The classical guitar is a stringed musical instrument composed of three main sections: the head, the neck, and the soundbox. Each of these parts serves a specific function in producing the instrument’s characteristic sound.
The Head
The head or headstock is the upper part of the guitar where the tuning mechanism is located. This system consists of six tuning pegs that allow adjustment of string tension for tuning the instrument. The shape and design of the head can vary by manufacturer, being a distinctive element of each builder. In this case, the globally recognized and established “Half Moon” design.
Tuning Machine and Pegs
At the top of the guitar is the tuning mechanism, which houses six pegs arranged symmetrically, three on each side. This mechanism uses a worm gear system that allows adjustment of string tension for tuning.
Nut
This small piece is typically made from cow bone and historically sometimes ivory. Its function is to separate and support the strings, maintaining the correct height in relation to the neck, and is fundamental for perfect instrument tuning.
The neck
Fingerboard
The fingerboard is a long, narrow piece covering the neck, with approximate dimensions of 470x75x9 mm. This piece houses the frets and is where fingers press the strings to produce different notes. In this case, it is always made from African ebony.
Frets
These are small, thin nickel silver bars inserted perpendicular to the fingerboard that divide the neck into semitones. When pressing a string against a fret, its effective length is modified and therefore its tuning.
String Scale
The string scale, also known as scale length, is the distance between the nut and the bridge. This measurement is crucial as it determines string tuning and tension. The measurements are 664 mm (long scale) and 650 mm (short scale).
The Soundbox
Soundboard
The top is considered the most crucial component of the classical guitar, largely responsible for sound quality. Its approximate dimensions are 550x200x4 mm, and it’s typically made in two pieces. The soundhole is located in its center, surrounded by the decorative rosette.
Sides and Back
The sides and back are fundamental elements forming the guitar’s resonance chamber. The sides are the lateral walls joining the top with the back. These components are made with select woods that directly influence the instrument’s sound quality, including cypress, Indian rosewood, Brazilian rosewood, maple, koa, Madagascar rosewood, and mahogany, each providing unique tonal characteristics.
Bridge
Located on the soundboard, the bridge transmits string vibrations to the soundbox, amplifying the sound. It includes the saddle, which keeps strings separated and aligned, and when properly placed and constructed is fundamental for tuning.
Structural Elements
Soundhole and Rosette
The soundhole is the circular opening in the soundboard that allows sound projection. It’s decorated with the rosette, a characteristic ornamental element of classical guitars, constructed using mosaic, feather, and binding techniques.
Heel Block
This is the base where the soundbox is fixed and allows the union between the guitar body and neck.
Maintenance and Care
Proper maintenance is essential to preserve the guitar’s quality. The varnish must be kept intact to protect the woods, strings should be changed regularly, and the fingerboard must be cleaned periodically but never with oils or miracle products that have become fashionable recently. Proper maintenance will ensure the guitar maintains its sonic and structural qualities over time.
Each component uniquely contributes to the classical guitar’s characteristic sound, creating that distinctive timbre that has made it one of the most versatile and appreciated instruments in music.
Learn more details about guitar conservation in our article: “Maintenance of a Mariano Conde Guitar“
