Neil and/or Hector
Is it possible to play classical guitar well without fingernails? I love this style and am attempting to gain some ability with this style, however, my day job doesn't allow me to keep nails for playing guitar (sigh, if only I didn't have to work).
I would appreciate any advise from yourselves or from any other players out there!
Thanks so much!
Brian
no fingernails
Wiley
Thanks for the response! Interestingly, I also play a Seagull S6 and bought it used. I also recently purchase a LaPatrie Concert Classical (basically same manufacturer as Seagull) and have really found an interest in fingerstyle/classical.
I am playing as you say with the "bulb" of my fingertip but sometimes just can't get the notes to ring, especially on the E string.
Have you checked out Hector Garcia's little videos? I think he'll be a great addition to TG.
Again, thanks
Brian
Thanks for the response! Interestingly, I also play a Seagull S6 and bought it used. I also recently purchase a LaPatrie Concert Classical (basically same manufacturer as Seagull) and have really found an interest in fingerstyle/classical.
I am playing as you say with the "bulb" of my fingertip but sometimes just can't get the notes to ring, especially on the E string.
Have you checked out Hector Garcia's little videos? I think he'll be a great addition to TG.
Again, thanks
Brian
Brian- this is a topic that pops up from time to time on the forum. There are some fabulous fingerstyle players who don't use finger nails; Lawerence Juber first comes to mind. I mangled my middle finger in a farm tractor accident many years ago and while I was very lucky to keep the finger I wasn't so lucky keeping the nail. So using nails is out of the question for me.
As Wiley correctly said you can built up some calluses on your fingertips and with practice get a nice sound, even on the high E. But to my ear it still doesn't sound as good as someone with real good nails like Neil. I like a crisp sound and fingertips don't get it for me. But in my job it would be weird to have long nails so it's probably a moot point anyway.
Many of us have tried finger picks and although I really like the fit of the Pro-Pik series they still sound like metal on metal and I get some clunkers from time to time. There doesn't seem to be a great solution!
Cheers! :cheer:
As Wiley correctly said you can built up some calluses on your fingertips and with practice get a nice sound, even on the high E. But to my ear it still doesn't sound as good as someone with real good nails like Neil. I like a crisp sound and fingertips don't get it for me. But in my job it would be weird to have long nails so it's probably a moot point anyway.
Many of us have tried finger picks and although I really like the fit of the Pro-Pik series they still sound like metal on metal and I get some clunkers from time to time. There doesn't seem to be a great solution!
Cheers! :cheer:
I play almost exclusive finger picking and I am currently playing with no fingernails. I personally think I do better with more "feel" on the string, and am building up calluses on my fingers that help with the sound. I did just purchase an amp so that I can hear what I am playing a little better. Without the nails, it is a bit quieter. But it can be done, and it may even become my preference. Hope this helps. izzy