Acoustic Tuesday Show With Tony Polecastro

What started off as a mild interest in this builder has become an obsession. So what's the big deal about a guitar maker hailing from the Czech Republic? Furch Guitars focuses on making high-quality guitars at a relatively affordable price. Sounds like the pitch from almost any guitar company, right? Here's the thing about Furch Guitars, though… Furch Guitars make exceptional Swiss-Army Knife guitars. Whether you want to finger pick, flat pick, plug-in on stage or play in your bedroom, these guitars can do it all. Here's a little more about Furch Guitars. Founded over 40 years ago, Furch has expanded over the years to include travel guitars, master-grade guitars, and more. Most Furch guitars are organized by color, which you'll hear more about on this episode. There's also the Vintage series which I highly recommend you look into. Whether you're into small, punchy guitars or deep, warm dreadnoughts, Furch has a guitar for you. If your favorite Furch isn't on this list, please let me know in the comm

I used to think using a delay pedal on acoustic guitar was crazy. Now, I recommend every acoustic guitar player to get a delay pedal. Why? Delay pedals have the ability to fill space. When you're playing by yourself, it can feel empty sometimes. By using a delay pedal, you can almost hear harmonies and dissonance when your playing a run, practicing scales, or playing melody and fills. Besides filling space, using a delay pedal helps you learn to groove. Because of the delay in notes, you have to keep time. If you don't your notes will overlap in odd ways. If that's the effect you're going for, rock on. But if not, you'll learn to keep time quickly! Delay pedals are also expressive. If you feel like you've hit a creative rut, try playing some scales through a delay pedal. Seriously, you'll be surprised by what you hear.  Delay pedals have tons of knobs, features, and switches. It can look intimidating to a first-time buyer. I'll go over some of the features in this video, but if I didn't address an aspect of a

You told yourself you'd be a guitar player this year. Have you met your goals and aspirations? Or are you guilty of telling yourself one of these 11 lies? Watch now to learn how to find progress again. Every year, thousands of people pick up the guitar. They dream of playing songs, solos, and licks that sounds like their guitar heroes. Every year, though, people give up on playing guitar or don't touch it for months on end. In this episode, we'll talk about what's going on when this happens. I've found that it most of this boils down to 11 common lies we tell ourselves. It can be something as small as saying you don't have "enough" time or as large as gatekeeping yourself. Whatever lie you tell yourself, I'll show you how to move beyond your pattern of self sabotage. This all sounds like a self-help seminar. In some ways, it is. But I stand by examining your obstacles and roadblocks to progress on guitar. Whether you've just started playing guitar or you've played for decades, there's plenty to lear

Billy Strings is one of the best instrumentalists of our time. Hands down. But what can you learn from Billy Strings? Even if you're picking up a guitar for the first time? From drone strings to using chromatics, there's something every guitarist can learn from Billy Strings. Primarily a flatpicking guitarist, Billy Strings is also a talented finger picker, electric guitarist, and banjo player. Billy's life experience, emersion in the musical world, and consistency has led him to being one of the best instrumentalists of our time. A master of tension-building and even melodic phrasing, Billy Strings is a guitarist who deserves close attention. So what is this video going to do for you? And, more importantly, what won't it do? Well, I'm hoping to inspire you with some quick lessons on important techniques or philosophical lessons. What I won't do is teach you a specific song. With that in mind, I want you to be open to learning some new techniques that borrow heavily from Billy Strings' playing. Wheth

Blade angles. Metal or plastic. Weight. Thumbpicks come in a variety of specifications, which makes choosing the right one important. See which thumbpick is fit for you in my top 10 countdown of the best thumbpicks to use! Using a thumbpick is an easy way to change up the tone on your guitar. If you enjoy fingerpicking, this will give you a brighter attack. However, you can also use a thumbpick like a flatpick—it's just attached to your thumb! Because the thumbpick has a sharper attack, you can use it to bring out the treble and lower the dull attack of your thumb. However, if you like that percussive effect of the thumb, a thumbpick might not be for you.  But when it comes to choosing thumbpicks, there are many considerations to make. From the blade angles to the materials the thumbpick is made out of, you want to make sure the thumbpick is built for the kind of music you want to play. Featured in this episode... - Grit Laskin   - Charlie Parr - Spider John Koerner -  Greg Koch   -  Songbirds Foundation  

Jeffrey Foucault is a triple threat. He rights bone-chilling lyrics, is an incredible guitar player, and has an unforgettable voice. So what can you learn from the master of the Americana genre? If you haven't heard of Jeffrey Foucault, I'm going to feature some great clips that'll help you open your eyes to his artistry. More importantly, though, you're going to learn 10 lessons from Jeffrey Foucault.  From emphasizing the "one" to using your personal experience in songwriting, there's so much you can learn from this guitar player. Jeffrey flies under the radar too often, and I believe his songwriting and artistry deserves closer attention. I love Jeffrey Foucault's playing because it's unique without sounding "out there." He rides a fine line between fingerpicking and flatpicking, blues and country, folk and bluegrass. His lyrics cut deep. His voice is unmatched.  If you're interested in learning how to play like Jeffrey Foucault or want to know how to incorporate some of his style into your playing, be sur

Immerse yourself in the world of guitar-themed podcasts. These 10 guitar podcasts are sure to keep you motivated, inspired, and committed to playing! I'm a huge fan of podcasts. Whether it's more story-based or interview style, there are so many great podcasts being made. When it comes to guitar geek content, though, there's a handful I find myself turning to time and time again. From the family of @Fretboard Journal podcasts to @Cory Wong and his podcast "Wong Notes" I am always surprised at how much I learn from podcasts. In addition to being awesome educational tools that help me stay engaged with guitar playing, guitar podcasts are fun and entertaining. Seriously. If you don't believe me, be sure to check them out! As always, if I missed your favorite podcast, let me know in the comments below! I'm always on the lookout for new shows. Submit your guitarsenal at the link below! https://airtable.com/shrpAVAi9HUGVUW8b Featured in this episode… -Rattlesnake Cable Company -Tom Feldmann ~ PlayCountryBlues -Jame

Songwriting and the craft behind it are mysterious. From lyrics to melody to rhythms, there are so many pieces to juggle. To help you get inspired and write your first song, check out these 12 songwriters to help kickstart your songwriting journey! Writing a song is a daunting process, but it doesn't have to be. It should be a liberating process that allows you to express yourself. If that doesn't sound like your process, I want you to check out some of the songwriters in this episode.  There's a little something for everyone. Whether you're into moody and dark explorations of the soul, or the more whimsical moments of life, these songwriters are sure to inspire you. The key is to listen widely and find what makes you want to sing, write, and play more.  Songwriting isn't an easy process, but it doesn't have to be a lonely one—unless, you prefer it that way! This episode is for the creatively-blocked or the too-shy-to-start. No matter where you are on your songwriting journey, you can find something that'll i

Resonator guitars can make the bluesiest, dirtiest sounds—making them unmatched as instruments. But does this Michigan-based small bench luthier make the best resonators? Mule Resonator Guitars makes, in my humble opinion, some of the best resonator guitars. There are so many reasons why I love Mule Resonator Guitars, from the human-centered design to the community. This episode outlines the biggest reasons why Mule Resonators are simply the best in the industry. I know that's a big statement—controversial, even. But I stand by it. Be sure to watch the episode to see why I've become a zealot for this great guitar brand. I'll also be addressing comments from previous shows, including but limited to the question, "what is the TAC Family?" I love answering questions about the guitars and the TAC Family, so be sure to leave a comment if a question crosses your mind! Featured in this episode… Emerald Guitars Jamie Dupuis Guitar Girl Magazine Yasmin Williams Rushadicus Billy Strings Gibson TV The Acousti

Fretboard Summit is a HUGE guitar festival held every year, sponsored by Fretboard Journal. But is it worth it? Check out my highlights from this intensely guitar-geek festival. It was a whirlwind, but the Fretboard Summit festival truly opened my eyes up. From the incredibly talented musicians showcased—day after day, night after night—to the BIGGEST lesson I've learned, I cannot recommend this festival enough. There are so many incredible folks I met, and so many more I'm looking forward to meeting again. The level of instruction and talent that was present was wholly inspiring. If you ever have the opportunity to attend the Fretboard Summit, I highly encourage you to go. The folks at Fretboard Journal and the Old Town School of Folk Music know how to put on a great show. Don't miss out next time! Featured in this episode… Old Town School Halland Guitars Thompson Guitars Julian Lage Mule Resonator Guitars

Bourgeois acoustic guitars are stunning. The problem? They come in so many models and customizable options. In this video, I'll go over the 5 Bourgeois Guitars that are sure to knock your socks off. Bourgeois Guitars, based in Maine, make about 400 guitars a year. Started By Dana Bourgeois, their small team is dedicated to quality, tone, and consistency. The result? Some of the consistently best guitars I've ever played. In the comments below, be sure to let me know which Bourgeois Guitar you're most excited to try. If you're lucky enough to have played one, which one was your favorite? Your comment might just be featured in a future episode of Acoustic Tuesday! In addition, I'd love to feature you in an upcoming episode with your guitarsenal! It's easy and quick, and you end up supporting Guitars 4 Vets, a music rehabilitation group for veterans in the US. Just follow the link below to see the instructions! ⬇Guitarsenal shirts⬇ https://tonys-acoustic-challenge.creator-spring.com/listing/guitarsenal_polecastr

Learn cross picking on acoustic guitar in just 4 easy steps with this simple, easy-to-use approach! Cross picking is a picking pattern that involves skipping strings in your picking pattern. It doesn't use fingers, instead opting for a pick. It's a great way to get that cascading finger pick sound but with more bite! The hardest part of cross picking lies in switching pick directions. While normal strumming strikes all the strings in one direction, cross picking has you alternating pick direction with each string you strike.  To help you learn how to cross pick, I've created 4 easy steps — think of them as checkpoints or mini-lessons. Once you feel good at one part, move on to the next one! On one final note, don't forget to check out the cross picking musicians that I've listed in the episode. They're incredibly talented and worth giving a listen to if you're interested in learning this great strumming pattern.  Featured in this Episode... - Gwenifer Raymond   - Bob Minner   - SantaCruzGuitarCo  

Looking for music documentaries that'll inspire you? Whether you're a hardcore guitarist or just getting started, these music docs will get you rearing to grab your guitar and start playing again! About this time, every year, I start thinking about movies. With the sun setting earlier and school starting again, it feels like the perfect time to watch a movie. And, if you're bemoaning the end of a summer concert series, music documentaries are a great workaround. Whether you're just starting out on your guitar journey or you've been playing for years, there are some hidden gems and deep cuts on this list that are sure to inspire you on your guitar journey. From documentaries on Native American musicians in rock and roll history to  @Machine Gun Kelly  and his new documentary, I really want you to take the time to pick at least one of these films. In addition to talking about some of my recommendations for music documentaries, you'll hear about... - Omeleto   - Dan Tyminski   - Gwenifer Raymond   - Guitarbench

What do Eric Clapton, Richie Havens, Stevie Ray Vaughn, and John Denver have in common? They all played Guild acoustic guitars. They make good guitars, but are they worth the hype? In short, absolutely. Guild Guitars makes some incredible acoustic guitars. Whether you're looking for a punchy sound that will stand out in a jam session or a mellow, dark guitar that'll evoke a woodsy spirit, you're sure to find a Guild that'll suit your needs. I've had the luxury of playing most of these guitars, but there are some that I've only heard on youtube and in demos. That being said, they were so good, I couldn't not include them on this list.  Whether you're in the market for a new guitar or you're just curious about Guild guitars, I highly encourage you to play one of the guitars on this list. They all sound great, but for entirely different reasons.  In addition, there are plenty of price points on this list. Even beginners can find a great guitar on this list for an affordable price. If you're unsure about what gui

Is a $50 guitar pick worth it? Is a wooden pick right for you? Does plastic reign supreme? All this and more will be revealed in this episode on my 10 favorite guitar picks ever made. Guitar picks are the cheapest way to experiment with your sound. The thickness, material, and shape can all have huge impacts on your acoustic guitar's tone.  From super-hard mandolin picks to sharper tortoiseshell picks, you're going to hear how some of these picks impact your tone. Whether you want round, woody tones or piercing, steely tones, there's a pick in this list for you. In addition to talking about acoustic guitar pick tone, I'll cover the comfort and usability of some of these picks as well. If you have trouble holding pick or if you find the pick is flying out of your hands all the time, you might just find something on this list that'll help you. In addition, you'll see... - Adam Grant   - Piedmont Blūz   - Folkway Music   - Emerald Guitars  

Modern fingerstyle guitar is, quite possibly, the greatest extension of the instrument — an orchestral sound contained within one instrument. But there's so many modern fingerstyle guitarists out there. Where do you begin? On this episode of Acoustic Tuesday, you'll hear about 15 modern fingerstyle guitarists you need to check out. From commercially successful artists to up-and-coming Youtubers, you're going to see some incredible guitarists. What I love about this style is that it pushes the guitar to new heights. It's not just about mastery of the guitar. It's about pushing the limits of what playing a guitar means. From the percussion to the harmonics and sweep picking, there's some incredible techniques to check out from all these guitarists. You'll notice there is a percussive and rhythmic quality to all these guitars. That's just part of the beauty of this style. If you want to hear more of this style, be sure to check out all of the artists featured in this episode. There's something for everyone, whet

Two-hand tapping on guitar isn't easy. It's even harder on acoustic guitar. But what if there was an easy, step-by-step guide for learning how to tap on acoustic guitar? Tapping on guitar is an advanced technique. It provides a bright, ethereal sound (as long as you're not using overdrive or distortion!). And, for most of the guitar's existence, it's been used primarily on electric guitar. It's that classic shredding sound that was popularized by Eddie Van Halen and other electric guitarists.  But what if the same technique is applied to acoustic guitar? On today's episode, you'll get an easy step-by-step guide to learning how to two-hand tap on acoustic guitar. It requires a good amount of dexterity and finger strength, but Tony's Acoustic Challenge members should be up for the challenge. By tuning down the guitar, breaking the technique into chunks, and creating actionable steps where you feel confident in your playing, I hope you can successfully apply these techniques to your playing. It's a bit of a spec

Colter Wall's guitar playing is like no other. Here are 10 lessons you can learn from this real country guitarist that'll help you progress on your guitar journey. Colter Wall has captured the hearts and minds of the country, folk, and bluegrass world. His guitar playing is incredibly unique. From the way he strums to the stories he spins, I truly hope this episode gets you to check out his work. But you're also going to learn some important lessons about playing acoustic guitar through the lens of Colter Wall. By the end of this episode, you'll have 10 lessons about how this incredibly unique guitarist approaches the acoustic guitar. We'll be covering his thumb technique, his gear, and his general attitude when it comes to playing and composing songs. I promise you, this is not an episode you want to miss. Featured in this episode… Kelly Joe Phelps Jeffrey Foucault Charlie Parr Daisy Tempest Megan Linford Atkin Guitars The Fellowship of Acoustics

Epiphone guitars have quite the reputation. But does their street cred match up with how they sound? Check out my list of the 10 best Epiphone acoustic guitars ever made.  @OfficialEpiphone  guitars are kinda known as the less desirable branch of the Gibson family. They aren't as expensive, are made with cheaper parts (usually), and don't have the same prestige as a Gibson guitar. But does that really matter? Doesn't it all come down to the sound? Fortunately for you, that's probably the biggest consideration I have when I'm making recommendations. So, after reviewing thousands of guitars in my lifetime, I've gained a certain understanding of what to look for in a guitar.  As a result, this is my list of the 10 best Epiphone guitars out there. The prices on this list run from as high as $6,000 to, well, much more affordable than that. There's a little something for everyone here so be sure to check out the whole episode. Featured in this episode... - Epiphone   - Gibson   - GemsOnVHS   - National Guitars - Re

Learning closed position, moveable chords can unlock your understanding of the fretboard. More importantly? You will be able to play a song or lick in any key, anywhere on the fretboard. In this lesson behind the lick, you'll learn all about closed position moveable patterns. Closed position movable patterns involve NO open strings. That means that you can easily move the pattern to a different key without a capo or a changing your tuning. Closed position patterns truly unlock the fretboard for you. When you play in closed position, you learn a pattern rather than specific frets or open string patterns. This means that you can play in a variety of keys. When you start playing with others or you want to sing along, you'll find you mind need to play in different keys. If you've learned a scale, chord pattern, or lick in closed position, this transition will be very easy. I want you to try learning closed position. You may find that you'll have even more flexibility on the fretboard.  Featured in this Episode -