The History of the Guitar

The exact origin of the guitar is unknown. Throughout history, there have been many incarnations of stringed instruments that have risen and dwindled in popularity, but it is fair to say that modern-day renditions still hold their own in an ever-changing musical landscape. From acoustic playing troubadours to electric slinging stadium stage stalwarts through low-end legends of the bass realm, there are more options nowadays than ever before and the range of body shapes and styles grows every year.

What is an Acoustic Guitar?

The humble acoustic guitar as we know it today evolved from Spanish roots but has grown - and shrunk - in size depending on your preference, whilst swapping nylon stings for those of steel in most cases. From the standard size of the Dreadnought up to the grand proportions and dynamic range of the Jumbo, right back down to the diminutive form and hushed timbre of a Parlour, the acoustic guitar is as versatile as they come.

The history of the Electric Guitar

Turning things up a notch (literally as well as metaphorically) the electric guitar was built in response to the requirement of ensemble players to be heard during performances. As electric guitar design evolved so did musical styles, which informed guitar amp design and in turn electric guitar design too. From sleek Electric-Spanish models of the 1930s onwards through solid-body game-changers such as the Telecaster, Stratocaster, and Les Paul to modern manufacturers blazing a trail by incorporating unique materials and radical designs, the electric guitar has been a part of musical history from its inception, and continues to blaze a trail.