for them to dry out. Not having a controlled-humidity environment for your guitar can result in a cracked top, cracked soundboard, sharp fret ends, and an overall crummy sound.
Flight cases are completely sealed off from the outside environment. In fact, it can maintain an ideal 50% interior humidity amid changes of external temperature from 30 F to 105 F. When left in those environments the relative humidity shifts on 4% per day!
Reason #2: Weather & Temperature
Think about how many times you've gone from the car to a jam with your guitar in a regular soft or hard case. You probably didn't think it damaged your guitar are at all. But chances are, there's probably moisture building up in that case.
With flight cases, they are completely sealed and water-resistant. Additionally, if you're going to be traveling or spending any time outside, having your guitar in a flight case can protect it from temperature changes. It won't insulate it entirely from temperatures, but instead, it will slow down the change, letting the wood grow accustomed to the new temperatures over long periods of time.
Reason #1: Price
Now, you might think I'm crazy, but I think the price for flight cases is actually the number one reason they're a good investment. A flight case can range anywhere from $1200 to $1600, which might be the cost of a pretty nice guitar for most folks!
But, let's say you have a custom guitar or a vintage guitar whose value is actually priceless. What happens when there is irreparable damage to it? How do you recover the time, memories, and value of the guitar?
With a flight case, you're essentially protecting it from these situations. So, spending the money upfront might seem crazy, but you're actually saving yourself from years of anguish or lost value in your priceless instruments.
Be sure to visit Acoustic Life for the show notes and links for everything featured in today's episode!
★ Request your invite to Tony's Acoustic Challenge today: https://tonypolecastro.com/al-request-invite/?ref=INVITE&src=AL
★ All show notes and links: https://acousticlife.tv/at144/
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In this video, I cover 5 blues-centric acoustic guitars that shocked me because they are all such incredible deals. I looked at Recording Kings, Gretschs, Yamahas, Fenders, and so many more, and here's what I've come up with...
In this episode of Acoustic Tuesday, I'll also cover 5 easy upgrades you can make to your acoustic guitar. Whether you're on a budget or looking to augment the sound of your guitar, these upgrades will surely help!
Last but not least, I want to feature an Artist by the name of Charlie Hicks. Charlie Hicks has an incredible voice and is a bluesy dobro player that definitely should not be passed up.
As you continue on your guitar journey, or maybe if you're just starting, know that you don't have to spend an arm and a leg to get a great guitar. Especially when you're looking for a specialized sound for blues guitar, there are plenty of options out there!
Now, without further ado, here are the 5 shocking blues guitars that I found for under $230!
- Gretsch Jim Dandy ($169)
Is the Gretsch Jim Dandy rich with overtones? Is it long on sustain? Does it sound luscious? NO...and that's what makes it a perfect blues guitar! The Jim Dandy has the bark, the attitude, and sounds incredible for costing just $169.
From a visual standpoint, the Gretsch Jim Dandy is a standard, no-frills kind of guitar. What shocked me most about this blues guitar was just how punchy it was, as you can see and hear in the demo video. Is it the best $169 you could spend? Perhaps...but I have a feeling another guitar on this list will give it a run for its money.
- Recording King Series 7 - Single-0 ($169)
The Recording King Series 7 - Single 0 is a strong alternative to the Gretsch Jim Dandy. While the sound and timbre coming from the two guitars is very similar, this Recording King has a visual panache that certainly beats out the Gretsch.
One of my favorite parts about this Recording King is the headstock and the slotted fretboard inlays. These two parts scream vintage attitude and style, which I totally love. So, if you're a guitarist who wants to have a bluesy looking guitar that can be backed up with a punchy sound, this might be the guitar for you.
- Yamaha FS800 ($199)
While not a dedicated blues guitar like the previous picks, the Yamaha FS800 is a strong contender. I really love this guitar because it's perfect for a guitarist who doesn't want to deal with a dreadnought body style. The smaller body of the Yamaha FS800 makes for easy playing.
Additionally, the solid wood top is also a nice addition that adds just a touch more sustain to make the guitar a well-rounded instrument — although it still leans heavily on the bluesy side. Finally, the price on this bad boy comes out to $199, which is very affordable considering how great it sounds.
- Fender CP60S ($199)
Compared to the Yamaha FS800, this Fender has a much more shallow depth of tone. So, while it isn't as well-rounded as the Yamaha, it might actually be more suited for Blues playing. The parlor size is also a nice feature that is on par with the Yamaha's comfortability.
I likee that Fender has been moving into the acoustic market and trying to provide some decent-quality guitars at a great price. So far, the Fender CP60S is the most interesting offering so far.
- Recording King Dirty 30's Series 9 Triple-0 ($229)
There are a couple reasons why the Recording King Dirty 30's Series 9 Triple-0 is my number one pick on this list. Perhaps the biggest reason is that Molly Tuttle demos the vintage version of this guitar. Boy does it sound great. And while the newer versions to quite sound like the guitar that's almost 100 years old, it still holds up.
The aesthetic factor on this acoustic blues guitar is perfect. From the sunburst finish to the pickguard, this is a no-nonsense blues machine. Additionally, the bigger body on this guitar will provide much more bass in your overall sound. So, if you're someone who likes a thump, this guitar is perfect for you!
If I missed any guitar that you think belong on this list, please let me know in the comments. I'm always on the hunt for finding great guitars at a great price!
★ Request your invite to Tony's Acoustic Challenge today: https://tonypolecastro.com/al-request-invite/?ref=INVITE&src=AL
★ All show notes and links: https://acousticlife.tv/at143/
★ Get the show: https://tonypolecastro.com/get-acoustic-tuesday
I've boiled down the 6 most important lessons I've learned from @Tommy Emmanuel in this video. From playing solo to practice philosophy, I'm ready to help you improve by passing on the wisdom of Tommy Emmanuel.
If you haven't heard of Tommy Emmanuel, he's one of the most accomplished acoustic guitarists ever. Hailing from the land down under, Tommy is a virtuoso on acoustic guitar. Everything about his playing is inspiring.
With his new album out, "The Best of Tommy Songs," and his birthday at the end of May, I figured what better time to do a dedicated Tommy Emmanuel episode than right now!
All of the tips and lessons I learned from Tommy Emmanuel come from my personal relationship with him. He's a great human who has shown kindness at every turn. So, thank you, Tommy Emmanuel!
Lesson #6: Think Like a Band
When I first heard Tommy Emmanuel play, I was captivated by his dynamics and ability to layer so many sounds at once. When I had a chance to talk to him about arranging and composing, he told me to "think like a band and a singer."
When he played, Tommy brings down the dynamics of the rhythm part that he is playing, while accenting and bringing out the melodic lines. The result is a harmonious song.
Lesson #5: Make a Big Sound
When I asked Tommy how he's successful as a solo act, he didn't talk about his blazing technique or his practice hours (although, those certainly matter!). Instead, he talked about the sound that he makes.
Never think less of yourself. Focus on having fun and sharing the joy of music with those around you. Make that big sound.
Lesson #4: Give It Your All
I remember listening to Tommy Emmanuel's soundcheck. There were just a few of us in the audience. Even though not many folks were paying attention, Tommy gave it his all. He didn't half-ass his performance. To him, it never mattered whether you were playing for yourself or for thousands.
When you go to practice, give it your full undivided attention. Play as if you were performing and give it the same energy and concentration.
Lesson #3: Play for the People
When you perform, no matter how many people you're playing for, you're out there to play for the people. You're not there to "impress" other musicians, as Tommy says. Instead, focus on sharing the joy and fun of music with those around you.
It's really a simple lesson, but it's one I need to constantly remind myself of. Too often I think of what other guitarists would want to hear me play, rather than what the people enjoying my music would want to hear. And, if you're the only one in the room...play for yourself!
Lesson #2: Do What Works for You
Tommy Emmanuel always told me that the best guitar is the one YOU can't put down. Just because he likes one guitar, that doesn't mean it will work for you. Just because a technique is used by some guitarists, doesn't mean that's the best for you.
This is especially important to remember when buying a guitar. Too often people want to have someone else pick out a guitar for them. In reality, they need to pick out the guitar themselves and find the one that works for them!
Lesson #1: Kindness
I remember the most recent time I interviewed Tommy Emmanuel like it was yesterday. He took time out of his incredibly busy schedule to chat about everything from practice habits to guitar. He originally called me just to say thank you.
Whether you're a top-notch guitar player or just brand new to guitar, PLEASE remember to be kind. We're all here to play guitar and have fun. Being supportive, kind, and grateful is what makes the world a better place. And Tommy Emmanuel is absolutely the best example of a guitarist who is all of these things.
If Tommy Emmanuel has taught you a lesson, be sure to let me know in the comments!
★ Request your invite to Tony's Acoustic Challenge today: https://tonypolecastro.com/al-request-invite/?ref=INVITE&src=AL
★ All show notes and links: https://acousticlife.tv/at142/
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I'm giving you the top 5 reasons why starting on acoustic guitar is better for a beginner than starting on electric guitar. The acoustic guitar is perhaps the most magical object in the world, and I'm here to tell you why...
In addition, I'll recommend 5 acoustic music documentaries you NEED to check out and how to best use Music Nomad's suite of products.
Acoustic guitar vs. Electric guitar is a debate that has been raging since the electric guitar was introduced during the mid-20th century. While it is no doubt fun to play and sounds incredible, is it the best thing for a beginner guitarist to play?
Instead, I suggest that folks new to guitar start on acoustic guitar.
Without further ado, here are the 5 reasons why you should start on Acoustic Guitar.
★ Why You Should Start on Acoustic Reason #5: Self-Sufficiency All you need to play the acoustic guitar is just the guitar, no more, no less. This means you can go to a campfire jam with your acoustic guitar, you can play on the roof, or you can bring it on a walk with you.
You don't need an amp, chords, or electricity. In this way, the acoustic guitar is totally self-sufficient and lends itself well to ease of playing and being a cheaper initial investment.
★ Why You Should Start on Acoustic Reason #4: No Hiding From a technique and execution standpoint, the acoustic guitar doesn't allow you to hide behind layers of distortion and effects, therefore it builds better technical ability and overall cleaner playing.
The acoustic guitar also requires a bit more strength and flexibility to play compared to an electric guitar. And, while this may seem like a reason for beginners to play electric guitar, it's not. Instead, this forces you to build-up muscle and flexibility in your fingers before moving to an easier instrument like the electric guitar.
The goal is to make the transition from acoustic to electric easy, rather than making the transition from electric to acoustic difficult.
★ Why You Should Start on Acoustic Reason #3: Versatility You can do so much with an acoustic guitar it is mind-blowing. From percussion to effects to everything in between the possibilities are endless. I want to acknowledge how versatile the electric guitar is, too. However, this comes at a cost.
Meanwhile, the acoustic guitar is versatile right out of the gate. You don't need pedals and effects (although, they can certainly be used). Instead, you can focus on the percussive effects or the different tonal qualities playing different parts of the guitar can afford.
★ Why You Should Start on Acoustic Reason #2: Community The acoustic guitar by nature is a social instrument. There is a reason it has become synonymous with campfires. People tend to gravitate toward an acoustic guitar when it comes out in a group setting. It's a chance to connect and bond over the joy of music!
And, as I have seen in my own life and experience, community is so incredibly important to the musical journey. Specifically, on a guitar journey, having a community that encourages you to discover and take joy in music is incredibly important.
★ Why You Should Start on Acoustic Reason #1: Magic For an inanimate object, I would argue the acoustic guitar holds a serious amount of meaning. There is a magic with the guitar, the stories it holds, the personality it develops, and the memories it captures. It's like a camera that's on 24/7. I say this due to a recent experience I had cleaning an old guitar — a story I'll be telling later on this episode...so be sure to watch the whole thing!
To get the rest of the show notes and the full links and breakdown of the episode, visit acousticlife.tv/at141/ !!!
★ Request your invite to Tony's Acoustic Challenge today: https://tonypolecastro.com/al-request-invite/?ref=INVITE&src=AL
★ All show notes and links: https://acousticlife.tv/at141/
★ Get the show: https://tonypolecastro.com/get-acoustic-tuesday
John Prine utterly transformed the acoustic music community. His wit, spirit, and genius will be missed. So today, we're honoring John Prine by looking at 6 awesome John Prine covers. In addition, you'll get some bonus recommendations!
All of these John Prine covers are performed by incredible musicians. Some may not seem like they drew inspiration from John Prine, but they absolutely did...especially after seeing these covers performed.
The first John Prine cover is "Paradise" performed by Roger Waters of Pink Floyd.
This cover is beautiful and sincere. Huge thanks to Roger Waters for sharing this with the world. If you like that song, there are a few other musicians who have covered it. Darell Scott & Tim O'Brien, Dwight Yoakam, and Johnny Cash have all put out covers of "Paradise."
Each one of these John Prine covers provides a different take and interpretation of the song, proving how multi-faceted Prine's music was.
The second John Prine cover is "Hello in There" performed by Joan Baez.
The more I listen to "Hello in There," there more the emotional weight hits me. Specifically, this cover by Joan Baez is so beautiful. In fact, it's one of her most requested songs when she plays concerts!
If you like this song and want to see the full range of influence John Prine had, check out the covers by David Allan Coe, 10,000 Maniacs, and Jefferey Foucault.
The third John Prine cover is "Sam Stone" performed by John Paul White.
While this specific cover I feature in Acoustic Tuesday, I broke my rule of keeping to tribute covers. However, I think this cover just cannot be ignored. John Paul White is an incredible singer who captures the haunting, troubling essence of this incredibly well-told story.
For other covers of this tragic John Prine song, check out Swamp Dogg, Bob Gibson, and (again) Johnny Cash. Interestingly enough, Johnny Cash actually had trouble with some of the lyrics in the song, so be sure to watch the video to catch that!
The fourth John Prine cover is "Souvenirs" covered by Trey Hensley.
I'm always excited when I have the chance to hear Trey Hensley sing. His cover of "Souvenirs" highlights both his excellent voice and John Prine's ability to do some next-level wordsmithing.
For other covers of "Souvenirs" be sure to check out The Country Gentlemen's Recording and Steve Goodman's recording on the album Affordable Art.
The fifth John Prine cover is "Angel from Montgomery" performed by Simon Flory.
Simon is a friend of mine from a while back, and he had a great story tied to this song. What I like about Simon's cover is that it is authentic, raw, and real. Funny enough, Simon was also a featured artist back on Acoustic Tuesday #91.
If you like this song, definitely check out the Bonnie Rait cover, as well as John Denver's and Susan Tedeschi's covers.
The final John Prine cover I want to feature is "Unwed Fathers" performed by Sarah Jarosz.
This specific cover is super awesome because, for starters, I love Sarah's voice. I also dig the octave mandolin. It definitely has a unique tone! You can really here the care and attention she puts into this song, so thanks for sharing it with us Sarah!
For all of the show notes and links to the videos, be sure to visit https://acousticlife.tv/at140/ !!!
★ Request your invite to Tony's Acoustic Challenge today: https://tonypolecastro.com/al-request-invite/?ref=INVITE&src=AL
★ All show notes and links: https://acousticlife.tv/at140/
★ Get the show: https://tonypolecastro.com/get-acoustic-tuesday
This definitive acoustic guitar buying guide uses a 5-step framework to help you choose what acoustic guitar to buy. For the 5-step framework and examples on tons of guitars, be sure to watch this episode of Acoustic Tuesday!
Buying an acoustic guitar can be a tricky process. By following my 5-step framework, you'll have a guitar you feel confident purchasing. Before you watch the video, be sure to invite your significant other/partner to watch with you! Having your +1 on board will help during the buying process.
To get things started, let's dive right into the acoustic guitar buying guide...
Step 1. Evaluate the Guitar's Looks You might be thinking that this is not that important. You might think the sound is the most important part of a guitar. But you need to be attracted to your guitar visually. This doesn't mean the guitar needs to be flashy and blingy.
Instead, you want to feel as if the guitar is calling to you and you are inspired by just the "look" of the guitar — whether it's worn, straight grain, or matte finish. If you're drawn to a guitar visually, you're more likely to look at it and feel the need to play it.
Step 2. Evaluate the Guitar's Sound Ideally, you want to be able to play the guitar you're thinking of purchasing. If you can't play it try finding a variety of demo videos with high-quality sound. When you listen or play the guitar, I want you to stop for a moment and ask yourself, "Can I still feel that guitar resonating in my body?"
I want you to find a guitar that feels so amazing, you can't see yourself without it. This means something different for everyone. Every guitar player has their own preference on timbre and tone and volume, so just make sure the guitar you pick resonates with you.
Step 3. Evaluate the Guitar's Playability When buying a guitar, playability is an extremely important factor. For this step, I want you to take into account the things you cannot change about a particular guitar. For example, you can change the action, string height, or strap button placement. Things you cannot change are nut width, neck profile, string spacing, body width, etc.
You want to feel comfortable when you're trying out guitar. If anything feels too big, too small, or just not right, don't be afraid to move on. If you don't feel comfortable playing it, it'll be that much harder to motivate yourself to play that guitar.
Step 4. Evaluate the Guitar's Versatility This might not be applicable to you if you're looking for a specific type of guitar to round out your guitarsenal. However, for most guitar geeks, you want to find a guitar that can do a wide variety of playing styles. You'll want a guitar that can grow and flex with you as you discover new concepts, styles, and genres of acoustic music!
Make sure the guitar you're thinking of buying can do both fingerpicking and flatpicking. You want this guitar to be by your side through your acoustic guitar journey.
Step 5. Evaluate the Guitar's Level of Inspiration This is difficult to do, but just know that each guitar has a story. The guitar that inspires you the most typically has a story behind it. Even if your buying a new guitar, the story attached to that guitar is the story of the manufacturer. The story of a Taylor guitar, fresh out of the factory, is different from the story of a new Martin guitar. Which story resonates with you the most?
If you're looking at used or vintage guitars, also take into account the story of the previous owners. You want this guitar to inspire you and bring joy and fulfillment into your life.
What do you think of this 5 step framework? Did it work for you? Are you planning on using this definitive acoustic guitar buying guide?
If you need more practice on deciding whether you should buy a guitar, make sure to watch the full episode. I'll be evaluating three different guitars and applying this 5 step framework to each of the guitars.
If you want to see more of the notes I have on this episode, be sure to visit Acoustic Life today!
★ Request your invite to Tony's Acoustic Challenge today: https://tonypolecastro.com/al-request-invite/?ref=INVITE&src=AL
★ All show notes and links: https://acousticlife.tv/at139/
★ Get the show: https://tonypolecastro.com/get-acoustic-tuesday
In this video, we're looking at the 6 songs from Bob Dylan's first album that launched his career and where he drew his inspiration from. While my sources say he wasn't a song thief, I think you'll be able to draw your own conclusions after this video...
Bob Dylan is definitely one of the most influential singer-songwriters that ever lived. I mean, the guy has a Nobel Prize in literature.
But if we look at the beginning of his career, to the very first set of songs he recorded and started selling commercially, how many of them were covers?
I'm not saying that just because Bob Dylan did covers that he means he stole. My point is more nuanced: did he give credit? Did he pay homage to those folk heroes who he is standing on today?
To help understand, we're looking at the 6 songs from Bob Dylan's self-titled first studio album.
6: "Song to Woody"
Bob Dylan was a huge fan of folk musician, artist, and writer Woody Guthrie. In fact, Bob Dylan went so far as to style himself after Woody Guthrie. In paying tribute to Woody Guthrie, Bob Dylan wrote "Song to Woody," one of the few originals on the self-titled album.
Funny enough, the melody for "Song to Woody" is directly lifted from Woody Guthrie's song "1913 Massacre." Did Bob Dylan use the same melody to pay homage to Woody Guthrie? Or, did Bob Dylan decide to lift the melody because it was just that good? Let me know what you think in the comments!
5: "Highway 51 Blues"
Written by a blues pianist by the name of Curtis Jones, "Highway 51 Blues," is another song Bob Dylan covered on his self-titled album. Curtis Jones' vocals and piano playing is spectacular on this song and sounds drastically different from the Bob Dylan cover.
I love listening to an original tune that I've only heard covered. "Highway 51 Blues" is no exception. I always thought Bob Dylan wrote this song, but I'm happy to know that the original Curtis Jones song is just as awesome and inspiring — even if it is on piano!
4: "You're No Good"
A one-man band rockin' a twelve-string, Jesse Fuller wrote "You're No Good." Like my experience with "Highway 51 Blues," I came to love and appreciate the original after I started doing this research.
While I can't feature "You're No Good" performed by Bob Dylan or Jesse Fuller due to copyright, I can feature Jesse Fuller's "Railroad Blues." He is one incredible, driving singer with a classic acoustic blues sound.
3: "In My Time of Dyin'"
While Bob Dylan's cover of this song is stunning, if you trace it all the way back to the beginning...it's even more stunning. The earliest recording of this song comes from Blind Willie Johnson.
Blind Willie Johnson has a voice that just sends shivers down your spine. I've always loved his voice and I know you NEED to check out his performance of "In My Time of Dyin'." Bob Dylan's version is definitely the neater, cleaner, the more commercial sound of what Blind Willie Johnson created and passed on.
2: "Fixin' to Die"
It was sometime in college, when I was maybe 18 or 19, that I first heard this song covered by Bob Dylan. When I heard it, it sounded like Bob Dylan transformed into a completely different person. His singing was just unlike the other songs he played.
As I came back to this song, I discovered that this song was written by Bukka White. I was stunned because Bukka White is such an incredible played that you NEED to check out. With a distinct style and voice, Bukka White is clearly being channeled by Bob Dylan in his cover of "Fixin' to Die." Let me know what you think in the comments though!
1: "See That My Grave Is Kept Clean"
Written by Blind Lemon Jefferson, this song has become a standard in the American songbook. So many artists have covered this song over the years, and some better than others. To give you a sense of Jefferson's style, I played "One Dime Blues" for you.
While Bob Dylan's version of "See That My Grave Is Kept Clean" is similar to Blind Lemon Jefferson's, it's just a different version altogether.
So...is Bob Dylan a song thief? No.
But follow me down this train of thought:
Bob Dylan choosing these songs was a way of him simultaneously honoring and making his mark on the folk world.
If you want to see more of the notes I have on this episode, be sure to visit Acoustic Life today!
★ Request your invite to Tony's Acoustic Challenge today: https://tonypolecastro.com/al-request-invite/?ref=INVITE&src=AL
★ All show notes and links: https://acousticlife.tv/at138/
★ Get the show: https://tonypolecastro.com/get-acoustic-tuesday
★ All show notes and links: https://acousticlife.tv/at137
★ Get the show: https://tonypolecastro.com/get-acoustic-tuesday
In this episode of Acoustic Tuesday, I'm doing the MOST COMPREHENSIVE comparison of Taylor Guitars and Martin Guitar. I've interviewed Bob Taylor, Chris Martin IV, and Andy Powers; I've seen factory tours, played dozens of models, read tons of books, and now...I'm ready to end this debate once and for all.
In order to give you the most holistic, the most comprehensive review of these two iconic guitar companies, I've broken things down into SEVEN categories: history, sustainability, manufacturing, standard model lineup, innovation, custom shop, and artist roster.
Beyond just looking at individual Taylor guitars and Martin guitars, this definitive guide for Taylor vs. Martin will shed light on topics no-other video has discussed.
I can't wait to hear your thoughts in the comments and I do hope you let me know how I did on evaluating each category in regards to Taylor vs. Martin.
For those of you short on time, here's a quick overview of each category...
Round 1: History Martin takes the cake on this. As one of the oldest, continuously-run, family-run businesses in America. They built instruments during the Civil War, have survived economic crashes and depressions, and innovated the entire time. Martin: 1 Taylor: 0
Round 2: Sustainability At first glance, Taylor seems like the clear winner. With the sustainable harvest and cutting board company, Taylor has made big strides. However, Martin hasn't been slacking off. Martin's Smartwood Series is extremely sustainable. But what separates these two is Taylor's near-zero wood waste in their manufacturing process. Hat's off to Taylor. Be sure to watch my interview with Bob Taylor! Martin:1 Taylor:1
Round 3: Manufacturing I've visited both the Taylor and Martin factories. The sheer level of precision and craftsmanship — on a MASSIVE scale — is awe-inspiring. I was impressed by each one of these companies for their manufacturing efforts, for their ability to produce a high volume of high-quality instruments. But, I have to say...Taylor takes the cake in this category. Be sure to catch my explanation and tour of the Taylor factory to see why... Martin: 1 Taylor: 2
Round 4: Model Offerings For this category, I wanted to make sure that both Taylor and Martin have a wide variety of model offerings. I want to see everything from beginner guitars to performance guitars. Now, since Martin Guitars has been around for hundreds of years, they have almost too many offerings. Meanwhile, Taylor has a much more streamlined approach to their guitar models, each one with specific appointments and tonewood specifications. For this reason...Taylor wins this category. Watch the full video to see why. Martin: 1 Taylor: 3
Round 5: Innovation Let's think about this one...Martin created the dreadnought guitar, made the 14-fret neck, and introduced the X-bracing pattern. Martin essentially designed the guitar that we know and love today. Meanwhile, Taylor created V-class bracing to great success, created a new neck bracing, and designed and developed the ES-2 pickup. All that being said, I think this is a tie. Martin: 2 Taylor: 4
Round 6: Custom Shop I've made custom guitars using both the Martin custom shop and the Taylor custom shop. Both experiences were downright amazing, and I loved each one. While I designed two guitars, one from each shop, there was only one guitar that I truly wanted...and that was the Martin. Be sure to watch the video to see why Martin won this category. Martin: 3 Taylor: 4
To see what I have to say about the Artist Roster for Taylor guitars and Martin Guitars, watch the full episode of Acoustic Tuesday!
★ All show notes and links: https://acousticlife.tv/at136
★ Get the show: https://tonypolecastro.com/get-acoustic-tuesday
Tony Rice is one of the most important bluegrass guitarists in history. Why? On today's episode of Acoustic Tuesday, I'm answering that question in the best way I know how: by playing the 6 degrees of Tony Rice.
The thing is, the best way to understand Tony Rice's impact is to look at his influences, to see how much he borrowed and blended to create some unforgettable music.
Now, I'd feature Tony Rice's covers on this episode of Acoustic Tuesday, but copyright laws be darned, I can't. So, instead, I'll feature other covers of the songs that Tony Rice covered!
If you want links to the actual Tony Rice covers, be sure to head to www.acousticlife.tv/at136
To kick things off, let's talk about the 6 most influential guitar players in Tony Rice's music.
6) Clarence White From his flatpicking to owning his actual guitar, Tony Rice was heavily influenced by Clarence White. Tony Rice went as far as owning the exact Martin D-28 that Clarence White owned. Now, for those of you who don't know Clarence White was a member of The Kentucky Colonels, The Byrds, and many more bands. As you listen to Clarence White, you can absolutely hear how the rolling flatpicking sounds influenced Tony Rice.
5) Tom Paxton For those of you who don't know, Tom Paxton is an incredible songwriter. Paxton led the charge on the folk revival. Born in Chicago, he relocated to New York City and frequented the Gaslight Cafe. Tony Rice pays homage to Tom Paxton by covering "The Last Thing on My Mind," on Church Street Blues. If you listen to the acoustic tone and song selection, Tom Paxton was a huge influence on Tony Rice.
4) Jim Croce In 1994, Tony Rice covered Jim Croce's "Age" on the Bluegrass Band Vol. 4 album. Now, besides this album featuring some of the best musicians out there, Jim Croce's influence on Tony Rice is apparent. And, while I can't feature the Croce original or Rice's cover, I can show you Seth Avett's cover of "Operator," so be sure to listen to it today!
3) Ian Tyson Ian Tyson is a huge influence on Tony Rice. In fact, Tony Rice covered his song "Summer Wages" not once but twice. The time Tony Rice covered it was on Native American and the second time was on J.D. Crowe and the New South's self-titled album. If you haven't heard that album, you need to hear it!
2) Joni Mitchell In Tony Rices 1992 album Native American, he covered Joni Mitchell's gentle seasonal ballad "Urge for Going." Now, if you haven't heard the original, I highly recommend it. The lyrics are great, the phrasing is fantastic, and I love Joni's voice. All of this is to say that Tony Rice definitely tried to borrow from Joni Mitchell's lyricism. To help illustrate it and show the profound impact that Joni Mitchell had on the scene and how it further influenced Tony Rice, I've featured a clip of Dave Van Ronk covering "Urge for Going."
1) Gordon Lightfoot The first degree of influence, of course, is Gordon Lightfoot. Lightfoot's influence on Tony Rice can be seen in his songwriting, flatpicking, and overall style and tone. See, Lightfoot led the charge on the folk revival in Canada. As such, Tony Rice actually dedicated an entire album to Gordon Lightfoot.
★ All show notes and links: https://acousticlife.tv/at135
★ Get the show: https://tonypolecastro.com/get-acoustic-tuesday
We're on a guitar budget this week. That's why I'm picking 5 of the BEST bluegrass guitars that are under $300. No matter what you're experience level is, you're going to be shocked by how good these guitars sound, so stay tuned for some fun surprises!
Before we go any further, I just want to say how grateful I am for this community — for those of you who watch Acoustic Tuesday every week, the ones who celebrate their guitar geekiness, the ones who play their guitars no matter the circumstances.
I am so grateful to be a part of this community. Seeing everyone come together over their mutual love and camaraderie towards the guitar is inspiring, motivating, and uplifting. So, thank you for being here and I hope to see you again soon!
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Now, for the 5 guitars for under $300...
5) Yamaha FG-800 What used to be the Yamaha FG-700S, the FG-800 is a bargain of a guitar. After some improvements in both bracing and top wood, this guitar for under $300 is a showstopper. This solid top dreadnought comes in at $199 and is powerful and phenomenal. It's durable, reliable, and is a great guitar to have around. When I worked in sales, I'd recommend this guitar to players of all experience levels just because it was such a good bargain.
4) Fender CD60S A guitar similar to the Yamaha FG-800, the Fender CD60S is a great deal. I especially like this guitar because it comes with so many essential guitar "gadgets" like a strap, capo, case, and tuner. Besides that, the guitar has a solid top and plays smoothly. The standout note on the Fender CD60S is that it offers a slimmer neck profile, which works perfectly for folks with smaller hands. If you want to flex your style muscles, this guitar also comes in black.
3) Bristol BD-16 I was confused by this guitar at first. The Bristol BD-16 is an all-laminate guitar, and it's more expensive than the solid top Fender and Yamaha — coming in at around $250. How could that be? Fortunately, when I started listening to this guitar I understood its slightly higher price. The Bristol BD-16 is also incredibly durable. If you're not a fan of maintenance, humidity tracking, or want to play in the outdoors, this is a great guitar for that.
2) Alvarez AD-60S This guitar is the real deal. It's got the aesthetics, a solid top, forward-shifted scalloped bracing, binding around the top, and an abalone rosette. I really love this guitar as an entry point into getting something that will last years and still sound great. Coming in at just under $300, I've had great experiences with this guitar and highly recommend it to anyone looking for a guitar on a budget.
1) Takamine GD20-NS Why did I make the Takamine GD20-NS my #1 pick? It offers a completely different tone from all of the other guitars. That's because the Takamine GD20-NS is made with a solid cedar top. This allows the guitar to have a warm, woody, and delicate tone. For those of you who have a lighter touch, this guitar is for you. It's got volume, punch, and a delicate tone. Coming in at $299, I highly recommend this guitar if you like a lighter-sounding guitar.
Now, there are many more guitars that are under $300, so be sure to leave a comment if you know of any more bluegrass guitars for under $300.
★ Request your invite to Tony's Acoustic Challenge today: https://tonypolecastro.com/al-request-invite/?ref=INVITE&src=AL
★ All show notes and links: https://acousticlife.tv/at135
★ Get the show: https://tonypolecastro.com/get-acoustic-tuesday
★ All show notes and links: https://acousticlife.tv/at134
★ Get the show: https://tonypolecastro.com/get-acoustic-tuesday
The Gibson Hummingbird is one of the most iconic guitars in the world. From it's breathtaking design to its innovative construction, there's an aesthetic and comfortable quality that is unmatched by other guitars. Find out why everyone from Billy Joe Armstrong to Keith Richards plays the Gibson Hummingbird.
This entire episode is dedicated to talking about the Gibson Hummingbird. I want to celebrate one of the most eye-catching guitars and talk about alternatives that still hold up to the Gibson Hummingbird.
To start this Hummingbird themed episode, I want to talk about the TOP 5 reasons why you should at least consider playing a Gibson Hummingbird.
Reason #1: All current Gibson Acoustics are made right here in Bozeman, MT
Now, I'm currently living in Bozeman, so there's a little bit of a bias, but I still think this is significant. The Bozeman factory has a very high standard for production, especially when making as many guitars as they do!
Supporting the local economy and builders/technicians in my community is always a plus. Be sure to watch the episode to see the inside look at Gibson's Bozeman factory!
Reason #2: Gibson's flagship square-shouldered dreadnought is the Gibson Hummingbird
Before 1960, there wasn't a Gibson square-shouldered dreadnought that was mass-produced. Martin seemed to dominate the market prior to 1960, but when the Gibson Hummingbird came out, it changed the market forever.
Differing from Martin's square-shouldered models, the Gibson Hummingbird had pizzazz and a completely different aesthetic look that has captured the hearts of guitarists for the last 50 years. When you pick up a Gibson Hummingbird, you're holding history...and I think that can't be ignored.
Reason #3: Aesthetics Trifecta
After talking about the square-shouldered design, I realized that the Gibson Hummingbird really captures an aesthetic trifecta. What do I mean by that?
The first thing that makes the Gibson Hummingbird a beautiful and balanced guitar in its looks is the split parallelogram inlays on the neck. The contrast between the classic, rigid lines of the inlay on the smooth rosewood neck is just awesome to look at.
The second notable visual quality on the Gibson Hummingbird is the cherry burst top. The color of the Hummingbird's top is unmistakable, copies widely, and is absolutely gorgeous.
The third quality that completes the trifecta is finely engraved pickguard. There's a little bit of a hippy-vibe, a country-vibe, and a nod to the beauty of the natural world. There are very few guitars that are so clean, classic, and iconic.
Reason #4: Comfort
You might have heard about the scale length of the Gibson Hummingbird, but if not, just now that this guitar is incredibly comfortable and suitable for players of all sizes.
The first thing that makes the Gibson Hummingbird is the scale length. The scale length is 24 3/4 inches as opposed to 25 1/2 inches on other dreadnoughts. The Gibson Hummingbird also a very slim nut-width. This allows the string spacing to be smaller, accomodating small hands and fingers.
The final thing that makes playing the Gibson Hummingbird incredibly comfortable to play is a slim, tapered neck profile. For a guitarist with smaller hands that wants the sound of a big-bodied dreadnought, you can't go wrong with the Hummingbird.
Reason #5: The Birth of a Gibson Series
Think of the Gibson Hummingbird as the lead domino in a trend of Gibson guitars. To me, the Hummingbird kicked off Gibson's dedication to birds.
It all started in 1960 with the Gibson Hummingbird. From there, we move to the Gibson Dove. After that, there was the Gibson Doves in Flight, the artistic take on the Gibson Dove. After that, we moved to the Gibson Firebird acoustic with phoenix engravings. Then, we move to the Eric Church Hummingbird model. And that's just the acoustic guitars dedicated to birds!
There's a lot more that I talk about on this special episode of Acoustic Tuesday dedicated to the Gibson Hummingbird, so be sure to watch the full video or catch the show notes on acousticlife.tv today!
★ Request your invite to Tony's Acoustic Challenge today: https://tonypolecastro.com/al-request-invite/?ref=INVITE&src=AL
★ All show notes and links: https://acousticlife.tv/at134
★ Get the show: https://tonypolecastro.com/get-acoustic-tuesday
➜All show notes and links: https://acousticlife.tv/at133/
➜Get the show: https://tonypolecastro.com/get-acoustic-tuesday
Nearly eight years later, I'm revisiting the Martin D18 and the Martin D28. These two iconic acoustic guitars are getting my full, undivided attention. I'll cover why these two guitars should be in your guitarsenal, famous players who use them, and 5 excellent alternatives.
To kick things off, I want to cover why the Martin D18 and the Martin D28 should be in your guitar collection. There are tons of reasons why these two iconic Martin acoustic guitars need to be in your collection, but I distilled it down to my top 5 reasons.
Reason #1: The Martin D18 and Martin D28 are EXTREMELY versatile.
There's almost no musical situation where a Martin D18 or D28 hasn't been used. Think about it. These guitars are mostly associated with bluegrass, but these guitars work for almost any genre. To prove it, I've got proof of singer-songwriters, rockers, and trad players using Marin D18s and D28s!
Reason #2: The Martin History
What's remarkable about owning a Martin guitar, especially a D18 or D28, is the history. When you play one of these guitars, you are stepping into history.
Starting in 1916, the dreadnought shape was created. After that, there have been twists and turns that have defined and shaped how this iconic body shape (pun intended) came to be. The dreadnought is a historical guitar shape that Martin absolutely innovated.
Reason #3: The Bass on Martin D18s and D28s
For guitars that have unmatched bass quality, regardless of whether they are vintage or not, look no further than the Martin D18 and D28. Now, just to be clear, each of these guitars has a slightly different bass sound, but the bass levels are truly awesome.
For example, the D18 offers a nice dry and woody bass tone. Meanwhile, the Martin D28 has a wonderful mid-scooped present bass tone. To demonstrate these differences, I have footage of Billy Strings and Molly Tuttle playing both Martin D18s and Martin D28s.
Reason #4: Martin D18s and D28s are the most imitated guitars on the market today.
I don't care what brand of guitar you choose, but they usually have a copy of the D18 and a copy of the D28. Why? Because the recipe is ingenious. With the Sitka spruce top and the mahogany rosewood back and sides, it's an unbeatable combo.
For those of you who recognize that Martin D18s and D28s are expensive, and perhaps are looking for the best imitations, look no further than this list of guitars:
1) Blueridge BR-140 (D18) 2) Blueridge BR-160 (D28) 3) Recording King RD-318 (D18) 4) Recording King RD-328 (D28) 5) Eastman Guitars E6-D (D18) 6) Eastman Guitars E8-D (D28)
Reason #5: The Martin D18 and D28 are used as standards for other guitars.
In my decade of reviewing guitars professionally, I've compared countless guitars to the Martin D18 and the Martin D28. Why?
Both the Martin D18 and the D28 are so finely crafted, that they have become the gold-standard for a well-crafted guitar.
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Now that you know why you need a Martin D18 and a Martin D28, I want to feature Sturgill Simpson, a proud user of Martin dreadnoughts like his custom Martin D18.
Now, I love that he uses a Martin HD28 and a custom D18...but can we talk about his voice for a little bit?
When I listen to Sturgill Simpson sing, he has a classic country quality that I don't hear that much these days. Additionally, his lyrics are masterful, ranging from sorrowful to comical all in just one song.
Be sure to check out Sturgill Simpson and listen to some of his music!
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Now, I know I mentioned some good alternatives to a Martin D18 or a Martin D28 earlier in the episode. However, I want to revisit this topic to give you a more focused list of specific guitars.
3 for D18 Alternative: The Bourgeois Country Boy
For a guitar that has the same dry bass and projection that the Martin D18 has, the Bourgeois Country Boy is a strong contender. I've been playing this guitar for a while now, and I love how punchy that bass sound can be at times. It never seems to drown itself out or get too muddy, which I also appreciate.
Be sure to catch the full clip of me playing the Bourgeois Country Boy is to see if this D18 alternative stacks up to your expectations.
3 for D28 Alternative: Boucher BG-52
Clocking in at my third-favorite non-Martin D28, the Boucher BG-52 is a stellar guitar from a stellar guitar maker. I've had the most recent experience with this guitar, and I truly believe this guitar can hold its own against a Martin D28. It has the open, voluminous sound as a D28 with maybe just a hair brighter tone.
To catch the full list of alternatives to the Martin D18 and the Martin D28, be sure to watch the full episode and visit Acoustic Life today for links and more!
★ Request your invite to Tony's Acoustic Challenge today: https://tonypolecastro.com/al-request-invite/?ref=INVITE&src=AL
★ All show notes and links: https://acousticlife.tv/at133
★ Get the show: https://tonypolecastro.com/get-acoustic-tuesday