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Why Fingerpicking Feels Like a Whole Band in One Hand
You’ve probably heard a guitarist play a song so full and rhythmic that you swear there must be two or three people playing. Spoiler: it was one person with a thumb, a few fingers, and a touch of magic. That’s fingerpicking —the art of playing bass, rhythm, and melody all at once. And when it’s done right, it feels like you’re conducting a mini orchestra on six strings. 1. The Thumb is the Bass Player In fingerpicking, your thumb is the unsung hero. It keeps a steady alterna
Joe Squillacioti
Nov 42 min read


The Magic of Open Tunings
Ever strum a chord and feel like the whole room started vibrating with you? That’s the beauty of open tunings —they turn your guitar into a cathedral of sound. If you’ve ever wondered why songs like She Talks to Angels (Black Crowes), Rain Song (Led Zeppelin), or Brown Sugar (Rolling Stones) sound so lush and resonant, it’s because they were built on open tunings. So, what’s the deal? Why do guitarists twist their tuning pegs into such strange configurations? Its an inspira
Joe Squillacioti
Nov 42 min read


Why Do Guitarists Detune a Half Step?
If you’ve ever tried to play along with certain songs and thought, “Hey, why does this sound off? I’m in tune!” — congratulations, you’ve just met the mysterious world of half-step detuning. It’s one of those things’ guitarists do that seems small, but it changes everything: tone, feel, and even attitude. So why do players like Jimi Hendrix, Stevie Ray Vaughan, and Guns N’ Roses all tune their guitars down a half step? 1. It Feels Better Under the Fingers Standard tunin
Joe Squillacioti
Nov 42 min read


Using a Capo is Not Cheating
The other day I met a new friend who happened to play guitar. When he stepped into my guitar room, his eyes went wide as he saw the rows of instruments hanging on the wall—electric, acoustic, odd balls and classics. When he reached my acoustic guitars, he noticed something curious: every single one had a capo clipped to the headstock. He gave me a puzzled look and said, “You use a capo? Isn’t that cheating?” I was stunned. “No!” I said. “It’s not cheating.” My first thought
Joe Squillacioti
Nov 42 min read


Enhance Your Sound with Expert Guitar Setup Services
Every guitarist knows the frustration of a guitar that doesn’t quite feel right. Whether it’s buzzing strings, poor intonation, or uncomfortable action, these issues can hold back your playing and your sound. A professional guitar setup can transform your instrument, making it easier to play and unlocking its full tonal potential. In this post, we’ll explore what a guitar setup involves, why it matters, and how expert services can improve your playing experience. Whether you’
Joe Squillacioti
Nov 44 min read


Why Regular Guitar Maintenance is Essential for Musicians
Playing the guitar is a rewarding experience that connects musicians to their creativity and emotions. But many guitarists overlook a crucial part of their craft: regular maintenance. Without proper care, even the best guitars can lose their tone, playability, and lifespan. This post explains why maintaining your guitar regularly is essential, how it benefits your playing, and practical tips to keep your instrument in top shape. How Maintenance Affects Sound and Playability A
Joe Squillacioti
Nov 43 min read


Top Guitar Repair Tips for Local Musicians
Every local musician knows how crucial a well-maintained guitar is for practice, gigs, and recording sessions. A guitar that sounds great and plays smoothly can inspire creativity and boost confidence on stage. Yet, guitars are delicate instruments that need regular care and occasional repairs to stay in top shape. Whether you play electric, acoustic, or classical guitar, knowing some essential repair tips can save you time, money, and frustration. This post shares practical
Joe Squillacioti
Nov 44 min read
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