5 Little Known Facts about Guitar

Guitars have been a beloved musical instrument for centuries, and there are many fascinating facts about their history and design. From the oldest guitar-like instrument found in a South African cave to the world's largest guitar built in Canada, the guitar has a rich and diverse history. In this blog post, we'll explore five little-known facts about guitars that may surprise you.

1. The oldest guitar-like instrument was found in a cave in South Africa. The instrument, which is around 3,300 years old, was made from a tortoise shell and had strings made of animal gut.

2. The first six-string guitar was created in the early 19th century by Christian Frederick Martin, a German-born American guitar maker. Prior to this, guitars typically had only four strings.

3. The shape of the modern guitar was influenced by the Spanish vihuela, a stringed instrument that was popular in the 16th century. The vihuela had a round back and a narrow waist, similar to the shape of a modern classical guitar.

4. The electric guitar was invented in the 1930s by George Beauchamp and Paul Barth. The first electric guitar, called the "Frying Pan," was made with a steel neck and a magnetic pickup, which allowed the instrument to be amplified through a speaker.

5. The world's largest guitar is over 100 feet long and was built in Canada in 2018. The giant guitar, which is made of wood and steel, is a popular tourist attraction in the city of Berthierville, Quebec.

As you can see, there are many interesting and little-known facts about guitars. From their ancient origins to the modern innovations that have shaped the instrument, the guitar is a truly unique and fascinating part of our musical heritage. Whether you're a seasoned musician or just a music lover, these facts are sure to pique your interest and deepen your appreciation for the guitar.

 

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