Musical Instrument

Acoustic Bass Guitars

How Do Acoustic Bass Guitars Work?

By Chris Holloway

Acoustic bass guitars are the deeper brothers of Western guitars. Acoustic bass guitars don't sound like acoustic basses when unamplified, they sound like guitars strung with heavy strings.

Acoustic bass guitars are made to be played along side an acoustic guitar and can be plugged in to enhance the sound or left unplugged, they feature hollow bodies just like an acoustic guitar, but the bodies are larger in size.

Typically equipped with piezoelectric or magnetic pickups and amplified Acoustic bass guitars are bass guitars without electronic pick-ups. The four string short scale bass guitar is the kind most commonly used by beginners. The lighter weight of the guitar allows a beginner to become accustomed to the weight of the guitar while they learn.

Acoustic bass guitars are an extremely recent advent as compared with most other versions of the instrument. Other types of bass guitars include acoustic bass guitars which have hollow bodies, acoustic-electric bass guitars, and semi-acoustic bass guitars which are only partially hollow.

All About an Acoustic Bass Guitar

By Victor Epand

One of the most demanding is the acoustic bass guitar. This is a bass instrument with a hollow wooden body similar to a bass guitar, though usually somewhat larger than a steel string acoustic guitar. A steel strung acoustic bass guitar is louder and sounds brighter than a classical guitar.

Entry-level acoustic bass guitars are generally constructed entirely from laminated wood. But mid range acoustic bass guitars may sometimes have a combination of solid parts, often solid top and laminated woods. The acoustic bass guitar usually has a hollow wooden body similar to that of the steel string acoustic guitar. The majority of acoustic basses are fretted. The Earthwood acoustic bass guitar was introduced in 1972.

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Playing In An Orchestra

Playing In An Orchestra - The Pros And Cons

By Patrick Lee

Orchestras face increasing financial problems reduction in recording work. Musicians in many orchestras are paid "per service" and the trombone is not always part of the "core" group of players in the orchestra. Orchestra playing teaches teamwork. Playing in an orchestra with high quality, with a conductor who was is dynamic, demanding, knowledgeable and passionate could be the beginning of life-career as a musician.

Playing in a three-piece rock band versus playing in an orchestra--guess which one is louder. Many musicians (particularly string players) train aspiring to a solo or chamber music career; a life in a symphony orchestra often seems "third best" to them.

5 Types of Orchestra Instruments

By Alexander Sutton

Orchestra instruments are the components of the massive symphonic sound that has created some of the most beautiful music ever written. Famous musicians like Yo-Yo Ma have made a name for themselves using instruments, like the cello, to create beautiful solo compositions as well. Cello. This very large instrument is similar to a violin, but have a very deep sound that is extremely powerful and loud. However, this instrument can also be very soft and sweet. Its great range of sound is extremely popular for this reason, and this instrument has a huge role in orchestras.

Violin. Probably the best-known orchestra instrument is also the most dominant in orchestras, a section is often composed of dozens of players. These instruments have a much higher tone than cellos, but the same expansive range. Trumpets. This brass instrument is the dominant sound in the brass section. Percussion.

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Woodwind Musical Instruments

Woodwind Musical Instruments - A Synopsis

By Nigel Arding

A woodwind musical instrument is a musical device that has a resonator. Common shapes of air columns include - conical, cylinder etc.

Woodwind musical instruments can be divided into 2 categories

• Brass Instruments - made primarily of metal

• Woodwind Instruments - made primarily from wood

The more well known and used woodwind musical instruments are as follows

Bassoon, Flute, Clarinet, Oboe, Saxophones

The bassoon, clarinet, oboe and saxophone use a mouthpiece whereas the flute uses what is called a headjoint as the method of introducing air to the instrument.

Unlike the string instruments or some percussion instruments, most wind instruments don't require tuning.

A flute typically costs $350 and is made from nickel-silver, then plated in silver. For the cheaper models of both clarinet and oboe, their bodies are usually made of ABS plastic, whereas the more expensive instruments are made of Grenadilla wood.

The Wonders of Woodwind Instruments

By Victor Epand

This type of instrument is usually a tube that makes a sound when air is blown through it. Some are brass wind instruments, some are wood wind instruments and all create a unique sound that appeals to different people. To play a musical instrument, to enjoy playing it and to practice it, it tends to help when a person can enjoy the sound and familiarize himself to it.

Unlike the string instruments, or some percussion instruments, many wind instruments don't require as much tuning, if even necessary. This particular group of instruments is also seen as instruments that are a little easier to learn and play. There are many simpler wind instruments to choose from that emit beautiful sounds when played right.

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Used Guitars

Cheap Used Guitars - Are They Worth it to Buy?

By Amber Ray

Are you not sure where to get cheap guitars from?

Thanks to the cheap guitar market that now everyone can buy a guitar even if they have a tight budget. You will find a large variety of cheap used guitar in the market. The best part about the used guitars is that the older a guitar gets, the finer the sound it produces, especially in the case of acoustic guitars. The best source for cheap guitars is the internet. You can buy guitars from all top brands at an unbelievable price.

Then, there are auction sites where guitar lovers bid for their favorite instrument.

Today, there are people who perceive cheap guitars as low quality and poorly manufactured instruments. Now the American brands also manufacture cheap guitars.

Keep in mind that cheap guitars are no longer the 'No-Name' instruments.

Used Guitars For Sale Online

By Slabey Randy T

Are you a musician interested in buying your guitar? Do you have a very limited budget for buying you guitar? For instance, if guitar is your instrument then you would be preoccupied with the thought of owning a guitar. If you want to get an acoustic guitar then used guitar will be much better than new ones because used acoustic guitars have rich sound than the new ones. The fastest way is to check online for guitars for sale.

When you are buying used guitars online, you need to understand that there is no fixed price and the price would depend on the owner of the guitar and the condition of the guitar. To find more information on used guitars you can visit

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Trumpet Players

Trumpet Players Make Better Kissers

By Debbie Ray

The trumpet is known for its strong brassy sound. Although there are three different valves on a trumpet, much of its sound is attributed to lip tension. Playing the trumpet correctly does require strong, well-disciplined lips. Press your lips to the trumpet mouth piece and "smile" slightly. The air flowing through the trumpet produces a sound. Trying to play with the sides of the lips can also help strengthen the lips.

Once a player has strong lips, he or she can mix various lip positions along with various valve combinations to create beautiful music. Some songs can be played without even changing any valve combinations, or using any valves at all.

Every individual note has its own preset combination of valves and lip position. In addition to producing different notes, a player's lips and breath can also be used to play notes louder or softer. Similarly, if a player rolls his or her tongue while playing, a unique sound is produced.

How to Buy a New Brass Trumpet

By Esther Gay

Based on your budget, there is a wide range of prices as well as a lot of brand name instruments from which to choose. Occasionally you will be able to find an excellent instrument for a surprisingly good price. If your child is unable to find a student trumpet through the band director, you may want to consider purchasing a brass trumpet online.

By purchasing online, you can comparison shop, and usually find the best deal. Once you get an idea of what you want after checking local stores and catalogs, you sould take your search for brass trumpets online.

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Brass Instrument

Want to Play a Brass Instrument?

By Debbie Ray

The first part of my advice is be ready to practice, practice, practice on your new instrument of choice - and then practice some more. Some basic information on Brass instruments is as follows. This vibration is the first key part in playing a brass instrument. Also, the length of the instrument helps control pitch as well.

All right, so now that we have a bit of basic background information on how sounds are formed on the Brass family of instruments let me move on to some advice for beginning band students. "How much time?" If it is just too much you can overcome this problem all together by buying a Mute for your child's Brass instrument - be it a trumpet, trombone on whatever.

Deciding on a Brass Instrument

By Alexander Sutton

Brass instruments are both wonderful to hear and a joy to see. These instruments are used for a huge number of musical styles, so anyone interested in playing can, with a little practice, jump in and enjoy themselves in a large body of music, whether it's classical, jazz, or world music. Each type of instrument has its own unique sound, playing style, and music so picking which instrument best for you can be a tough choice as each offers its own special appeal to players.

One of the most popular instruments is the trumpet. This instrument is easy to play, compact, and has a lead place in many different musical compositions in a large number of genres. This instrument is quite expensive and difficult to maintain. With its limitations to orchestra music, only players interested in this type of music should purchase it.

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Speaker Systems

Portable Speaker Systems For Rocking Sound Effects

By Tom Lopez

The speaker systems are getting versatile particularly because they are used as mobile-music-devices for those who value compact and multiple devices over sound effects. Portable speaker systems are good for small spaces such as small rooms and small offices. Many companies are manufacturing the portable speaker systems and some of them include BOSE, JBL, Logitech and Creative. A good up to the mark portable speaker system with a nice subwoofer provides distortion free and deep bass which is enough for both office space and house environment.

While all the other devices occupy larger space these fit into a very small space and give the desired sound effects. Some wireless speakers are also available at a slightly higher price to utilize still lesser space at comparatively not so high price.

Portable Audio Systems - Do Systems Live Up to Portability and Sound Quality Claims?

By Scott Schwartz

What is a portable sound system? Systems can vary from ultra-portable handheld speaker PA systems, like the Anchor MegaVox PRO or Anchor MiniVox Lite to Midsized systems like the Anchor Liberty or Xtreme and large capacity audio systems like the Anchor Beacon Sound System.

The larger systems also offer greater options, such as wired microphones, single wireless microphone receivers and multiple wireless receivers.

Varied systems also offer options such as built in MP3 players. While the smallest systems tend to be solely battery operated, the larger systems often allow for AC and DC operation, from internal batteries and external power sources. How portable does the system have to be? To research specifics on Portable sound systems, visit full line audio system dealers.

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Electric Guitar Shopping

Electric Guitar Shopping? Check Out the Line of Electric Dean Guitars For Quality and Value

By John Kaisen

Owners and players of Electric Dean guitars are perhaps some of the most enthusiastic fans around. The website supports a forum for the fans, a store for Dean guitar related paraphernalia. Dean Guitars produces a variety of different models to fit any need as they cover a broad range of prices.

A great beginners electric guitar at a bargain basement price. Averaging about $200 at retail, it is another great option. Once again, not at the top of the Electric Dean Guitars line, but still very acceptable.

Overall, Dean produces over 50 different models.

Shopping Online Guitar Stores - The Safe and Easy Way to Get the Gifts You Want

By Roger Fudge

Shopping at online guitar stores can make all the trouble and frustration of holiday shopping disappear. Shopping for guitars and accessories doesn't have to mean running from store to store looking for deals. With the recent upswing in identity theft and credit card fraud, it can be a bit scary. The truth is that online guitar stores are as safe as any major shopping site.

All online retailers are required by law to protect your information. Run the company through a background check with the Better Business Bureau. Check the site for testimonials and reports from past customers. A reputable online guitar store, or any business for that matter, will have these posted plainly.

Response time should be at most within 24 hours.

Some of the bigger guitar store sites may even a live chat option for their customers. If you will take a little time to look before you leap, you will definitely have a safe, secure and reliable shopping experience. Remember the adage "Caveat emptor" which means "Let the buyer beware" is a staple of conducting business online.

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DJ Speaker Selection

DJ Speaker Selection

By Andy Speropulos

Sound is entirely subjective. Before you purchase a new set of speakers, lets look at four major components of selecting a loudspeaker; clarity, power consumption and output, and aesthetics.

Clarity is not subjective!!! There is clarity in the speaker or there is not. Efficiency is the second most important factor when determining speaker selection. Even in powered speakers. You must keep in mind that the amplifiers that will be needed to power your speakers take power obviously. I recommend QSC PLX2 amplifiers because of their amazing efficiency and power output attained. There is also speaker efficiency.

Almost everyone I've sold a speaker to, when looking at the speaker, says, "How many watts is it?" This rating ranged from 88db/1watt to 109db/1 watt. Go take a speaker whose efficiency rating is low and compare it to a speaker whose it high, and for the specs readers. Put down your manuals and go actually listen to the speaker.

How to Choose a Good Speaker

By Victor Epand

A speaker is a device through which we receive the sound or the music. Therefore, it is very essential to choose a good speaker that will deliver high quality sound and which has high frequency level like the 2-way speakers and 3-way speakers.

The first step in choosing a good speaker is to decide what kind of speaker is required: whether it is a floor-standing speaker, a subwoofer or satellite system speaker, and an in wall, in ceiling or an outdoors speaker. Now, all these different speakers have different qualities and features. For instance, subwoofers are the tiniest speakers with amazing performance whereas, floor standing speakers are the larger ones with wide range of frequencies and deep bass. A good speaker should deliver clear, natural and lively sound with no distortion.

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Clarinet Sheet Music

Clarinet Sheet Music

By Kristy Annely

Clarinet sheet music is different than other r sheet music, since the clarinet has a limited tone production. The clarinet needs that flat to accommodate its performance and play. Most people prefer the B Flat clarinet.

Clarinets cannot be used to play all notes on a regular music sheet. They need to have special music sheets that contain clarinet notes. Clarinet sheet music is very specific, and yet players can play high notes that may not be on the sheet music or "music score."

Why Yamaha Clarinets Have Gained So Much Popularity

By Jeanie Lotzage

The student design, YCL-250, incorporates some of the great qualities of Yamaha's more expensive clarinet lines. It has a 65 mm barrel design, which delivers a great response and great tone. For professional clarinetists, the YCL-650 has a bell designed to assist in projection and to improve low note intonation for consistency of sound. For E-flat clarinet players, Yamaha makes two models, the Custom and the Professional. The custom has a 42 mm barrel, Grenadilla body, silver plated ligature and mouthpiece cap, and silver plated keys. Yamaha clarinets are popular because they do their job so well. Yamaha makes a range of instruments for all skill levels and price ranges.

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Home Theatre Speakers

Bringing In The Noise - Home Theatre Speakers

By Samantha Davis

There are many different types of speaker systems that you can use in a home theatre. While well recognized brand names can put out great speakers and speaker systems, pay attention to the less well known brands, as well, because some of those speakers may be just as good, and several hundred dollars cheaper.

When choosing out speaker systems, don't forget the surround sound! One of the best effects of a home theatre speaker system is when the surround sound is perfectly attended to. This brings a dimension to movies most people have never experienced . . . since even many people with a home theatre system don't have the surround sound set up appropriately.

The basic common home theater set up is a screen at one end of the room, one central speaker, one speaker flanking each side of the screen, two speakers providing surround sound on the left and right, and sometimes a speaker adding surround sound from the rear (absolutely great for either war or horror movies).

The decision on home theatre speakers is an important one, especially if you want to be oriented towards movie watching.

What To Look For In Home Theatre Speakers

By Candice Sabrina

Home theatres are becoming commonplace in households around the world. Offering a great place for a family to get together to view movies, television programs and even home videos, these rooms are not your typical living rooms, however. The home theatre speakers are one consideration that can be found on a budget and still perform quite well. When looking for home theatre speakers, it's wise to do the following things:

Budget: Setting a budget is a first and foremost concern. Since home theatre set ups can run into the thousands, having a dollar amount for the home theatre speakers can really assist in the process of locating the best for the family in question.

Look at makes and models: With desires for home theatre speakers clearly stated and a budget set, it's time to start researching different makes and models. Home theatre speakers purchased in sets should include at least five separate speakers to create the surround sound effect.

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Online Guitar Store

Online Guitar Store

By James W Morley

Over the last century, no instrument has come to prominence like the guitar. As the guitar moved to the front of the band, so did the need to design and build guitars to fit different styles and genres. The industry has never disappointed. Whether it is electric or acoustic, solid body or hollow, jazz or rock there is a guitar that you can jam with. The best way to find one that suits your needs and your price range is to check out the online guitar stores.

If you are new to guitars, find some friends or band mates and try out their equipment.

Do your legwork before you go to an online guitar store.

That you can do online; and that is the beauty of an online guitar store. Do some research on whether your choice of guitar really suits your needs.

Find out what type of guitar they were made famous on. Search around for the best deal on the guitar you want. Read the reviews of the guitar and the retailer. Remember that for every Keith Richards, there are a ten million Keith Richard wannabes (show of hands everybody) who need to sell that guitar that has been moved from closet to closet over the years, hoping to help its owner recapture his youth.

Online Guitar Store - Kick-Start Your Guitar Playing

Guitars have become important parts of every song today; be it rock or pop, guitars find their use everywhere. Guitars can be of two types: Spanish and Hawaiian. Whereas the Spanish guitar is the new-age guitar, the Hawaiian guitar is a classical guitar.

Electric guitars basically amplify sound through amplifiers. Popular rock songs often employ "distortion effects" from electric guitars for a fun and funky sound. Those effects are made using pick-ups and "guitar pedals." Guitar pedals open up a whole new set of possibilities for guitarists to add that extra 'zing' to their guitar playing. Amateur guitarists should opt for basic guitar pedals. At any of the online guitar stores, you can choose from a variety of electric guitars, guitar pedals and other gear.

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Musical String Instruments

History of String Instruments

By Cynthia Giles

Of all string musical instruments, the "classical" string instrument that we call the violin would arguably be the most familiar to the most people on any list of string instruments. Renowned in the history of string instruments and instruments of the orchestra, the violin's renown first grew among the Renaissance instruments, although at first among the "classical" music instruments of later decades (really the early Baroque period) it was considered to be a symbol of low social status before the efforts of composers like Orfeo by Claudio Monteverdi and the performances of groups like King Louis XIII's 24 Violons du Roi the violin began to gain the respect that it enjoys in such great abundance today.

All string instruments began as types of bows and were plucked. Today, the violin is actually played with a bow (though plucking the strings with the technique known as "pizzicato" is used to get a staccato effect from the violin). It was during this time with these instruments that the fingerboard was added so that string instruments could be played with either a bow or by plucking with a plectrum or the fingers in "pizzicato" style.

It was during the Baroque period, considered the first "classical" music period of Western Europe and the modern world and dating its start to 1660, that the violin really began to soar. Antionio Vivaldi, Johann Sebastian Bach, and Georg Philipp Telemann were the three greatest Baroque period violin music composers. The luthier artistry of Antonio Stradivari, Guiseppe Guarneri, and Jacob Stainer began creating magnificent-sounding violins during this period and on into the subsequent Classical period.

String Instruments - Bowed, Plucked and Struck

By Gordon Petten

The most popular instruments in the string category include cello, double bass, banjo, harp, guitar, violin and mandolin among others.

Different music genres have emerged with different musical instruments producing different musical sounds hence leading to diversity on people's interests and musical differences.

The only way that a string instrument produces sound is by vibration of one or more strings and the sound transmitted through the instrument body that amplifies the sound for audience to enjoy. The string instruments are classified based on the mode used to vibrate the strings. The three most familiar modes are striking, bowing and plucking. Violins are string instruments that are bowed with a technique referred to as col legno. String instruments such as viola and cello also produce sound by bowing. The hardingfele, rebec, kokyu, igil, nyckelharpa and erhu are also some of the commonly known string instruments played by bowing.

A string instrument depending on the shape and materials used to make it will produce different musical sounds. The length of the instrument will determine the mode of play and the sound produced. A certain length and tension will only produce a single note also known as monophony therefore, for a string instrument to produce multiple notes either more strings have to be added on the instrument or the string has to be stopped from times to times. An example of a multiple note producing string instrument is the piano, which has numerous strings for each note

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Brass Musical Instruments

What Piano Players Should Know About Brass Musical Instruments

By Duane Shinn

Modern brass instruments include trumpet, trombone, baritone, sousaphone (tuba), and French horn. These instruments create a wide variety of tones by the player forcing air into the instrument causing it to resonate in different ways (at different frequencies).

There are two different types of brass instruments, valved and slide. Brass instruments with valves include cornet, trumpet, and French horn. They utilize piston valves (cornet), or rotary valves (French horn). Slide brass instruments use a slide to change the length of tubing and thus the tone of the instrument. Some brass instruments need to be transposed for piano. Music for brass ensembles (four to six brass instruments) often uses the piano as the accompanying instrument. Big bands (swing, dance, and jazz) contain a number of brass instrument and most, if not all, also include a piano.

The pianist helps provides the chord structure, rhythm, and sometimes the melody of the piece. Interestingly, many brass instruments are not made of brass at all. Many brass instruments are silver plated (and they produce a distinctive sound because of this

Musical Instruments Bring Music to Life

By Jennifer R Scott

The world of musical instruments is as vast as it is old. Man has been making music since he first banged rocks together; and since that time music has become a large part of the human experience. It is the focal point of many human activities and the instruments used to create our music are continually evolving.

Drums are arguably the oldest of musical instruments. They the most primal of any existing group of instruments, but have continually been a staple of most genres of music. Their use can be documented all over the world, and in nearly every culture and in every era. Today, drums are the heart of most popular music, whether they be acoustic drums or electronic.

Stringed instruments have been used by humans for millennia. Evidence of these musical instruments can be found dating as far back as Ancient Greece and earlier. This group of instruments has evolved to include a great many variations, ranging from the violin to the guitar, with each sub-category including even more variations. The guitar, for instance, can be found in acoustic, electric and hybrid configurations. The invention of electronic effects processors and other types of synthesizers have only served to increase the variety within this group.

Finally, there are the wind instruments. This group of musical instruments can be broken down into two main categories; brass and woodwind. Brass instruments get their name because they are almost always made from metal, and that metal is often brass. Sound is produced by vibrating the lips against a mouthpiece, and this vibration is amplified through the tubing of the instrument. Examples of brass instruments include trumpets, trombones and tubas; just to name a few.

Woodwinds are members of the wind group of musical instruments, but their name is a bit of a misnomer. Woodwinds aren't always made from wood. Their name most often has to do with the fact that they require the use of a wooden reed in order to produce sound, but even this aspect is not universal to the group. Flutes, for example, are not only made from metal (although they can be made of wood, and most were for centuries) but they also do not use a reed of any kind. Saxophones are also made from metal, but they do require a wooden reed.

Jennifer R. Scott has been writing for over ten years on a broad range of topics. She has a background that includes such diverse areas as environmentalism, cooking, animal care, and technology. If you would like more information on music, please visit musical instruments, a supplier of quality instruments and accessories for the musician in your life.

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Music Instruments For Sale

Places to Find Musical Instruments For Sale - What You Should Know About It

By Paul Kramer

Musical instruments are as old as the music itself therefore there is a lot of traditional styles of instruments. The craftsmen that make these traditional instruments very often have products for sale. A lot of the instruments are sold directly to the customers and some are sold through dealers and music stores.

There are a vast number of stores that specialize in products for sale and some of these are big musical superstores. These stores usually have a vast range of instruments and also instruments that are produced by a range of different companies. Some of these stores also sell disk jockey equipment and band supplies.

The Global Recession - Documenting the Decline in Musical Instrument Sales

By Shelly Wutke

When you think about the effects of the global recession, we immediately think big picture issues such as defaulting on mortgages, bank failures, and families in crisis. Yes, these are the largest issues the World has faced since the economy collapsed in 2007, but the byproduct of this global lack of cash flow has been a drastic reduction in retail spending. Luxury and convenience items are no longer an option for some people, and large companies have been seeing a decline in sales of high-ticket items over the past two years. In response to this NAMM, the National Association of Music Merchants has compiled their Global Report to document the World decline in musical instrument sales.

The Global Report analyzes musical product sales around the world, including Australia, Austria, Brazil, Canada, China, Germany, Italy, Japan, Norway, Spain, Switzerland, and the U.K. The report breaks down music product sales into categories in order to better analyze the recent sales trends and to document the specific declines as we saw them in 2007 and 2008.

Overall, it was found that although sales were strong in 2007 until the 4th quarter when stocks sharply dropped and the retail sector saw a drastic reduction in spending. Every retail sector was affected, but nowhere as sharply as non-essential items. Although each sector was affected in music product sales, some declined more seriously than others.

The key to the reduction in sales was seen both in price point as well as the necessity of the item.Items such as pianos and home or Church organs saw a drastic decline, as those items had a high price point and consumer spending was at an all time low. One sector that did grow when others declined was accessory sales, as shoppers maintained purchasing items to keep up their current instruments rather than purchasing new.

Drum kit sales were at a high prior to the recession, as parents opted to purchase entire drum kits due to a good price point of $500 or under. In 2008 there was a decline in drum kit purchases, which may be due in part to both the recession and the hot resell market on eBay and Craigslist. Re-sell is a practice often put into place during a recession, with users selling off items that they no longer need to generate extra cash. If a person cannot afford lessons for the instrument, they may simply sell it to generate extra cash.

Most drum accessories saw a decline, as the sales of items such as Cymbals decreased by 6% in the US. Cymbals hold a 14% market share of all drum accessory sales in the US, and have been trending upwards since 1999 with an almost consistent rise in retail value. Perhaps one of the reasons for a decline in Cymbal sales could be attributed to the fact that it is seen as a luxury item with regards to drumming. Items such as sticks and mallets actually saw a slight 1% increase, as it's evident that these products are considered necessary to drummers. The decline in Cymbal sales was seen in places around the world, as Australia also reported a reduction on retail Cymbal sales.

The impact of the global recession has obvious consequences in all areas of the retail sector, and as the NAMM global report illustrates, musical products have not been excluded from the economic breakdown. As the economic world slowly recovers, we can expect a better outlook for sales of musical instruments in the future.

http://www.CymbalsDirect.com is the largest independent cymbal shop on the Net. Cymbals Direct attracts customers from around the world seeking personal expert advice when purchasing Sabian and Meinl Cymbals. With the added benefit of the CD Drummer's Blog, site users have access to festival schedules, how to guides, and an artist directory.

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Electric and Digital Musical Instruments

Electric and Digital Musical Instruments Using Piano Keyboards

By Mike Shaw

A keyboard is the part with which some musical instruments are played. The keyboards are the key to these instruments. Musical instruments like piano and synthesizer are two of the musical instruments that are played with a keyboard. The keyboards earlier used mechanical devices to produce sound but the modern keyboards are electronic. Starting from the traditional pianos to the modern day synthesizer all are dependent on the keyboard.

Some of the earliest keyboard instruments that were in use were pipe organ, clavichord, hurdy gurdy and harpsichord. Among these the organ is the oldest keyboard instrument. The keyboards are also portable these days. Keyboards today are electronic and the traditional forms of keyboards are almost obsolete today.

Again in the 20th century, electronic keyboard instruments were developed. There was a search for an instrument that would sound like a piano

Why Electric Violins Increase in Popularity

By Hailey Alton

Specifically targeting violin enthusiasts, the new generation of Electric Violins consists of easy to use, new age musical instruments for both amateur and seasoned musicians. This new range of Electric Violins is designed to deliver strong expressive sounds that are loud enough to be heard from any angle or position when a band is playing live on stage. It is an undeniable fact that these Electric Violins have been superbly engineered, so that the original violin sound is still maintained with a great deal of precision. The electric violin also come with an additional, new and very interesting option commonly known as the silent play feature, which allows the violins to be played silently using a system that records the notes played, which can then be read from an SD card.

Electric violins are also equipped with some built-in electronic pickup sounds. This is yet another feature that contribute to the efficiency of these popular violins, and owing to which this instrument can now even contribute to jazz and blues music styles. Moreover, newly designed electronic instruments like the violin have a solid body which is specially crafted to eliminate sound feedback from resonances caused by body designs of earlier versions of the eclectic violins. The new generation of instrument is capable of producing much sharper sounds than their non-electric counterparts, thus making them the much preferred option in contemporary music genres like rock and pop in which violin sounds have only recently been introduced and experimentation is ongoing.

Many electric violins have in fact been designed using the same basic principles that were implemented on electric guitars, where the sounds first pass through a kind of sound processor to remove distortions and other feedbacks from the input sound to produce a much clearer sound output. The latter feature, with which the slick and novel violins are equipped, greatly resolve tuning issues and reduce tuning time and hassles. After all, a fine tuned violin generates better music; hence yet another reason to opt for a new instrument. Indeed, many electric violins from esteemed companies are designed as such that the musical sound and use of the instrument is a technology revolution in itself.

Moreover, the bodies of these many new state of the art violins are neatly mounted, using wood, glass, carbon fibers and Kevlar, all of which are materials that have been meticulously selected due to their light weight properties. The designs of the new instruments are so diverse that some of them come with extra features such as frets, additional strings and other sophisticated types of strings that can produce very unique sounds. It is precisely for these reasons that the new violins are growing extremely popular and becoming the favorites of most new age violin players.

After all, the aim most makers wish to achieve in designing these new models of electric violins is to suit the diverse needs and musical tastes of modern violin players, particularly as the violin tune is being introduced into different musical styles these days. Nevertheless, if you are used to the traditional instrument, you will certainly need a few days of practice and fine tuning of your skills in order to adapt to the new capabilities of electric violins.

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Yamaha Music Keyboard

Yamaha Music Keyboard - What is Good For Intermediate Players?

By Suresh Bist

If you are an intermediate level player, here is what you need to keep in mind before you buy a keyboard.

After playing the keyboards for a couple of years, you should ideally look at a keyboard that will help you grow as a musician. If you can afford the budget, a beginner arranger workstation like the Yamaha 550 will be a very option. You can record with the built-in accompaniment or you can record one track at a time. The reason being you will need more than 61 keys in that case, since 61 keys are not going to enough for many classical pieces.

Electric and Digital Musical Instruments Using Piano Keyboards

By Mike Shaw

The keyboards usually have keys some large and some small by pressing which the sound is produced. Some of the earliest keyboard instruments that were in use were pipe organ, clavichord, hurdy gurdy and harpsichord. Among these the organ is the oldest keyboard instrument. After this the piano came to be used and now the synthesizer is the sensation all over.

The keyboards are available in various sizes and shapes and even in different colors. The keyboards are also portable these days. You can either buy these keyboards from the shop which sells musical instruments or can even get them online. If you notice and keep a regular check over the internet you will very often find that some great keyboards are on sale.

You will also find out that there are many auctions that take place where the used keyboards are put up for sale. These keyboards are in a good condition and if you buy them from the auction you will even save some of your money. Keyboards today are electronic and the traditional forms of keyboards are almost obsolete today.

The harpsichord and the clavichord were the two keyboard instruments that were used in the early 14th century. After that in the 18th century the piano came into being and was widespread and the earlier two instruments lost their popularity. Again in the 20th century, electronic keyboard instruments were developed. There was a search for an instrument that would sound like a piano. So, the synthesizers were developed and this ended the search for an electronic piano.

Other post you may interested in reading: Gibson Musical Instruments

Vintage Guitars

Baby Boomers Best Investment - Vintage Guitars

By Jerry Sacca

Remember what it was like waiting and wishing you could save enough money to buy your first good guitar?

The only way to get the guitar, amp, or drums you wanted was by purely working part time and earning the money for it. Because after all you worked hard to earn the money to pay for it and it was all yours, a teenage musician learns fast of having that feeling of $ money in your pocket to musician broke! Well, my point is that we never dreamed that those Fender guitars, Gibson guitars, bass guitars, keyboards and Gretsch drums would have been the best investment of our life and we could have put our parents to shame today if we held on to all the instruments we owned in our lifetime.

Ahh the fun of learning to play guitar or drums--- could you imagine today that if your son or daughter wanted to play drums and you bought them a pair of drumsticks for their birthday and said, "here I bought you a pair of drumsticks to learn to play the drums, "just beat these sticks on this wood block and rubber pad and we will see how good a musician you are and maybe next year we will get you a snare drum"... In recent years the consumer interest in vintage guitars and vintage musical instruments and increased and purchases of these items has hit all time highs and keeps on growing.

The guitar manufacturers have a new customer market to aim their sights on. Guitar manufacturers have realized that this market is totally different than any other in musical instrument history.

The new breed of re-issue vintage guitars and amplifiers are identical replicas in style and color as their 1950's & 1960's versions

Gretsch Vintage Guitars

By Ruby Katz

Gretsch vintage Guitars are easily some of the most sought after Guitars today. These antique, vintage Guitars have always been known for their sound and quality. They have managed to stand the test of time, with many Gretsch vintage Guitars managing to stick around to this day.

There are multiple aspects to getting your own Gretsch vintage Guitars, but there are a few things that you should always look at. One of the major things to look at before you even consider buying a Gretsch vintage Guitars is the History of the company and Guitars itself.

The History of Gretsch Guitars

The history of Gretsch Guitars goes all the way back to 1883. Fredrich Gretsch, originally from Germany, began his shop that sold banjos, drums, and tambourines. When his son took over the shop, he continued to make the shop grow. He began to ship in, and out, musical instruments, turning the store into a full fledged store with multiple types of instruments.

This led to the realization that Guitars were becoming incredible popular. He started to import these Guitars, but then found that he could make them. Through the Banjos (and other instruments), he decided to take an approach that offered Guitars more tailored to jazz musician and country musicians. The company has continued to grow, but the old, vintage Guitars are still sought after by many.

How to Find Gretsch Vintage Guitars

If you are looking for new Gretsch vintage Guitars, you are going to want to go to the company website. Many people tend to call these Guitars vintage, but still expect to purchase the brand new one (since they are still in production today, by Fender Musical Instruments). Those who want to make sure that they have the actual antique Guitars will have more work to do, however.

If you are looking for Gretsch vintage Guitars, the first place that you want to look is the local vintage shops, especially any which revolve around musical instruments. While most people will look toward the Internet for their vintage needs, an instrument is something you would rather find in person.

Classifieds are also a great place to look when trying to find these antique Guitars, especially classifieds that are created for the specific instrument type or company type. This is a method that few use, but many use with great success.

If you use the Internet to look for these shops and classifieds, only to find that they do not exist, you can use the Internet in your attempts to find Gretsch vintage Guitars. By using the Internet, you manage to bring a worldwide collection of Guitars and other instruments to your door.

What to Look For in Gretsch Vintage Guitars

If you are looking into Gretsch vintage Guitars, there are a few things that you are going to want to look into. If you fail to look for specific things when purchasing a vintage guitar, you may wind up with an instrument that you are not happy with.

The first thing that you are going to want to look for when looking at Gretsch vintage Guitars is the actual body of the guitar itself. You want to make sure that there are no large dents or dings; these could easily affect the quality of the sound.

The next thing that you want to look for is the sound itself; you want to make sure that when played, it sounds as it should sound. While this will require tuning, it is important for those who actually want to play the guitar. If you are unsure as to the sound, you may not be able to play it as you would like.

After all of that, you simply want to look at price; while antique Gretsch vintage Guitars may not be easy to find, you will also want to make sure that you are not paying too much.

Other post you may interested in reading: Gibson Musical Instruments

Musical Instruments Banjo

Cold Feet Playing the Banjo

By Philip Culver

Banjo lessons are a lot tougher than I thought. I’d been taking these online banjo lessons for months now – you know, downloading videos of this guy strumming his banjo and trying to follow along, stroking that banjo to my heart’s content – but when my first actual, person-to-person banjo lesson came, I felt like I was all thumbs. I admit that I was a bit of a slacker following those downloaded video lessons, mostly doing only the lessons and the songs that interested me and skipping the rest.

I was really and thoroughly disappointed with my first actual banjo lesson. Maybe it was because I was trying to show off and display to my instructor my ‘hard-earned’ banjo-playing skills. I thought playing the banjo would be a breeze. Just the thought of playing in front of my banjo instructor still rattles me. Now, I’m puzzled as to how I can actually learn anything from my banjo lessons if I can’t even play in front of my teacher. For now, I’m going to start recording my banjo playing and let him hear it.

Purchasing a Beginner Banjo - A Buyer's Guide!

By Shannon Medley

Purchasing a beginner banjo can be difficult. Most people start out feeling as though this is the musical instrument for them and it is sure to develop into a life long passion and talent. However, this isn't always the case, and new musicians fear that with the loss of interest and determination will come the loss of a large sum of money. This is especially true when purchasing a beginner banjo for a child or young adult.

The banjo is not an easy instrument to play, and takes a great deal of patience and practice. So, when buying a beginner banjo, or any other beginner instrument for that matter, it is vital to decide a budget.

Banjos are available to purchase at just about any price point. There are simple, less ornate banjos which are usually priced around the $100 - $150 mark. However, banjos can go up from there and can reach prices in the thousands.

More expensive banjos can be priced according to both appearances and brand. Some banjos are decorated with rare wood detailing, gold-leaf designs or personalized monograms, each additional detail adding to the cost. These details are beautiful, but they are not necessary for someone who is just starting to learn to play.

With banjos it is important to remember that a more expensive instrument does not necessarily produce better sound or fuller notes. With beginner banjos in particular, this is due to a number of factors such as the quality of strings and adjustments to the head and neck both of which can be improved and upgraded after the initial purchase.

When buying a beginner banjo it is also important to keep in mind where the instrument is made. Many banjos are produced and manufactured in Asian countries where both wood materials and specialized labor come fairly cheap. This does not mean that a lack of quality should be expected or experienced.

Beginner banjos can be priced differently but made in the same factory. When shopping through banjo retailers you will notice that many of the banjo models are close to identical, with the only real difference being in the brand name or finishing details.

Banjos in general, do not have a great variety when it comes to styles or designs. Ask if you are able to have a trial period with each banjo while in the store. Holding and playing a few different models will help you decide on a final purchase based on comfort and feel rather than appearance and price.

Buying a beginner banjo should be fun. After all you, or someone in your family is starting out on a new musical endeavor of playing the banjo! This should feel like an exciting new venture and should not be brought down by worries of quality or price. Focus on the future, and the chance that your purchase could lead to a lifelong love affair with the banjo and its up-lifting music.

Other post you may interested in reading: Gibson Musical Instruments

Woodwind Musical Instruments

Woodwind Musical Instruments - A Synopsis

By Nigel Arding

A woodwind musical instrument is a musical device that has a resonator. Common shapes of air columns include - conical, cylinder etc.

Woodwind musical instruments can be divided into 2 categories

• Brass Instruments - made primarily of metal

• Woodwind Instruments - made primarily from wood

The more well known and used woodwind musical instruments are as follows

Bassoon, Flute, Clarinet, Oboe, Saxophones

The bassoon, clarinet, oboe and saxophone use a mouthpiece whereas the flute uses what is called a headjoint as the method of introducing air to the instrument.

Unlike the string instruments or some percussion instruments, most wind instruments don't require tuning.

A flute typically costs $350 and is made from nickel-silver, then plated in silver. Nickel-silver is a combination of brass with nickel and is stronger than just brass or silver. For the cheaper models of both clarinet and oboe, their bodies are usually made of ABS plastic, whereas the more expensive instruments are made of Grenadilla wood.

Musical Instruments Bring Music to Life

By Jennifer R Scott

All About Drums

Executive summary about musical instruments drum by Mark A James

Drums are membranophones - instruments which create sound whilst beaten with a particular type of object. (vibrations). Drums have continually been used for more than just music. Drum sets, as in a cluster of various toned drums and cymbals, were initially seen in marching bands and parade bands in New Orleans. Double drumming was a expression used for drummers when they played more than one drum at one time - something very usual nowadays.

The standard drum set includes:

- A bass drum and foot pedal

- Snare

- Tom toms

- Cymbals.

An additional bass drum, extra cymbals - drummers had become skilled enough to require extra things to have fun with. Electronic sets were produced, and it is arguable that this is where current synthesized drum beats used in music originated from. What's then for the drum? Maybe it's time to start adding additional drums.

Famous drummers are very well-known. Ringo Star, Neil Peart, John Bonham all belonged to famous groups and are nowadays accepted as legends. Several take part in terrific drum solos which are too recognizable. My favourite drummer? Chad Smith from the Red Hot Chili Peppers. The strange thing is that Neil Peart was inspired by 2 drummers - Keith Moon - and John Bonham.

With no drums music wouldn't be what it is now - try listening to your favourite music with no drums, you'll find out what I'm talking about.

New Bass Drum Heads For Your Style of Playing

Executive summary about musical instruments drum by Jeffrey Aronnsen

The bass head is one of the most important parts a drummer's equipment. Terrible sound is best averted by having a quality drum head. When choosing a bass drum head you will have a lot of choices in the aggressive market, so you have to make many considerations so you end up with the right head.

One thing that you have to consider when selecting a replacement bass drum head is that this is a very personal choice. There are seemingly infinite bass drum head choices. Most factory installed heads are single ply and they have a universal sound. As single ply heads are (Original Equipment Manufacturer)OEM drum heads, double ply heads are considered an upgrade.

Double ply heads are good for pop or rock music. Self muting bass heads help control high pitches and shorten sustains.

As you go about your research you will find drum heads with different features. You will select a bass head that suits your style of playing and will provide the type of sound that you like.

Usually, when sound quality starts to drop it can be directly linked to the drum's head. If you have never changed your head then it may be time for a new one. Sound is the most critical factor. When the drum doesn't produce the sound for the type of music you play it is time to replace your head. It is essential that your drum delivers a sound that mixes well with your style of playing. Don't be duped into keeping a drum head if it still looks like it is in good condition if it does not produce the right sound.

Other post you may interested in reading: Children's Musical Instruments

Gibson Musical Instruments

Executive summary about gibson musical instrument by James W Morley

There are few names in the world of musical instruments as iconic as Les Paul. Gibson musical instruments have been designed and manufactured for over 100 years. The Gibson name means innovation and quality that any great musician can recognize.

The Gibson Company was originally founded by Orville Gibson as a manufacturer of Mandolins. Mr. Gibson replaced the bowl style mandolin with a sturdier flat style that was much easier to mass manufacture. Gibson created the first truly electric guitar (not electrified acoustic) and then built the iconic Les Paul solid body.

While Gibson was continuing to innovate guitars, musicians were continuing to innovate in their music and many of the hard rockers did their signature work on Gibson Guitars. Gibson Guitars come in a variety of styles and prices. What other Gibson musical instruments are available? The Slinglerland drums are made by Gibson. Gibson also makes a line of pianos under a name synonymous with the ivory keys: Baldwin. Just like any Gibson Musical instrument, you will find a piano that will fit your needs.

Gibson Guitars - Great Quality, Great Music

By Daniel Wright

Music is an ideal medium to express your emotions and is a wonderful outlet for self expression. It doesn't matter if you're 8 or 80, since it is neither too early nor too late to start playing musical instruments. There are a wide variety of instruments with different sounds and shapes that can appeal to everyone. Some examples of wonderful instruments to play include the piano, drums, guitar, and saxophone.

One problem with playing instruments like drum sets and pianos is that they take up a lot of space, and most homes aren't large enough to house them comfortably. Brass instruments, like trumpets and saxophones, are expensive to purchase and take an enormous amount of energy to play. Therefore, many people have opted to play an instrument that is usually smaller, less expensive, and more popular than other instruments - the guitar.

Whether you have been playing an instrument since you were young, or want to start taking lessons now, there are a number of things to consider when shopping for a brand new instrument, particularly if you are shopping online. These things include cost, location of the product, quality, and additional items the instrument is being sold with. You should research online to find quality instruments for sale.

Guitars are available in a wide variety of sizes, shapes, and colors.

The acoustic guitar is best suited for classical works and small rooms, plus has the added advantage of requiring fewer accessories. Electric guitars have their own advantages as well. Gibson guitars are one of the top brands today due to their high quality and superior sound.

If you're really interested in learning the guitar, make sure you don't skimp on the type of instrument you buy. What point is there of learning to play a poor quality guitar when your music will never sound good on it no matter what you do? Chances are if your music doesn't sound good, you'll decide to call it quits before you even really learn how to play.

Besides, a cheaply-made guitar is more apt to break on you just because of the poor quality materials it's made of. You need to look for a great deal and purchase the best guitar you can possibly afford. Cost and quality are very important factors in buying a guitar. That's why you should strongly consider buying Gibson guitars.

Gibson guitars are what musical styles like rock and roll are all about. The numerous sounds that can be drawn from the guitar make their music style diverse and exciting.

Other post you may interested in reading: Children's Musical Instruments

Children's Musical Instruments and Baby Musical Toys

Executive summary about musical instrument by Lindsay Coope

Musical instruments shall be discussed here. Percussion instruments are defined as those instruments that are shaken, scraped or struck with a beater or mallet. There are two kinds of percussion instruments: tuned and un-tuned. Tuned percussion instruments are correctly pitched enabling the playing of melodies. The piano is a tuned percussion instrument as are electronic keyboards and instruments with bars such as xylophones and glockenspiels and individual tone or resonator bars. By far the majority of percussion instruments are un-tuned and some examples include maracas or shakers, triangles, jingle bells and tambourines and drums.

It is important that babies are provided with musical toys and instruments that are age appropriate. Adult musical instruments can often be unsuitable. Strong sounds may also startle babies. Halilit produce some beautiful mini maracas for babies as well as lovely rainbow rain shakers in small sizes. They also have a mini sea drum with beads and a lovely sea pattern. There is however a completely safe bell for babies produced by Kindermusik where the jingles are enclosed in cloth. Appealing to young children

Babies and young children learn through all the senses. Musical toys and musical instruments should be appealing in many ways. Good quality musical instruments can withstand vigorous use. Remo produce some beautiful children's drums from the delicious looking lollipop to jungle patterned toms, djembes, and bongos.

Quality and price

Good quality can often mean paying considerably more. Many examples can be found with wooden toys and wooden musical instruments such as castanets, tone blocks, spinning crackers and recorders.

String Musical Instruments For Children

Tiny hands will struggle with a full-sized string musical instrument. The weight of the instrument could make it unmanageable; it's size too cumbersome. Learning to play a new instrument should be fun! When it's an uphill struggle to get to grips with the musical instrument, a child will soon get frustrated and give up. The key is for the parent is to make playing a breeze, and enjoyable from the word go!

All string musical instruments are available in several down-scaled sizes, suitable for children. If your child is very small, your little impresario will have years of playing ahead! He or she will progress through a number of sizes of string musical instruments until they are ready for the full sized model. Does all of this sounds a bit expensive? Well, it needn't be! The great news is that second-hand musical instruments can be sourced online at hugely discounted prices. What's more, when your child outgrows their old musical instrument, there are plenty of parents looking to pick up second-hand instruments. Placing your unwanted string instruments on online auction sites like eBay couldn't be simpler, and it's a great way to finance your next purchase!

Choosing the correctly sized string instrument for your child is vital. Practicing on the wrong sized instrument could lead to poor posture and bad habits which will be detrimental to their playing and thus enjoyment - early mistakes could grow to be problems which might be hard to put right later on. Your child's music teacher will be only too happy to point you in the right direction as far as the right size of string instrument is concerned.

Musical Instrument

Acoustic Bass Guitars

Playing In An Orchestra

Woodwind Musical Instruments

Used Guitars

Trumpet Players

Brass Instrument

Speaker Systems

Electric Guitar Shopping

DJ Speaker Selection

Clarinet Sheet Music

Home Theatre Speakers

Online Guitar Store

Musical String Instruments

Brass Musical Instruments

Music Instruments For Sale

Electric and Digital Musical Instruments

Yamaha Music Keyboard

Vintage Guitars

Musical Instruments Banjo

Woodwind Musical Instruments

All About Drums

Gibson Musical Instruments

Children's Musical Instruments and Baby Musical Toys

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