When most people think of jazz guitar, they tend to picture a musician playing a hollowbody or solidbody electric guitar. However, there is another type of guitar that can be well-suited for jazz: the nylon-string guitar.
Nylon-string guitars, also known as classical guitars, are typically associated with classical music and flamenco, but they can be a great choice for jazz players as well. These guitars have a softer, more mellow tone than steel-string acoustic or electric guitars, which can make them a good fit for the warm, relaxed sound of many jazz standards.
One of the key benefits of using a nylon-string guitar for jazz is the ease of playing. Nylon strings are softer and easier on the fingers than steel strings, which can be more challenging for beginners or players with sensitive fingertips. The wider neck and string spacing of nylon-string guitars can also make it easier to play complex chords and fingerstyle patterns.
Another advantage of nylon-string guitars is their versatility. While they are often associated with classical and flamenco music, these guitars can be used in a variety of genres, including jazz. Players who use a nylon-string guitar for jazz can achieve a wide range of tones, from mellow and warm to bright and percussive.
When choosing a nylon-string guitar for jazz, there are several factors to consider. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
Type of guitar: There are two main types of nylon-string guitars: classical guitars and flamenco guitars. Classical guitars tend to have a more mellow, sustained tone, while flamenco guitars have a brighter, more percussive sound. For jazz, a classical guitar may be a better choice, as the warm, sustained tones can complement the genre well.
Construction: The construction of the guitar can affect the sound and playability. A solid top guitar will generally produce a richer, more resonant tone than a laminate top guitar. The type of wood used for the top, back, and sides can also have an impact on the tone of the guitar.
Size and shape: Nylon-string guitars come in a variety of sizes and shapes. While classical guitars tend to have a wider, flatter neck than steel-string guitars, there can still be variations in size and shape that can affect the playability of the guitar.
Electronics: Some nylon-string guitars come with built-in electronics, which can be useful for amplifying the sound of the guitar in a live setting. If you plan on playing gigs with your nylon-string guitar, you may want to consider a model with built-in electronics.
Some popular models of nylon-string guitars that are well-suited for jazz include:
Cordoba C7: The Cordoba C7 is a well-regarded classical guitar that is known for its warm, mellow tone and excellent playability. The guitar features a solid Canadian cedar top and mahogany back and sides, as well as a comfortable neck and low action.
Yamaha CG122MS: The Yamaha CG122MS is a solid top classical guitar that is well-suited for jazz. The guitar features a solid Engelmann spruce top and nato back and sides, as well as a comfortable neck and excellent tone.
Kremona Solea: The Kremona Solea is a handcrafted classical guitar that is known for its beautiful tone and exceptional craftsmanship. The guitar features a solid European spruce top and Indian rosewood back and sides, as well as a comfortable neck and low action.
Godin Multiac Nylon SA: The Godin Multiac Nylon SA is a nylon-string guitar with built-in electronics, making it a great choice for jazz players who want to amplify their sound. The guitar features a solid cedar top and mahogany back and sides, as well as a comfortable neck and versatile sound.
If you’re considering using a nylon-string guitar for jazz, there are a few things to keep in mind when it comes to playing technique. Here are a few tips to help you get started:
Use your fingers: Nylon-string guitars are typically played with the fingers, rather than a pick. This can take some getting used to if you’re used to playing with a pick, but it can give you more control over the tone and dynamics of your playing.
Focus on the melody: In jazz, the melody is often the most important element of a song. When playing on a nylon-string guitar, try to focus on bringing out the melody and making it clear and distinct.
Experiment with different fingerstyle techniques: There are many different fingerstyle techniques that you can use when playing on a nylon-string guitar. Try experimenting with techniques like fingerpicking, thumb picking, and rasgueado to see what works best for your playing style.
Practice chord voicings: One of the strengths of nylon-string guitars is their ability to produce warm, rich chord voicings. Take some time to practice different chord shapes and voicings to see how they sound on your guitar.
Listen to other players: As with any genre of music, it can be helpful to listen to other jazz guitarists who have used nylon-string guitars in their playing. Some great examples include Charlie Byrd, Earl Klugh, and Laurindo Almeida.
Overall, while nylon-string guitars may not be the first choice for many jazz guitarists, they can be a great option for players who are looking for a warmer, mellower sound or who want to experiment with different playing techniques. With the right technique and practice, a nylon-string guitar can be a valuable addition to any jazz player’s arsenal.