Tag: string instrument

Gifts

Viola Gifts: Shirts, Mugs, Totes, Music, Accessories

by musician on September 10, 2015

Viola Gifts

We’re looking for the best gifts for violists and anyone who loves the beautiful sound of the viola. Choose from classical and contemporary music, T-shirts, cooking aprons, trinket boxes, colorful buttons, ceramic ornaments, posters, coffee mugs, refrigerator magnets, trucker hats, cotton canvas tote bags, and more unique viola gifts.

Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach
As the greatest expert and judge of harmony, he liked best to play the viola, with appropriate loudness and softness.
Remarking on his father, Johann Sebastian Bach

1934 Viola Patent Print

Print by Lone Star Art Store

1934 Viola Patent 11×14 Unframed Print Ready to Frame – Proudly Made in the USA

String Planet

You’ll love the music of String Planet, a collaboration between Chapman Stick player Larry Tuttle and violist Novi Novog. Their music is filled with hooks, memorable themes, and compelling rhythms. Novi is one of the top session musicians in Los Angeles. Her long list of credits includes solos on Prince’s “Purple Rain” and “Raspberry Beret,” and The Doobie Brothers’ “Black Water.”

String Planet featuring Larry Tuttle and Violist Novi Novog String Planet Songs From The Home Planet featuring Larry Tuttle and Violist Novi Novog

Viola Jewelry

Silver Plated Crystal Viola with Bow Necklace

SpinningDaisy Silver Plated Crystal Miniature Viola with Bow Necklace Always Packed with Gift Box or Canvas Pouch for Hassle Free Gifting

Viola Gifts for Music Lovers

We’ve designed 2,000+ products for string instrument musicians and fans, including unique gifts for your favorite viola player or enthusiast. Beware of inferior copycats! Our original designs are available here and in our Viola Shirts and Gifts collection.

Viola Elegant Scrolled Heart

This bold design features an ornate, scrolled heart with the word “Music” elegantly nestled at its center, symbolizing the passion and soul of viola melodies. Flanking the base of the heart are two more scrolls, creating an eye-catching composition. Below, the word “Viola” stands out in bold, confident lettering, making a proud statement. With its robust graphic style, this design is perfect for anyone who wants to wear their love for the viola with pride and flair. Visit the Viola Shirts and Gifts collection:

Music Lover Elegant Scrolled Heart for Viola Fans T-Shirt Music Lover Elegant Scrolled Heart for Viola Fans T-Shirt

Music Lover Elegant Scrolled Heart for Viola Fans Premium Tri-Blend T-Shirt Music Lover Elegant Scrolled Heart for Viola Fans Premium Tri-Blend T-Shirt

Womens Music Lover Elegant Scrolled Heart for Viola Fans V-Neck T-Shirt Womens Music Lover Elegant Scrolled Heart for Viola Fans V-Neck T-Shirt

Music Lover Elegant Scrolled Heart for Viola Fans Tank Top Music Lover Elegant Scrolled Heart for Viola Fans Tank Top

Music Lover Elegant Scrolled Heart for Viola Fans Raglan Baseball Tee Music Lover Elegant Scrolled Heart for Viola Fans Raglan Baseball Tee

Music Lover Elegant Scrolled Heart for Viola Fans Long Sleeve T-Shirt Music Lover Elegant Scrolled Heart for Viola Fans Long Sleeve T-Shirt

Music Lover Elegant Scrolled Heart for Viola Fans Sweatshirt Music Lover Elegant Scrolled Heart for Viola Fans Sweatshirt

Music Lover Elegant Scrolled Heart for Viola Fans Pullover Hoodie Music Lover Elegant Scrolled Heart for Viola Fans Pullover Hoodie

Music Lover Elegant Scrolled Heart for Viola Fans Khaki Color Tote Bag Music Lover Elegant Scrolled Heart for Viola Fans Khaki Color Throw Pillow

Music Lover Elegant Scrolled Heart for Viola Fans Denim Color Tote Bag Music Lover Elegant Scrolled Heart for Viola Fans Denim Color Throw Pillow

Elegant Scrolled Heart for Viola Lovers Music Theme T-Shirt Elegant Scrolled Heart for Viola Lovers Music Theme Long Sleeve T-Shirt

Elegant Scrolled Heart for Viola Lovers Music Theme Long Sleeve T-Shirt Elegant Scrolled Heart for Viola Lovers Music Theme T-Shirt

Viola Shirts

Shirts are always a popular gift with people of all ages. Click on any design to see the full selection of colors, styles, and sizes available. You’ll have no trouble finding the perfect gift for your favorite violist or string instrument fan.

I Play Viola – All the Beauty of Violin Without the Screech Funny Violist T-Shirt Viola – It’s Kind of a Smart People Instrument Anyway Funny Violist T-Shirt

Viola Kind of a Smart People Instrument Anyway Violist Humor T-Shirt Viola da Gamba Family Portrait Facsimile of Praetorius Syntagma Musicum T-Shirt

Viola da Gamba Word Cloud Violist T-Shirt Viola Periodic Table Violist T-Shirt

Cats and Dogs Easily Distracted by Viola Players

Here are some designs for animal lovers who are easily distracted by the sound of viola players. Choose from playful cats and dogs in a variety of styles, colors, and sizes for the whole family.

Cat Easily Distracted by Viola Players Music Notes T-Shirt Dog Easily Distracted by Viola Players Music Notes T-Shirt

Cat Easily Distracted by Viola Players Music Notes Long Sleeve T-Shirt Dog Easily Distracted by Viola Players Music Notes Long Sleeve T-Shirt

The Coolest People on Earth Play Viola

Who are the coolest people on earth? Viola players, of course! Spread the word about this cool string instrument. Makes a great gift for any music student, music teacher, or violist.

The Coolest People on Earth Play Viola String Instrument T-Shirt The Coolest People on Earth Play Viola String Instrument Long Sleeve T-Shirt

The Coolest People on Earth Play Viola String Instrument Raglan Baseball Tee The Coolest People on Earth Play Viola String Instrument Pullover Hoodie

The Coolest People on Earth Play Viola String Instrument T-Shirt The Coolest People on Earth Play Viola String Instrument Raglan T-Shirt

Double Bass Clef Heart I Love Playing My Viola

This viola design features a symmetrical heart formed by two mirrored bass clefs that face each other, their elegant scrolls meeting perfectly at the center to create a unified heart shape.

Bass Clef Musical Heart I Love Playing My Viola Musician T-Shirt Bass Clef Musical Heart I Love Playing My Viola Musician T-Shirt

Bass Clef Musical Heart I Love Playing My Viola Musician Pullover Hoodie Bass Clef Musical Heart I Love Playing My Viola Musician Pullover Hoodie

Bass Clef Musical Heart I Love Playing My Viola Music Notes T-Shirt Bass Clef Musical Heart I Love Playing My Viola Music Notes T-Shirt

Viola Trucker Hats

Viola trucker hats are available in eleven color choices. Hats feature a 100% polyester foam front and a 100% nylon mesh back to keep you cool. Trucker hats are adjustable from 17 to 24 inches.

Love Viola Pink Purple Butterfly Heart Music Notes Trucker Hat Viola Mixtape Retro Red Vintage Cassette Tape Trucker Hat

Viola Tote Bags

Versatile and durable cotton canvas tote bags are another practical gift idea. These designs are available in many style and color choices to please any violist or viola enthusiast.

I Play Viola Best When Caffeinated, Coffee Violist Orchestra Tote Bag The Coolest People on Earth Play Viola String Instrument Tote Bag

Cat Easily Distracted By Viola Players Music Notes Tote Bag Dog Easily Distracted By Viola Players Music Notes Tote Bag

Bass Clef Musical Heart I Love Playing My Viola Musician Tote Bag Bass Clef Musical Heart I Love Playing My Viola Musician Tote Bag

Viola Elegant Tulip Vintage Sheet Music Tote Bag Viola Tulip Vintage Sheet Music Customized Tote Bag

Cartoon Cat Easily Distracted by Viola Players Tote Bag Cartoon Dog Easily Distracted by Viola Players Tote Bag

The Coolest People on Earth Play Viola Tote Bag The Coolest People on Earth Play Viola Nebula Tote Bag

I Love Viola Yellow Orange Mandala Heart Tote Bag Double Bass Clef Heart Sheet Music Viola Tote Bag

Viola Coffee Mugs

Mugs are one of our favorite affordable viola gifts. Everyone can use a few mugs. Click on any mug to see how the design looks from different angles. Choose from many sizes, styles, and colors to create a personal gift for your favorite violist.

Other Viola Players and Me – Pole Dancing Rainbow Unicorn Mug Makes a Great Gift for Your Favorite Musician – Choose Mug Size – 11 or 15 ounce

I’ve Got a Viola and I’m Not Afraid to Use It Violist Humor Coffee Mug Center of the Musical Universe Alto Clef Design Musician Humor Coffee Mug

Viola Tulip Vintage Sheet Music Customized Two-Tone Coffee Mug Copper Double Bass Clef Heart Viola Two-Tone Coffee Mug

Curious Cat Easily Distracted by Viola Players Music Notes Two-Tone Coffee Mug Running Dog Easily Distracted by Viola Players Music Notes Two-Tone Coffee Mug

I Love Viola Yellow Orange Mandala Heart Two-Tone Coffee Mug The Coolest People on Earth Play Viola Two-Tone Coffee Mug

First Coffee Then Viola Music Lover Two-Tone Coffee Mug Bass Clef Heart I Love Playing My Viola Two-Tone Coffee Mug

Bass Clef Heart Vintage Sheet Music Viola Coffee Mug Bass Clef Heart Purple Nebula Love Viola Coffee Mug

Viola Magnets

Refrigerator magnets are one of our favorite inexpensive gift ideas for viola players. Standard size square magnets measure 2 by 2 inches, and round magnets are usually available in three sizes. Designs are printed on 100% recycled paper. Scratch and UV-resistant Mylar keeps magnets looking as good as new for many years to come.

Viola Player Vintage Retro Orchestra Opera Music Round Magnet Keep Calm and Play Viola Vintage Violist Round Magnet

Viola Elegant Tulip Vintage Sheet Music Square Magnet Viola Tulip Vintage Sheet Music Customized Square Magnet

Curious Cat Easily Distracted by Viola Players Square Magnet Running Dog Easily Distracted by Viola Players Square Magnet

I Love Viola Yellow Orange Mandala Heart Square Magnet Double Bass Clef Heart Sheet Music Viola Square Magnet

Viola Ornaments

These beautiful ceramic ornaments are available in a variety of shapes, including round, oval, star, heart, and T-shirt. Each keepsake ornament includes a strand of gold thread for easy display.

Viola Translations Ceramic Round Christmas Ornament Viola in Alto Clef Ceramic Round Christmas Ornament

Viola Chef Aprons

Classic cotton-poly twill blend aprons are another of our top picks for practical viola gifts. Choose from several style and color options. Spacious front pockets hold plenty of utensils and cooking tools. Aprons are machine washable and proudly made in the U.S.A.

Viola Tulip Vintage Sheet Music Customized Adult Chef Apron The Coolest People on Earth Play Viola Adult Chef Apron

Bass Clef Heart I Love Playing My Viola Adult Chef Apron Bass Clef Heart I Love Playing My Viola Adult Chef Apron

Viola Buttons

Buttons are a fun and inexpensive gift idea for musicians and music lovers. Standard size square buttons measure 2 inches by 2 inches. These viola designs are printed on 100% recycled paper and covered with scratch and UV-resistant Mylar for years of use and enjoyment. Some designs allow you to choose a different background color for a customized button gift.

Viola Elegant Tulip Vintage Sheet Music Square Button Viola Tulip Vintage Sheet Music Customized Square Button

Curious Cat Easily Distracted by Viola Players Square Button Running Dog Easily Distracted by Viola Players Square Button

I Love Viola Yellow Orange Mandala Heart Square Button Double Bass Clef Heart Sheet Music Viola Square Button

Viola Playing Cards

One of the most popular viola gifts is a set of playing cards. Each comes packaged in a cardboard box for easy gifting. Poker size cards measure 2.5 by 3.5 inches, with 52 playing cards and 2 jokers per deck. Click on any design to see the available options. Standard cards are printed on smooth card stock, and premium quality Bicycle playing cards are printed on durable semi-gloss card stock.

Curious Cat Easily Distracted by Viola Players Music Notes Playing Cards Running Dog Easily Distracted by Viola Players Music Notes Playing Cards

Victor Borge (Pianist, Conductor, Comedian)
The difference between a violin and a viola is that a viola burns longer.

Kansas – Dust in the Wind

Written by Kansas band member Kerry Livgren in 1977, “Dust in the Wind” is one of a handful of rock songs featuring the viola. In this live version recorded nearly four decades later, the band shares the stage with a full string orchestra. Lead vocalist Steve Walsh hits every note!

Best Viola Gifts Collection

Our Viola Gifts Collection features shirts, tote bags, coffee mugs, chef aprons, buttons, magnets, and more.

Viola Shirts and Gifts Collection

Viola Information

Learn more about this classical string instrument and find out where you can buy a viola online.

Shop for Violas and Accessories

Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. This means that–at zero cost to you–we will earn an affiliate commission if you click through the link and finalize a purchase.

D’Addario Ascenté Viola String Set – Medium Scale – Medium Tension – Synthetic Core – Expressive Tone D’Addario Prelude Viola String Set – Medium Scale – Medium Tension – Solid Steel Core – Warm Tone WOGOD Natural Rosin for Viola, Violin, Cello – Any Stringed Instrument – Horsehair or Synthetic Hair Bows Fantastic Finger Guide for Violas – Fingerboard and Fretboard Stickers Help Students Build Knowledge of Notes

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Viola Facts: Shop for Instruments, Accessories, Gifts

by musician on September 3, 2015

Viola Facts

The viola is a bowed string instrument, slightly larger than a violin. For more than two centuries it has been the middle voice of the violin family, tuned a perfect fifth above the violin and an octave below the cello. A viola is held in the same manner as a violin, with just a few adjustments necessary to accommodate its larger size.

More Viola Facts

A person who performs on this string instrument is called a violist. Notable violists include Yuri Bashmet, Luigi Alberto Bianchi, Gérard Caussé, Bruno Giuranna, Rivka Golani, Kim Kashkashian, Nobuko Imai, Michael Kugel, and Tabea Zimmermann.

Classical composers who were also violists include Johann Sebastian Bach, Ludwig van Beethoven, Antonín Dvořák, and Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart.

During the 20th century, virtuosos Lionel Tertis and William Primrose broke tradition and focused their careers on solo viola playing. The accomplished musicians introduced the viola to a broader audience, discovered ancient works, and even created a school.

Viola Fingering Chart

Quality Card Stock Poster

Viola Fingering Chart Poster

String Planet with Violist Novi Novog

Enjoy the super-talented duo of Novi Novog and Larry Tuttle as they perform a String Planet montage, on which Larry is playing Chapman Stick. Novi began playing piano at age four, then moved on to the violin and viola. She has appeared on countless recordings, films, television shows, and concert stages all over the world. String Planet’s compositions have been used in hundreds of television shows, as well as in many films and commercials.

Best Gifts for Music Lovers

We’ve designed 2,000+ products for string instrument musicians and fans. Find a unique gift for your favorite viola player or enthusiast. Beware of inferior copycats! Our original designs are available here and in our String Kings Music Viola collection.

Find a Viola Online

Mendini Natural Varnish Solid Wood Viola

Product details:

16-inch natural varnish viola
Hand-carved solid spruce top with maple back and sides
Maple fingerboard, pegs, chin rest
Alloy tailpiece with four integrated fine tuners
Strung with Cecilio strings
Includes lightweight hard case, Brazilwood bow with unbleached genuine Mongolian horsehair, rosin, bridge
1 Year Warranty Against Manufacturer’s Defects
Remarkably affordable option for first-time students

Mendini 16-Inch MA250 Natural Varnish Solid Wood Viola Designed for Beginners Includes Lightweight Hard Case, Brazilwood Bow with Mongolian Horsehair, Rosin, Bridge

Best Viola Gifts Collection

Our Viola Gifts Collection features shirts, tote bags, coffee mugs, chef aprons, buttons, magnets, and more.

Viola Shirts and Gifts Collection

Unique Viola Gift Ideas

If you need to find a gift for your favorite viola player, you’ve come to the right place. We’re always creating new products and sharing our favorites from other designers.

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Sarod Facts: Shop for Instruments, Accessories, Gifts

by musician on August 30, 2015

Sarod Facts

The sarod is a lute-like stringed instrument of Indian origin. Like the sitar, it’s a popular and prominent instrument in Hindustani classical music. The instrument is known for its deep, introspective sound, which contrasts nicely with the sweet texture of the sitar. The absence of frets allows players to glide easily from one note to another. This is known as meend, which is essential in the performance of Indian music.

Here are a few more interesting sarod facts. It’s likely the sarod descended from the Afghan rubab, a similar instrument with roots in Central Asia and Afghanistan. The word sarod means “beautiful sound” or “melody” in Persian, one of many languages spoken in Afghanistan.

Sarod Construction

How many strings are there? On a conventional instrument there are 17 to 25. Four to five main strings are used for playing the melody. There are also one or two drone strings, two chikari strings, and nine to eleven sympathetic strings. The strings are made of steel or phosphor bronze, and are usually plucked with a triangular hand-crafted coconut shell plectrum called a Javva. Some players prefer plectrums made of ebony, cocobolo wood, horn, or cowbone.

Naba One Piece Sarod

More Sarod Facts

A person who performs on this string instrument is called a sarodist. Notable sarodists include Amjad Ali Khan and his sons Amaan Ali Khan and Ayaan Ali Khan, Ustad Ali Akbar Khan, Buddhadev Das Gupta, Abhisek Lahiri, Sharan Rani, K. Sridhar, Aditya Verma, and James Whetzel.

Indian Classical Ragas

Amjad Ali Khan

Indian Classical Ragas – Amjad Ali Khan

Sarod Master Amaan Ali Khan

Indian classical musician and composer Amaan Ali Khan explains the construction, techniques, and performance of the sarod. He’s a seventh generation Sarod Master, and was just eight years old when he gave his first public performance. Amaan is the son of Amjad Ali Khan and often performs with his younger brother Ayaan Ali Khan, with whom he hosted the music talent show Sa Re Ga Ma. He’s widely considered one of the finest players in the world, with fans on many continents.

Sarod Gifts for Music Lovers

We’ve designed 2,000+ products for string instrument musicians and fans, including unique gifts for your favorite sarod player or enthusiast. Beware of inferior copycats! Our original designs are available here and in our Sarod Shirts and Gifts collection.

Find a Sarod Online

Naba One Piece Indian Sarod

Product details:

Concert quality Sarod
Beautiful Indian string instrument
Handmade from one piece of tun wood
Comes with a fiberglass case, jaba, and extra set of strings
Sarod is shipped from India (Shipping and packing included)

Handmade Naba One Piece Sarod Sarod Back View

Sarod Gifts Collection

Our Sarod Shirts and Gifts collection features shirts, tote bags, coffee mugs, chef aprons, buttons, magnets, and more.

Sarod Shirts and Gifts

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If you need to find a gift for your favorite sarod player, you’ve come to the right place. We’re always creating new products and sharing our favorites from other designers.

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Sarod Strings – Karuna Brand – Complete Set with Sympathetic Strings – Made by Expert Hands Traditional Hand-Crafted Coconut Shell Sarod Jawa Pick Plectrum – Professional Quality – Set of 2 Ustad Ali Akbar Khan – Plays Alap – A Sarod Solo – Shri Rag – Light Classical Raga – 2 Audio CDs Buddhadev Das Gupta – Sarod – Raga Chhaya – Joined by Samir Chatterjee on Tabla – Audio CD

Courtesies

Musician’s Mall – Berkeley, California

Kaleidoscope Mandala image by JuliusH

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Oud Facts: Shop for Instruments, Accessories, Gifts

by musician on August 24, 2015

Oud Facts

The oud dates back 3,000+ years, with roots in ancient Mesopotamia, Egypt, and Persia. It’s one of the oldest stringed instruments still in use, known for its distinctive pear-shaped body and short fretless neck. The bowl-shaped back is made from strips (ribs) of woods like rosewood, walnut, mahogany, or maple.

Often referred to as the “King of Instruments” in the Arabic world, the oud is a cornerstone of Middle Eastern and North African music. The lack of frets allows musicians to play microtones—notes between the standard Western scale—giving the oud its distinctive, expressive sound central to Arabic, Turkish, and Persian music.

Typically an oud has 11 or 13 strings (5 or 6 double courses plus a single low string). Oud tunings vary by region. Common Arabic tunings include C-F-A-D-G-C, while Turkish ouds often use D-E-A-B-E-A. This adaptability suits different musical traditions.

The oud and early guitars share key traits: a wooden soundbox, a neck for fingering notes, and plucked strings. While the guitar has diverged significantly from the oud in design and sound, the oud’s role as a foundational instrument in this evolutionary chain is well-documented. Beyond the Middle East, the oud has influenced music in Greece, Armenia, and Central Asia. More recently it has been adopted by Western musicians in jazz, world music, and fusion genres.

Young Man Playing Oud

More Oud Facts

A person who performs on this string instrument is called an oudist. Notable oudists include Tarek Abdallah, Rabih Abou-Khalil, Farid al-Atrash, Rahim Alhaj, Riad al-Sunbati, Ahmed Alshaiba, Amer Ammouri, Munir Bashir, Anouar Brahem, Hamza El Din, H. Aram Gulezyan, Aarif Jaman, Saad Mahmood Jawad, Marcel Khalife, Yuval Ron, Simon Shaheen, Naseer Shamma, Alan Shavarsh Bardezbanian, Yurdal Tokcan, Cinuçen Tanrıkorur, Dhafer Youssef, and Scott Wilson.

Ancestor of the Guitar
Modern guitars evolved from the oud, which was brought to Europe during the Middle Ages by the Moors in Spain. The oud directly inspired the European lute, a plucked string instrument popular during the Renaissance. In 16th-century Spain, the lute evolved into early guitar-like instruments, including the vihuela and four-course guitar. These instruments gradually developed into the modern six-string guitar by the 19th century, with changes like a flatter body and standardized tuning (E-A-D-G-B-E).

Arabic Oud Middle Eastern Decor

Stretched Canvas Wall Art

Arabic Oud Wall Art Fairuz Inspired Print for Middle Eastern Home Decor Stretched Canvas is Created with the Highest Standards Using Quality Inks

Yemeni Music Master Ahmed Alshaiba

An instrumental interpretation of Michael Jackson’s “Smooth Criminal” was arranged by Ahmed Alshaiba, a young musician from Yemen who taught himself to play the oud, and made a splash on social media with his cover versions of pop songs.

Best Gifts for Music Lovers

We’ve designed 2,000+ products for string instrument musicians and fans. Find a unique gift for your favorite oud player or enthusiast. Beware of inferior copycats! Our original designs are available here and in our String Kings Music Oud collection.

Find an Oud Online

Turkish Quality String Instrument Oud

Product details:

Mahogany bowl, spruce face, ebony pegs
High quality, beautiful instrument
Great tone, deep resonation, easy to tune
Plectrum and extra set of strings
Soft case for storage and portability
Two-year warranty certificate

Turkish Quality String Instrument Oud Spruce Face and Mahogany Bowl

Ouds for Sale

Middle Eastern Marketplace (Souk)

Craftsmanship
The best ouds are handcrafted by skilled luthiers, who meticulously shape the body, neck, and soundboard. High-quality ouds are handcrafted from woods like rosewood, walnut, or spruce, with intricate inlays and designs. Master luthiers can take months to build a single instrument.

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Our Oud Gifts Collection features shirts, tote bags, coffee mugs, chef aprons, buttons, magnets, and more.

Oud Shirts and Gifts Collection

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If you need to find a gift for your favorite oud player, you’ve come to the right place. We’re always creating new products and sharing our favorites from other designers.

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D’Addario Arabic Oud Strings EJ95A – Set of 11 – Silver-Plated Copper – Medium String Gauge Oud Abstract Design T-Shirt – Middle Eastern Music – Great Gift for Oud Teachers, Students, Players Zaza Percussion – Portable Aluminum Oud Stand – Foldable Design with Crab Body and Footrest Folkways Records – Music for the Classical Oud – Khamis El Fino – Oud Virtuoso – 1964 – Audio CD

Courtesies

Man Playing Oud image by fsHH

Hanging Ouds and Scarves image by Orelian

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Guzheng Facts: Shop for Instruments, Accessories, Gifts

by musician on August 13, 2015

Guzheng Facts

The guzheng or Gu Zheng is a Chinese string instrument. Sometimes the name is shortened to zheng. No matter what you call it, the large, slender instrument functions as a plucked zither with 18 or more strings and movable bridges.

According to musicologists, the guzheng was inspired by early bamboo tube zithers. Today’s guzheng is quite different from the instruments made centuries ago. Modern players use picks—called DaiMao—which are often made from hawksbill turtle shells. Ancient picks were carved from ivory or tortoise shells.

Western musical styles have inspired a more modern playing technique where the left hand is used to provide harmony and bass notes. This allows for greater flexibility in the instrument’s musical range, but tends to limit subtle ornamentations provided by the left hand in more traditional music. Students at the Beijing Conservatory are required to learn a repertoire of both traditional and modern pieces.

Here are a few more interesting guzheng facts. Centuries ago the strings were made from silk. Today they’re nearly always metal-nylon, which increases the instrument’s capabilities, volume, and timbre. The strings are capable of creating graceful sounds that mimic a cascading waterfall, or stronger sounds like thunder and trotting horses.

Guzheng Performance

More Guzheng Facts

A person who performs on this string instrument is called a guzhengist or Chinese harpist. Notable guzhengists include Bei Bei He, Qui Je, Liu Le, Yuan Sha, Shirley Wang, Melody Yan, and Wang Zhongshan. These artists have not only preserved the guzheng’s traditional roots, but also expanded its reach through innovation and global outreach.

Cao Zheng (1920–1998)
As a professor at the China Conservatory of Music, Cao Zheng was a pioneer in modern guzheng teaching methods. She standardized techniques and notation, elevating the instrument’s status in academic settings, while preserving traditional repertoires.

Beautiful Young Woman Playing Guzheng

High-Quality Canvas Poster Print

Beautiful Young Woman Playing Guzheng High-Quality Canvas Poster Print White Semi-Gloss Artist Canvas is Waterproof and Moisture Proof

Virtuoso and Educationist Wang Zhongshan

The musical piece is called “Fishermen’s Song at Eventide.”

Famous Guzheng Music Pieces

“Fisherman’s Evening Song” (Yu Zhou Chang Wan) is a traditional piece from the Henan school, depicting fishermen singing as they return at dusk. Its melodic simplicity and rhythmic flow make it a beloved classic. Other iconic pieces include “High Mountain and Flowing Water” (Gao Shan Liu Shui), symbolizing friendship, and “Spring River in the Moonlight” (Chun Jiang Hua Yue Ye), evoking poetic imagery.

Best Gifts for Music Lovers

We’ve designed 2,000+ products for string instrument musicians and fans. Find a unique gift for your favorite guzheng player or enthusiast. Beware of inferior copycats! Our original designs are available here and in our String Kings Music Guzheng collection.

Find a Guzheng Online

Dunhuang Burmese Rosewood Guzheng with Master Signature

Product details:

Single-piece professional grade paulownia soundboard and backboard
Frame is made by Burmese rosewood with wood carving in the famous Banana Panel Night Rain design
Professional grade rosewood bridges
Accessories include guzheng picks and tape, tuning wrench, soundboard cleaning brush, soft carrying case
Professional Guzheng chromatic tuner
Two-piece matching stands
English and Chinese manual included
Dunhuang’s professional model is top seller in the market

Dunhuang 694KK Burmese Rosewood Guzheng with Master Signature Includes Everything You Need to Learn and Play this Beautiful Chinese String Instrument

Young Chinese Girl with Guzheng

Cultural Significance
The guzheng is a symbol of Chinese musical heritage, often associated with elegance, refinement, and emotional expression. It appears in classical literature, such as poems describing its evocative sound, and is linked to Confucian ideals of harmony and balance. The instrument’s mesmerizing sound enriches performances, and provides an immersive cultural experience for audiences throughout the world.

Best Guzheng Gifts Collection

Our Guzheng Gifts Collection features shirts, tote bags, coffee mugs, chef aprons, buttons, magnets, and more.

Guzheng Shirts and Gifts Collection

Unique Guzheng Gift Ideas

If you need to find a gift for your favorite guzheng player, you’ve come to the right place. We’re always creating new products and sharing our favorites from other designers.

Shop for Guzhengs and Accessories

Lovermusic 1-21# Steel Wire and Nylon Guzheng Strings – Chinese Zither Accessory – Pack of 21 LANDTOM 16 Pieces (2 Sets) General Level Guzheng Finger Picks – Chinese Zither Finger Picks (Adult) ARTIBETTER Guzheng Rosewood Musical Bridge for Chinese Zither – Replacement Parts – 21 Pieces Gazechimp 87.5cm Guzheng Bridge Position Schematic Diagram for Beginners – High-Quality Paper

Courtesies

Guzheng Performance image by allenking233

Young Chinese Girl with Guzheng image by ymyphoto

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Guitar Facts: Shop for Instruments, Accessories, Gifts

by musician on August 12, 2015

Guitar Facts

The guitar’s history spans over 4,000 years, evolving from stringed instruments like the tanbur and setar in ancient Mesopotamia and Egypt. A direct ancestor is the Middle Eastern oud, a fretless, pear-shaped instrument introduced to Europe during the 8th century.

By the 13th century, instruments like the guitarra latina and guitarra morisca appeared in Spain. The Renaissance saw the development of the vihuela and the four-course guitar, with four pairs of strings, popular in Europe for accompaniment and solo performance.

The Baroque period introduced the five-course guitar, with ornate designs and gut strings. It was widely used in courts and by composers like Gaspar Sanz. During this era, tuning evolved toward the modern standard.

Spanish luthier Antonio de Torres revolutionized the guitar in the 1850s by designing the larger, fan-braced body that became the template for modern classical guitars. His designs improved volume and tone, making the guitar a serious concert instrument.

The 1930s marked the birth of the electric guitar, driven by the need for louder instruments in jazz and big band music. Leo Fender and Les Paul pioneered solid-body designs. The 1950s Fender Stratocaster and Gibson Les Paul became iconic, thus shaping rock, blues, and pop music. Today, guitars are central to countless genres—from flamenco to metal. Advances in amplification, effects pedals, and digital modeling continue to expand the instrument’s versatility.

Jimi Hendrix (1942–1970)

More Guitar Facts

A person who performs on this string instrument is called a guitarist. Notable guitarists are far too numerous to name here, though Jimi Hendrix is often singled out as the greatest ever.

Jimi Hendrix
Ranking “best” guitarists is subjective, but Jimi Hendrix is often cited as the greatest for his revolutionary electric guitar techniques, including feedback manipulation and wah-wah pedals. His performance of “The Star-Spangled Banner” at Woodstock (1969) redefined guitar expression.

A Visual Compendium of Guitars

Guitar Infographic Printed on Acid-Free Cover Stock

A Visual Compendium of Guitars 16×20 High-Quality Poster Print

Brian May’s “Old Lady”
One of the most famous guitars was hand-built by Queen’s lead guitarist and his father in the 1960s. Built over 18 months in a home workshop, the “Red Special” cost around £8 to build (about $200 today). The legendary guitar went on to great fame, powering hits like “Bohemian Rhapsody,” “We Will Rock You,” and “Killer Queen.”

Queen Guitarist Brian May

Listen to Queen guitarist Brian May on Absolute Radio telling the story of how he built the famous Red Special guitar with his engineer father, using salvaged materials. Here’s what one reviewer had to say: I don’t think people realize how incredible this is. This is like saying “I couldn’t afford a space shuttle so I built one with my dad.”

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Fender FA-25 Dreadnought Acoustic Guitar

Product details:

Perfect beginner guitar for all ages
Designed by the most trusted name in guitar
Backed by a 75-year legacy of quality and craftsmanship
Includes lessons with thousands of instructional videos
“C” shaped neck, walnut fingerboard, light weight body
Sealed-gear tuning machines allow for accurate tuning
Dreadnought body shape resonates with a bold and rich bass tone
Great for playing country, folk or bluegrass

Fender FA-25 Dreadnought Acoustic Guitar with Sunburst Finish Beginner Guitar with 2-Year Warranty, Includes Free Lessons

Gibson Les Paul Electric Guitar

Guitarist and Innovator Les Paul
The guitar is such a personal thing. It’s an extension of your fingers, your thoughts, your feelings. You can’t just plug a guitar into an amplifier and expect it to sound good. It’s all about the touch and the feel. When you get a groove going, time flies. You don’t even realize you’re playing for hours.

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30-inch Wood Classical Guitar – Case and Accessories – Great for Kids and Beginners – Wood D’Addario Guitar Strings – Acoustic Guitar Strings – 80/20 Bronze – For 6 String Guitar – Light String Gauge D’Addario Celluloid Guitar Picks – 25 Pack – Guitar Picks for Acoustic Guitar, Electric Guitar, Bass Guitar Ernie Ball Regular Slinky Nickel Wound Electric Guitar Strings – 10-46 Gauge – Made in California

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Dulcimer Facts: Shop for Instruments, Accessories, Gifts

by musician on August 12, 2015

Dulcimer Facts

The dulcimer’s roots trace back to ancient stringed instruments, including the Persian santur and European psaltery. Modern dulcimers emerged in the United States in the 19th century, primarily among Scotch-Irish immigrants. Historians speculate that early settlers lacked the proper tools needed to craft the more complex, dramatically curved violin.

Once dulcimers were mass-produced, design changes resulted in an instrument that was easier to build and play. The body was made larger, and geared tuners replaced traditional wooden pegs, making tuning easier and more reliable.

With just three or four strings and a simple diatonic fret pattern, the Appalachian dulcimer is one of the easiest string instruments to learn. It’s a wonderful introduction to the world of music.

The hammered dulcimer, an earlier form, was widely used in Europe during the Middle Ages and Renaissance. During these eras, a variety of instruments appeared across many cultures—from the Middle East to Asia.

Street Musician on Hammered Dulcimer

More Dulcimer Facts

A person who performs on this string instrument is called a dulcimerist. This term is rarely used though. Most artists refer to themselves as dulcimer players.

Famous Dulcimer Musicians

The dulcimer saw a resurgence during the 1960s folk music revival, with musicians like Jean Ritchie, Joni Mitchell, and Richard Fariña incorporating it into their work. Today, festivals like the Kentucky Music Week continue to celebrate and teach dulcimer music with workshops and performances.

Other famous musicians have been known to play this simple instrument. Brian Jones of The Rolling Stones featured an Appalachian dulcimer on the songs “Lady Jane” and “I Am Waiting.” Pop star Cyndi Lauper played one on her songs “A Night to Remember” and “Sisters of Avalon.”

Dulcimer Nicknames

Over the years, the Appalachian dulcimer has acquired a number of nicknames including Mountain Dulcimer, Lap Dulcimer, Hog Fiddle, and Whamadiddle or Whimmydiddle. The hammered dulcimer’s nicknames include Whammer Jammer, Cimbalom, Stringed Piano, and Hackbrett (German for chopping board.) These nicknames vary by region, tradition, and the instrument’s role in local music.

Appalachian Dulcimer
Developed in the early 1800s in rural Appalachia, this fretted string instrument was crafted with simple tools and local woods like walnut or cherry. Its hourglass or teardrop shape was designed for portability and ease of play, often used to accompany folk songs and ballads. Appalachian dulcimers typically have 3–5 strings, with one or two melody strings and the rest as drones, creating a haunting, harmonious sound.

Play the Mountain Dulcimer

by Michael Alan Wood

A Dulcimer Hymn Collection: Traditional Hymns and Spirituals for Mountain Dulcimer in D-A-A Tuning Dulcimer on the Backroads: Old Time and Celtic Tunes for Mountain Dulcimer in D-A-A Tuning

Virtuoso Dulcimer Player Stephen Seifert

Nashville-based musician Stephen Seifert plays “Whiskey Before Breakfast” on an Appalacian dulcimer. If you’d like to learn to play, Stephen has a series of videos that you can find on his website. He’s widely recognized as one of the most versatile and talented contemporary players, and is a frequent performer at American folk music festivals. Stephen has also performed with a number of classical symphonies throughout the United States.

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Applecreek Dulcimer Deluxe Pack

Product details:

Handcrafted in Europe using the finest material
Applecreek Dulcimer is the best student model you will find
Durable nylon dulcimer case with accessory pocket, handle and shoulder strap to carry like suitcase or backpack
Dulcimer Instruction Book with 19 all-time favorite songs
One of the most popular and easiest musical instruments to play

Applecreek Dulcimer, Known as the Appalachian or Mountain Dulcimer Deluxe Pack Includes Durable Nylon Dulcimer Case with Strap, Dulcimer Music Book

Hammered Dulcimer

Hammered Dulcimer
Unlike the Appalachian dulcimer, the hammered dulcimer is played by striking strings with small hammers, producing a bright, resonant sound. The instrument can have 100 or more strings, arranged in courses to allow for complex melodies and harmonies. It was a popular instrument, played in royal courts and folk settings alike.

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D’Addario EJ64 Set of 4 Dulcimer Strings: 3 Plain Steel, 1 Nickel-Plated Steel – Medium String Gauge String Swing Dulcimer Hanger Wall Mount Holder CC01D-C Solid Cherry Hardwood Block – Easy to Hang Noter for the Mountain Dulcimer – Made from Solid Rosewood – Rooseback Pick Included Dulcimer Songbook: 70 Popular Songs for Dulcimer in D-A-D Tuning – By Thomas Balinger

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Column: Historic, Lovely Tones of the Hammered Dulcimer

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Cello Facts: Shop for Instruments, Accessories, Gifts

by musician on August 12, 2015

Cello Facts

The cello, a string instrument known for its rich, deep tone, has a fascinating history. It was developed by Italian luthiers in the early 16th century as part of the violin family. The cello emerged from earlier bass instruments like the viola da gamba, designed to provide a deeper, resonant sound for orchestral and ensemble settings.

Initially called “basso di viola da braccio,” the first cellos were larger than modern versions. By the late 17th century, makers like Antonio Stradivari refined its size and shape, establishing the modern cello’s proportions. The addition of the endpin (a metal spike to stabilize the instrument) in the 19th century improved playability.

Baroque music elevated the prominence of the cello. Composer Johann Sebastian Bach wrote solo works, including his Six Cello Suites (c. 1717–1723), which remain cornerstones of the repertoire. The cello became a staple in orchestras and chamber music.

Romantic music further expanded the cello’s role, with composers like Beethoven, Brahms, and Dvořák showcasing its expressive range. In the 20th century, the cello gained worldwide prominence when virtuosos including “The Godfather of the Modern Cello” Pablo Casals, Mstislav Rostropovich, and Yo-Yo Ma commissioned new works and popularized solo performances.

Cello with Bow and Music Book

More Cello Facts

A person who performs on this string instrument is called a cellist. Other notable cellists of the 20th century include Jacqueline du Pré, Beatrice Harrison, Emanuel Feuermann, Pierre Fournier, Zara Nelsova, János Starker, Paul Tortelier, and Anner Bylsma.

More recently, a classically trained Croatian duo, Stjepan Hauser and Luka Šulić (2Cellos) have introduced the instrument to fans of rock and pop. In 2012, the pair performed an arrangement of Michael Jackson’s “Smooth Criminal” on the television show Glee.

Versatile Range
The cello spans over four octaves, mimicking the human voice’s warmth and depth, which makes it ideal for both melodic and harmonic roles. Its standard tuning is C2, G2, D3, A3 (from lowest to highest string).

Abstract Cello Player Poster

High-Quality Art Print Poster

Cello Abstract Wall Art Print Poster Paint Splash Style Artwork (Unframed)

Solo by Yo-Yo Ma

Cellist Yo-Yo Ma and trumpeter Chris Botti perform the hauntingly beautiful love theme from Cinema Paradiso. The music was written by Italian composer Ennio Morricone for the 1988 film. You’ll definitely want to keep a box of tissues handy as you watch this Italian drama written and directed by Giuseppe Tornatore.

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Cecilio Size 4/4 (Full Size) High-Luster Varnish Cello

Product details:

Crack-proof spruce top with maple neck, back and sides
Alloy tailpiece with four integrated fine tuners
Padded lightweight carrying case with pockets and adjustable backpack straps
Brazilwood bow with unbleached genuine Mongolian horsehair
Rosin, bridge, cello stand, extra set of strings
1 Year warranty against manufacturer’s defects
Please note that the bridge will not be setup before shipment to avoid damage to the cello body during transit.

Cecilio CCO-100 Student Cello, Size 4/4 (Full Size) High Luster Varnish Cello Includes Soft Case, Instrument Stand, Bow, Rosin, Bridge and Extra Set of Strings

Cello Trio

Stradivarius Cellos
Some of the most valuable instruments in the world are Stradivarius cellos, crafted by Antonio Stradivari, the most celebrated luthier of all time. Famed contemporary cellist Yo-Yo Ma plays the “Davidov Stradivarius,” which was made in Italy in 1712. The instrument was previously owned and played by British cellist Jacqueline du Pré. Her phenomenal career was cut short by multiple sclerosis when she was just 28 years old.

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D’Addario J1010 Prelude Cello String Set – 3/4 Scale Length – Solid Steel Core – Medium Tension Original Bernardel Rosin For Violin, Viola, Cello – Medium Light Rosin Made in France – Not an Imitation! Fantastic Finger Guide for Cellos – Fingerboard and Fretboard Stickers for Learning All Notes – 4/4 Size PUNK Real Rosewood Cello Endpin Rest with Non-Slip Hard Rubber Mat – Smooth Shiny Finish

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Bouzouki Facts: Shop for Instruments, Accessories, Gifts

by musician on August 12, 2015

Bouzouki Facts

The bouzouki descends from ancient instruments like the pandoura, a long-necked lute from ancient Greece (circa 1000 BC), and the Byzantine tambouras. These evolved through Eastern influences, including the Turkish saz and tanbur. The modern bouzouki emerged in Greece in the early 1900s, brought by refugees from Asia Minor after the 1919–1922 Greco-Turkish War.

The instrument produces a distinctive sound—sharp, metallic, and twangy—similar to a mandolin but lower in pitch, due to its steel strings and round wooden body. It’s often played with a plectrum for a vibrant, resonant tone. There are two primary forms: the trichordo (three pairs of strings, tuned D-A-D) and the tetrachordo (four pairs of strings, tuned C-F-A-D).

In the 1920s–1930s the bouzouki became central to rebetiko, an urban folk music genre associated with Greece’s underworld and themes of crime, love, and hardship. Introduction of the tetrachordo bouzouki in the 1950s expanded the instrument’s harmonic range, aligning its tuning with the top four strings of a guitar. This made it a cornerstone of laiko (Greek pop) music. The Irish bouzouki is based on the Greek instrument, and has been popular in traditional Irish folk music since the 1960s.

Irish Bouzouki Folk Musical Instrument

More Bouzouki Facts

A person who performs on this string instrument is called a bouzoukist. Notable bouzoukists include Manolis Chiotis, Andreas Karantinis, Dónal Lunny, Johnny Moynihan, Ioannis Papaioannou, Michalis Terzis, Vasilis Tsitsanis, and Márkos Vamvakáris.

Global Reach
A symbol of Greek musical heritage, the bouzouki gained international fame through 1960s film scores like Never on Sunday. Its adoption in Irish folk music was aided by musicians Johnny Moynihan and Dónal Lunny, who modified the instrument’s design and tuning for Celtic traditions. Beyond Greece, the bouzouki has influenced jazz, rock, and classical music, and is popular in regions like Ireland, Scandinavia, and the Balkans.

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3-Piece Stretched and Framed Colorful Canvas Prints

Bouzoukis 3-Panel Stretched and Framed Wall Art Home or Office Decor Each Colorful Canvas Print Has a Hook Mounted on Back and is Ready to Hang

Solo by Andreas Karantinis

AKTINA’s Greek Music Journey featured Greek singer Melina Aslanidou with Andreas Karantinis on the bouzouki. The concert was held at the Kaye Playhouse at Hunter College in Manhattan on June 6, 2013 in honor of AKTINA FM Radio’s 20th year anniversary.

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Gold Tone 8-String Bouzouki

Product details:

Originally a folk instrument from the Eastern Mediterranean (Palestine, Jordan, Lebanon, Syria) that’s usually played solo
Solid spruce top, rosewood fretboard, mahogany back and sides
Natural color, satin finish
Dimensions: 38.5 x 13 x 2 inches (L-W-H)
Brass cast tailpiece, intonated bridge
Includes hard shell carrying case

Gold Tone BZ-500 Bouzouki Gold Tone Hard Shell Case Included

Greek Bouzouki Folk Musical Instrument

Craftsmanship Matters
The bouzouki’s sound depends on high-quality woods like spruce or cedar for the soundboard and mulberry, walnut, or maple for the body. Luthiers carefully shape the pear-shaped body for resonance. Simple yet beautiful, the bouzouki has a flat fronted body that is often inlaid with elaborate mother-of-pearl designs.

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D’Addario J97 Greek Bouzouki Set of 8 Nickleplated Steel Wound Strings – Medium String Gauge D’Addario EJ81 Irish Bouzouki Set of 8 Phosphor Bronze Strings – Medium String Gauge Crossrock ABS Molded Greek Bouzouki Black Hard Shell Case – Fits Most Regular Greek Bouzoukis Handike Bouzouki Stand KOS-205 – Sturdy Wooden Support for Bouzouki Musical String Instrument

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Bass Guitar Facts: Shop for Instruments, Accessories, Gifts

by musician on August 12, 2015

Bass Guitar Facts

The bass guitar often serves as the rhythmic and harmonic foundation of a song, bridging the melody and the beat. It drives the groove in many styles of music, including blues, country, funk, fusion, gospel, jazz, Latin, metal, pop, punk rock, and reggae. This popular string instrument is known by many names including bass, electric bass, and electric bass guitar.

While the standard bass guitar has four strings tuned to E, A, D, and G, extended-range basses can have five, six, or even more strings, allowing for a broader range of notes and techniques. Some bass guitars are fretless, allowing for smoother slides and microtonal notes, similar to a double bass. Despite having the shortest strings of stringed instruments in a typical band setup, the bass produces the lowest frequencies, thanks to its thick strings and longer scale length.

Fender Jazz Bass

More Bass Guitar Facts

A person who performs on this string instrument is called a bassist. Notable bassists include Sheryl Crow, Flea, Maurice Gibb (Bee Gees), Larry Graham, Sammy Hagar, Carol Kaye, Geddy Lee, Julian Lennon, Paul McCartney (The Beatles, Wings), Jaco Pastorius, John Patitucci (Chick Corea), Prince, Kenny Rogers, Gene Simmons (Kiss), Esperanza Spalding, Peter Tork (The Monkees), Eddie Van Halen, Wolfgang Van Halen, Sid Vicious (Sex Pistols), and Stevie Wonder.

Played with Fingers, Picks, or Both
Bassists use various techniques—fingers for a warm tone, picks for precision and attack, or even tapping and harmonics for experimental sounds. Pioneered by players like Larry Graham in the 1960s, the slap-and-pop technique (slapping the strings with the thumb and popping them with the fingers) became a hallmark of funk music, adding percussive flair.

Essential Bass Theory Chart

High-Quality Paper Poster – Protective Tube

Essential Bass Theory Chart 24×36 Poster 18 Arpeggio Diagrams – Major and Minor

Chick Corea Elektric Band

John Patitucci, Frank Gambale, and Dave Weckl perform solos with the Chick Corea Elektric Band at the Blue Note in New York City on November 25, 2011. The piece is called “Got a Match?”

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Fender Squier Debut Series Stratocaster Electric Guitar

Product details:

Perfect beginner guitar for all ages
Designed by the most trusted name in guitar
Backed by a 75-year legacy of quality and craftsmanship
Includes lessons with thousands of instructional videos
Super-comfortable “C” shaped neck
Laurel fingerboard and thin, lightweight body for more comfort
Three single-coil pickups with 5-way switching
Tremolo bridge and removeable arm

Fender Squier Debut Series Stratocaster Electric Guitar, Black with Matte Finish Beginner Guitar with 2-Year Warranty, Includes Free Lessons

Fender Bass Guitar

Invented in the 1930s
Leo Fender introduced the first commercially successful electric bass guitar—the Fender Precision Bass—in 1951. It was designed to provide a louder, more portable alternative to the double bass for jazz and early rock musicians.

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Music Theory for the Bass Player: A Comprehensive and Hands-on Guide to Playing with More Confidence and Freedom Ernie Ball Regular Slinky Nickel Wound Bass Guitar Strings, 50-105 Gauge (P02832) – Made in California GLEAM Guitar Stand – Adjustable Fit Electric, Classical Guitars and Bass, Accessories, Folding Stand (CG-4) Bass Scales Chart 16 x 24 Poster for Beginners – Master Bass Guitar Fretboard Notes, Bass Scales and Modes

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