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McDisco
Aloha
1 Posts |
 Posted - 02/02/2005 : 09:10:08 AM
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I play classical guitar, and dabble in flamenco, but gave away my instrument to my sister for Christmas. I'm interested in studying some slack key.
What kind of guitar is best for playing slack key? Is there any model tailor made for this style? Nylon or steel strings? Does a classical guitar work?
m
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Mark
Ha`aha`a
USA
1628 Posts |
Posted - 02/02/2005 : 09:25:43 AM
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Hi
Welcome to the wonderful world of slack key... & to the 'Patch, where there will be as many opinions on this subject as there are leaves in the field......
The short answer is that any guitar will be fine -- slack key is a way to play the guitar, not a type. There are many fine players who play classical-style guitars, many fine players who play every kind of steel string acoustic imaginable, both six & 12 strings (don't know of any harp guitar players, but it's just a matter of time....) and some fine older recordings of players using electrics.
If you are used to playing classical guitar, I'd suggest sticking with it, if only because you wouldn't have to learn a different string spacing.
Check out what Ozzie Kotani, Keola Beamer & Jeff Rogers do on a nylon string.
You didn't mention where you live -- it may be possible to hang with some locals (you can post to the KaniKapila section..) and try out a variety of guitars.
cheers,
Mark |
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Auntie Nancy
`Olu`olu
USA
593 Posts |
Posted - 02/02/2005 : 10:17:54 AM
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aloha and welcome to the 'patch!
since you're looking for a new guitar, the cut-out is pretty neat.
If you've played flamenco, you'll be a very quick study. Our kumu (teacher) at a workshop a coule weeks ago and made my inexpensive classical guitar w/nylon strings sound awesome... I don't think it'll ever sound that way with me playing it, but it does show that you can play on anything. A bunch of the songs go up to the 14th fret, but again, if you're used to that from the flamenco, you'll be there.
auntie nancy
and I second Mark's comment - expand your profile and if you're anywhere close to anyone, they'll help you. |
nancy cook |
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slackkeymike
Lokahi
440 Posts |
Posted - 02/02/2005 : 6:36:38 PM
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Although I agree in princple that any guitar will do, I think we need to be a bit more precise. Since you will be "slacking" some strings, guitars with consitent string/fret clearance (especially for the lower strings) is a must, to avoid buzz and so on.
Generally speaking, since you play classical, you will understand the quality thing. From what I can tell, there are bunches of folks that play slack with nylon. Personally, I prefer the "brighter" sound of steel, but love the soft touch of the nylon. Get Both!!
Mike |
Aloha, Mike |
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Pops
Lokahi
USA
387 Posts |
Posted - 02/03/2005 : 04:30:05 AM
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| Since you're already familiar with guitars and probably up to par on what makes a guitar good, you might have any easier time getting back on the saddle with a classical. All things considered if you have the choice pick which one you like. They'll all work. The important is to play, play, play! |
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chip
Aloha
Canada
38 Posts |
Posted - 02/18/2005 : 8:20:05 PM
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| Yes there is a guitar put together for slack, check out Bob Brozman web site, I think it was a Santa crus, Chip |
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OHIO-HAOLE
Akahai
USA
86 Posts |
Posted - 02/19/2005 : 09:19:14 AM
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 Aloha Mcdisco...In answer to what kind of guitar is best for slack key...It's the one that is tuned properly! I've ended up playing tunings like taro patch slightly out of tune and that just doesn't cut it! Keep the tuning perfectly tuned with a chromatic tuner,don't trust your ear. As far as steel or nylon...well for me it's all like others have said..a personal thing...I really like the brighter steel sound for some songs and the softer nylon sound for others! It doesn't mattah! Do what you like! I've heard slack sound good on cheap plastic guitars, if the player plays from the heart and knows what their doing!...Just play and play and play!...Welcome! Ken. |
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marzullo
`Olu`olu
USA
923 Posts |
Posted - 02/19/2005 : 09:44:53 AM
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So much good advice! the only thing i can add is: choose a guitar that you will want to play often. practice is what makes you better. for example, if you live in los angeles and spend hours on I-10 traffic jams, consider getting a papoose to play in the car. if you fly a lot, then get a baby taylor or a larrivee parlor so you can bring it with you. if you like to hang out at the beach, get a guitar that you would be happy to take with you to the beach. if the sight of a drop dead guitar gives you the irresistable urge to pick it up and play it, then get a grimes.
aloha,
keith
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slackkeymike
Lokahi
440 Posts |
Posted - 02/19/2005 : 3:52:59 PM
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Uhhh (hope I am not stepping in it), what is a grimes??
Mike |
Aloha, Mike |
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Admin
Pupule
USA
4551 Posts |
Posted - 02/19/2005 : 4:30:30 PM
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quote:
Originally posted by slackkeymike
Uhhh (hope I am not stepping in it), what is a grimes??
www.grimesguitars.com |
Andy |
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`Ilio Nui
`Olu`olu
USA
826 Posts |
Posted - 02/19/2005 : 5:49:37 PM
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Can he really wait 2 1/2 years (or more)for a guitar, In the meantime you might want to check out Seagull Guitars http://www.seagullguitars.com/intro.htm Great for the price. Of course, I couldn't resist the urge to pick up a 1998 Goodall Royal Hawaiian Standard at Gryphon Strings a few week ago, but that's another thread.
It doesn't really matter. Nylon or Steel. Whatevaz you're comfortable with.
Jus' press.
Dave
PS: E como mai |
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wdf
Ha`aha`a
USA
1153 Posts |
Posted - 02/20/2005 : 09:04:03 AM
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Yeah, I agree. Whatever you are most comfortable with will work best. Personally, I have a problem with a classical (or any 12 fret) guitar reaching the higher frets. Although, I did play a wonderful Grimes 12 fret Hapa model with a cutaway and it seemed to work for me. Now if I only has the $6000, or so, and the patience to wait 2-3 years. |
Dusty |
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