Classical Guitar History

Where Did the Guitar Come From?

Appreciating classical guitar often means appreciating the history of the guitar, especially for the musicians. The first guitar-like instruments are believed to have originated in the ancient Near East, in the area of Babylon, with sightings in Egypt and Rome. The Guitarra Morisca was a Moorish instrument that found its way to Spain when the Moors ruled there.

The modern guitar, however, is believed to have roots firmly planted in the Guitarra Latina. In the Middle Ages there were many multi-string instruments that were very popular, with three, four and five stings. In the 16th and 17th centuries music was composed expressly for the guitar, which became the instrument of nobility in France.

In the middle of the 18th century, the sixth string was added to the then-standard five-string guitar. This addition is considered the most important development in the history of the classical guitar, adding a host of new compositions and musicians to the guitar family.

The guitar is an incredibly flexible instrument that lends itself to all forms of music. The classical guitar adds to this flexibility a sense of history and style that is very appropriate for classical music.

Music