Classical vs Acoustic Guitar for Child: Which Is Better?

These days, kids are exposed to all kinds of music, and many want to learn how to play an instrument. Guitars are particularly popular, and parents often face the question of which type to buy for their child – classical or acoustic?

Classical guitars are better than acoustic guitars for children. They have soft, round-wound nylon strings that are easy on the fingers. They also have wide necks, making them more comfortable to play with. Acoustic guitars are larger and have thick steel strings that can be harder on the fingers.

In this article, I’ll explore both types of guitars to discover how they work, their advantages and disadvantages, and the best kind of guitar for a child. Let’s get started!

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Fender Cutaway Acoustic-Electric Guitar Bundle (MY FAVORITE GUITAR)
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6 String Acoustic Guitar Capo (Best CAPO for quick changes)
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Table Of Contents show

Classical vs. Acoustic Guitar for Child: What Is a Classical Guitar?

A classical guitar is a stringed instrument with a long slender neck and a round, hexagonal sound box. It is a descendant of the Spanish vihuela and baroque guitar.

The typical classical guitar has six nylon strings wound around metal cores. This combination produces a warm, rich tone that is well-suited to classical and flamenco music. The strings are stretched over a bridge on top of the soundboard. The strings are plucked with the right hand while the left hand presses down on the fingerboard to create different notes.

The neck of a classical guitar is broader than that of an acoustic guitar, which makes it easier to hold the chords. The strings are also spaced further apart, making hitting notes easier.

How Classical Guitars Work

Classical guitars are held on the lap and are played with the fingers, not a pick. The strings are plucked with the right hand, while the left is used to press the strings against the fingerboard, changing the tension on the string and altering its pitch. This type of guitar playing is called fingerstyle.

Fingerstyle playing produces a softer sound than strumming with a pick. It is also more delicate and nuanced, which makes it ideal for classical and flamenco music.

As the strings are plucked, they vibrate and create sound waves that travel through the air and are amplified by the guitar’s resonant chamber (sound box). The sound box is the primary source of the guitar’s distinctive tone.

The standard sitting position is to have the guitar’s body tilted so that the sound hole points away from the player’s body. This position allows the right hand to pluck the strings over the

sound hole while the left hand has easy access to the strings.

Classical guitars are played without amplification. However, they can be plugged into an amplifier or PA system using a pickup and 1/4″ audio cable for increased volume. Pickups can be installed on them but are not as common because the nylon strings produce a minimal signal.

The most quintessential quality of a classical guitar’s sound is how the strings are plucked. This technique, known as “articulation,” allows classical guitarists to produce a wide range of sounds by varying the pressure, speed, and angle of the right hand as it plucks the strings.

Some of these techniques include:

Legato

This technique is used to play two or more notes in quick succession. The right hand plucks the first note and then lets it ring while the left hand presses down on the second note. This technique produces a smooth, connected sound often used in fast-paced passages.

Staccato

The staccato technique is a short, detached play style that is the opposite of legato. In staccato, the notes are played in quick succession but with a brief pause between each one producing a choppy, disconnected sound. As with legato, the right hand does all the plucking.

Pizzicato

With this technique, the musician plays a note by plucking the string with the right hand instead of using the left hand to press down on the fingerboard. Pizzicato is often used in slower, more lyrical passages that require a softer sound. Generally speaking, this technique ends up lending itself to staccato.

Tremolo

Tremolo is a rapid, repeating vibration of the string produced by plucking it and then quickly releasing it. This technique has a fast, repetitive sound often used for a dramatic effect. The most common type of tremolo is the “double tremolo,” which rapidly alternates between two notes.

Although the right hand produces most of the sound, the left hand plays a vital role in shaping the tone and volume of the notes.

The left hand performs two main functions.

Changing the tension on the string. The left hand presses down on the string at different points along the fingerboard. This changes the tension on the string and alters its pitch. As the tension on the string increases, the pitch gets higher.
Articulation. The left hand can manipulate the string to produce different sounds. These articulation techniques include vibrato, hammer-ons and pull-offs, and harmonics.

Vibrato

Vibrato is a rapid back-and-forth movement of the left hand that changes the tension on the string and produces a wavering effect, adding expression to a note. The right hand plucks the string while the left hand moves back and forth, causing the pitch to wobble up and down to create a vibrating sound.

Hammer-Ons and Pull-Offs

These are two techniques used to play two notes in quick succession without plucking the string again. In a hammer-on, the left hand presses down on the string to sound the second note while the right hand is still plucking the first note. In a pull-off, the left hand lifts off the string to sound the second note while the right hand is still plucking the first note.

Harmonics

Harmonics are high-pitched, bell-like tones produced by lightly touching the string at specific points along the fingerboard while the right hand plucks the string. There are two types of harmonics: natural and artificial.

While the techniques described above are the most common, there are many other ways to produce sound on the guitar. Experimentation is the key to finding new and exciting sounds.

The size and materials used to make a classical guitar all play a role in its sound. Generally, the larger the guitar, the fuller and richer its sound. The shape of the guitar’s body also affects its sound. For example, a dreadnought (a large, rectangle-shaped guitar) will have a different sound than a classical concert guitar (a smaller, oval-shaped guitar).

The wood used to make the guitar’s body also plays a role in its sound. Different woods have different tonal qualities. For example, mahogany is often used for its warm, rich sound, while spruce is known for its bright, clear tone.

Advantages of Playing a Classical Guitar

Easy on the fingers: The nylon strings are softer on the fingers than steel strings, and the fretboard is wider, making it easier to press down on the strings. This makes classical guitars an excellent choice for those just starting.
Very comfortable to play: The wide neck and spacing between the strings make it easy to form chords, and the soft nylon strings are gentle on the fingers. It’s also a relatively small and lightweight instrument, making it comfortable to play for extended periods.
Produces a rich, full sound: The large body and wide fretboard of the classical guitar allow for a greater range of tones. The resonant chamber also amplifies the sound of the strings producing a mellower, softer sound than steel strings.
String tension: Classical guitars have a higher string tension, producing a louder, brighter sound and giving the guitar more projection. The higher string tension also makes the classical guitar more resistant to changes in humidity and temperature, making it a more stable instrument.
Consistent sizing: Classical guitars are typically made in standardized sizes, making it easy to find one that is comfortable to play. Their size makes them portable, so they can be taken with you wherever you go.
Affordability: Classical guitars tend to be a bit cheaper than steel-string acoustic guitars making them an excellent option for those on a budget or for those who are just starting out. And considering their many benefits, they offer great value for the price.

Disadvantages of Playing a Classical Guitar

Lack of volume and power: The classical guitar is not as loud as other guitars, such as the steel-string acoustic or electric guitar. This can make it challenging to be heard in a band or ensemble setting. Moreover, the mellower sound of the classical guitar may not be suited for some genres, such as rock or metal.
Nylon strings need consistent tuning: Unlike steel strings, nylon strings do not hold their pitch well over time. They need to be regularly tuned to maintain their correct pitch. More frequent tuning can be a drawback for some guitarists.
Nylon strings are not heat or humidity-resistant: Changes in temperature and humidity can cause the nylon strings to stretch or loosen, resulting in changes in pitch. This can make it challenging to keep the guitar in tune in various climates.

Classical vs. Acoustic Guitar for Child: What Is an Acoustic Guitar?

An acoustic guitar is a guitar that uses only acoustic means to produce its sound. These guitars rely on the strings’ vibration and the body’s resonance to create their sounds. The most common type of acoustic guitar is the steel-string guitar. These guitars have a bright, lively sound that is well-suited for many different genres of music, including country, folk, rock, and blues.

However, nylon-string guitars are also popular among many musicians. These instruments have a softer, more mellow sound often associated with classical and flamenco music.

Acoustic guitars are typically made of wood, and they come in a variety of shapes and sizes. The most common type is the dreadnought, which has a large body and a wide-waisted form. Other popular types include the jumbo, the grand concert, and the parlor guitar.

How an Acoustic Guitar Works

The strings of an acoustic guitar vibrate when plucked or strummed. These vibrations travel through the bridge and into the body of the guitar. The guitar’s body amplifies these vibrations, and they eventually escape through the soundhole.

The body is hollow, and resonance occurs inside the guitar’s body and in the air outside the instrument. The soundhole projects the sound outward, and the body’s shape affects the guitar’s tone. For example, a dreadnought has a large body and a wide soundhole, which results in a loud, full-bodied sound.

The strings are attached to the body at the bridge. The bridge transfers the vibrations from the strings to the body. The strings are also connected to the tuning pegs at the headstock. The tuning pegs are used to tighten or loosen the strings, which changes the pitch of the strings.

The length of the strings, thickness, and tension also affect the sound of an acoustic guitar. For example, a guitar with thicker strings will have a fuller sound, while a guitar with lighter strings will have a brighter sound.

Playing an acoustic guitar involves holding the instrument in the lap or on the right thigh, with the left hand positioned behind the neck and the right hand plucking or strumming the strings. The strings are usually plucked with the right hand while the left holds down the strings at certain frets. This process is called fretting.

There’s a variety of different techniques that can be used to play an acoustic guitar, and the style of music will dictate which method is used. These techniques include:

Strumming: a technique that involves moving the right hand back and forth across the strings with the thumb, the index finger, or a pick producing a continuous sound. Different strumming patterns can be used to create different rhythms.
Fingerpicking: a more advanced technique that involves using the right hand to pluck the strings one at a time. This produces a more delicate sound than strumming and is often used in slower, mellow songs.
Flat-picking: a technique that combines aspects of both strumming and fingerpicking. It is accomplished by holding a pick in the right hand and using the right hand to pluck the strings one at a time. This technique is often used in faster-paced songs.

The strings, body, bridge, and headstock all work together to create the unique sound of an acoustic guitar.

Advantages of Playing an Acoustic Guitar

Portability: No amp or other electronic devices are needed to play an acoustic guitar. This makes them popular for many musicians, particularly those who play unplugged gigs or travel frequently. All you need is the guitar and your hands!
Availability: Acoustic guitars are widely available and come in various styles and price ranges. Whether you’re a beginner or a professional, there’s an acoustic guitar out there that’s perfect for you.
Audible without amplification: Even without an amplifier, an acoustic guitar can be heard clearly. This is an excellent advantage if you’re playing in a small venue or don’t want to lug around an amplifier. These guitars are also powerful enough to be heard over other instruments, which makes them a good choice for playing in a band or ensemble.
No complications: Acoustic guitars are relatively simple instruments, and they don’t require a lot of maintenance. There’s no need to worry about electronic components or batteries. What you see is what you get, and as long as you keep your guitar in good condition, it will last for many years.

Disadvantages of Playing an Acoustic Guitar

Heavy strings: The strings on an acoustic guitar are thick, making them difficult to press down. Beginners or people with small hands may find it difficult to hold down the strings for long periods, making playing the guitar frustrating.
High action: The action on an acoustic guitar is the distance between the strings and the fretboard. A high action means that the strings are further away from the fretboard, making it more difficult to press down the strings.
String noise: The strings of an acoustic guitar are more likely to create noise when playing due to their thickness. This can be a problem when recording or playing in a quiet setting.

Classical vs. Acoustic Guitar for Child: Which Is Better?

As a parent, you want what’s best for your child, and when it comes to learning to play the guitar, you want to choose an excellent instrument for them. So, which is better? A classical guitar or an acoustic guitar?

Classical guitars are better suited for children because they are smaller and have narrower necks, making them easier to hold and play with. Classical guitars also have nylon strings, which are much softer and easier on the fingers.

Acoustic guitars, on the other hand, have steel strings. These are thicker and harder to press down, making them difficult for a child to play with. Acoustic guitars also tend to be larger.

The softer, mellower sound of a classical guitar may also appeal more to your child than an acoustic guitar’s louder, brighter sound. If your child is sensitive to loud noise, an acoustic guitar may be too much for them.

Classical vs. Acoustic Guitar for Child: Conclusion

Both acoustic and classical guitars have their advantages and disadvantages, but when it comes to choosing the right instrument for your child, classical might be the way to go. As a parent, you want your child to have a positive experience learning to play the guitar, and a classical guitar is more likely to provide that.

Once your child gets a little older and wants to upgrade to an acoustic guitar, they can always do so. However, starting with a classical guitar will give them a better foundation and make learning to play more enjoyable.

What kind of guitar should a child start with?

When choosing a guitar for a child to start with, there are a few factors to consider, such as the child’s age, size, and level of interest. According to statistics, the most common types of guitars for children to start with are:

Nylon-string (classical) guitars: Classical guitars are a popular choice for young children, especially those under the age of 10. These guitars have a smaller body size, a shorter scale length, and softer strings, which make them easier for small hands to play.
3/4-size steel-string acoustic guitars: 3/4-size acoustic guitars are a good choice for children who are a bit older (around 10-12 years old) and who are interested in playing folk or pop music. These guitars have a similar shape and sound to a full-size acoustic guitar but are smaller and easier for children to handle.
Electric guitars: Electric guitars are a good option for children who are interested in playing rock or metal music. They have a thinner neck and a smaller body size than acoustic guitars, which can make them easier to play for children with smaller hands.

It’s important to choose a guitar that is the right size for the child’s age and height. A guitar that is too large or too heavy can be difficult and uncomfortable for a child to play, which may discourage them from continuing to learn. Many guitar manufacturers offer models specifically designed for children, with smaller body sizes and shorter scale lengths.

Ultimately, the best guitar for a child to start with is one that is comfortable to play and inspires them to continue learning and practicing. It’s also important to invest in a quality instrument that is well-made and will stay in tune, as this can make a big difference in a child’s learning experience.

What size guitar for 5 year-old child? (Classical or Acoustic)

For a 5-year-old child who is just starting to learn how to play guitar, a 1/4-size guitar would be the most suitable size. A 1/4-size guitar is designed specifically for children around 4-6 years old, and it has a smaller body size and shorter scale length, which makes it easier for a child to play.

The exact dimensions of a 1/4-size guitar can vary slightly between manufacturers, but typically, they have a total length of around 31-32 inches, a body length of around 12-13 inches, and a scale length of around 19-20 inches. They are also lightweight and easy to handle, which can help a child to develop good playing technique and build confidence.

When choosing a 1/4-size guitar for a child, it’s important to look for a quality instrument that is well-made and easy to play. Some reputable brands that offer 1/4-size guitars include Yamaha, Fender, and Cordoba, among others. It’s also a good idea to have the child try out a few different models to find one that feels comfortable and inspiring to play.

For a 5-year-old child who is just starting to learn how to play guitar, the Yamaha JR1 3/4-Scale Acoustic Guitar is a great option. It has a 3/4-size body, a spruce top, and a nato neck, back, and sides, which make it a durable and reliable instrument.

Another good option is the Fender MA-1 3/4-Size Steel String Acoustic Guitar, which is designed specifically for younger players. It has a 3/4-size body, a laminated agathis top, and a comfortable C-shaped neck.

The Cordoba Mini II MH 3/4-Size Nylon String Guitar is a great option for children who want to play classical or flamenco music. It has a 3/4-size body, a solid mahogany top, and a lightweight design that makes it easy to handle.

All of these guitars are well-made, easy to play, and designed specifically for younger players. When choosing a guitar for a child, it’s important to look for a quality instrument that is the right size and feels comfortable and inspiring to play.

What size guitar for 6 year-old child? (Classical or Acoustic)

For a 6-year-old child who is just starting to learn how to play guitar, a 1/2-size guitar would be the most suitable size. A 1/2-size guitar is designed specifically for children around 5-8 years old, and it has a smaller body size and shorter scale length, which makes it easier for a child to play.

The exact dimensions of a 1/2-size guitar can vary slightly between manufacturers, but typically, they have a total length of around 34-35 inches, a body length of around 13-14 inches, and a scale length of around 21-22 inches. They are also lightweight and easy to handle, which can help a child to develop good playing technique and build confidence.

When choosing a 1/2-size guitar for a child, it’s important to look for a quality instrument that is well-made and easy to play. Some reputable brands that offer 1/2-size guitars include Yamaha, Fender, and Cordoba, among others. It’s also a good idea to have the child try out a few different models to find one that feels comfortable and inspiring to play.

For a 6-year-old child who is just starting to learn how to play guitar, the Yamaha JR2 1/2-Size Acoustic Guitar is a great option. It has a 1/2-size body, a spruce top, and a meranti back and sides, which make it a durable and reliable instrument.

Another good option is the Fender Squier Mini Stratocaster Electric Guitar, which is designed specifically for younger players. It has a 1/2-size body, a maple neck and fretboard, and three single-coil pickups, and can be played either with an amplifier or unplugged.

The Cordoba Dolce 7/8 Size Acoustic Nylon String Classical Guitar is a great option for children who want to play classical or flamenco music. It has a 7/8-size body, a solid cedar top, and a mahogany neck and back, which make it a well-crafted and high-quality instrument.

What size guitar for 8 year-old child? (Classical or Acoustic)

For an 8-year-old child who is just starting to learn how to play guitar, a 3/4-size guitar would be the most suitable size. A 3/4-size guitar is designed specifically for children around 8-11 years old, and it has a smaller body size and shorter scale length, which makes it easier for a child to play.

The exact dimensions of a 3/4-size guitar can vary slightly between manufacturers, but typically, they have a total length of around 36-38 inches, a body length of around 14-15 inches, and a scale length of around 22-23 inches. They are also lightweight and easy to handle, which can help a child to develop good playing technique and build confidence.

When choosing a 3/4-size guitar for a child, it’s important to look for a quality instrument that is well-made and easy to play. Some reputable brands that offer 3/4-size guitars include Yamaha, Fender, and Cordoba, among others. It’s also a good idea to have the child try out a few different models to find one that feels comfortable and inspiring to play.

For an 8-year-old child who is just starting to learn how to play guitar, the Yamaha APXT2 3/4-Size Acoustic-Electric Guitar is a great option. It has a 3/4-size body, a spruce top, and a meranti back and sides, and also features a built-in pickup and preamp for easy amplification.

Another good option is the Fender Mustang LT-25 3/4-Scale Electric Guitar, which is designed specifically for younger players. It has a 3/4-size body, a maple neck and fingerboard, and a range of built-in amp models and effects.

The Cordoba C1M 3/4-Size Nylon String Guitar is a great option for children who want to play classical or flamenco music. It has a 3/4-size body, a solid cedar top, and a mahogany back and sides, which make it a well-crafted and high-quality instrument.

What size guitar for 10 year-old child? (Classical or Acoustic)

For a 10-year-old child who is just starting to learn how to play guitar, a 3/4-size or a 7/8-size guitar would be the most suitable sizes.

A 3/4-size guitar is designed specifically for children around 8-11 years old, and it has a smaller body size and shorter scale length, which makes it easier for a child to play. The exact dimensions of a 3/4-size guitar can vary slightly between manufacturers, but typically, they have a total length of around 36-38 inches, a body length of around 14-15 inches, and a scale length of around 22-23 inches. They are also lightweight and easy to handle, which can help a child to develop good playing technique and build confidence.

A 7/8-size guitar is also a great option for a 10-year-old child. These guitars are slightly larger than 3/4-size guitars and are designed specifically for children around 11-13 years old. They have a total length of around 38-39 inches, a body length of around 15 inches, and a scale length of around 23-24 inches.

For a 10-year-old child who is just starting to learn how to play guitar, the Yamaha JR2 3/4-Size Acoustic Guitar is a great option. It has a 3/4-size body, a spruce top, and a meranti back and sides, which make it a durable and reliable instrument.

Another good option is the Cordoba Dolce 7/8 Size Acoustic Nylon String Classical Guitar, which is a high-quality option for children who want to play classical or flamenco music. It has a 7/8-size body, a solid cedar top, and a mahogany neck and back.

The Fender Player Stratocaster HSS 3/4-Size Electric Guitar is another great option, especially for children who are interested in playing rock or pop music. It has a 3/4-size body, a maple neck and fingerboard, and a versatile HSS pickup configuration.

What size guitar for 13 year-old child? (Classical or Acoustic)

For a 13-year-old child who is just starting to learn how to play guitar, a full-size guitar would be the most suitable size. A full-size guitar is also known as a 4/4-size guitar and is designed for players aged 12 and above, as well as adult players.

The exact dimensions of a full-size guitar can vary slightly between manufacturers, but typically, they have a total length of around 38-41 inches, a body length of around 18-20 inches, and a scale length of around 24-25 inches. They are designed to be the same size as a standard adult guitar, and have a fuller, richer sound than smaller guitars.

When choosing a full-size guitar for a child, it’s important to look for a quality instrument that is well-made and easy to play. Some reputable brands that offer full-size guitars include Yamaha, Fender, Gibson, and more. It’s also a good idea to have the child try out a few different models to find one that feels comfortable and inspiring to play.

For a 13-year-old child who is just starting to learn how to play guitar, the Yamaha FG800 Solid Top Acoustic Guitar is a great option. It has a full-size body, a solid spruce top, and nato back and sides, which make it a well-crafted and reliable instrument.

Another good option is the Fender Player Stratocaster Electric Guitar, which is a versatile and high-quality option for children who are interested in playing rock or pop music. It has a full-size body, a maple neck and fingerboard, and a versatile pickup configuration.

The Epiphone Les Paul Special II Electric Guitar is another great option for a 13-year-old child, especially for those interested in playing blues or classic rock music. It has a full-size body, a mahogany neck and body, and a pair of humbucker pickups for a full, warm sound.

Should kids learn on classical guitar? (Or Acoustic)

The best type of guitar for a child to learn on can depend on a variety of factors, such as the child’s age, physical size, and musical interests. However, classical guitar can be a great option for kids to start learning on for a number of reasons.

Firstly, classical guitars are typically smaller than steel-string acoustic or electric guitars, which can make them easier for children to hold and play. Classical guitars also have a wider neck and softer strings, which can make it easier for children to form chords and build finger strength.

Additionally, classical guitar music is often taught using a structured method that emphasizes proper technique and the fundamentals of music theory, which can help children to develop good habits and a solid foundation for their musical education. Many classical guitar instructors also stress the importance of posture, hand position, and relaxation, which can help to prevent injury and ensure that children are comfortable while playing.

Of course, if a child is interested in playing a different type of guitar or musical style, it may be more appropriate to start with a different type of guitar. Ultimately, the best guitar for a child to learn on will depend on a number of factors, and it’s a good idea to consult with a qualified guitar teacher or music store professional to help determine which type of guitar is best for a particular child.

What age is appropriate for classical guitar?

Children as young as 5 years old can start learning classical guitar, as long as they are physically able to hold and play the instrument. However, it’s important to keep in mind that the best age for a child to start learning classical guitar can depend on a variety of factors, such as the child’s physical size, dexterity, and attention span.

For children who are very young or who are just starting out, it can be helpful to start with a smaller-sized classical guitar or a ukulele, which can be more manageable for small hands and fingers. As the child grows and develops their skills, they can move up to larger-sized guitars with longer scales and more complex music.

Some classical guitar teachers recommend waiting until a child is at least 7-8 years old before starting formal lessons, as this is typically the age when children have the attention span and hand strength needed to learn the instrument. However, this can vary depending on the child, and some younger children may be able to start lessons and make good progress.

Ultimately, the most important thing is to ensure that the child is interested in and motivated to learn classical guitar, and that they have access to a qualified and experienced teacher who can provide age-appropriate instruction and guidance.

Is classical guitar easier to play than acoustic?

Whether classical guitar is easier to play than acoustic guitar can depend on a number of factors, including the player’s musical background, physical ability, and personal preferences. However, there are a few differences between classical and acoustic guitars that can make one or the other easier or more difficult to play for certain players.

Classical guitars typically have a wider neck and softer strings than acoustic guitars, which can make it easier for beginners to form chords and build finger strength. The nylon strings used on classical guitars also produce a mellow, warm tone that can be forgiving of mistakes and can make it easier for beginners to develop their ear for music.

On the other hand, acoustic guitars often have a more narrow neck and tighter string tension, which can make it easier for players with smaller hands or shorter fingers to fret notes and play complex chords. Acoustic guitars also have a brighter, more dynamic sound that can be well-suited to certain styles of music, such as folk, country, and rock.

Ultimately, whether classical guitar is easier to play than acoustic guitar depends on a variety of factors, and the best way to determine which type of guitar is right for a particular player is to try both and see which feels most comfortable and inspiring to play. Additionally, working with a qualified guitar teacher can be helpful in learning proper technique and developing good playing habits, regardless of the type of guitar being played.