The Joys of Playing Classical and Fingerstyle Guitar

Playing the guitar is a fulfilling and enjoyable experience for many people. But what sets classical and fingerstyle guitar apart from other styles and techniques? And why are lessons crucial for mastering these styles?

Why Choose Classical and Fingerstyle Guitar?

Classical and fingerstyle guitar offer a unique experience that differs from other types of guitar playing. While most guitarists use picks to strum or pluck strings, classical and fingerstyle players rely on their fingers alone. This technique allows for more control over each note's tone and volume, creating a rich, intricate sound as well offering a more tactile experience in playing. Keep in mind that fingerstyle does not have to be limited to an acoustic steel string guitar, with some adaptation everything works the same on electric guitar as well.

Moreover, these styles have deep roots in music history. Classical guitar originated in the 16th century and as it's evolved it has produced some of the most challenging and complex pieces ever written for the instrument. A few examples I recommend you listen to are “Las Abejas” by Agustin Barrios, Passacaglia [Suite No. 7] by G.F. Handel, preferably David Russell's transcription, and “Tango en skai” by Roland Dyens.

On the other hand, fingerstyle guitar emerged in the early 20th century and incorporates elements from various genres, in fact I'm positive you could find examples of every genre being incorporated into fingerstyle guitar at some point, yes, all of them.

But beyond its technicality and historical significance, classical and fingerstyle guitar offer many benefits. Here are just a few reasons why you should consider learning these styles:

Adds a whole new element to your playing while improving finger dexterity:
Like every other instrument and style, mastering classical or fingerstyle techniques requires precision control of your fingers. This learning curve can be longer at first for some but don't let this prevent you from trying! If you already play guitar you'll have an easier time focusing on automating the right hand motions. Adding these techniques to your tool box can make it easier to play or switch between different styles of guitar playing, or hybrid techniques like “chicken picking” which involves holding the pick between the thumb and index finger while using the middle and ring finger to pluck additional strings.
What these techniques allow you to do is open up the guitar and to play it like a piano. Part of what I mean by that is that sounds and chord voicings that aren't possible with a pick become available. If you're interested in stepping away from the same old chords and sounds, this is a great direction to take your practice sessions in.
Expands Musical Repertoire: Classical and fingerstyle guitar will introduce you to a wide range of musical genres and styles, about as wide a range as anything that is possible with electric guitar . By learning these techniques, you can expand your musical repertoire and develop a deeper appreciation for different types of music. From classical composers such as Bach and Mozart to modern fingerstyle arrangements of popular songs, there is something for everyone to enjoy. As you improve you can try your hand at pieces by the greats like Don Ross, Andy McKee, Antoine Dufour and more.
Enhances Music Theory Knowledge: Both classical and fingerstyle guitar require a solid understanding of music theory. Learning these styles will not only improve your technical skills but also deepen your knowledge of the fretboard, making it easier to understand and play other songs. Understanding what you're playing is an essential part of taking your playing from notes to music that moves listeners.
Boosts Creativity: Classical and fingerstyle guitar encourage creativity through the use of complex melodies, chords, and harmonies. As you become more familiar with these styles, you can start incorporating your own ideas and improvisations. While learning pieces from sheet music is a fundamental aspect of playing classical guitar, arrangements with Tab are commonly available; although I highly encourage you to learn to read music, period. Many players find memorizing music from tab more difficult than from sheet music. You’ll find your own compositions and improvisations more interesting as you internalize and incorporate these different “tools” into your own paying.
Fingerstyle arrangements can be found with both standard and tab notation as well, but learning by ear will help you tremendously in the long run as well. I encourage improvisation on any instrument but it will be more commonplace with fingerstyle guitar, as well is the use of open tunings.
Provides a Therapeutic Outlet: Many people find playing classical or fingerstyle guitar to be a relaxing and therapeutic activity. No need to fuss with amps or pedals! The focus required to play these styles can help reduce stress and improve mental clarity.

Ultimately it isn't easy but few things are in music or playing an instrument. Lessons will get you over the first few learning curves so you can save time and focus on making music rather than controlling your fingers. I can help, schedule some time with me today and let’s get started!

Garrett PellandMarch 24, 2025Garrett Pelland MusicClassical, Fingerstyle

The Joys of Playing Classical and Fingerstyle Guitar

Playing the guitar is a fulfilling and enjoyable experience for many people. But what sets classical and fingerstyle guitar apart from other styles and techniques? And why are lessons crucial for mastering these styles?

Why Choose Classical and Fingerstyle Guitar?

On the other hand, fingerstyle guitar emerged in the early 20th century and incorporates elements from various genres, in fact I'm positive you could find examples of every genre being incorporated into fingerstyle guitar at some point, yes, all of them.

But beyond its technicality and historical significance, classical and fingerstyle guitar offer many benefits. Here are just a few reasons why you should consider learning these styles:

Adds a whole new element to your playing while improving finger dexterity:

Fingerstyle arrangements can be found with both standard and tab notation as well, but learning by ear will help you tremendously in the long run as well. I encourage improvisation on any instrument but it will be more commonplace with fingerstyle guitar, as well is the use of open tunings.

Provides a Therapeutic Outlet: Many people find playing classical or fingerstyle guitar to be a relaxing and therapeutic activity. No need to fuss with amps or pedals! The focus required to play these styles can help reduce stress and improve mental clarity.

Ultimately it isn't easy but few things are in music or playing an instrument. Lessons will get you over the first few learning curves so you can save time and focus on making music rather than controlling your fingers. I can help, schedule some time with me today and let’s get started!