Suite101

Musical Instruments


Feature Writer: Marcy Paulson
Writer Marcy Paulson, Photo by Lisa Connor

Whether you’ve begun learning a musical instrument or are an experienced musician, you’ve come to the right place. Here you’ll find information on guitar, bass, piano, flute, violin, and drums. From French horns to harmonicas—if it makes noise and is fun to play--we’ll cover it.

You’ll find tips to improve your sound, helpful lessons, comparisons of musical instruments, and reviews of equipment like amps, pedals, strings, and bows.

You’ll read interviews with makers, discover ideas for crafting your own authentic instruments, and find profiles of musicians.

If you have a question about an aspect of playing or a product on the market, pass it along. I’ll find someone with an answer. Also, check out my blog for musicians while you're here.

feature articles
Marcy Paulson

Looking for a Travel Guitar? Try a Charango

In: World Instruments

Portability and a fun, ethnic sound are taking this instrument from Bolivia and Peru to musicians in every corner of the world. more...

Pros and Cons of Guitar Tab

In: Guitar

Tab is extremely useful, but does have its limitations. Here are tips to help beginning guitarists get around these drawbacks. more...

Common Symbols Found in Guitar Tab

In: Guitar

Hammer ons, pull offs, taps, vibrato, and pitch bending are a few of the techniques identified with guitar tabs. Here are the symbols guitarists most often encounter. more...

How to Read Guitar Tab

In: Guitar

Tab is the easiest way for guitarists to figure out a new song. Here are the basics of turning tab on the page into fingers on frets and strings. more...

How to Keep Time When Reading Sheet Music

In: Musical Instruments (general)

By learning to understand time signatures, notes and measures, musicians can easily follow the rhythm and timing of a tune written in musical notation. more...

How to Read Notes and Rests on a Musical Staff

In: Musical Instruments (general)

Recognizing and becoming familiar with the various notes and rests along the staff is the final key to reading a piece of sheet music. more...

More Tips for Learning to Read Sheet Music

In: Musical Instruments (general)

The symbols for flats and sharps may not look too important, but getting them right is key when learning to read sheet music. more...

Teach Yourself How to Read Sheet Music

In: Musical Instruments (general)

By learning to read sheet music, musicians who play by ear can have the best of both worlds. The first step is to learn the basics of the musical staff. more...

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